Israel, PT: Cross-border violence between Israel Defense Forces and Gaza-based militants persists as of May 17 /update 5

Event

Cross-border violence between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza-based militants persists as of May 17 and will likely continue through late May. The IDF launched an air and ground bombardment campaign against Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) targets May 13 following persistent rocket fire from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory. The ground portion of the action consists of artillery and tank fire into the Gaza Strip from Israeli-controlled territory. Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have not ruled out any options for further action; if tensions continue to escalate, a ground incursion into the Gaza Strip remains possible.

The military action follows the most intense cross-border fire between Israeli and Palestinian forces in almost a decade. 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. The IDF has responded with hundreds of retaliatory airstrikes against militant targets in Gaza. At least 10 Israelis and more than 190 Palestinians have so far been killed in the violence, with hundreds of others injured.

Heightened security measures are almost certain in southern Israel in the vicinity of the Gaza Strip for the duration of the military operation. Israeli authorities could impose additional security zones or military closures, including curfews and nightly movement restrictions, in the area with little to no advance notice.

Clashes and violence remain highly likely in any demonstrations that materialize in the coming days throughout Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Prominent protest sites include public squares, city centers, and government buildings in major cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Gaza City, Khan Younis, and significant areas throughout the West Bank. Such protests will very likely be highly disruptive. Security forces will deploy to monitor any gatherings that may materialize and will probably employ heavy-handed crowd control measures to maintain order. Clashes between members of the Jewish and Arab communities will likely continue across Israel and the Palestinian Territories, primarily in mixed-population towns. Additional transport and supply chain disruptions remain highly likely in light of the military action against the Gaza Strip.

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.