Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, killing 32 people in an attack late on Wednesday. 

The heavy bombardment in Gaza City continued overnight into Thursday morning, destroying houses in Rafah in the south, Nuseirat in central Gaza, as well as in the north, residents said.

Israel’s military made no immediate comment and there were no reports of Hamas attacks on Israel after the ceasefire agreement.

It comes as mediators seek to quell fighting on both sides ahead of the truce beginning on Sunday.

The deal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.

Israel’s cabinet is set to meet today to approve the agreement, which outlines a six-week initial truce with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.