Hamas has condemned the offensive as a ‘blatant disregard’ for mediation efforts, warning the move could scuttle the latest truce proposal.

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.

An Israeli military spokesman says troops will deepen the damage to the "terror infrastructure" held by Hamas.

Displaced residents of Gaza City are split over a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that could allow them to return to their homes.

Some members of Israel’s coalition have ruled out a proposed hostage deal with Hamas, but the prime minister has yet to state his position.

With Hamas recently accepting an Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire-hostage deal, the ball is back in Israel's court. How will Netanyahu choose to proceed? Israel is facing a major predicament as the Hamas terrorist organization has reportedly accepted the terms of an Egyptian proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the war in Gaza.

Official says plan would see 60-day ceasefire, hostage release in two phases; Qatari PM reportedly traveling to Egypt to meet with Hamas representatives, Egyptian president