Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that his country will conquer the entire Gaza Strip even if Hamas accepts the ceasefire deal. He made these comments after Israel's defence forces announced the start of the first phase of the operation to seize what it described as a Bastion of Hamas in the north.

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to give final approval Thursday for plans to take over Gaza City, an operation that could start within days. The widening of the 22-month offensive against Hamas appears to be proceeding despite protests in both Israel and the Palestinian enclave.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he will give final approval for the takeover of Gaza City while also restarting negotiations with Hamas.