05 May 2024 | 06:42 PM UTC
Israel: Hamas militants fire rockets from Rafah toward Kerem Shalom area May 5, injuring at least 10 people
Hamas rocket attack wounds at least 10 people in Kerem Shalom area, Israel, May 5; Israeli military launches retaliatory strikes in Rafah.
Israeli authorities have asserted that Hamas militants fired at least 10 rockets from Rafah in the Gaza Strip toward Israel's Kerem Shalom area May 5, injuring at least 10 people. Hamas has claimed responsibility for the attack. Israeli officials claimed that the Hamas barrage originated from the vicinity of the Rafah crossing that connects the Gaza Strip with Egypt.
In response to the rocket attack, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) reportedly struck multiple targets in the Rafah area, including the launcher from which the rockets were fired as well as a "military structure" in the vicinity. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have also temporarily closed the Kerem Shalom crossing through which humanitarian aid has flowed into the Gaza Strip. Officials did not immediately specify when the Kerem Shalom crossing would reopen to humanitarian aid shipments, and it was not immediately clear what, if any, effect the attack would have on Israeli plans to launch a military assault in Rafah.
Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business will likely affect the Kerem Shalom area over the coming hours. Further cross-border violence is likely over the coming days.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel near the Israel-Gaza border until the situation stabilizes. 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 no shelter is nearby, stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Reconfirm the status of transport services before departure. Review and update contingency plans.
