Rocket fired from Gaza lands near Ashkelon

Sirens sound in southern Israel; no immediate reports of injuries or damage

Illustrative photo of two Kassam rockets heading toward Israel shortly after they are fired by Palestinians in Gaza. (photo credit: Edi Israel/Flash90/File)
Illustrative photo of two Kassam rockets heading toward Israel shortly after they are fired by Palestinians in Gaza. (photo credit: Edi Israel/Flash90/File)

At least one rocket fired from the Gaza Strip exploded in southern Israel Saturday night, moments after sirens signaling incoming missiles sounded off in Ashkelon and the Hof Ashkelon Regional Council.

The rocket landed in an open area near Ashkelon where residents reported hearing at least one explosion.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

On Friday, the IDF deployed at least two Iron Dome anti-missile batteries in southern Israel, two days after three rockets were launched at Israel from the Gaza Strip.

One missile defense unit was stationed near the Mediterranean port city of Ashdod and another placed near the southern city of Netivot. Israel’s Channel 10 also referred to a third battery stationed near Ashkelon.

Military sources said they were concerned that a Salafi terror group affiliated with Islamic State was threatening to fire on Israel amid a dispute with Hamas which has arrested some of its operatives.

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