Israel’s security cabinet on Sunday approved an expanded military operation in Gaza that would include relocating the enclave’s entire population to the south, according to an Israeli official, while a minister described the plan as a move to “conquer” the territory.

Reports say Israel now eyeing occupation of entire enclave, control of aid and possible expulsion of Palestinians.

Israel's war in Gaza grinds on, but opposition is growing. In recent weeks, thousands of Israeli reservists – from all branches of the military – have signed letters demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government stop the fighting and concentrate instead on reaching a deal to bring back the remaining 59 hostages being held by Hamas.