Israel, PT: Authorities close Erez Crossing through at least April 24 following rocket fire /update 1

Event

Israeli authorities announced that the Erez Crossing linking the Gaza Strip to Israel would remain closed to pedestrians April 24 in response to the recent rocket fire by Gaza-based militants. The border crossing was slated to reopen April 23 following a three-day closure over the Jewish Passover holiday.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that a rocket landed within Israel and the other landed within the Gaza Strip late April 23; a rocket that fell in Israel's Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council landed in an open field, causing no damage or casualties. No militant group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket launches.

Authorities may extend the closure should militants continue targeting Israel with rockets. Further attacks by Gaza-based militants and retaliatory Israeli measures are possible over the coming hours and days. Heightened security measures are likely in Israel's Southern District over the near term. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in affected areas.

Context

The rocket fire on April 22 marked the fifth instance in which Gaza-based militants fired rockets at Israel in the past week. The escalation in cross-border violence comes amid a spate of clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, notably including at the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif compound; a series of militant attacks have also killed 14 people in Israel since March 22.

Advice

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 there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement.