A LONG AND HARD FIGHT

Israel ready to destroy Hamas

- JERRY LAWTON

ISRAEL has launched an "unprecedented bombardment" on Hamas from land, air and sea.

It comes as a "long and difficult" ground offensive into Gaza looms after all communications were cut.

Israeli military last night confirmed they were "expanding ground operations" Naval vessels were also reportedly shelling the northern Gaza Strip.

The country's defence minister said Israel expects to launch a "long and difficult" ground offensive into Gaza soon to destroy Hamas.