The plan announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stops short of the full occupation of the Gaza Strip that he had discussed earlier.

Mr. Netanyahu said in interviews on Thursday that an expanded operation would ensure Israel’s security, drive Hamas from power, enable the return of hostages and pave the way for a temporary administration in Gaza, which he said Israel wanted to eventually hand over to “Arab forces.”

Israel said it will take control of Gaza City — a move that could displace 1 million Palestinians living there — defying domestic concerns over the fate of the remaining hostages and an international outcry over the humanitarian situation in the enclave.