Israel’s plan to capture more land in Gaza and relocate thousands of civilians has heightened a sense of hopelessness among Palestinians.

European leaders and aid groups have criticised Israeli plans to take over distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and use private companies to get food to families after two months in which the military has prevented supplies entering the Strip.

An Israeli plan to seize the Gaza Strip and expand the military operation has alarmed many in the region. Palestinians are exhausted and hopeless, pummeled by 19 months of heavy bombing. Families of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza are terrified that the possibility of a ceasefire is slipping further away.

At least 20 Palestinians have been killed in two Israeli strikes on a crowded restaurant and market on the same street in Gaza City, medics say. Graphic videos posted on social media showed bodies slumped over tables at the Thailandy restaurant, in the northern Rimal neighbourhood, which had recently been operating as a community kitchen.

Video showed the aftermath of attacks with men found dead, including one still seated in a chair inside a Thai restaurant used by locals as a gathering spot, and several children lying motionless.

We are learning more about plans approved by Israel on Monday to seize the Gaza strip, and occupy it indefinitely.