Israeli strikes on Gaza kills top militants and 10 civillians

At least 13 Palestinians, including three commanders of the militant group Islamic Jihad, have been killed in Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip.

The latest strikes took place in the early hours of Tuesday, when 40 Israeli warplanes and helicopters attacked in several waves across Gaza, hitting homes and causing panic among residents.

The Gaza health ministry said four children and four women were among those killed.

Israel said it had launched an operation targeting militants who posed an imminent threat to its citizens.

Meanwhile the Islamic Jihad has vowed revenge and Gaza-based militants are expected to respond with rocket fire into Israel.

Israel officials are said to be preparing for days of fighting.