Israeli military approves 'main framework' for Gaza offensive

Escalation draws criticisms amid dire humanitarian situation in enclave

The Israeli military said on Wednesday it had approved the "main framework" for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, as Hamas condemned what it called "aggressive" Israeli ground incursions in Gaza City.

The approval for the expanded offensive comes days after Israel's security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza's largest city, following 22 months of conflict that have created dire humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian territory.

Israeli armed forces chief Eyal Zamir "approved the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip", a statement released by the army said.