Rockets fired from Gaza after tunnel uncovered
A volley of rockets was fired at southern Israel on Tuesday hours after the IDF uncovered a terrorist tunnel that crossed from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory.
The Iron Dome defense system intercepted a rocket, according to the army, after sirens were heard in the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council
While the tunnel did not cross the barrier that is being built at the border, the discovery was made thanks to technological means that the underground barrier includes. The tunnel, which was dug from the area of Khan Yunis, was exposed after its detection.
IDF Spokesman Brig.- Gen. Hadi Zilberman emphasized that “the tunnel was still in the process of being built, so that at no point did it pose a danger to the surrounding towns. It will be neutralized in the next few days.” He said that it is still unclear which terrorist organization is behind the tunnel: “The IDF estimates that it was part of a relatively new operational outline, but has not yet determined who was responsible for it.”
The barrier, which is expected to be completed March 2021, will consist of three sections: a wall dug dozens of meters underground, an obstacle above ground and technological means for locating tunnels, according to the IDF. Most of the work underground has been completed.
While not completed, the IDF noted this is the barrier’s first successful attempt at locating and blocking an offensive tunnel.
“We will continue to take determined action in all sectors for the security of Israel and against any attempt to attack our sovereignty or our citizens,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement.