(Ha'aretz) Hamas launched 26 mortars and a number of anti-tank rockets at settlements and army outposts in Gush Katif in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, wounding one Israeli. Prime Minister Sharon and Defense Minister Mofaz said Wednesday that Israel will resume offensive operations in Gaza if the PA does not move immediately to halt the Hamas mortar fire. Israel will apparently postpone further goodwill gestures because of Wednesday's escalation. During the mortar fire on Wednesday, the IDF spotted a Hamas cell launching mortars near Khan Yunis. The IDF asked the PA to halt the shooting, and a patrol of PA police showed up, firing in the air. Israel Radio reported that Hamas men opened fire and wounded three PA police officers attempting to stop them from launching mortars. After the mortar fire continued, an IDF aircraft struck the mortar launcher with a missile.
2005-05-19 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive