The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it has launched extensive ground operations in the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip.



On Friday, the military reported that it had expanded its operations in the territory. It said it had conducted intensive airstrikes and deployed troops across Gaza. The military added that it had struck more than 670 Hamas targets, including weapons storage facilities.



The number of casualties is growing in the enclave. Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera quoted health officials in Gaza as saying that 500 people had been killed during the previous three days.



Negotiations aimed at bringing about a ceasefire are underway in Qatar. Arabian media outlets say Hamas and the mediators have been discussing a plan that calls for the group to release some hostages in return for a two-month ceasefire.



But Israel has apparently been ratcheting up the pressure on Hamas in order to draw concessions from the group.



Concerns are rising that the number of victims could increase further, as there is presently little hope for progress in the talks.