Ceasefire appears to hold after brief rocket attacks from Gaza, IDF strikes

Palestinians in Gaza celebrate ceasefire announcement

Palestinians celebrate the announcement of a ceasefire after five days of fighting between Israel and the Islamic Jihad terror group in Gaza City, Saturday, May 13, 2023.(AP/Fatima Shbair)

Palestinians in Gaza are celebrating the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, after five days of fighting that saw over 1,000 rockets launched at Israel. The Israeli military targeted dozens of the terror group’s sites and locations over the course of this round of conflict.

The two sides agreed to an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire late Saturday.

As the truce took hold, the deafening whooshes of outgoing rockets and booms of Israeli airstrikes were replaced by the honking of cars in Gaza. Streets that had been desolate in recent days quickly teemed with people reveling in the ceasefire, waving Palestinian flags and flashing victory signs from speeding vehicles. Amid the celebration, a fruit vendor used a loudspeaker, enthusiastically promoting his supply of bananas.

In Israel, two civilians were killed by PIJ rockets since the IDF launched Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday — an Israeli woman in Rehovot and a Palestinian man from Gaza who was working in a greenhouse near the southern town of Shokeda.

At least 69 Israelis have also been wounded.

Meanwhile, Israel has killed 18 Islamic Jihad operatives in addition to at least 10 Palestinian civilians, an IDF official said Saturday. The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry put the death toll at 33, but the IDF official noted that some Gaza civilians were likely killed by PIJ rockets that landed inside the Strip. Another 151 Palestinians in Gaza have been injured, according to the enclave’s health ministry.

Sweden wins Eurovision, Israel’s Noa Kirel finishes in 3rd place overall

Noa Kirel of Israel during the flag ceremony before during the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, England, May 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

Sweden wins the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool early Sunday morning, with Israel’s Noa Kirel finishing in third place.

U-NI-CORN! ???????????? #Eurovision pic.twitter.com/An5tjrcJu1

— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) May 13, 2023

Kirel, 22, finishes with 362 points overall — 177 from the juries and 185 from the televote. Israel receives top marks from the juries of Italy, Azerbaijan, France, Armenia and Poland, and finishes the jury vote in second place overall. The third spot finish for Israel is the best showing for the country since Netta Barzilai won the competition in 2018 with “Toy.”

After completing her powerhouse performance on Saturday night, Kirel breaks down in tears just before exiting the stage.

“Wow, I don’t have the words to explain how exciting it was to represent my country when millions of eyes around the world are watching every movement and note,” Kirel says in a statement shared by the Kan public broadcaster following her performance.

The win for Sweden’s Loreen, with her power ballad “Tattoo,” marks the Scandinavian country’s seventh-total win at the annual competition, tying it for most overall victories with Ireland. It is also the second Eurovision win for Loreen, who took home the top prize at the 2012 contest with “Euphoria” — becoming only the second artist to ever win twice.

Roads shut near Gaza over fears of anti-tank missile attacks to open at 6.am. — IDF

The Israel Defense Forces say Israeli roads near the border with the Gaza Strip that were shut this week over fears of anti-tank guided missile attacks will reopen at 6 a.m. tomorrow (Sunday).

The decision comes following an assessment held by military officials, the military says.

Other restrictions such as on movement and gathering for residents living up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip will lift by noon tomorrow (Sunday).

For towns and cities beyond the 40 kms, restrictions will lift at 6 a.m.

Islamic Jihad leader declares ‘end of another round of conflict’ with Israel

Leader of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group Ziad Nakhaleh. (Video screenshot)

Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Nakhaleh declares the “end of another round of conflict with the Zionist project,” in reference to Israel.

In a speech tonight after the 10.pm. ceasefire came into effect, following five days of fighting, Nakhaleh says the terror group “lost many of our dear brothers” and “we part from them with pride,” as cited in Hebrew-language media.

“A nation whose leaders died as shahids [martyrs] will never be defeated,” says Nakhaleh, who is based in Syria where the Iranian-backed terror group also operates.

IDF to lift restrictions on towns within 40 kms of Gaza at noon on Sunday

The Israel Defense Forces has extended restrictions on movement and gathering for residents living up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip to noon tomorrow (Sunday). For towns and cities beyond the 40 kms, restrictions will lift at 6 a.m.

The IDF says the extension of the restrictions on residents near Gaza comes after an assessment held by military officials, following renewed rocket fire from Gaza at Israel on Saturday night. The rules were supposed to end at 8 p.m. tonight after a ceasefire agreement was reached for 10 p.m.

The Home Front Command rules mandate school closures, work closures — unless employees have a bomb-safe room they can reach in time — and limits to outdoor gatherings to no more than 10 people. Indoor gatherings are restricted to 100 people in those areas.

Additionally, special education schools are permitted to operate in areas near Gaza, provided there is a bomb-safe room that school kids and teachers can reach in time.

Israel’s Noa Kirel performs ‘Unicorn’ at Eurovision grand final

Israel's Noa Kirel appearing at the grand final of the 2023 Eurovision in Liverpool, UK, May 13, 2023. (Screenshot/EBU)

Israel’s Noa Kirel performs her song “Unicorn” at the 2023 Eurovision grand final in Liverpool.

Kirel is singing in the 23rd slot tonight, followed by only three other artists. Once everyone has performed, voting will open, with viewers around the world able to cast their vote for any of the 26 finalists.

The full results are not expected until after 2 a.m. Israel time. While the votes are being tallied, former Israeli champion Netta Barzilai will perform along with a group of other former Eurovision icons.

Kirel appears near tears after wrapping up her final performance.

Israel launches airstrike near Gaza City after rocket attacks

The Israel Defense Forces confirms it is carrying out airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, but does not offer further details.

The strikes come after two rockets were launched at southern Israel.

Earlier, Palestinian media outlets reported an Israeli airstrike near Gaza City. According to the reports, an observation post was struck.

IDF says 2 rockets fired from Gaza in latest attack; 1 intercepted

The Israel Defense Forces says two rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip at southern Israel in the latest attack.

One rocket was intercepted by the Iron Dome air defense system, while the second landed in an open area, not causing any damage, the IDF says.

Rocket alerts go off in Gaza-area towns

Incoming rocket sirens are sounding in towns close to the border with the Gaza Strip, an hour and 12 minutes into a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

The alerts go off in Nirim and Ein Hashlosha.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage in the attack.

National security adviser confirms ceasefire, says Israel will ‘defend itself’ if attacks continue

National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi confirms that Israel has agreed to an Egyptian-proposed ceasefire, but warns that the military will respond to any further attacks.

In a brief statement from Netanyahu’s office, Hanegbi thanks the Egyptians for their “vigorous efforts” to negotiate an end to the fighting, and adds: “Quiet will be met with quiet, and if Israel is attacked or threatened, it will continue to do whatever it must in order to defend itself.”

IAF targets two underground launchers in latest strike

The Israel Defense Forces says it targeted two underground Islamic Jihad rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip following the latest rocket fire on southern Israel.

Shrapnel from downed rocket falls on Route 4 highway; no injuries

Police say they have found shrapnel from an intercepted rocket on Route 4 in the Shfela region.

There are no injuries reported.

Sappers are examining the debris and searching for additional pieces of the rocket, according to a statement.

IDF launches airstrikes in response to ongoing rocket fire

The Israel Defense Forces says it is continuing to carry out strikes in the Gaza Strip following renewed rocket fire on southern Israel.

The IDF says it will provide further details later.

Sirens sound in the southern towns of Nirim and Ein Hashlosha, 11 minutes into the reported ceasefire.

Incoming rocket alerts continue despite ceasefire reportedly taking effect

Incoming rocket sirens continue to sound in southern Israel, minutes into a reported ceasefire.

Alerts go off in Kissufim and the city of Sderot.

The ceasefire between Israel and Islamic Jihad was reported to begin at 10 p.m.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for the rocket attacks in recent minutes.

Eurovision final kicks off in Liverpool; Israel’s Kirel will be 23rd to perform

The grand final of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest is kicking off now in Liverpool, with 26 finalists vying for the top prize.

Israel’s Noa Kirel is slated to perform in the 23rd slot with her song “Unicorn.” For the first time this year, viewers from around the world can vote, even in countries that are not participating in the Eurovision.

Netta Barzilai, the singer who brought Israel the win at the 2018 Eurovision with her song “Toy,” will also hit the stage tonight in Liverpool, performing with a handful of other past contestants as the votes are being cast and tallied.

Bookmakers have predicted that Sweden’s Loreen — a past winner — will take the trophy again with her song “Tattoo,” while Kirel will finish in a respectable 4th place.

Israel’s Kan public broadcaster says it will air the contest unless the security situation requires the network to switch to news broadcasts, in which case the competition will be aired on Kan Educational (Ch. 80) and on its website.

Military targets 3 underground rocket launchers in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces says aircraft struck three underground Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip following the latest rocket fire.

A single rocket that set off the alarms in Rishon Lezion and Holon is confirmed to have been intercepted by Iron Dome.

‘Disaster averted’: Rishon Lezion mayor hails decision to cancel Backstreet Boys concert

Raz Kinstlich, mayor of Rishon Lezion, praises the decision of the Homefront Command to cancel tonight’s’ Backstreet Boys concert in his city.

“Disaster was averted here,” he tells Channel 12, adding that shrapnel from a rocket interception in the skies above Rishon landed near the venue of the canceled concert.

Rocket alerts sound in Ashkelon, other southern towns

Incoming rocket sirens continue to sound in towns across southern Israel, minutes before a ceasefire is set to begin.

The sirens sound in the cities of Sderot, Ashkelon, and numerous towns close to the border with the Gaza Strip.

IDF carries out fresh round of airstrikes in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces says it is carrying out a new wave of airstrikes in the Gaza Strip following the rocket barrages on southern and central Israel.

The military says it will provide further details later on the targets.

Terrorists target Rishon Lezion, Holon minutes before ceasefire said to take effect

Incoming rocket sirens are sounding in the central Israeli cities of Rishon Lezion and Holon, as Islamic Jihad appears to launch long-range projectiles, minutes before a reported ceasefire is set to begin.

Rocket sirens are also sounding in towns near the border with the Gaza Strip.

Residents of central Israel report seeing Iron Dome interceptions over the area.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

More footage of Iron Dome interceptions over central Israel pic.twitter.com/uSUjidnU1p

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Islamic Jihad official confirms ceasefire reached, will come into effect at 10 p.m.

A senior official in Islamic Jihad in Gaza confirms a ceasefire has been reached with Israel.

Mohamad al-Hindi tells the Al Kahera Wal Nas channel that the Egyptian-brokered deal will go into effect at 10 p.m. local time (1900 GMT).

“Now, this agreement has been reached thanks to continuous Egyptian effort. We appreciate this effort,” he says.

— With AP

‘Expression of confidence’: Netanyahu fetes S&P decision to maintain credit rating

In this handout photo, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (left) and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich arrive for a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem on February 23, 2023. (Kobi Gideon/GPO)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich hail yesterday’s announcement by credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) that it was affirming Israel’s favorable rating despite fears stemming from its push to curb the judiciary.

“Israel’s positive rating has been left unchanged in a challenging period for the global economy,” the two say in a brief statement.

“It is an expression of confidence in the correct economic policy that we are leading. We will soon pass the state budget in the Knesset in order to ensure our continued efforts to strengthen the economy and fight the cost of living for the benefit of the citizens of Israel.”

In its announcement, S&P cited “persistent domestic and regional political and security risks” as potential threats to the Israeli economy in its quarterly country report.

The agency said it expected “some form of consensus” over the suspended judicial overhaul bid, which will allow “political tensions to moderate.”

No impacts reported in Sderot – spokesperson

A spokesperson for the Sderot municipality says there are no reports of impacts in the town.

Rocket alerts go off in Sderot and surrounding area

Fresh rocket alerts are heard in the Sderot area near the Gaza border.

Video purportedly taken in the area appears to show some of the rockets being intercepted by the Iron Dome system.

בזמן המגעים להפסקת אש ירי לעבר שדרות pic.twitter.com/6n9q2xPMYe

— Bar Peleg (@bar_peleg) May 13, 2023

Israel, Islamic Jihad said to reach ceasefire deal that will take effect at 10 p.m.

Rockets are launched from the Gaza Strip towards Israel, May 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Hatem Moussa)

An Egyptian-mediated ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Gaza-based Palestinian Islamic Jihad that will take effect in one hour, at 10 p.m., according to multiple reports.

Speaking on Channel 12, former IDF intelligence chief Amos Yadlin warned Israelis to continue to observe Homefront Command instructions, especially in the final minutes before the ceasefire is set to take effect, noting that Islamic Jihad has retained some rocket stocks and could seek a dramatic finale to the conflict.

According to reports from Egyptian and Israeli sources, the ceasefire agreement obligates both sides not to strike at homes or at civilians.

Channel 12’s Ohad Hemo notes that if the ceasefire takes effect and holds, the next test will come on Thursday, when the annual Jerusalem Day march is set to be held, with a route that takes it through the Muslim Quarter of the Old City. In 2021, the march was interrupted by rocket fire from Gaza.

IDF extends restrictions on towns within 40 kms of Gaza until Monday evening

The Israel Defense Forces has extended restrictions on movement and gathering for residents living up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip to Monday at 6 p.m.

The IDF says the extension of the restrictions comes following an assessment held by military officials, following renewed rocket fire from Gaza at Israel. The rules were supposed to end at 8 p.m. today.

The Home Front Command rules mandate school closures, work closures — unless employees have a bomb-safe room they can reach in time — and limit outdoor gatherings to no more than 10 people. Indoor gatherings are restricted to 100 people.

Additionally, special education schools are permitted to operate, provided there is a bomb-safe room that school kids and teachers can reach in time.

Israel will only agree to ceasefire with ‘no strings attached’ — Egyptian official

A plume of smoke rises above a building after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on May 13, 2023, amid fighting between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. (Mahmud Hams/AFP)

Israel will not sign a ceasefire agreement that includes any conditions beyond the IDF holding its fire, a senior Egyptian official familiar with the negotiations between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad tells The Times of Israel.

PIJ has pushed for Israel to release the body of its senior member Khader Adnan, who died earlier this month after hunger striking in protest of his detention in Israel without charge. Islamic Jihad has also demanded that Israel commit to halting assassinations of its leaders, the Egyptian official says, adding that Israel has refused the inclusion of either demand in a ceasefire deal.

“[They’re] only willing to cease firing if the other side does too. No strings attached,” the official says.

Egypt said to put forward new proposal to end Gaza fighting

Israeli police sappers remove a part of a rocket launched from the Gaza Strip, which fell in the southern city of Netivot, on May 13, 2023. (Menahem Kahana/AFP)

Egypt has reportedly put forward a new ceasefire proposal to end the days-long fighting between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Al Jazeera quotes unidentified sources saying the proposal calls to stop killing civilians and bombing homes, adding Islamic Jihad agreed in principle while Israel has yet to respond.

IDF says 6 Islamic Jihad command centers targeted in recent strikes

A screen capture of video released by the Israel Defense Forces showing an airstrike on a Palestinian Islamic Jihad mortar-launching position in the Gaza Strip, May 12, 2023. (Screenshot: Twitter; used in accordance with Clause 27a of the Copyright Law)

The Israel Defense Forces says it has carried out airstrikes against six Palestinian Islamic Jihad command centers across the Gaza Strip over the last few hours.

The IDF says the headquarters are used by Islamic Jihad’s rocket array to plan and carry out attacks on Israel.

“One of the targeted command posts was responsible for the production of rockets… commanded by Ali Ghali and his deputy, Ahmed Abu Deka,” who were killed in Israeli strikes this week, the IDF says.

Earlier today, the IDF hit four such command centers, which are located within residential buildings.

The military first warned the occupants of the buildings to clear the area before carrying out the strike, the IDF says.

IDF says it struck six Islamic Jihad command centers across the Gaza Strip over the last few hours. pic.twitter.com/PlkTlEDEPR

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

IDF says it accidentally downs own drone near Gaza, is probing matter

The Israel Defense Forces says forces downed an Israeli military drone near the border with the Gaza Strip earlier today.

The drone crashed in Israeli territory, the IDF adds.

The military does not elaborate how forces downed the “friendly” drone, but says it has launched an investigation.

Islamic Jihad claims to fire anti-tank missile at IDF troops; no injuries reported

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad claims to have targeted Israeli forces on the border with the Gaza Strip with an anti-tank guided missile.

In a statement, the terror group claims that at 7:30 p.m. it launched the missile in response to recent Israeli strikes against its sites and members.

There are no immediate reports of injuries on the Israeli side.

Warning sirens triggered in Ashkelon, neighboring communities

Rocket warning sirens are activated in the southern coastal city of Ashkelon and a number of neighboring communities.

Protests against judicial overhaul held amid Gaza fighting

Israelis protest against the judicial overhaul in Tel Aviv on May 6, 2023. (Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)

Demonstrations are being held for the 19th straight week against the government’s judicial overhaul plans, though turnout appears set to be far lower than usual after protest organizers canceled official rallies in the south and center of the country due to the ongoing fighting between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

In Tel Aviv, where the main rally tends to attract over 100,000 people at its peak each week, hundreds of people are marching from Dizengoff Square to Kaplan Street.

A march is also being held in Haifa and around 1,000 people are rallying at the Nahalal Junction in northern Israel.

Sirens sound in Ofakim as Gazan terrorists expand range of rocket fire

An Iron Dome interceptor is launched after rockets are fired from the Gaza Strip toward Israel, May 13, 2023. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

Warning sirens are now blaring in the southern city of Ofakim, as Palestinian terrorists in Gaza extend the range of their rocket fire.

Sirens also sound in Netivot and a number of communities even closer to Gaza, indicating a heavy barrage is underway.

Ambulance service says it’s treated 71 people since start of Gaza operation

The Magen David Adom ambulance service says it has provided medical care to 71 people since the start of the IDF’s Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday.

One Israeli woman was killed in Rehovot on Thursday, and a Palestinian man from the Gaza Strip was killed earlier today in southern Israel.

Twenty-seven people suffered physical injuries, including seven people wounded by shrapnel and broken glass as a result of rocket impacts, one of them seriously and four of them moderately.

MDA says 18 people were lightly hurt while running for shelter during a rocket alert siren.

Another 44 sought treatment for acute anxiety from nearby impacts, Magen David Adom says.

Rocket sirens sound in Sderot, nearby Gaza border towns

Rocket sirens are heard in Sderot and several other southern towns near the Gaza Strip.

Palestinian worker killed in Islamic Jihad rocket strike identified as father of 6

A Gazan laborer who died of wounds from a Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket attack while working in Israel is identified as Abdullah Abu Jaba.

Abu Jaba, a father of six, was alongside his brother, who was seriously wounded in the attack and is currently undergoing surgery at Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba.

An Israeli man they were with was moderately hurt.

IDF strikes Islamic Jihad operative firing mortars in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces says it has carried out a drone strike against a Palestinian Islamic Jihad operative in the Gaza Strip who was launching mortars at Israel.

The IDF publishes footage of a mortar being launched from the site, and the subsequent airstrike.

IDF says it carried out a drone strike against an Islamic Jihad operative launching mortars at Israel in the Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/kbDmIQfPwU

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Palestinian laborer dies of wounds from Gaza rocket attack

Illustrative: An ambulance outside the Soroka hospital in the southern Israeli town of Beersheba, December 23, 2013. (Flash90)

One of the Gazan men wounded in a Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket strike on southern Israel earlier today has died, medical officials say.

Earlier, two Palestinian laborers from Gaza and a Bedouin Israeli man were hurt after a rocket launched from the Strip landed near the southern border town of Shokeda.

The two Gazans were seriously hurt, while the Israeli man was listed in light-moderate condition.

One of the Gazans, a 35-year-old, dies of his wounds at the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, the hospital says.

His death marks the second in Israel since the latest round of hostilities began on Tuesday.

IDF: Over 1,234 projectiles fired at Israel since start of Gaza operation

Rockets are fired from the Gaza Strip toward Israel on May 13, 2023. (Said Khatib/AFP)

The Israel Defense Forces says that as of 4 p.m., Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip have launched 1,234 rockets and mortars at Israel since the beginning of Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday.

The IDF says 976 of the projectiles crossed the border, while 221 fell short in Gaza.

Air defense systems intercepted 373 of the rockets. Several have landed within towns, killing one and injuring several others, as well as causing extensive damage.

The rest landed in open areas without causing damage, according to the IDF.

The military says it has carried out strikes against 371 sites belonging to Islamic Jihad.

IDF chief touts ‘significant accomplishments’ in Gaza, says ready to continue assassinations

In this handout phot, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi meets with other top commanders on May 13, 2023, amid fighting against the Gaza-based Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group. (Israel Defense Forces)

Military chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi says Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s continued rocket fire on Israel allows the Israel Defense Forces to “make further achievements” in the ongoing campaign against the terror group.

“We have made significant accomplishments throughout this campaign. Since the opening strike, these accomplishments have only been increasing, both in number and scale. The Islamic Jihad terrorist organization’s continued fire enables us to continue to make further achievements,” Halevi says after an assessment with the IDF’s top brass and other defense officials.

“We are prepared to continue the targeted strikes and striking in a precise and increasing manner, as we have done over the last few days,” Halevi adds.

Israel has so far targeted and killed six senior Islamic Jihad commanders in the latest round of hostilities that began Tuesday morning.

Shrapnel falls in Netivot parking lot, resulting in damage but no injuries

Shrapnel from a projectile in a parking lot in the southern city of Netivot, after terrorists in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket barrage at Israel, May 13, 2023. (Twitter: used in accordance with Clause 27a of the Copyright Law)

During the latest rocket barrage launched at towns close to the border with the Gaza Strip, a large piece of shrapnel lands in the southern city of Netivot.

Images from the scene show what appears to be part of a large rocket after it was intercepted by the Iron Dome air defense system.

There are no injuries, but damage is caused to a parking lot where the shrapnel fell.

According to the Home Front Command’s instructions, civilians should remain in bomb shelters for 10 minutes after a rocket siren sounds, due to falling shrapnel after interceptions.

Israel reportedly strikes man riding motorcycle in southern Gaza

Illustrative: A Palestinian youth takes photos of an explosion from an Israeli airstrike targeting a nearby building, which Israel says belonged to a Palestinian Islamic Jihad member in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza Strip, May 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Al Masri)

Palestinian media outlets are reporting an Israeli airstrike against a man riding a motorcycle near the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

His condition is not immediately clear, and there are no further details on the strike.

The Israel Defense Forces has not yet commented on the strike, but has said it was targeting Islamic Jihad targets across the Gaza Strip in response to continued rocket fire on Israel.

Rocket sirens activated in Netivot, Gaza border towns

Rocket warning sirens are activated in the southern town of Netivot and a number of communities near the Gaza Strip.

Police say Palestinian shot after trying to stab officers at West Bank checkpoint

This handout photo shows a knife that a a Palestinian man allegedly tried to use to stab Border Police officers near the northern West Bank settlement of Shaked, May 13, 2023. (Israel Police)

A Palestinian man who allegedly attempted to stab Border Police officers at a checkpoint in the northern West Bank has been shot, officials say.

A Border Police spokesman says the suspect ran toward the checkpoint near the settlement of Shaked, known as “checkpoint 300,” while brandishing a knife.

“Border Police troops operating at the crossing fired at the terrorist and neutralized him,” the spokesman says.

His condition is not immediately clear.

No soldiers or officers are hurt in the incident.

Ministry extends program of putting up Gaza-area residents at hotels in other parts of Israel

The Defense Ministry announces the extension of the “Gust of Wind” program in which its buses residents of the Gaza-area to other parts of Israel and pays for their stays in hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

The plan will now remain in effect until Tuesday.

Senior Israeli source: Current fighting in Gaza shows ‘weakness’ of Hamas

Hamas terrorists in Gaza City on December 10, 2022. (Atia Mohammed/Flash90)

A senior diplomatic source asserts the current fighting between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad shows “the weakness” of Hamas, in an apparent effort to prod Gaza’s rulers to rein in the Iran-backed terror group.

The source says Hamas has long prevented other factions from “dictating policies” in Gaza, but that PIJ “has taken control of the agenda” there.

“More than anything, this shows the weakness of Hamas, which is being dragged by PIJ into an unnecessary round [of fighting],” the source says. “If Hamas doesn’t set a red line for PIJ and force it to stop the [rocket fire], this will be evidence of a changing balance of power in the Strip.”

Defense sources: 2 seriously hurt by rocket are Gazan laborers, 3rd man a Bedouin Israeli

The two seriously wounded people in the rocket attack near Shokeda are Palestinian laborers from the Gaza Strip, while the third, who is moderately hurt, is a Bedouin Israeli, defense sources say.

Warning sirens activated in Gaza-area kibbutzim

Rocket warning sirens blare in the kibbutzim of Kissufim and Ein Hashlosha, both near the border with Gaza.

Hanegbi: Israel not currently engaged in ceasefire talks but end of fighting in ‘our interest’

National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi arrives for the weekly cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem on May 7, 2023. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi says Israel is not currently engaged in talks on a ceasefire, with the current focus on striking the Gaza-based Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group.

Hanegbi touts the “unprecedented” operation in Gaza over the past several days, noting the killing of numerous top PIJ members.

“The Egyptians are trying,” he says at a cultural event in Mevaseret Zion, referring to Cairo’s efforts to broker an end to the fighting. “They want to stop the violence and prevent an escalation. That’s also our interest.”

He also says Israel achieved its goals “in the first seconds” of the operation, referring to the initial assassination of three senior Islamic Jihad officials.

“Everything that’s been going on since requires us to act because they’re firing on us,” he adds.

IDF strikes 3 Islamic Jihad mortar launching positions in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces says it targeted three Palestinian Islamic Jihad mortar launching positions in the Gaza Strip a short while ago.

It adds that it also hit an Islamic Jihad military post in one of the recent strikes.

The IDF says that so far today it has hit 13 underground rocket launchers, and is continuing to strike targets at this hour.

IDF says it struck three Islamic Jihad mortar launch sites and a military post in the Gaza Strip. In all, 13 rocket launch sites hit today, the IDF says. pic.twitter.com/Sv7k7KdeN7

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Rocket sirens blare in Kerem Shalom

Rocket sirens sound in the border community of Kerem Shalom, signaling incoming fire from Gaza.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Israel says Islamic Jihad fired mortars at Gaza border crossings

Palestinians are seen crossing at the Erez crossing with Israel near Beit Hanun in the northern Gaza Strip on August 27, 2018. (AFP Photo/Mahmud Hams)

In the latest round of hostilities, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group has launched dozens of mortars at the Erez and Kerem Shalom border crossings with the Gaza Strip, authorities say.

In a joint statement, the Defense Ministry and the military’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories say the attacks will prevent the crossings from opening.

The crossings have been closed since Tuesday.

“The rocket fire at the crossings, as well as the failed rocket fire, harms the residents of the Gaza Strip,” the statement says.

Several mortars launched by Islamic Jihad have hit the Erez Crossing with the Gaza Strip in the latest round of hostilities, the Defense Ministry and COGAT say. pic.twitter.com/cIeeAR7rWv

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Palestinian reports of casualties in Israeli strike near Khan Younis

Palestinian media outlets are reporting casualties in an Israeli airstrike near the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis.

There are no further details on the strike, and the Israeli military has yet to comment.

Police say 2 seriously injured, 1 moderately in Shokeda rocket strike; men said to be from Gaza

Police say two of the men injured in a rocket strike near Shokeda are in serious condition, and one person is moderately wounded.

Medics initially said one person was seriously wounded.

According to reports, at least two of the three men injured by the rocket fire were Palestinians from Gaza.

The men were said to be shepherds who were permitted to work on the agricultural land near the Gaza border.

Rocket sirens sound in Ashdod, towns across Shfela region

Rockets are fired from Gaza City toward Israel on May 13, 2023. (Mohammed Abed/AFP)

Incoming rocket sirens are sounding in the coastal city of Ashdod and in towns across the Shfela region.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad had vowed to continue rocket attacks on Israel following Israeli strikes against the terror group in the Gaza Strip.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage in the latest barrage.

Rocket alert sirens sound in Nirim, Ein HaShlosha

Sirens sound in two communities close to the border with the Gaza Strip, signaling incoming fire.

Alerts blare in Nirim and Ein HaShlosha.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

1 seriously injured, 2 moderately by rocket fire near Gaza border town of Shokeda

Three shepherds are wounded, including one seriously, in a rocket strike near the southern Gaza border town of Shokeda, medics say.

The Magen David Adom ambulance service says it is taking the three men in their 40s to the Soroka hospital in Beersheba for further treatment.

The other two men are listed in moderate condition, MDA says.

Two victims were treated at the scene, while the third made his way to the entrance of Netivot, where medics found him.

IDF: Dramatic drop in attempts by Gaza terrorists to fire mortars toward border towns

An Israeli man takes cover during an air raid siren warning of incoming rockets fired from the Gaza Strip, in Sderot, Israel, May 12, 2023. (AP/Tsafrir Abayov)

The Israel Defense Forces says it has identified a dramatic decrease in attempts by Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorists to launch mortars at southern communities near the border with the Gaza Strip.

“We detected a 50 percent reduction in attempts to launch mortars into Israeli territory, compared to previous rounds against Islamic Jihad,” says Lt. Col. “Ayin,” the commander of the IDF Gaza Division’s so-called “fire center,” which coordinates the unit’s offensive operations.

The officer, who can only be identified by his rank and initial of his name in Hebrew, says the unit has so far foiled eight attempts by Islamic Jihad cells or individuals to carry out anti-tank guided missile attacks on the border during the current escalation.

He says the successful efforts against Islamic Jihad come after isolating the area near the border — by closing off certain roads that are exposed to ATGM fire — quick response times against cells planning attacks, and cooperation with the Shin Bet security agency, Military Intelligence, and Air Force.

2 injured by shrapnel in rocket barrage fired from Gaza toward border towns

Rockets are fired from Gaza City toward Israel on May 13, 2023. (Mohammed Abed/AFP)

Medics are responding to reports of injuries in a rocket impact near the southern Gaza border community of Shokeda.

According to initial reports, two people are lightly hurt by shrapnel in the area.

The two are said to be men in their 40s.

Rocket alert sirens blare in Gaza border communities

Sirens sound in a number of communities close to the border with the Gaza Strip, signaling incoming fire.

Alerts blare in Nirim, Alumim, Shokeda, Be’eri and Nahal Oz.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

IDF says it hit 3 underground Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket launchers

The Israel Defense Forces says it carried out airstrikes against three underground Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip.

The military publishes footage of the strikes, as well of a strikes against two Islamic Jihad command centers earlier.

The IDF says it is continuing to target Islamic Jihad sites across Gaza at this hour, following renewed rocket fire on Israel.

IDF says it struck three underground Islamic Jihad rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip pic.twitter.com/GicPED5j1y

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

IDF publishes a video of the strikes against two Islamic Jihad command centers earlier today. pic.twitter.com/jnlycZqiu9

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Rocket sirens sound in Sderot, Netivot and Gaza border communities

Rocket alerts blare in the towns of Sderot and Netivot, in addition to a number of surrounding communities.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Heavy rocket barrages fired at Ashdod, Gaza border communities

Smoke following interceptions by the Iron Dome air defense system are seen in the sky above Ashdod on May 13, 2023 (Courtesy)

Rocket barrages are fired the coastal city of Ashdod and Gaza border communities after the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group vowed to renew rocket fire.

Alert sirens are sounding in a number of localities.

There are no immediate reports of injuries.

Residents report hearing the Iron Dome missile defense system intercepting a number of the projectiles.

IDF strikes Palestinian Islamic Jihad command centers in Gaza Strip

The Israel Defense Forces says it has carried out airstrikes against another two Palestinian Islamic Jihad command centers in the Gaza Strip.

Earlier, the IDF struck two similar command centers, housed in residential buildings. Yesterday, four such command centers were hit.

The military first warned the occupants of the buildings to clear the area before carrying out the strike, the IDF says.

The IDF says the headquarters are used by Islamic Jihad’s rocket array to plan and carry out attacks on Israel.

Rockets fired toward Ashdod, Gaza border communities

Rockets are launched from Gaza City towards Israel on May 12, 2023 (MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)

Incoming rocket sirens are sounding in the coastal city of Ashdod and other nearby towns.

This marks the first long-range rocket attack today, as until now Islamic Jihad had focused its fire on towns close to the border with the Gaza Strip.

Sirens also sound in towns close to the Gaza border.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage in the attacks.

IDF carrying out new wave of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza

People walk amidst the debris of a building hit by an Israeli air strike after rocket fire, in Gaza City on May 13, 2023 (MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)

The Israel Defense Forces says it is carrying out a new wave of airstrikes against Palestinian Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip.

The IDF says it will provide further details later on the targets.

Rockets fired toward Ashkelon, Gaza border communities

Rocket sirens warning of incoming projectiles sound in Ashkelon as well as in a number of communities near the Gaza Strip.

The rocket fire comes after around two hours of quiet.

Channel 13 news says at least four projectiles were fired and that the Iron Dome missile defense system was activated.

Islamic Jihad vows to renew rocket fire on Israeli cities after IDF strikes on Gaza targets

Rockets are launched from the southern Gaza Strip towards Israel on May 12, 2023 (SAID KHATIB / AFP)

The military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad vows to renew the bombardment of Israeli cities with rockets following fresh Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

“In the face of the continuation of the assassinations and the bombing of apartments and safe houses, the Palestinian resistance will renew its missile bombardment of the occupied cities,” the Al-Quds Brigades says in a statement.

It adds that “the resistance has prepared itself for months of confrontation” with Israel.

Magen David Adom says it treated 65 people since start of fighting

An Israeli paramedic takes cover as a siren sounds warning of incoming rockets fired from the Gaza Strip, in the southern Israeli town of Sderot, May 11, 2023. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)

The Magen David Adom emergency service says it has provided medical care to 65 people since the start of the IDF’s Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday.

One woman was killed in Rehovot.

Twenty two people suffered physical injuries, including five people wounded by shrapnel and broken glass, three of them moderately.

In addition, 16 people were lightly hurt while running for shelter during a rocket alert siren.

Others sought treatment for acute anxiety from nearby impacts, Magen David Adom says.

Palestinian media says IDF hit residential buildings in northern Gaza; no reports of injuries

Palestinian media reports say the Israeli Air Force bombed a number of residential buildings in the northern Gaza Strip.

The Israeli military has not yet commented on the latest strikes, but has said it is targeting sites used by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, including command centers houses in residential buildings.

The Israel Defense Forces says it warns residents of such buildings to clear the area first, before carrying out the strike.

There are no immediate reports of injuries.

Palestinian media publish footage of some of the strikes.

تغطية صحفية: "لحظة قصف طائرات الاحتلال منزلا لعائلة الزعانين شمال قطاع غزة".

تصوير: أحمد حمدان pic.twitter.com/OFSAdQ00Yg

— المركز الفلسطيني للإعلام (@PalinfoAr) May 13, 2023

لحظة تدمير طائرات الاحتلال منزل أحد المواطنين في بيت لاهيا، قبل قليل. pic.twitter.com/6hKVULIvJ4

— وكالة الرأي (@alrayps) May 13, 2023

Ashkelon municipality confirms no damage, injuries in early morning rocket barrage

The Ashkelon municipality confirms that no projectiles fell in the city during the barrage fired in the early hours of the morning.

In a statement, the municipality says that six rockets were fired toward the coastal city.

Since the start of the IDF’s Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday, 96 rockets have been fired at Ashkelon in 23 barrages.

One house was directly hit.

IDF says jets and drones continuing strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza

In this aerial view, people gather in front of a building hit by an Israeli air strike in response to rocket fire, in Gaza City on May 13, 2023 (MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)

The Israel Defense Forces says fighter jets and drones carried out a series of strikes against Palestinian Islamic Jihad sites in the Gaza Strip over the last few hours.

The sites include six rocket and mortar launching positions, a military post, and a compound used by the terror group to potentially carry out an anti-tank guided missile attack on the border.

According to the IDF, two of the Islamic Jihad rocket launch sites are located in the Zaytun Quarter neighborhood of Gaza City, “in close proximity to the Al-Emam Al Shafaa school.”

“These rocket launch sites were also used to fire rockets from the Gaza Strip toward Israel during Operation ‘Guardian of the Walls’ in May 2021 and Operation ”Breaking Dawn’ in August 2022,” the IDF adds.

The IDF also publishes footage showing the strikes against the rocket launch sites.

IDF says it hit six Islamic Jihad rocket and mortar launching sites, an ATGM launch site, and military post in the Gaza Strip. Footage shows attack on rocket launcher. pic.twitter.com/WJR97qqFJF

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Alert sirens blare in Gaza border community Nirim

Sirens blare in the border community of Nirim as the incoming fire continues from Gaza.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Rocket sirens sound in Nir Oz

Incoming alert sirens blare in the border community of Nir Oz as the rocket fire continues from Gaza.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Islamic Jihad official: ‘The campaign continues, our next attacks are on the way’

Rockets are launched from the southern Gaza Strip towards Israel on May 12, 2023 (SAID KHATIB / AFP)

An unnamed official in the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group warns Israel of more attacks to come, without giving further details.

“The campaign continues, our next attacks are on the way,” the official tells Lebanon’s Al-Mayadeen network, according to the Ynet news site.

The official also addresses the talks for a potential ceasefire, mediated by Cairo.

“Egypt is making long-term efforts and we appreciate it. We are talking to them in a positive spirit,” the official says.

Rocket alert sirens sound in Sderot, Gaza border towns

Sirens blare in Sderot and a number of Israeli communities located close to the border with the Gaza Strip, signaling incoming fire.

Residents report hearing the sound of interceptions by missile defense systems.

There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Two Palestinians killed in clashes with IDF in Nablus – medics

Palestinian youths throw stones at army vehicles during a military operation by the Israeli army to arrest wanted persons from the Balata camp near the West Bank city of Nablus, on August 17, 2022. (JAAFAR ASHTIYEH / AFP)

The Palestinian Red Crescent medical service says two Palestinians are killed during clashes with Israeli troops in the Balata refugee camp in the northern West Bank city of Nablus.

In a statement carried by Palestinian media outlets, the service adds that seven more are wounded.

In clips published by Palestinian media, gunfire can be heard across the camp.

There are no immediate reports of Israeli injuries.

Israeli troops have been conducting frequent arrest raids in Palestinian cities, often coming under fire by local gunmen.

⭕️شاهد| تعزيزات لقوات الاحتلال تصل إلى مخيم بلاطة شرق نابلس pic.twitter.com/jkfey0zywA

— إذاعة الأقصى – عاجل (@Alaqsavoice_Brk) May 13, 2023

IDF: Over 1,000 rockets fired since start of fighting, 325 Islamic Jihad sites hit in Gaza

Police and rescue forces at the scene where a rocket fired from Gaza hit and damaged a house in Rehovot on May 11, 2023. (Flash90)

The Israel Defense Forces says that as of 8 a.m., Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip have launched 1,099 rockets and mortars at Israel since the beginning of Operation Shield and Arrow on Tuesday.

The IDF says 865 of the projectiles crossed the border, while 202 — around one in four — fell short in Gaza.

Air defense systems intercepted 340 of the rockets. Several have landed within towns, killing one and injuring several others, as well as causing extensive damage.

The rest landed in open areas without causing damage, according to the IDF.

The military says it has carried out strikes against 325 sites belonging to Islamic Jihad.

Islamic Jihad spokesman says no agreement on temporary ceasefire, talks continuing

Smoke rises above buildings in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, following an Israeli strike on May 12, 2023. (Said Khatib/AFP)

A spokesperson for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group says that they have not accepted a new ceasefire proposal submitted by Egypt, and that discussions on the matter were continuing.

“We have not reached an agreement regarding a temporary ceasefire [mediated by] Egypt, the talks are continuing,” the spokesman tells the Al-Araby news network, according to the Ynet news site.

“Israel wants quiet in exchange for quiet, without committing to an end to the targeted killings,” the spokesman says.

On Tuesday, Israel killed three top members of the Islamic Jihad group, while subsequent strikes have killed at least three other senior figures including one on Friday afternoon.

Initial reports of IDF strikes in northern Gaza Strip

There are initial reports of Israeli strikes on targets in the northern Gaza Strip.

The reported military action comes after renewed rocket fire toward the coastal city of Ashkelon and Israeli towns bordering the Strip.

There are no immediate reports of injuries.

There is no comment from the IDF.

Rocket sirens sound in towns near Gaza border

Rocket sirens blare in Kibbutz Nirim and Ein Hashlosha, near the border with the Gaza Strip.

IDF strikes Islamic Jihad command centers, rocket launching positions

The Israeli military says air force jets struck two command centers belonging to Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip in the early hours of Saturday morning, as well as a number of rocket launchers, and mortar launch positions.

The IDF says one command center was used to plan and oversee terrorist operations against Israel and served as the headquarters of the brother of top PIJ commander Baha Abu al-Ata, who was assassinated by Israel in 2019.

Muhammad Abu al-Ata is a senior member of PIJ’s rocket unit operation, the military says, adding that in times of emergency, he “usually abandons his headquarters and takes up residence in Shifa Hospital” in Gaza City “as a hiding place among the civilian population, while continuing to act and attempt to direct terror operations against Israel.”

Israeli aircraft also attacked another command center, one headed by senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad member, Khaled Azzam, also of the rocket unit in Gaza.

The military says this center is used to direct rocket fire across Israel.

IDF says it struck two Islamic Jihad command centers and a mortar launch site in the Gaza Strip overnight, as rocket fire resumed on the south this morning. pic.twitter.com/PtkCC52YJl

— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 13, 2023

Sirens blare in town near border with Gaza Strip

Rocket sirens sound in Netiv Ha’asara, a moshav near the border area with the Gaza Strip.

There are no immediate reports of confirmed rocket launches.

No injuries are reported.

US stresses ‘urgency of reaching a ceasefire’ between Israel, Islamic Jihad

Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Council chairman Tzachi Hanegbi at the State Department in Washington on March 7, 2023. (Antony Blinken/Twitter)

The United States urges steps be “taken to ensure that violence is reduced” as a round of violence between Israel and a Gaza terror group enters its fifth day.

In a call with Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman stressed “the urgency of reaching a ceasefire agreement in order to prevent any further loss of civilian life,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller says in a press announcement.

During the call, Sherman reiterated the US’ “enduring commitment to Israel’s security” and conveyed her condolences for the Israeli citizen killed in yesterday’s rocket attacks,” says Miller.

She also “strongly condemned the indiscriminate launch of rockets into Israel from Gaza-based terrorist groups, which endangers the welfare of both Israelis and Palestinians,” and emphasized that “Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live safely and securely,” expressing “deep regret for Palestinian and Israeli civilian casualties.”

IDF says forces checking for fresh rocket launches after sirens sound in Ashkelon

The Israeli military says it is looking into the details of possible fresh rocket launches from Gaza into Israel after rocket sirens sounded in Ashkelon and in towns neat the Gaza Strip early in the morning.

Rocket sirens sound in Ashkelon, towns near Gaza Strip

Rocket sirens warning of incoming projectiles sound in Ashkelon as well as in areas near the Gaza Strip including Nahal Oz, Zikim, and Alumim.

The IDF says it is looking into the details.