Dozens of balloons rigged with explosives were launched by Palestinian Islamists from the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip toward Israel’s southern communities.
Among the numerous incidents reported, police sappers were dispatched to two schools in the city of Sderot, where “terror balloons” were located. Thankfully, no injuries or damage were reported.
Despite the ongoing terror emanating from the Jihadist plagued territory, this morning Jerusalem announced its decision to increase Gaza’s fishing zone from ten to fifteen nautical miles. In addition to this gesture, Israel cancelled its retaliatory sanctions for the sporadic rocket-fire and balloon terrorism, and starting Sunday, the Israeli military’s Coordinator for Government Activities in the territories will increase the number of entry permits for businessmen from the Gaza Strip by 500.
An Israeli security official explained that “Hamas relayed messages to Israel stating that it had decided to stop launching balloons rigged with explosives and rockets.” The Islamist group informed Israel of its intension, via Egyptian mediation, and underscored that the decision was unilateral.
An Israeli defense official told TV7 that Israel is assessing whether Hamas is serious, and will response accordingly. She further stressed that while the security establishment remains skeptical, it is keen on trying to restore stability to Israel’s southern communities.