The Israeli Air Force struck over 850 terror targets and hundreds of operatives

The Israeli Air Force struck over 850 terror targets and hundreds of operatives in Gaza City in the past week, the military says, ahead of a ground offensive in the area which began last night.

In a statement, the IDF says it has begun a "broad ground operation throughout Gaza City," which is aimed at "achieving the objectives of the war in the Gaza Strip," including the defeat of Hamas and the release of the hostages.

"The troops’ activity began in accordance with the operational plan and is expected to expand according to the situation assessment," the military says.