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Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080117/wl_mideast_afp/mideastconflict_080117210033
Responding to Palestinian Rocket Fire, Israel Locks Down Gaza
[AFP/Yahoo] Adel Zaanoun - Israel locked down Gaza on Thursday in a bid to halt daily Palestinian rocket fire. Defense Minister Ehud Barak ordered the closure of all border crossings to commercial traffic and individual travelers except for "exceptional humanitarian needs." The U.S. urged Israel to avoid the loss of innocent life in Gaza, but defended Israel's right to strike against rocket and mortar attacks from Islamic militants. Deputy Prime Minister Haim Ramon said, "There is no need to negotiate with Hamas. If the rocket firings stop, we will cease operating in Gaza."