Dhaka, Aug. 9 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial plans for a new military push in the Gaza Strip have raised warnings from the army leadership, opposition from hostage families and concerns that more Palestinians will be killed.

They also risk isolating his country even further. In a meeting of the security cabinet that lasted 10 hours, ministers approved proposals for the "takeover of Gaza City", which is likely to be the first phase for the Israeli military to assume full control of Gaza, as Netanyahu says it is his intention.

A statement released by his office did not use the word "occupation" but, effectively, that is what the plans mean.

It is not clear when the operations, which could take months, will s...