Israel, PT: Cross-border violence between Israel Defense Forces and Gaza-based militants likely to cease following truce on May 21 /update 6

Event

Cross-border violence between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza-based militants will likely come to an end following a ceasefire agreement between the warring parties from 02:00 May 21. Despite the tenuous ceasefire, tensions remain heightened. The Gaza-based militants and the IDF continued to engage in violence against each other within minutes of the 02:00 ceasefire agreement May 21. It remains to be seen if the ceasefire will hold; the Israeli leadership has stated that the reality on the ground will determine future operations. Hamas has also threatened to engage in further rocket attacks if the IDF conducts additional airstrikes against militants' targets in the Gaza Strip. Israel launched a military action dubbed Operation Guardian of the Walls on May 13 to target Gaza-based militants and degrade their ability to launch rockets toward Israeli cities and communities.

The conflict, which began May 10, killed over 230 Palestinians, 12 Israelis, and at least three foreigners. The military action by the IDF followed the most intense cross-border fire between Israeli and Palestinian forces in almost a decade. Gazan militants have reportedly launched over 4,000 rocket and mortar rounds toward communities in southern and central Israel, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, May 10-21. The IDF responded with hundreds of retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza.

The situation remains fragile, and further violence could erupt. Heightened security measures are almost certain in southern Israel in the vicinity of the Gaza Strip for the foreseeable future.

Advice

If operating in Israel's South District and the Gaza Strip, comply with the instructions of local authorities and exercise extreme caution. Strictly keep away from areas near the Israel-Gaza border. Avoid all military installations and official buildings that may be targeted by warring factions, such as security checkpoints and local government offices. When exiting Israel and the Palestinian Territories, confirm with local contacts that border crossings and/or airports are operational before checking out of accommodations.