The IDF launched an overnight attack into northern Gaza, while the majority of Israeli forces continue to prepare for a large ground invasion into Gaza.
According to officials, the raid targeted a number of Hamas terrorists and equipment, including anti-tank missile launch sites.
Troops launched attacks against multiple sites before withdrawing back into Israel.
The Israeli military described the raid as the biggest incursion of the current war, during a statement on Israel’s Army Radio.
Video of the overnight action issued by the military showed armoured vehicles proceeding through a sandy border zone.
A bulldozer is seen levelling part of a raised bank, tanks fire shells, and explosions are seen near or amid a row of damaged buildings.
The military statement posted online said the incursion was carried out “in preparation for the next stages of combat”, a possible reference to the large-scale invasion that Israeli leaders have threatened as part of the war to destroy Hamas.
“The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory,” the military statement added.
Israel began localised ground incursions on Sunday as the war, triggered by a 7 October cross-border rampage by Hamas gunmen, entered its third week.