Jerusalem/ Cairo The Israeli military said it launched air strikes and artillery fire at targets in southern Gaza on Sunday, dimming hopes that a US-mediated ceasefire would lead to lasting peace as Israel traded blame with Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Israel's attacks on Sunday were the most serious test of an already fragile ceasefire, which took effect on October 11.

Israel's military said in a statement that the strikes targeted militants in the Rafah area who had opened fire on its soldiers. It said the attacks destroyed tunnels and military buildings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would retaliate forcefully to Hamas attacks on its soldiers.

Hamas' armed wing said in a statement that it remained committed to the ceasefire agreement in all of Gaza, addi

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