The Israeli Air Force struck a Hamas post in the southern Gaza Strip Tuesday, shortly after several Qassam rockets and mortar shells landed inthe western Negev area.
Palestinians sources reported that two Palestinians were killed in the assault, one of whom was a policeman.
The IDF has confirmed the strike, citing it was launched in reaction to the rocket salvo on the western Negev communities. The IDF stresses that any fire towards Israel by Palestinian militants will be met with a military response.
Earlier Tuesday, several Qassam rockets and mortar shells were fired from northern Gaza towards the western Negev: One causing minor damage; five located in open areas.
Defense Minister Ehud Barak saidTuesday that Israel must be ready for the terror groups' retaliation to the IDF operation in Gaza.
"I hope the IDF continues its successful strikes against Qassam launchers," said Barak, adding he thinks Israel should stay vigilant.
Housing and Construction Minister Ze'ev Boim concurred: "The IDF has to reclaim ground control of the Philadelphi Route," he said.
Efrat Weiss and Hanan Greenberg contributed tot his report
First published: 12:40, 12.18.7