Israel says it will expand its offensive to most of Gaza

Israel Katz also said the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) had completed control of a “security” in the southern part of the Gaza Strip, dividing the cities of Rafah and Khan Yunis, writes BBC, broadcast Periscope.

The Israeli Army also issued evacuation orders for Khan Yunis and surrounding areas, saying it was preparing to carry out attacks in response to the launch of missiles from Gaza, which Hamas has claimed responsibility for.

Israel resumed its offensive against Hamas on March 18th after the fall of a two-month ceasefire.

Since then, it has occupied large areas of Gaza, once again moving hundreds of thousands of Gaza residents.

The military has already seized land that crosses all borders of Palestinian territory, which it has characterised as a buffer zone to prevent the attacks.

Israeli officials have said the ongoing offensive aims to pressure Hamas to free the remaining 59 hostages held in Gaza 24 of whom are believed to be alive. /Periscope/