Qassam in Negev (Archive photo)
צילום: זאב טרכטמן
IDF attacks rocket-launcher in Gaza; Qassam hits south
Forces attack Qassam-launcher in northern Strip as part of return to old policy; shortly after strike rocket lands south of Ashkelon; no injuries reported
The IDF attacked a Qassam-launcher in northern Gaza Saturday evening, and a short while later a rocket fired from the Strip landed near Zikim, south of Ashkelon. No injuries or damage were reported in the rocket attack.
The IDF attack appears to signify a return to the army's previous policy in Gaza, particularly in light of this week's ground operation to destroy a tunnel that was meant to be used to kidnap an Israeli soldier. Forces are now authorized to open fire at Palestinian rocket launching cells prior to, during or shortly after their attempt to fire Qassams toward Israel's southern region.
The IDF's Home Front Command and the Gaza Brigade are on high alert due to the continuous rocket attacks and other incidents, such as Saturday morning's uncovering of two explosive devices in south Gaza.
"There is no doubt that Hamas has prepared for the end of the ceasefire, as have we," a security official said. "Any confrontation that develops may be complex, and its outcome will be difficult to predict."
Defense Minister Ehud Barak has instructed the security establishment on Saturday to keep the goods crossings between Israel and Gaza closed on Sunday in light of the continuous rocket attacks on south Israel Saturday night. The crossings have been closed since Wednesday, and due to the rocket fire are expected to remain sealed on Sunday as well.
