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IDF opens fire on suspects in Gaza, ‘prepared for any scenario’

“The IDF is committed to fully implementing the conditions of the agreement for the return of the hostages,” said the military.

IDF in Gaza
Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip during “Operation Swords of Iron.” Credit: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit.

Israel Defense Forces troops fired on suspects who posed a threat to them in several parts of the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, according to the military.

In one instance in southern Gaza, soldiers identified a number of suspects and fired warning shots to distance them. After the suspects continued advancing towards the troops, they fired “additional shots in order to remove the threat.”

“The IDF is committed to fully implementing the conditions of the agreement for the return of the hostages. The IDF is prepared for any scenario and will continue to take any necessary actions to thwart any immediate threat to IDF soldiers,” according to the statement.

The military reiterated its call to Gazans to abide by instructions and avoid approaching troops deployed in the enclave.

On Tuesday, Israel responded to multiple violations of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. In one case, “an air force aircraft fired to deter suspicious vehicles that were moving north from the center of the Gaza Strip on a route that is not approved for vehicle traffic, without passing through the agreed inspection route,” said the military.

The Israeli Navy also fired at Palestinian vessels that defied security restrictions in Gaza’s maritime zone and failed to comply with a demand to return to shore, forcing them to change course.

In central Gaza, soldiers fired at two Palestinians who had ignored warning shots, hitting one.

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