Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has criticized the expansion of military operations, emphasizing the intolerable humanitarian impact of the war and advocating for immediate measures to prevent famine.

While Olmert's dissenting views highlight opposition among some Israelis, the broader Israeli media and public opinion have largely not reflected this sentiment, even as international leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron condemn Israel's actions.

In response to claims of famine, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer attributed the hunger in Gaza to Hamas rather than Israeli actions.

Reflecting a strong public desire for peace, a letter from 67 former hostages urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to negotiate a comprehensive deal for the return of captives, even if it requires halting military operations.

Despite a recent poll showing that 68% of Israelis support a hostage deal with Hamas, Netanyahu remains firm in his position against ending the war.

In light of the ongoing conflict, Israel has issued a sweeping evacuation order for civilians in Gaza City, declaring large areas unsafe ahead of anticipated intense strikes by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Since resuming aerial bombardments on March 18, 2025, Israeli attacks have led to 2,799 deaths in Gaza, including 80 fatalities reported on May 14.

Israel's military campaign was launched in response to a deadly cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 251 hostages.

Local authorities and aid agencies have reported that thousands of civilians are sheltering in these buildings, raising concerns about potential casualties during evacuation efforts.

Key locations identified for evacuation include the Islamic University, Al-Shifa Hospital, and several former schools, which Israel alleges are being used by Hamas as command centers.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, with UN assessments indicating that 2.1 million Palestinians are at critical risk of famine due to a prolonged blockade restricting food, medicine, and fuel.

Amidst these tensions, there are faint hopes for a US-sponsored ceasefire proposal that could facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas, although Netanyahu has reiterated that Israel will continue its military offensive.