Unexploded IAF decoy flares discovered near Gaza border communities
In what the IDF is calling a 'technical malfunction,' some 30 unexploded IAF decoy flares fell in Israeli communities by the Gaza border; flares are highly combustible and civilians are advised to report suspicious objects to security forces.
The decoy flares were being used by IAF helicopters during training exercises and are considered extremely dangerous as they can ignite and explode. The IAF is telling anyone who may come across a suspicious object in the area to avoid touching it and to contact authorities.
Police bomb disposal experts neutralized several flares discovered near a school. The regional council cautioned that the flares resemble chocolate bars and could arouse the curiosity of children.
As a result of the discovery of several flares, extensive searches are being conducted in all surrounding communities, with an emphasis on checking schools and public areas. All further helicopter exercises in the area have been cancelled until the cause of the problem has been identified.
The IDF issued a statement on the matter, saying, "The IAF uses decoy flares during training exercises and operations. These decoy flares are meant to be burned midair and are not meant to touch the ground. In rare cases, a flare does not activate properly and reaches the ground. The incident is most likely the result of a technical problem and an investigation into the matter is being conducted to prevent a future occurrence."
