Israel launches ground offensive in Gaza

Israel’s military said tonight that ground forces are crossing the Gaza border, in an expansion of Israel’s week-old offensive against Hamas.

Israeli TV channels are broadcasting images of troops marching into Gaza after nightfall.

Israel’s military confirmed a ground operation was under way.

Defence officials said around 10,000 soldiers have massed along the border in recent days.

Israel’s Channel 10 TV reported heavy firefights as troops entered the strip.

Heavy artillery fire in the early evening was intended to detonate Hamas explosive devices and mines planted along the border area before troops marched in.