Negev Peppered with Rockets, Mortars
Gaza terrorists continued their offensive on southern Israel. A rocket was fired at the city of Netivot, and several mortar shells hit the Eshkol region.

by Maayana Miskin, Arutz Sheva
February 20, 2009

A rocket was fired at the city of Netivot
 

Gaza terrorists continued their offensive on southern Israel on Friday morning. A rocket was fired at the city of Netivot, and several mortar shells hit the Eshkol region.

The attack on Netivot took place before dawn. The rocket hit an open area, causing no casualties. Another rocket landed on the Gaza side of the security barrier.

Terrorists fired two Grad rockets on the city on Thursday night. Neither caused injury.

The attack on Netivot was followed at approximately 9:30 a.m. by a barrage of mortar shells aimed at the Eshkol region. No injuries were reported.

The 10 shells fell near the Gaza security barrier, with some hitting areas within Gaza.

Since Operation Cast Lead ended one month ago, the IDF has responded to rocket attacks primarily by bombing empty smuggling tunnels and other Hamas infrastructure.

While attacks continue, Hamas leaders say they are ready for a long-term ceasefire in Gaza. However, the group has responded with anger to Israel's demand that it first negotiate for the return of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit, and says the demand could end chances for a year-long Gaza truce.