A group of American security contractors, ex-military officers and humanitarian aid officials is proposing to take over the distribution of food and other supplies in Gaza based on plans similar to ones designed by Israel.

Israel plans to set up distribution centers in southern Gaza and move a large number of Palestinians there, as it tries to balance international outrage over a blockade of aid to the enclave with continued pressure on Hamas.

The plan could expose Israel to additional legal requirements toward the civilian population and risk ensnaring the military in a long-term quagmire.