Israel’s military will have to execute any government decisions on Gaza, the defence minister said Wednesday after reported disagreements over the prospect of a full occupation of the Palestinian territory.

The commandment of bal taschit prohibits wasteful destruction and is especially relevant in military conflict because in the fog of war humans can feel justified in destroying anything in their paths.

Cabinet ministers have even taken the unusual step of insisting publicly that the army will obey all orders they are given by the government, including for seizing the remaining parts of Gaza not already under Israeli control.