Israeli warplanes have carried out a series of air strikes on Gaza City after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to deliver a “powerful” attack, according to local reports.

A statement from Netanyahu’s office confirmed he had ordered the assault but did not give a specific reason for the renewed military action. Witnesses reported heavy gunfire and multiple explosions in Rafah and later in Khan Younis, as Israeli forces appeared to widen their operations across the enclave.

Further details are emerging, with no immediate confirmation of casualties.

More as we get it.