• Israel's government plans to expand military operations in Gaza City, claiming it aims to "free" Gaza from Hamas.
• International leaders, including those from European nations, warn the offensive could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages.
• Tens of thousands of protesters rally in Israeli cities, demanding a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
• Netanyahu defends the military action citing a need to eliminate Hamas strongholds, dismissing claims of starvation in Gaza as “malignant lies.”
• U.S. President Trump expresses tacit approval of Netanyahu's plans during a discussion, emphasizing humanitarian aid efforts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent announcement of plans to take control of Gaza City has ignited significant backlash both domestically and internationally. Netanyahu stated that the operation aims to “free” Gaza from Hamas rule, insisting that Israel has no choice but to “finish the job” after Hamas's refusal to disarm, with an aim to establish a non-Israeli civil administration in the territory. This declaration was echoed during a press conference just before an emergency U.N. Security Council meeting, where global leaders have voiced their concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the military offensive, as reported by Dawn, Indiatimes, and Le Monde.

Despite Netanyahu's assurances, protests have erupted across Tel Aviv and other cities, with protesters demanding an end to the conflict and a focus on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. The crowd size has been reported to reach up to 100,000, as citizen unrest grows amid fears that military action will not only endanger the hostages but also plunge Gaza into deeper humanitarian disaster, according to Reuters, BBC, and The Hill.

The backlash against Israel’s planned operation is not just restricted to protests within the country. European leaders have condemned the recent plans, warning that they may lead to an "unacceptably high number" of civilian casualties and precipitate further mass displacement. These ramifications raise concerns about the future stability of the region and undermine potential pathways towards a two-state solution, as articulated by The Local, Channel News Asia, and Reuters.

Compounding these issues, host families continue to rally for the government to negotiate a ceasefire, threatening actions such as a nationwide strike if their demands are not met. “The decision to pursue occupation of the Gaza Strip means abandoning the hostages,” stated a representative of the families, according to Indiatimes, The Hill, and The Local.