Tensions in the south: IDF forces targeted a Hamas military position in the Gaza Strip this evening (Tuesday) in response to continued incendiary balloon launches and disturbances along the border. Shortly thereafter, another attack was reported in the strip, conducted using a tank.
According to an IDF spokesperson, the attack was carried out using a remotely-operated armed drone and was directed against a position in the central Rafiah area where violent disturbances took place at several locations near the border. IDF forces responded to the disturbances with crowd dispersal means and sniper fire, with reports indicating hits were identified.
It is also mentioned that during the disturbance, a Molotov cocktail was thrown towards the obstacle area. However, the IDF clarified that there were no breaches into Israeli territory during the events. This comes after reports that militants crossed the border, ignited a fire, and then returned to Gaza.
As reported, there was violent unrest at the Gaza border this evening, along with clashes between militants and IDF forces. This marks the 11th consecutive day of disturbances at the southern border, which led to a closure of the Gaza Strip and the prevention of Palestinian laborers from entering Israel since Rosh HaShanah.
Additionally, there were reports of incendiary balloon launches from the border area, along with a fire in an open area near the Kfar Gaza settlement. Firefighting and rescue teams worked in the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council area to gain control of the fire, and a fire investigator determined that it was caused by an incendiary balloon.
The escalation in events on the Gaza border comes after yesterday's attack by the IDF on a Hamas position from the air, following an attack by a terrorist who fired towards IDF forces from the area of the position. Additionally, in the days leading up to Yom Kippur, the IDF responded multiple times to the launching of incendiary balloons from the Gaza Strip.