The families of hostages taken by Hamas have voiced their concerns about Israel’s intentions to occupy Gaza, cautioning that this could effectively serve as a “death sentence” for their loved ones.

Fifty hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive, Israeli authorities have said.

An advocacy group known as the Hostages and Missing Families Forum has criticized the Israeli government, claiming it is “sacrificing” hostages by increasing military tensions in the Gaza Strip, a situation that has persisted for almost two years.

“You have failed,” the group stated in a message on X, following the approval of a plan to seize control of Gaza City by Israel’s security Cabinet. “It’s important to pursue what the government has not yet attempted — putting forward a complete deal that ensures all the hostages return home together.”