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.

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 on

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israel approved plans Monday to capture the entire Gaza Strip and to stay in the Palestinian territory for an unspecified amount of time, two Israeli officials said, a move that, if implemented, would vastly expand Israel’s operations there and likely draw fierce international opposition.