GAZA CITY, Palestine 

Israeli warplanes on Wednesday launched a series of intensive airstrikes on Gaza City and the northern strip following the announcement of a cease-fire set to take effect on Sunday.

The Israeli airstrikes targeted various areas in Gaza City and the northern areas, though the exact locations of the targets remain unclear, according to an Anadolu correspondent, citing eyewitnesses.

Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions with flames rising from the sites targeted by the strikes.

*Writing by Rania Abu Shamala