“The forces are eliminating terrorists and destroying military structures that were used by terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip,” the IDF said.

The teens had exchanged videos of previous terror attacks and tested homemade explosives.

“The army’s role is to shape a military reality that gives Israel a stronger hand in future negotiations,” retired Maj.-Gen. Israel Zini said.

Radio-Canada suspended a reporter and issued an apology after she made controversial on-air remarks about Jewish influence in US politics.

The EU is Israel's largest trading partner, and accounts for over 30% of Israel's total international trade.

"Conquest does not necessarily mean taking over territory; conquest is also the ability to paralyze your enemy’s decision-making processes," Dr. Udi Levy said.

Local clans across Gaza are pushing back against Hamas control, forming understandings with the IDF and fighting in areas under pressure from Israel’s military offensive.

Sanctions targeting trade agreements with Israel have long been discussed by European Union officials.