Israel's defence minster rejects international criticism of a plan to take over Gaza City, saying it "will not weaken our resolve"

Israel Katz says the government is "determined to achieve the goals of the war" and the Israel Defense Forces is preparing to implement the plan

The escalation has drawn criticism from the UN and several world leaders, including from the UK and Germany - the latter has suspended Gaza-bound military exports to Israel

Hamas, meanwhile, has vowed "fierce resistance"

In Gaza, Palestinians fear more destruction and displacement - many are angry not only at Israel but also at Hamas

An emboldened Benjamin Netanyahu now seems ready to take risks - and the prospects for Gaza City's one million civilians are bleak, writes Paul Adams

The Israeli government does not allow international news organisations, including the BBC, into Gaza to report freely