With an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza looming large, Israel has said it will step up its aerial strikes in the besieged Palestinian territory to create the 'best conditions' for troops to move in.

Indicating Israel's preparations for the second stage of its declared three-phase operation to change the security regime in Gaza, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagari said, 'We have to enter the next phase of the war in the best conditions, not according to what anyone tells us.' 'From today, we are increasing the strikes and minimizing the danger,' Hagari told reporters on Saturday, in a clear signal towards an imminent ground incursion.