Israel not interest in wider regional war, says defence minister

Israel is not seeking a wider war in the region, according to Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

"We are waging war on the southern front against Hamas, prepared for any development in the north, Hezbollah is suffering many losses. However, we have no interest in expanding the war," he told reporters on Thursday, in response to a question about a potential confrontation with Iran.

Asked about a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, Gallant said: "The day it will come is not far off... the manoeuvre will start when conditions are right."