Gaza Strip
Following warnings by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyhau and Defense Minister Gantz that the IDF could resume targeted killing of terrorists, the Hamas leadership reportedly has gone “underground.”
Israeli tanks hit multiple sites in the Gaza Strip after incendiary balloons from Gaza spark nearly 30 fires in southern Israel.
Thousands run to shelters after rocket triggers sirens in Ashkelon during a tour by Israel’s education minister • Arson attacks from the Gaza Strip ignite some 40 fires in southern Israel.
“The power feed may now decline to only four hours [per day],” says an official at the Hamas-ruled enclave’s main energy-distribution company.
Egyptian mediators leave Gaza empty-handed, as incendiary and explosive balloons continue to be launched into southern Israel.
According to Hebrew media reports, the current escalation along the Gaza border is related to the approaching deadline for the transfer of Qatar’s annual $25 million grant to Hamas.
“If Sderot isn’t quiet, Gaza won’t be either,” says Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz.
Three Israelis with direct ties to the move deconstruct lessons learned from the 2005 pullout when it comes to possible “land for peace” deals in Judea and Samaria.
The laser defense system, designed to intercept airborne threats such as drones and kites, reportedly has an effective range of 1.2 miles.
IDF strikes come after incendiary balloons cause 60 separate fires in western Negev communities • Netanyahu: “Balloon terrorism will have a heavy price. We will not tolerate this.”
Gaza residents with foreign passports and patients seeking treatment abroad are allowed to pass through the Rafah crossing during its three-day opening.
The move follows a wave of explosives-laden balloons launched into Israel • Israeli Defense Ministry: The closure will not affect the flow of humanitarian aid.
