Volley of Mortar Attacks on Western Negev

Hana Levi Julian

Gaza terrorists fired a series of ten mortar shells at the western Negev on Thursday in an escalation of terrorist violence aimed at southern Israel. At least three of the shells exploded next to a kibbutz located in the Shaar HaNegev Regional Council area. However, the residents were not forewarned, because the Color Red incoming missile alert system failed to activate. Three other shells landed near the Kerem Shalom crossing with Gaza, through which humanitarian supplies are shipped almost daily into the region. Trucks waiting at the terminal to deliver supplies when the shells struck the area have been turned back, and the Defense Ministry has closed the crossing until further notice. In addition, one mortar shell exploded in the coastal region, according to local sources. No one was injured and no damage was reported in any of the attacks.

The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the attacks. The group said it fired the barrage in retaliation for an IAF air strike several days ago that killed two of its operatives in the area of Khan Yunis, near the site of destroyed Jewish communities in Gush Katif. The IAF on Tuesday bombed a rocket launching cell that was preparing to launch a missile at southern Israel, following a Kassam rocket attack fired several hours earlier. Two other operatives were wounded in the strike.

IAF Dropped Flyers in Gaza Thursday Morning

According to PA sources, the Israel Air Force dropped two different types of flyers in Gaza Thursday morning, warning local residents not to approach the security barrier and not to enter the smuggling tunnels.

One of the flyers featured a map which showed residents exactly where not to go, and a specific warning that anyone who came within 300 meters of the security barrier would do so at his own peril.

A second flyer called on Gaza residents to report smugglers and provide information on the tunnels being dug in the area, saying the smugglers are endangering the community. An email address and phone was provided for the purpose.

The Home Front Command tested the air raid alert system in the north of the country on Thursday morning, with sirens sounding in several dozen towns in the central and northern Galilee. In addition, Israel Military Industries announced it would conduct tests Thursday in the Ramat Beka area, near Be’er Sheva. Explosions are to be expected in the area throughout the afternoon, ending at approximately 4:00 p.m.