CAIRO (Reuters) -Israeli planes and tanks struck heavily in north and south Gaza on Tuesday, destroying clusters of homes, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant was in Washington, expected to discuss a possible ceasefire.

The Israeli military said it struck militant targets in northern Gaza, including command and control centers, after taking steps to mitigate the risk of harming civilians.

Palestinians reported one of the worst nights of Israeli bombardment in weeks, while Israeli officials were due in Washington for a new ceasefire push.