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Israel was attacked by Lebanon on Thursday with at least 34 rockets. After Israel had already shelled southern Lebanon, the Israeli army attacked targets in the Gaza Strip on Friday night.
The army said fighter jets had bombed weapons factories belonging to Islamist Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip. It was initially unclear whether there were any injuries or even deaths. According to Palestinian media and eyewitnesses, explosions could be heard and smoke could be seen over the coastal enclave.
The Israeli Prime Minister had threatened harsh measures
According to the army, 34 rockets had previously been fired into Israeli territory from Lebanon — more than at any time since 2006. Many were intercepted. Two people in northern Israel reportedly suffered minor injuries. The Israeli army believes that Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip, or the militant Palestinian organization Islamic Jihad are involved. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had threatened harsh measures in the evening.
The escalation was preceded by clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians on the Temple Mount (Al-Haram al-Sharif) in Jerusalem. According to media reports, police used batons, tear gas and rubber bullets to remove Palestinians from Al-Aqsa Mosque two nights in a row. A police spokeswoman said youths had previously thrown fireworks and stones at police officers and tried to barricade themselves inside the mosque.
The Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam. But it is also sacred to Jews because there used to be two Jewish temples. Violent confrontations are frequent in the area around the mosque. (SDA/dzc)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
