At least one rocket was fired from Gaza into southern Israel late Tuesday afternoon, causing air raid sirens to sound and residents to run for shelter.
Sirens blared on Tuesday throughout many populated areas in the south, including the port cities of Ashdod and Ashkelon and smaller towns that border Gaza, when at least one rocket hit Israeli territory.
A number of residents said they heard large explosions. The IDF said that at least one rocket exploded near the city of Ashdod. No injuries were reported.
Residents reported seeing Iron Dome missile defense batteries deploying to intercept the incoming rockets, Israel National News reports.
It is suspected that Islamic Jihad may be responsible for the rocket attack.
“Israel views Hamas as being responsible for everything that occurs in the territory of Gaza,” an IDF source stated.
Although there has been relative quiet along the Israel-Gaza border since last summer’s war with Hamas, there have been several terrorist attacks and an incident of rocket fire.
(Flash90)
Just last month, a rocket was fired from Gaza into Sderot. No damage or injuries were report from that attack.
In April, mortar fire from Gaza targeted the Sha’ar HaNegev region. Israel responded by attacking the source of fire.
Residents of the south are hoping that these are isolated incidents and that the summer of 2015 will be peaceful.
During last summer’s war, Hamas fired over 4,000 rockets into southern Israel, causing many residents to flee their homes for safety.
By: United with Israel Staff
