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.

The Israeli prime minister says the plan, which many countries fear will lead to increased bloodshed, is the fastest way to end the conflict.

Israel's Prime Minister also claimed Israeli hostages held in Gaza were "the only ones being deliberately starved".