Benjamin Netanyahu has apologized to Israelis for failing to return six hostages, who were found dead in Gaza on Saturday. Hamas has warned that more hostages could be "returned to their families in shrouds" if a ceasefire is not achieved. Netanyahu's apology came amid intense protests that continued into a second night in Israel, driven by frustration over his handling of negotiations. Demonstrators took to the streets, expressing their anger over his failure to secure the release of hostages after nearly 11 months. Reports indicate that police responded aggressively to the protests, including at one demonstration outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem. International pressure is also mounting, with the UK suspending some arms sales to Israel due to concerns that the equipment might be used in violation of international law. Despite this, Netanyahu remains firm on the need for Israeli troops to control Gaza's strategically important Philadelphi corridor, a key point of contention in negotiations with Hamas.

On Monday, the largest trade union in Israel reported that hundreds of thousands of people participated in a general strike to push for a ceasefire and a deal to release hostages. However, the impact was limited, with many businesses, including Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport and restaurants, operating as usual. Hamas has stated that if military pressure continues, hostages might be returned in "coffins" and mentioned new instructions for militants guarding the captives if approached by Israeli forces. The group has accused Netanyahu of prioritizing military pressure over negotiating a deal, which they claim will only lead to more hostages being returned in a deceased state. US President Joe Biden has criticized Netanyahu for not doing enough to secure a ceasefire and a hostage deal, with indications that a final proposal might be sent to the Israeli prime minister. Netanyahu faces internal political pressure, with far-right allies threatening to withdraw from the coalition government if he accepts a deal involving a permanent ceasefire with Hamas. Efforts are ongoing by US, Egyptian, and Qatari mediators to broker a ceasefire that would involve the release of the 97 remaining hostages, including 33 presumed dead, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.