Israel/Palestinian Terr.: At least 15 wounded in cross-border strikes July 14

Event

At least three Israelis and 12 Palestinians were wounded in cross-border attacks on Saturday, July 14. According to reports, the Israeli Air Force struck 40 Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip in one of the largest air campaigns in the area since 2014. The targets of Saturday's air strikes reportedly included tunnels, logistical, and military facilities. Also on Saturday, at least 90 rockets were fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip. According to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officials, the Israeli Iron Dome missile defense system intercepted 16 incoming rockets. Nevertheless, a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit the Israeli town of Sderot, injuring at least three Israelis. Further cross-border strikes are possible in the area in the coming hours and days.

Context

In general, rocket fire and strikes between Israel and the Gaza Strip have intensified since early December 2017. Hundreds of rockets and mortars have been fired from the Gaza Strip, followed by retaliatory Israeli airstrikes..

Advice

Individuals present in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to avoid all protests or other public gatherings due to the high risk of violence and to monitor developments to the situation. Due to the underlying terrorist threat, travelers in Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.