The US channel CBS News reported that Israeli aircraft carried out the strike in January after Israeli intelligence discovered the trucks were intending to deliver arms through Sudan and across Egypt to be smuggled into Gaza. CBS said this account was the “semi-official American version” and said 39 people travelling in 17 trucks were reportedly killed.

Israeli officials have not commented publicly on reports that their planes may have been involved.

Israel’s Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, did not confirm any raid but said Israel hit everywhere to stop terror.

“That was true in the north,” said Mr Olmert, “and it was true in the south … Those who need to know, know there is no place where Israel cannot operate.”