Israel, PT: Retaliatory airstrikes possible after Gaza-based militants fire two rockets late April 22

Event

Retaliatory Israeli airstrikes may target suspected militant positions in the Gaza Strip over the coming hours and days after Gaza-based militants fired two rockets toward Israel late April 22. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that one of the rockets landed within Israel and the other landed within the Gaza Strip; the rocket that fell in Israel's Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council landed in an open field, causing no damage or casualties. No militant group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket launches. IDF officials have reportedly met to coordinate a potential response to the rocket fire.

Heightened security measures are likely in Israel's Southern District over the coming hours and days. Gaza-based militants may fire additional rockets at communities in southern Israel over the short term. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in affected areas.

Context

The incident marked the fourth instance in which Gaza-based militants fired rockets at Israel in the past week. The escalation in cross-border violence comes amid a spate of clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, notably including at the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif compound; a series of militant attacks have also killed 14 people in Israel since March 22.

Advice

Monitor local media and abide by security forces' 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.