By Aryeh Savir
[Update below.] A terror attack was thwarted in south Israel last night. 13 terrorists, a large size force, infiltrated Israel via a tunnel dug under the border. The infiltrators were discovered and several of the terrorists tried to escape back to Gaza. A heavy battle ensued and the IDF used its air force and artillery fire.
All residents in the area were ordered to stay in their homes, and this order has yet to change. There are reports that the fighting is still continuing and that the IDF is still hunting down some of the terrorists.
IDF reports that several of the terrorists were hit, but no injuries were incurred by IDF soldiers.
More details to follow.
UPDATE: Earlier this morning, IDF forces thwarted an attack by Hamas terrorists. IDF forces identified 13 terrorists attempting to infiltrate Israel through a terror tunnel constructed by Hamas. The tunnel led underground from the southern Gaza Strip towards the southern Israeli community of Sufa. IDF forces thwarted an impending terror attack, preventing the terrorists from attacking an Israeli kibbutz. The foiled attack could have had deadly and devastating consequences if carried out, an IDF source said. No injuries to IDF soldiers were reported.
Terror tunnels are just one example of Hamas’ constant attempts to violate Israel’s sovereignty and security, by carrying out lethal attacks against Israeli civilians. “As the IDF demonstrated in recent days, Hamas will not be able to launch strikes against Israel without consequences”, the source said.
IDF Spokesman Brigadier General Motti Almoz stated after the attack that judging by the equipment and weaponry the terrorists were carrying, the attack would have been devastating. “We could have woken up to a horrible morning with many dead and wounded. Thanks to the alertness and preparedness ended this way.” The IDF estimates that there are some 10 more tunnels ready for use.
During the first day of Operation ‘Protective Edge’ the IDF thwarted two infiltration attempts by terrorists via the sea. In the first incident Four Hamas terrorists were spotted on their way to a beach on Israel’s southern shores, their final objective the Kibbutz of Zikim. The terrorists were stopped by IDF infantry who ambushed them on the Israeli shore. All terrorists were killed in the gunfight that ensued. One soldier was lightly wounded.
Tazpit News Agency
