Dozens of Israeli tanks on Monday entered densely populated areas of the Zayton neighborhood in southern Gaza City, exchanging fire fiercely with Hamas militants, local witness said.

Witness said that the Palestinian militants stationed in the area are attacking the Israeli tanks and Armored Personnel Carriers with RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades), anti-tank missiles and roadside bombs. Militants are also engaged in fierce gun battles with the Israeli army.

In return, the Israeli tanks opened fire at some of the buildings in the neighborhood.

Mo'aweya Hassanein, chief of emergency and ambulance services in the Palestinian health ministry expressed fear that there could be heavy casualties in the area, but the ambulance and paramedics can't enter at this time due to heavy exchange of fire between the two sides.

Hassanein also called on the International Red Cross to intervene immediately to coordinate the entrance of the rescuers.

(Xinhua News Agency January 5, 2009)