epa04305650 Smoke rises after an attack of Israeli aircraft in the South of Gaza City, Gaza Strip, 08 July 2014. Israel the same day launched an offensive against the Gaza Strip by conducting a series of fresh airstrikes in response to increasing rocket attacks by Palestinian militants. There have been more than 120 Israeli airstrikes in the coastal enclave, according to Palestinian sources, while hundreds of rockets and mortar shells have landed in southern Israel. Israeli military spokesman Peter Lerner said the offensive, named Protective Edge, could grow into a ‘ground mission if required.’ EPA/MOHAMMED SABER MIDEAST ISRAEL PALESTINIANS CONFLICT
