Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the population of Gaza will be displaced to the south after his security cabinet approved an expanded military operation in the enclave that a minister described as a plan to “conquer” the territory.

Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas, which reportedly includes capturing Gaza and holding the territory.

The Israeli government has approved plans to escalate its offensive in Gaza, including the possible full reoccupation of the shattered Palestinian enclave. Monday’s unanimous decision by the security cabinet of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu follows nearly 19 months of war that have so far failed to either fully defeat Hamas or secure the release of all the remaining Israeli hostages.