IDF retaliates to fire from Gaza, injuring 11 Palestinians

Shell fired as soldiers carry out routine operation near border fence; no one injured; IDF responds with tank fire.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
gaza strip idf tank 311 (photo credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
gaza strip idf tank 311
(photo credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
An explosive device was detonated as IDF soldiers passed near the Gaza security fence during a routine operation on Wednesday and a mortar shell was then fired at the force. No one was injured and no damage was reported in the attack.
The IDF identified a number of terrorists in the area and directed tank fire in their direction, confirming a successful hit of their intended target.
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Eleven Palestinians were injured in the IDF strike, including three members of the Islamic Jihad and three children, according to Palestinian sources.
In addition to the border skirmish, a total of five mortar shells fired from Gaza landed in the Sedot Negev Regional Council area on Wednesday.
No injuries or damage were reported in the attacks.
According to IDF spokesperson, terrorists have placed a total of 12 explosive devices near the Gaza border fence so far this year. Two explosive devices were uncovered by an IDF force on Tuesday in the southern Gaza Strip and detonated in a controlled manner.
The IDF holds the Hamas terrorist organization solely responsible for maintaining the calm in the Gaza Strip and for any terrorist activity emanating from it, according to a statement released by the military.