12 Nov 2019 | 03:21 AM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Israeli forces on high alert following Gaza airstrike Nov. 12 /update 1
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are on high alert after a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) leader was targeted in an airstrike in Gaza on November 12; retaliatory rocket attacks expected
Event
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are on high alert after the leader of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) Al-Quds Brigade, Bahaa Abu Al-Ata, was targeted in an airstrike during the early morning hours (local time) of Tuesday, November 12. Al-Ata and his wife were reportedly killed in the operation which targeted their home in the Shejaia district of Gaza City. At least three other Palestinians were also reportedly wounded in the strike. Schools in Ashkelon and other areas along the border between Israel and Gaza have been closed on Tuesday and shelters have been opened as a precaution.
Retaliatory rocket and cross-border attacks by PIJ and other militant organizations are likely in the coming hours.
Context
Al-Ata has been accused to planning attacks against Israel and upgrading the rocket capabilities of the PIJ in the Gaza Strip.
Advice
Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments. Seek immediate shelter in the event of a rocket attack.
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.
