UN ambassadors condemned Israel's plans to control Gaza City, while Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the offensive as necessary to end the war and free hostages. The UN Security Council criticized the plan for potentially violating humanitarian law, with various countries warning against collective punishment and further escalation. The US supported Israel's actions, claiming efforts to free hostages were being undermined. Protests erupted in Israel against the government's plan, which Netanyahu argued was essential for dismantling Hamas strongholds and increasing humanitarian aid.