The forces of Israel moved  closer to Gaza Strip cities, ignoring increasing calls for a ceasefire in the latest series of offensives that has killed hundreds of militant and innocent Palestinians.

According to the accounts of the Palestinian witnesses, the Israeli forces pressed into Khan Younis  of southern Gaza. The widened ground and air assault was intended to stop Hamas retaliation. The recent air strikes failed to prevent and stop rocket fire launched by the Palestinian militants.

Heavy ground encounters were reported overnight on the suburbs of the city of Gaza which left residents no choice but to find safer areas. Palestinian casualties have exceeded 500 and continue to rise.

Ehud Barak, Israeli Fefence Minister stated the series of offensives could become more difficult for the troops. The Palestinian militants have vowed to fight in every street and alley and fire more rockets on Israeli territory.

World Leaders, including US President Bush and French President Sarkozy have called for a ceasefire to stop the rising death toll of the war.