Israel’s defense minister has ordered the military to take additional parts of the Gaza Strip, and vowed to hold them until Hamas releases the remaining hostages it holds.

The Israeli army has been instructed to seize more territory in Gaza -- while evacuating Palestinians -- as it expands its ground operation. Israel said the longer Hamas refuses to release the remaining hostages,

Israelis have been demonstrating against the action, which many see as part of an effort to reduce checks on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government.

The Israeli government unanimously approved early on Friday a proposal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, the prime minister's office said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar amid mass protests against the move and Israel’s resumption of hostilities in Gaza.