Israel will expand Gaza 'security zones' to include Rafah

The Israeli defence minister says the military is leaving Gaza "smaller" and "more isolated" to press Hamas into releasing hostages.

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During a visit to the area, Israel Katz said the military was leaving Gaza "smaller" and "more isolated" to pressure Hamas into releasing the hostages it is still holding.

The military has already seized land running along the entirety of the Palestinian territory's borders, which it has characterised as a buffer zone to prevent attacks.

The expansion to cover Rafah and its surrounding areas - which make up almost one fifth of Gaza - comes after the military ordered civilians to evacuate and established a new corridor separating them from nearby Khan Younis.

Two-thirds of Gaza has been designated as "no-go" zones or placed under evacuation orders since Israel resumed its offensive against Hamas on 18 March following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire, according to the UN.