It would mark a stunning escalation of the 22-month war in the territory that has already been largely destroyed and where experts say famine is unfolding.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met senior security officials Tuesday, with media reporting he favoured a complete military takeover of Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu favours a complete military takeover of Gaza for the first time in two decades, media reported, and was to meet senior security officials on Tuesday to finalise a new strategy in the 22-month war.