Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked for “forgiveness” from Israelis for failing to return six hostages found dead in Gaza on Saturday.

His comments came as intense street protests over his handling of negotiations entered a second night in Israel.

Pressure also mounted internationally as the UK suspended some arms sales to Israel, citing a risk of equipment being used to violate international law.

But Israel’s prime minister struck a defiant tone, insisting its troops must control Gaza’s PhiladelphiCorridor – a strategically important strip of land which is a sticking point in negotiations with Hamas.