Israel announces completion of security barrier around Gaza

An Israeli soldier stands guard during a ceremony to open the newly completed barrier along the Israel/Gaza border (Tsafrir Abayov/AP)

Israel has announced the completion of an enhanced security barrier around the Gaza Strip designed to prevent militants from secretly crossing into the country.

The 40-mile (65km) barrier includes radar systems, maritime sensors and a network of underground sensors to detect militant tunnels. Existing fencing was replaced with a 19ft-high (six-metre) “smart fence” with sensors and cameras.