Large crowds of Israelis took to the streets on Sunday, launching a nationwide grassroots strike and widespread protests to demand the government secure the release of 50 hostages still in Gaza.

Groups representing families of hostages organized the demonstrations as frustration grows in Israel over plans for a new military offensive in some of Gaza's most populated areas.

Families of hostages held in Gaza are stepping up their campaign to secure their release by holding a strike across Israel.

The group said Israel's plan constitutes a "new wave of genocide and displacement" for hundreds of thousands of residents.

Israel prepares for a population movement from combat zones to southern Gaza while Defense Minister Katz discusses comprehensive plan to defeat Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last Sunday said that before launching the offensive, the civilian population will be evacuated to what he described as "safe zones" from Gaza City, which he called Hamas' last stronghold.