Israel has launched a large-scale ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, escalating a military operation that has killed at least 264 Palestinians, most of them civilians. Israel says its aim is to destroy tunnels used by Hamas militants to infiltrate Israel. Thousands of Israeli troops have stormed into Gaza backed by tanks, bulldozers and warplanes. So far today at least 23 Palestinians have died, including three teenagers killed by tank fire. Israel suffered its second fatality of the 11-day offensive when one of its soldiers was killed in Gaza. Israeli media reports the soldier was likely killed by friendly fire. Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel could escalate the assault.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “My and the defense minister’s instructions to the IDF, approved by the Cabinet, are to prepare for the possibility of significantly widening the ground operation, and the chief of staff and the military are prepared accordingly.”