Islamist militants fired this morning a heavy barrage of mortar shells from the Gaza Strip toward Israel’s southern communities. While the Iron Dome anti-rocket Defense Systems intercepted most of the mortar-shells, at least two reportedly exploded in two Israeli communities, including one in a playground of a kindergarten. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and residents were instructed to leave protected areas and resume their daily routines.
The Israeli military responded to the heavy mortar fire by launching several airstrikes against installations belonging to the Islamist Hamas organization and Islamic Jihad. The IDF reiterated that it will not tolerate any attacks against Israeli civilians or soldiers and will take all measures necessary to protect the Jewish state. It further emphasized that it views Hamas terror group as solely responsible for any attacks emanating from the Gaza Strip.