18 Jan 2021 | 08:38 AM UTC
Israel, Palestine: Gaza militants fire two rockets into southern Israel near Ashdod Jan. 17/18; Israeli forces responded with airstrikes in Gaza, early Jan. 18
IDF conducts airstrikes against Hamas targets in Gaza early Jan. 18 following rocket fire toward Ashdod, southern Israel. No casualties.
Event
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that it had struck Hamas military targets in the Gaza Strip early Jan. 18 in response to rocket fire overnight Jan. 17/18. The exact location of the airstrikes is unclear. Media reports indicated that Hamas tunnel sites were targeted. Two rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip toward Ashdod overnight Jan. 17/18. The projectiles reportedly landed in open areas near the coast. Emergency warning sirens were not activated. There were no casualties reported.
Further rocket fire and Israeli retaliatory attacks are possible in the coming hours.
Context
Rocket and mortar attacks are common in southern Israel. Most incidents do not result in casualties or serious damage. Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system has been successful against longer-range and potentially more damaging ordnance but is less effective against shorter-range artillery, such as mortars. Israel often launches military counterattacks following cross-border strikes. The security situation remains poor, and further cross-border violence is likely.
Advice
Monitor local media and abide by security force directives. If possible, avoid areas within 5 km (3 miles) of the Gaza buffer zone until the security situation improves. If incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported in southern Israel or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions by authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement.
Individuals or entities operating in the Gaza Strip are advised to avoid known Hamas security force locations, which are common targets for Israeli retaliatory airstrikes. Establish a thorough communication plan to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in southern Israel and the Gaza Strip.
