(AP)- - Israeli tank shells landed in a residential neighbourhood north of Beit Hanoun early Wednesday killing at least 10 people in their sleep, according to witnesses.

Palestinian hospital officials said there were at least 13 dead and several more injured. According to witnesses, all those killed were woman and children.

Hundreds gathered outside the Kamal Adwan hospital weeping as more bodies arrived. Witnesses said many of the dismembered bodies arrived in their sleeping attire.

Four hospitals are treating the wounded across Gaza.

Palestinian security officials said five tank shells landed in the area within 15 minutes.

The army said it was unaware of any incident in the region at this time but continues to check.

The shelling comes a day after Israeli troops carried out attacks in Gaza, killing 10, as its forces pulled out of the northern Gaza town at the end of a bloody, destructive weeklong sweep.