Tension in the Middle East saw another rise when projectiles were fired from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory on Sunday. According to official military reports, two rockets crossed from central Gaza and triggered air raid sirens in the town of Netivot.
The alarm caused concern among the residents of Netivot, a community of about 50,000 people located just 10 kilometers from Gaza. One of the rockets was intercepted mid-air, while the other landed in an open area. Thankfully, no casualties or property damage were reported.
This attack marked the first time in months that Netivot was directly threatened by rocket fire. The armed wing of Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant group, claimed responsibility for the launch. The group stated that the strike was carried out in retaliation for ongoing military actions in Gaza.
Intensified Military Operations Around Gaza City
The rocket launches came at a time when military operations in Gaza were being stepped up. In recent days, Israeli forces have focused their push around Gaza City, which is the largest urban center in the enclave.
Reports indicate that large-scale airstrikes targeted several parts of the city. High-rise buildings were destroyed, including one that was flattened on Saturday, marking the second day in a row that major structures were brought down. Thousands of leaflets were also dropped over western neighborhoods, warning civilians to evacuate immediately.
The operations are part of broader military efforts that have continued since the October 2023 attack which triggered the ongoing war. Israeli officials have made it clear that they aim to secure control over Gaza City and weaken the ability of militant groups to carry out strikes.
The destruction of buildings and evacuation orders have caused significant movement of civilians, many of whom have been forced to leave their homes under difficult conditions. The situation has drawn international attention due to the scale of the fighting and the risks faced by ordinary people in the conflict zone.
Islamic Jihad’s Role in the Conflict
The latest rocket fire highlights the role of Islamic Jihad in the ongoing war. The group has fought alongside Hamas, another major militant organization in Gaza, against Israeli forces. Together, these groups have carried out numerous rocket attacks targeting Israeli cities and towns.
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In this instance, Islamic Jihad described the projectile launches as a direct response to what it called “crimes” committed against Palestinians. The statement reflects the continuing cycle of action and reaction that has fueled the conflict.
The group’s actions, combined with the military operations around Gaza City, underline how volatile the situation remains. Although only two rockets were fired on this occasion, the symbolism of the attack is significant. It shows that militant groups still have the ability to strike inside Israel, even as heavy fighting continues in Gaza.
For residents of areas near the border, like Netivot, the threat of rocket fire remains a constant concern. Sirens and alerts are part of daily life, and even when projectiles are intercepted or fall in open fields, the fear they generate is very real.