Updated on 24 February 2020
The Situation:
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel opened fire on two Palestinian militants planting an explosive device next to the security fence along the Gazan border during the early morning hours (local time) of Sunday, 23 February.
At approximately 17:40 (local time) on 23 February, Hamas militants in Gaza began retaliatory rocket fire into southern Israel along the northern border of Gaza.
Militants in Gaza continued periodic rocket fire along the Gaza border, including heavier fire near Ashkelon (7 miles north of Gaza) and Sderot (2 miles east of northern Gaza).
Forty rockets have reportedly been fired into Israeli territory with the Iron Dome Defense System reportedly intercepting half the rocket. Zero fatalities have been reported in Israel.
The IDF conducted retaliatory strikes along the Gaza Strip, along with missile fire in Damascus Syria, on related Palestinian Israeli Jihad (PIJ) groups killing six members. Further cross-border retaliatory strikes are possible over the coming hours.
Mitigating Measures to Consider Applying:
Monitor local media closely for updates and warnings (IDF Twitter provides situational updates)
Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest rocket shelter
Listen for sirens and take them seriously (30-60 seconds is all the warning you will receive)
Download the app “Red Alert Israel” for your phone to warn of incoming rocket fire
Review alerts and restrictions provided by local authorities
Avoid the Gaza Strip
Use caution and remain aware of your surroundings
Check airports for flight delays or cancellations
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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