Israel is taking the first steps in a new offensive against Hamas in Gaza City, sparking protests among families of Hamas hostages who fear it will endanger their lives. NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell reports.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said on Monday that more than 62,000 Palestinians have been killed in the 22-month war in Gaza. At least 60 people were killed in the past 24 hours, bringing the death toll from the Israel-Hamas war that started on Oct.

Israel gave final approval Wednesday for a settlement project that would effectively split the occupied West Bank in two, possibly destroying hopes for a future Palestinian state.

The Israeli military says it plans to call up tens of thousands of reservists for an expanded operation in Gaza City.

Hamas said that Israel's plan to relocate residents from Gaza City constitutes a "new wave of genocide and displacement" for hundreds of thousands.

Hamas said it has agreed to a deal proposed by Qatar and Egypt to pause the militant group’s war with Israel in Gaza, fueling optimism that a long-awaited breakthrough in negotiations could be close.

As Israel expands operations in the enclave, Gazans increasingly voice defiance against Hamas, with dissenters risking their lives to demand freedom from the group’s grip.