Israel hit by dozens of rockets from Gaza

The barrage followed Israeli Air Force strikes which targeted rocket-launching groups in Gaza, killing three Hamas members. Israeli media reported that the IDF had also launched tank strikes in southern Gaza on Wednesday morning.

Israel’s Channel Two station said parents near Ashkelon and along the coast were shielding their children to protect them from the bombardment. Schools were closed in an effort to protect youngsters and other civilians.

Around one million people living within 10km of Gaza have been advised to stay in safe rooms and bomb shelters.

It is believed Israel may complain to the United Nations Security Council about the rocket attacks later on Wednesday.