The Israel Defense Forces are ready to expand operations in Gaza, according to IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi on Israel Army Radio Wednesday.  Ashkenazi assured the public that the IDF's best fighters and commanders are fighting now in Gaza to reduce Kassam rocket attacks.

Over 30 Kassam rockets were launched Tuesday from Gaza, landing in and around the beleaguered Jewish town of Sderot, wounding four people, including a 5 year-old boy.  Fighting between the IDF and PLO forces was heavy Tuesday, with the IDF killing at least 17 terrorists, including the son of Hamas leader Mahmoud a-Zahar.  A PLO sniper also killed a 21 year-old Ecuadorian volunteer, Carlos Chavez, as he worked in the fields of Kibbutz Ein Hashlosha, near the border fence.

At least 25 rockets have slammed into Israel Wednesday morning, causing 8 victims to be sent for medical treatment.