Israeli army warns Netanyahu that Gaza City demolition could take over a year

The Israeli army has warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that it could take over a year to demolish Gaza City if the military goes ahead with plans to invade the besieged territory.

Army chief Eyal Zamir told Israeli officials that the military will not begin a major assault on Gaza City until a "humanitarian zone" is established to hold the city's residents. 

He also said that military operations will only start after necessary operational and legal preparations are complete. His remarks come amid pronouncements from Netanyahu and his cabinet to commence operations.

On Friday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz told Hamas that Gaza City would face the same fate as Rafah and Beit Hanoun if it refuses to accept Israel’s conditions to end the war.