Netanyahu says Israel will occupy Syria buffer zone for foreseeable future

Israeli PM on visit to Mount Hermon says troops will remain there until ‘another arrangement’ for security is found

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Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israeli troops will occupy a recently seized buffer zone in Syria for the foreseeable future, as efforts continue to reach a ceasefire deal in Gaza.

The Israeli prime minister made the remarks, which come in defiance of international calls to withdraw from the newly captured territory, on Tuesday night while touring Mount Hermon – known to Syrians as Jabel Sheikh.