The IDF said that a large amount of Armored Corps, Engineering Corps and Infantry troops entered the territory with the purpose of destroying Hamas infrastructure and preventing rocket fire by taking control of launching pads in northern Gaza. The IDF warned that terrorists using civilians as human shields would bear full responsibility for their fate. The cabinet also approved the call-up of thousands of reservists, mostly from combat units, but also from the Home Front Command.

Originally posted by SLAYER69
Yeah of course the White House is silent.

[edit on 3-1-2009 by SLAYER69]

US gives Israel free rein on whether to invade Gaza

10 hours ago

WASHINGTON (AFP) — US President George W. Bush, in remarks to be broadcast Saturday, urged all able parties to press Hamas to stop firing rockets at Israel and secure a lasting ceasefire, after a week of heavy Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip.

His administration meanwhile gave Israel free rein over whether to send ground troops into Gaza, despite growing criticism over its handling of a conflict that has killed at least 436 Palestinians and left 2,290 others wounded.

At least 75 of those killed have been children, according to emergency services inside Gaza.

"The United States is leading diplomatic efforts to achieve a meaningful ceasefire that is fully respected," Bush said in his weekly radio address, the text of which was released by the White House in advance.

These were his first remarks since the conflict erupted a week ago.