Israeli offensive ‘advancing’ in Gaza after forces fight through the night

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Israel said its Gaza offensive was “advancing” after fighting through the night in a significantly expanded ground operation under the cover of an intense aerial bombardment that has knocked out most communications in the enclave.

The Israeli army’s fourth big incursion into Gaza this week appears to be its largest yet. On Saturday morning military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari described it as “advancing in the phases of the war”.

In earlier raids, including one by naval commandos, Israeli troops withdrew within hours. This time, however, they appear to still be within the northern edges of the Gaza Strip the day after entering.

Hamas said it had engaged the Israeli military near Beit Hanoun, north of Gaza City.

The incursion was accompanied by the largest aerial bombardment since hostilities began three weeks ago. Israel also knocked out communications within the Gaza Strip, with cell phone, internet and landline connections lost late on Friday night.

“IDF forces entered the northern Gaza Strip and expanded the ground operations,” said Hagari. “Infantry, armoured, engineering and artillery forces that are accompanied by heavy fire are taking part in this operation.”

Video released by the IDF showed dozens of tanks operating within the perimeter fence which runs along the northern and eastern edges of the Gaza Strip, and alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Hagari did not say if they encountered heavy resistance, nor how deep into Gaza they had advanced.

One frame showed tanks near what appears to be the village of Beit Lahia, at the edge of the Jabalia refugee camp, which is usually densely populated. Israel has repeatedly ordered Palestinians to flee south, ahead of an anticipated…