Hamas’s declared plan to relocate hostages into Gaza City to use them as human shields may present a serious deterrent to an IDF operation into the city, Lt.-Col. (Res.) Alon Eviatar, an expert in Palestinian affairs, said on Monday.

Nearly two years of demonstrations have failed to push Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal with Hamas that would end the war and free the remaining captives.

Large crowds of Israelis took to the streets on Sunday, launching a nationwide grassroots strike and widespread protests to demand the government secure the release of 50 hostages still in Gaza.

Hamas said it was prepared to coordinate with the Red Cross to deliver aid to hostages it holds in Gaza, if Israel meets certain conditions.

President Trump echoed the need to expand the war in Gaza, saying that the remaining 50 hostages can only be freed once Hamas is completely eradicated.

Israeli actress Gal Gadot visited Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Sunday to express solidarity with the families of individuals still held by Hamas. A video released by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum showed the "Wonder Woman" star comforting the wife of a hostage,

Hamas held talks with Egyptian mediators over a potential ceasefire while Israel struck Gaza's main city prior to a planned takeover.