Amidst international condemnation, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu defended his plan to seize Gaza City, claiming it's the quickest path to end the war and rescue hostages. The UN warned this would cause another calamity in the already starving enclave, citing rising hunger-related deaths, especially among children. Many countries, including the UK, Russia, and France, strongly opposed the plan, while the US remained a staunch supporter. Hamas stated that halting the military campaign and reaching a peace deal is the only way to ensure the hostages' survival. Netanyahu, however, blamed Hamas for food shortages, a claim contradicted by UN reports showing record malnutrition levels in Gaza.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.