After warning of a major ground operation, Israel has bombarded Gaza but has yet to start a big advance. The threat to do so may be an attempt to force Hamas to compromise in cease-fire talks.

Israel had blocked the entry of medical, food and fuel supplies into Gaza since the start of March to try to pressure Hamas into freeing its hostages.

The Israeli military said the new offensive would include dividing up the enclave and pushing the population out of areas in which it operates.