TEL AVIV—Israel’s defense minister signaled the country is planning to keep tighter and longer-term security control over territory just across its border in Syria and in Gaza, taking advantage of its weakened neighbors to better insulate itself from possible threats.

       Israel seized control of the 155-square-mile buffer zone separating it from Syria after the Assad regime that had ruled the country for more than half a century collapsed just over a week ago. It also put troops on the peak of Mt. Hermon, high ground in the buffer zone that offers a commanding view of strategically sensitive territory.

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