Israeli planes and tanks have pounded the eastern and northern outskirts of Gaza City overnight, destroying buildings and homes, residents said, as Israeli leaders vowed to press on with a planned offensive on the city, Reuters reports.

Witnesses reported the sound of explosions non-stop overnight in the areas of Zeitoun and Shejaia, while tanks shelled houses and roads in the nearby Sabra neighbourhood, and several buildings were blown up in the northern town of Jabalia.

The Israeli military said in a statement today that its forces have returned to combat in the Jabalia area in recent days to dismantle tunnels and strengthen control of the area.