Israel/Palestinian Terr.: IDF launches retaliatory strikes on Gaza following rocket launch on June 15

Event

On Monday, June 15, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched retaliatory strikes on the southern Gaza Strip following a rocket launch from the enclave, which landed in a field in the Eshkol region. IDF tanks and aircraft reportedly hit underground Hamas sites near the city of Khan Younis, as well as observation posts east of Rafah. The exchange of fire comes amid rising tensions as Israel prepares to annex parts of the West Bank on July 1.

Further rocket launches are likely in the coming weeks, with Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire into Gaza to be expected in response.  

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. 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.