Israeli Army Expands Ground Operations as U.S. Continues to Push for Pause

Israel said it was increasing ground raids and hitting Gaza with intense airstrikes, while Washington called for temporary halt in fighting to allow for hostage releases

TEL AVIV—The Israeli army expanded its ground raids and intensified airstrikes in Gaza during a communications blackout in the strip Friday night, its most significant operation yet ahead of an expected invasion intended to end 16 years of Hamas rule.
With tanks, artillery and tens of thousands of troops massed on the Palestinian enclave’s border, Israeli officials said Friday they were moving closer to starting a major ground