The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, as well as the opposition and a large part of the Israeli public, are strongly against the expansion of the operation, arguing it would put their loved ones at even more risk.

Ahead of a security cabinet meeting that is expected to sign off on plans for a new large-scale offensive against Hamas, the families of hostages remaining in captivity are ramping up their protests,

Israel said Friday it will intensify its 22-month war with Hamas by taking over Gaza City, stirring fears for Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages still held in Gaza, and renewing international pressure for an end to the conflict.