GAZA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Israeli forces withdrew from southern Gaza Strip town of Rafah on Tuesday but reinforced military massing in the north and the east of the Strip, raising fears of a large-scale ground offensive.

    Palestinian residents in northern Gaza Strip told local radios that a number of Israeli tanks and bulldozers could be seen behind the border between Israel and the northeast Gaza Strip.

    Reconnaissance planes were also flying over the area, where was often used by Palestinian militants to fire rockets into Israel.

    Meanwhile, the Israeli army withdrew from eastern Rafah town in the south of Gaza Strip, ending a one-day incursion during which some 20 Palestinians were arrested, security sources said.

    The troops also demolished several greenhouses and stormed seven makeshift homes used by the residents who mostly worked in agriculture.