Pause in Gaza combat allows in much needed aid

The Israeli army has halted the bombardment of targets around Gaza city for three hours. A spokesman said it was to allow aid to get through a so-called “humanitarian corridor”.

A similar pause in the bombing is planned to take place on a daily basis from today.

Israel has been heavily criticised by much of the international community for an attack on a UN school yesterday that killed more than 40 people.

It was reported to have been hit by tanks shells. Israel said it was returning fire on on Hamas militants.

Israel and Hamas are said to be considering Egyptian proposals for a ceasefire that have been backed by the EU and the US. But at the same time Israeli leaders are reported to be discussing an escalation of the offensive, which is aimed at stopping Hamas rocket attacks.