Israel’s military said on Tuesday that “a precise counterterrorism operation” had started in Rafah city in the south of the Gaza Strip.
And have assumed “operational control” over the Rafah crossing in Gaza, the military added.
The crossing, which had served as a passage for humanitarian aid from Egypt to war-torn Gaza, was said to be out of service.
Since the beginning of the assault overnight Monday, Israel said it had taken control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing, with the Israeli forces killing at least 20 militants.
The military said that Israeli forces attacked Rafah city from the ground and air, as residents reported heavy and relentless bombardments.
It had struck “military structures, underground infrastructure, and three operational tunnel shafts.” Military added.