Israel, PT: IDF striking targets in the Gaza area, Aug. 5; retaliatory attacks likely /update 1

Event

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted at least one strike on a target in the Gaza area, Aug. 5. The IDF issued a statement acknowledging the action and noting that a 'special situation' had been declared on the home front. The strikes come amid heightened security along the shared border with Gaza; the IDF increased security in response to the arrest of Bassem al-Saadi, a prominent member of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and the threat of retaliatory PIJ violence. Israeli forces have also closed multiple road routes near the shared border in recent days.

Gaza-based militants may launch retaliatory attacks, including rockets, against communities along the Israeli-Gazan border over the coming hours or days. Possible rocket attacks would likely prompt precautionary measures, such as evacuations, in targeted areas of Israel and retaliatory strikes by the IDF. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely for the duration of the security measures. Israeli military action in the Gaza area could also spark violence, including anti-Israel civil unrest, elsewhere in Israel or the West Bank.

Advice

Monitor local media and abide by security force directives. If possible, avoid areas within 5 km (3 miles) of the Gaza buffer zone until tensions subside. In case of reports of incoming mortar rounds or rockets in southern Israel, or a warning siren sounds in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter until given further instructions by authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls, and, if possible, move to a ground floor or basement.

If operating in the Gaza Strip, avoid known Hamas security force locations, which are common targets for Israeli airstrikes, or recently targeted sites. Establish a thorough communication plan to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in southern Israel and the Gaza Strip.