Signs Israel Getting Ready To Invade Gaza

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) – There are growing signs Israel is preparing for a possible ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.

A long column of tanks and other army vehicles was strung out along an access road to Gaza. Dozens of tanks are parked in a rain-soaked field on the frontier.

Heavy cloud cover that could hinder ground forces is expected to lift tomorrow.

Israel launched its devastating air offensive against Hamas militants in Gaza last Saturday, in response to rocket attacks.

Gaza officials put the toll at more than 390 dead and 1,600 wounded.

Four Israelis have been killed by militant rocket fire, including three civilians.

The chief of Israel’s internal security services told Cabinet ministers today that Hamas’ ability to rule had been “badly impaired.”

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)