Report: IDF artillery attacks Hamas positions in Gaza Strip

"A special force of the IDF operated tonight in an operation of high importance to Israel's security," said Eisenkot.

Palestinians sit at the remains of a building that was destroyed by an Israeli air strike, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, November 12, 2018 (photo credit: SUHAIB SALEM / REUTERS)
Palestinians sit at the remains of a building that was destroyed by an Israeli air strike, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, November 12, 2018
(photo credit: SUHAIB SALEM / REUTERS)
IDF forces fired artillery at a Hamas position in the northern Gaza Strip on Sunday night, according to Palestinian reports. Palestinians were fired upon after approaching the security fence in the southern Gaza Strip.
At least seven Palestinians were killed, including a top Hamas commander, late Sunday night during clashes between terrorists and IDF soldiers in the Gaza Strip. An IDF lieutenant colonel was killed and another officer was moderately wounded.
On Monday morning, the military explained that the purpose of the special forces operation was not to kill or kidnap, and that the troops were exposed while they “carried out a lengthy operation.”
"A special forces unit of the IDF was operating tonight in an operation of high importance to Israel's security. The force and Israel Air Force troops fought courageously and bravely,” said IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gadi Eisenkot.
Anna Ahronheim contributed to this report.