Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains determined to launch a ground offensive in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, as negotiations for a truce have stalled.

Despite growing international criticism, Netanyahu said Israel will fight until it achieves total victory over Hamas, including taking powerful action in Rafah after civilians leave the battle zones. More than 1.4 million people are taking shelter in the city.

Israeli forces are also stepping up offensives elsewhere in central and southern Gaza.

In the southern city of Khan Younis, Israeli forces bombarded the Nasser Hospital through early Thursday after ordering patients and others to leave. The Israeli military said Hamas fighters were hiding there.

Palestinian health authorities say many patients and displaced residents were killed in the attack, or died from being unable to receive treatment.

Netanyahu is also maintaining a tough stance in the negotiations underway in Egypt for a truce and the release of hostages. Qatar is among the mediators.

Local media reported that Netanyahu told an Israeli delegation not to return to Egypt for the talks.