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.

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

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.