Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Militants engage soldiers along Gaza border August 1

Event

Unidentified Palestinian militants reportedly exchanged gunfire with Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers along the Gaza border during the early morning hours (local time) of Thursday, August 1. The fighting broke out in the Khan Yunis area and IDF drones were reported flying near the border. According to local media reports, at least one militant crossed the border fence and opened fire on IDF personnel, wounding at least three soldiers. Israeli officials have not issued formal statements on the incident as of 04:45. Details are still emerging. Further IDF and militant operations are possible along the border in the coming hours.

Context

Cross-border gunfire is not uncommon between Palestinian militants and the IDF along the Gazan border. Rocket fire and strikes between Israel and the Gaza Strip have also intensified since early December 2017. Hundreds of rockets and mortars have been fired from the Gaza Strip, often followed by retaliatory Israeli airstrikes.

Advice

Individuals present in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities. Due to the underlying terrorist threat, travelers in Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders