Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his plan for a final sweep against Hamas strongholds in Gaza in the face of intense condemnation both at home and abroad, describing it as the best possibility for ending the war speedily and recovering the hostages alive.

The prime minister said that discussions are underway to develop "creative ways" to free the remaining hostages in Gaza while the military closes in on Hamas.

Israel aims to take on Hamas' two remaining strongholds in its new Gaza offensive, which it hopes will conclude "fairly quickly" and end the war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday.