Israel pounds targets in Gaza as Kerry arrives

Israel pounded targets across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, dashing hopes of a pause in the fighting, as the military said one of its soldiers was missing, presumed dead, following clashes with Hamas Islamists. International efforts to end the 15-day conflict gathered pace, with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry holding talks in Egypt and U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon due to arrive in Israel later in the day.

Background:

Israel says soldier missing, presumed dead; Kerry presses for truce [Reuters]

Gaza conflict: Diplomats push for ceasefire [BBC]