By NNN-KUNA
Gaza : The Israeli forces ended the military operations in north Gaza Strip at dawn Monday and left the area, an Israeli Army spokesman said.
The spokesman told Radio Israel the forces which took part in the operations included staff of the Parachute Brigades, armored units, engineering, and fighter and reconnaissance aircraft support.
The forces have struck several locations and command centres and headquarters of Hamas over the past few days and confiscated weapons and munitions during the operation, according to the spokesman.
The objective of the operation, he said, was not to stop missile attacks completely, but to send Hamas a message that its operatives would be hunted down unless it halts its missile attacks on Israeli interests and territories.
According to a tally by Palestinian medical sources Monday morning, the incursion left 118 Palestinians dead and over 340 others injured.
The sources said the toll is likely to rise as many of the injured are in serious condition and still undergoing care and treatment in Gaza hospitals.