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.

Hundreds of thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, on Saturday night to call for the release of the remaining hostages and object to Prime

A group representing many of the hostages’ families has said the Israeli security cabinet’s plan to take control of Gaza City could further endanger their loved ones.