Israel: Gazan militants continue to launch projectiles toward southern region of Israel, May 18

Event

Gazan militants continue to launch rockets and mortar rounds toward southern Israel, including Eshkol Regional Council, May 18. Casualties and injuries have been reported in the latest strikes, with at least two foreign nationals killed and seven others wounded following a missile strike in an industrial area within the Gaza envelope in Eshkol Regional Council. In a separate incident, at least 10 people were wounded after a mortar round struck Erez Crossing. Further cross-border attacks cannot be ruled out.

Context

The projectile launches come amid the most intense cross-border fire between Israeli and Palestinian forces since 2014. Gazan militants have launched nearly 3,500 rocket and mortar rounds toward communities in southern and central Israel, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, since fighting began late May 10.

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 or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement.