Israeli Aircraft Strike Gaza Homes

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli aircraft have struck dozens of houses in the Gaza Strip today, killing a leader of the militant Islamic Jihad group and two of his sons.

Palestinian officials say Israeli ground troops and Hamas gunmen fought intense battles in the north and center of the territory.

The Israeli military says it hit 45 sites in Gaza, including what it says was a Hamas military command post.

On the 18th day of fighting today, Israel's Security Cabinet plans to meet to consider international cease-fire proposals.

A senior official with the Palestine Liberation Organization in the West Bank says one plan calls for a five-day humanitarian truce during which Israel and Hamas would negotiate new border arrangements for blockaded Gaza.

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