Israel seizing ‘large areas’ in push for Gaza buffer zones

Israel’s troops are seizing “large areas” of Gaza to turn into buffer zones as part of their renewed offensive, Defence Minister Israel Katz has said. Mr Katz described the areas as “security zones”, cleared of their inhabitants and captured by Israeli troops in a bid to force Hamas to release hostages. “Large areas are being seized and added to Israel’s security zones, leaving Gaza smaller and more isolated,” he said.