Israel-Gaza latest: Netanyahu says Israel intends to take full control of Gaza as security cabinet meets

Israel’s plans to occupy Gaza would initially see one million residents in the Strip pushed further south.

Israeli media says the country’s goal is to destroy what remains of Hamas in Gaza after nearly two years of fighting in the Strip.

Outlets report the aim is to pressure Hamas into freeing the hostages still held in Gaza.

But Israel’s plans don’t involve an immediate takeover of the entire territory, according to sources that have spoken to Israeli media.

Instead, Hebrew-language outlets suggest that Netanyahu is more likely to approve a phased plan, potentially spanning the course of five months, after firstly issuing an evacuation notice to the residents of Gaza City.

Channel 12 news says this first phase, expected to last several weeks, would allow time to establish civilian infrastructure including hospitals and camps in central Gaza.

A military offensive would follow, alongside an acceleration of humanitarian aid, while Palestinians are moved further south, Israeli media reports.

At the same time, other Israeli media sources say that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will perform manoeuvres in areas where the hostages are believed to be held, as well as regions in central Gaza which they have so far largely avoided during the conflict.