Israel/Palestinian Terr.: IDF investigates suspected infiltration from Gaza on September 2 /update 16

Event

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) arrested a Palestinian man late Wednesday, September 2, following a suspected infiltration attempt from the Gaza Strip. The man was apprehended near the community of Ein Hashlosha near the security fence, and a suspected explosive device was reportedly found nearby. 

A heightened security presence is to be expected while security forces carry out their investigations. Further clashes cannot be ruled out over the near term.

Context

The incident comes two days after the agreement of a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant groups. The two sides had been engaged in a two-week period of low-intensity violence, with daily balloon and rocket attacks from Gaza against Israel, followed by Israeli retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas infrastructure at night.

Advice

Those in the Gaza Strip and areas of Israel bordering the territory are advised to monitor developments and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the Gaza Strip.