IDF strikes Hamas rocket launcher in central Gaza after barrage fired at Israel

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

Palestinians inspect the rubble of a structure hit by an Israeli strike in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip on March 22, 2025. (AP/Abdel Kareem Hana)
Palestinians inspect the rubble of a structure hit by an Israeli strike in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip on March 22, 2025. (AP/Abdel Kareem Hana)

The IDF says that, a short while ago, it carried out a drone strike against a Hamas rocket launcher in the central Gaza Strip used in this evening’s barrage on the Ashdod.

It publishes footage of the strike.

Ahead of the strike, the IDF issued an evacuation warning for Palestinians in the Deir al-Balah area.

In a post on X, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman, Col. Avichay Adraee, published a map of the area that is to be evacuated, saying that it was a “final warning” before the IDF carries out strikes there.

Ten rockets were launched by Hamas in the attack, with the IDF reporting that it shot down five. One of the rockets struck Ashkelon, causing damage and wounding a man.

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