24 Mar 2021 | 01:26 AM UTC
Israel: Israeli military conducts retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza City early March 24 /update 1
Israeli military conducts retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza City early March 24 following rocket attack.
Event
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza City early March 24 following reports of a rocket fire on southern Israel late the previous day. The projectile landed in an open area near the border community of Be'er Sheva, and did not result in damage or injuries. The incident occurred as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu campaigned in Be'er Sheva as part of election day efforts to encourage his supporters to vote. Further attacks by Gazan militants cannot be ruled out.
Tensions remain heightened between Israeli forces and the Palestinians.
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.
