The Israeli prime minister defends a new military offensive planned in one of Gaza’s most populated areas amid growing condemnation at home and abroad, declaring that Israel “has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas.

Israel's far-right finance minister wants a tougher plan, Italy warned of a "Vietnam" for Israel's army and thousands of people protested in Tel Aviv, calling for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his plan for a final sweep against Hamas strongholds in Gaza in the face of intense condemnation both at home and abroad, describing it as the best possibility for ending the war speedily and recovering the hostages alive.