Army launches surprise drill in southern Israel
Planes, vehicles and troops will operate along Gaza Strip border and western Negev in general preparedness exercise
The IDF launched a surprise exercise in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip and western Negev early Wednesday morning, officials said.
Large numbers of aircraft, vehicles and IDF troops were set to take part in the drill, which is designed to test the preparedness of the Southern Command, the IDF Spokesperson said in a statement.
The Gaza Strip and surrounding area have long been a focal point of IDF activity. The IDF last summer waged a 50-day campaign in the Strip, in response to rocket fire by Hamas and other groups.
On several occasions during the current outbreak of violence in Israel in recent months, dozens and sometimes hundreds of Palestinians have gathered on the border to throw rocks, burn tires and occasionally shoot at IDF troops.
However, the IDF said in its statement, the exercise is not in response to any particular threat.
“The public is requested to observe the instructions of security forces [during the drill],” the army said.