Israel maintains forces in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria as attacks raise Gaza death toll

Israeli air strikes in Gaza on Monday killed at least four Palestinians, including a woman in Zawayda, a civilian in the Nuseirat refugee camp and a doctor with his son in Gaza City. Palestinian health officials said the total number of Palestinians killed since the October ceasefire began had risen to more than 990, while Israel reported that its operations also killed four militants.

Israeli defence minister Israel Katz warned that Israeli forces will stay in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza for an indefinite period to safeguard Israel’s borders and communities. He said the areas would be cleared of the local population and “terrorist infrastructure” and warned Iran of a “full‑strength” response if it attacks Israel.