Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan Friday to take over Gaza City in a major escalation of its war against Hamas — with the risky move expected to take place in phases. The announcement stopped short of stating Israel would take over the entire Palestinian enclave;

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel said Friday it will intensify its 22-month war with Hamas by taking over Gaza City, drawing a dismissal from the militant group and renewed international calls to end the conflict, while stirring fears for Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.

The Israeli military “will prepare for taking control of Gaza City while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the combat zones,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said.