BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Before we get to the Pentagon, I want to take you overseas right now, specifically the Middle East now. Top Israeli officials using the word "war" to describe the state of affairs with the Palestinians. In addition to missile and tank attacks on the West Bank and Gaza, the Israelis sent ground troops into Gaza City. And as we mentioned a short time ago, the prime minister, Ariel Sharon will address his country in about 90 minutes time. And certainly his words expected to echo throughout the Middle East. Let's check in there now. Live in Jerusalem, and Mike Hanna, waiting for that speech as we are as well. Mike, what's the latest?</s>MIKE HANNA, CNN JERUSALEM BUREAU CHIEF: Well, Bill, that speech taking place against a background of ongoing and escalating conflict. Israeli forces have continued to strike at a series of Palestinian targets in the Gaza Strip, in the West Bank, Palestinian villages and cities. In all, over 20 Palestinians have been killed in these mounting Israeli operations. These Israeli strikes being carried out in the wake of an attack Tuesday night, in which six Israel soldiers were killed in an ambush in the West Bank. Well, in the midst of this, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat is in the West Bank city of Ramallah, where he's been under virtual house arrest. But he has just reiterated his call for a cease-fire, calling on Palestinians to end the violence against Israelis. This the latest development within the last hour, Bill.</s>HEMMER: All right, Mike, thanks for the update there. Again 90 minutes away from that speech. You'll hear it when it happens, live here on CNN.
Israel Sends Ground Troops into Gaza City