Thousands Flee Major Battle With Israel in Gaza, Death Toll Tops 420

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Escalating their ground offensive, Israeli troops backed by tanks and warplanes battled Hamas militants in a crowded neighborhood of Gaza City early Sunday. The fighting, including heavy Israeli tank fire, killed scores of Palestinians, forced thousands to flee and damaged or destroyed dozens of homes.

Palestinian health officials reported at least 65 people killed by the air and artillery strikes that echoed across the city for hours. They put the number of displaced at 35,000.

See also: Mideast Divisions Cloud Gaza Cease-Fire Efforts

At least 420 Palestinians and seven Israelis have been killed in the near two-week conflict which escalated as United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon headed to the region to try to revive cease-fire efforts. Read more...

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