11 May 2021 | 01:05 AM UTC
Israel: Gazan militants will likely launch further rocket and mortar rounds toward Southern District and major cities amid heightened tensions /update 2
Further rocket and mortar rounds targeting Israel's Southern District and major cities likely. Retaliatory airstrikes almost certain.
Event
Gaza-based militants will likely launch additional rocket and mortar attacks against Israel's southern communities and cities amid heightened tensions. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has stated that Gazan militants fired over 150 rocket and mortar rounds toward Israel late May 10. The attacks triggered alert sirens in Israel's Southern District along the border with the Gaza Strip and in Jerusalem; at least seven rockets reportedly targeted the city. The Iron Dome air defense system intercepted dozens of rockets while most other projectiles landed in open fields. There have been no immediate reports of significant casualties or damages; however, some minor damages to buildings and infrastructure have occurred in Israeli communities near the Israeli-Gazan border.
The IDF has responded to the May 10 attacks with retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas targets in Gaza. The Gazan Ministry of Health reported that the airstrikes killed at least 20 people and wounded some 65 others. The Israeli military will almost certainly conduct retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza, notably in Gaza City and Khan Younis, in response to any further attacks.
The recent rocket barrages come amid heightened tensions between Palestinians and Israelis following the latter's effort to evict Palestinians from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The Gaza-based militant group had issued an ultimatum demanding that all Israeli troops leave the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood and the Temple Mount by 18:00 May 10. Tensions will likely remain at a heightened level over the coming days.
Context
Rocket and mortar attacks targeting communities across communities in southern Israel are common. Most incidents do not result in casualties or serious damage. Israel's Iron Dome air defense system has successfully intercepted most projectiles that the Gaza-based militants launch. The security situation remains volatile, and further cross-border violence is likely. Israel has consistently launched military counterattacks following cross-border strikes.
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 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.
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.
