Two explosive devices were detonated early this morning on the northern part of the Gaza Strip’s security fence, aimed at targeting an IDF force patrolling the area. No injuries or damage were reported as the explosive devices detonated when the Israeli force was a significant distance away. While no Palestinian organization has yet to claim responsibility for the attack, the IDF responded by targeting two observation posts and another militant position belonging to the Islamist Hamas organization, which controls the Gaza Strip. In a statement, the Israeli military reiterated its position, in which it views Hamas as solely responsible for any attacks emanating from the Palestinian territory under its control and will use all means necessary to thwart attempts to breach Israeli sovereignty, as well as to protect the security of Israel’s citizens and soldiers.
The IDF has launched an investigation into the incident, examining whether the explosive devices were planted by demonstrators that have staged numerous protests on the Palestinian side of the security fence. A military source told TV7 that the investigation will look into whether Islamist militants have used civilian protests, that have been staged by Gazan residents on a regular basis, to plant explosive devices adjacent to a road that is used for security purposes. Today’s incident was the second time in one month, in which explosive devices have been detonated on the Gaza-Israel security barrier, with the aim of harming Israeli troops. Late last month, four IDF soldiers were wounded by an explosive device that was detonated on the southern part of the enclave’s security fence. Two of the soldiers were classified at the time in serious condition and are still receiving treatment in a southern Israeli hospital.