Israel, PT: IDF strike militant targets in Gaza Strip early Jan. 2 following rocket fire near Tel Aviv on Jan. 1 /update 1

Event

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly conducted retaliatory airstrikes against Gaza-based militants early Jan. 2. The IDF targeted the Qadisiyah area of Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip. There are no immediate reports of casualties. The airstrikes came a few hours after Gaza-based militants fired at least two rockets towards central Israel, early Jan. 1. The rockets fell in the Mediterranean Sea near Tel Aviv and Palmachim. No sirens were sounded and the military did not activate missile defense systems. There were no casualties reported. The explosions were heard in multiple areas of central Israel, including parts of Tel Aviv. Israeli forces near the Gaza border retaliated against a suspected Hamas position. Three people were injured.

Heightened security measures are likely in Israel's Southern District over the coming hours, particularly near the shared border with Gaza. Gaza-based militants may fire additional rockets at communities in southern Israel over the short term. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in the affected areas. Further retaliatory Israeli strikes on suspected militant targets in the Gaza Strip are also possible over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Monitor local media and abide by security force directives. 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. Persons in Gaza should avoid travel near the shared border with Israel and avoid all military positions.