The Israeli military has confirmed a strike on a police post in northern Gaza overnight, which has left at least seven people dead, including a senior officer in the Hamas-run police force.

According to reports from the scene, the senior officer, who has not been named, was one of the fatalities in the strike, which Israel's military said targeted "terrorists".

Gaza police post after the strike

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated in recent days, with both sides engaging in intense fighting.

US officials have warned that the situation is at a critical juncture, and are urging restraint from all parties involved.

The strike came hours after a US military aircraft landed in Israel, carrying a shipment of advanced military hardware.

An unnamed US official confirmed that the equipment was meant for defensive purposes only, and was intended to help Israel respond to potential threats from Iran.

Iran has been actively supporting Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza, which has led to a significant increase in tensions in the region.

The Iranian government has warned that any further Israeli strikes on Gaza will be met with a strong response, and have threatened to increase their military support for Hamas.

The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with multiple reports of casualties and destruction throughout the day.