India, Aug. 21 -- As the Israeli military announced the first steps for its operation to take over Gaza on Wednesday, Hamas said that Israel's plan showed its "blatant disregard" for efforts of the mediators to broker a ceasefire and hostage release deal.

Israel said that it will call up 60,000 reservists ahead of the expanded military operation in Gaza City, a move which is part of the plan approved by defence minister Israel Katz.

The takeover plan, which is likely to receive the army chief of staff's final approval in the coming days, also comprises the extended services of 20,000 additional reservists who are already on active duty, The Associated Press reported.

Hamas condemned Israel's move and said in statement, Today's announce...