15 Israeli soldiers injured in Gaza

At least 15 Israeli soldiers have been injured in clashes with Palestinian gunmen in the Gaza Strip, Israeli media reported Monday.

Six wounded soldiers arrived at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer in central Israel, Haaretz newspaper said. One of the soldiers is in critical condition, one is in fair condition and the rest are in light condition, according to the Israeli daily.

Five wounded soldiers were also evacuated to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba overnight. One of the soldiers is in serious condition, Haaretz reported. There was no comment from the Israeli army.

Since July 7, Israel has been pounding the Gaza Strip with air and naval bombardments with the stated aim of halting rocket attacks from it. On Thursday night, Israel stepped up its offensive to include ground operations, sending thousands of troops into the embattled Palestinian territory.

At least 502 Palestinians have been killed and more than 3000 injured in the ongoing Israeli attacks on the blockaded seaside enclave.