IDF thwarts Egyptian border-crossing attempt

One man was killed on the Israel-Egypt border, overnight Monday, during a clash with IDF soldiers. According to the IDF Spokesman’s Office, the soldiers returned fire after a group of infiltrators shot at their patrol.

“The suspects fired at the soldiers, who returned fire and identified a hit. Most of the suspects fled back to Egyptian territory, excluding one who remained injured in Israeli territory. Upon the arrival of an IDF medical force to the location of the incident, they determined the death of the injured suspect,” read a statement issued by the IDF Spokesman’s Office.

The IDF said it has increased its activity along Israel’s western border in light of increased infiltration attempts.

This incident occurred in the same area, near Nitzana, where a bag containing a large explosive device was discovered a week ago.

Israel is building an electronic barrier along the 150-mile (230-kilometer) border with Egypt to keep out militants and African migrants.

The Sinai has become increasingly lawless since Egypt’s longtime president Hosni Mubarak was toppled last year.