Hamas claims responsibility for rocket fire into Israel

In significant departure from previous position, Gaza-based terror group claims responsibility for at least 3 mortars fired into Israel, says responding to recent killing of Palestinians; 6 rockets slam into South overnight.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Rockets fired from Gaza smoke 390 (photo credit: REUTERS)
Rockets fired from Gaza smoke 390
(photo credit: REUTERS)
Hamas on Tuesday took responsibility for at least some of the rocket fire aimed at Israeli civilians Monday night, stating that it was responding to the killing of Palestinians in recent days. The IAF killed four Palestinian terrorists in the last 24 hours, at least two of whom were members of the Islamic Jihad terrorist group.
In a statement released by Hamas's armed wing, Izzaddin al- Kassam, the group said that it fired three mortars aimed at an IDF base in Zikim.The announcement marks a significant departure from its previous position, as during the last round of violence Hamas refrained from firing rockets into Israel.
Palestinian terrorist fired six rockets into Israel overnight Monday but failed to cause damage or injuries.
The Israel Air Force early Tuesday morning struck a terrorist cell which was in the process of planting an explosive device near the border with Central Gaza, confirming a direct hit. Two Palestinians, both believe to be Islamic Jihad operatives, were killed. The attack marked the third airstrike in twenty four hours, and followed followed a continuing escalation between Israel and Gaza terror groups.
Earlier Monday, a terror cell operating from Sinai crossed into Israel, killing a construction worker near the border fence. A force from the Golani Brigade immediately arrived at the scene, killing two terrorists in the ensuing gunfight.
Hours after the attack, an IAF aircraft targeted a motorbike, killing two Islamic Jihad men who were part of a terror cell responsible for recent shooting attacks along the border.
Yaakov Katz contributed to this story.