(CNN) — Israel’s security cabinet is meeting to decide on a full reoccupation of Gaza , a move that would mark a major escalation of the conflict after nearly two years of war in the territory.

Despite international pressure, opposition from the Israeli military and domestic fears the operation will endanger hostages, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed for a complete takeover of the besieged enclave.

In an interview with Fox News shortly before the security cabinet meeting, Netanyahu was asked whether Israel plans to take military control of all of Gaza .

“We intend to,” Netanyahu said. He claimed Israel is aiming to “remove Hamas” in Gaza, before handing the territory to “civilian governance that is not Hamas, and not anyone advocating the destruction of Israel.”

The p

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