An air-raid warning echoed through Yavne and Lachish in central and southern Israel, signaling the possibility of rocket fire from the Gaza Strip. The warning was amplified by the Israeli Armed Forces Telegram channel, which confirmed that sirens had sounded in those cities and in additional locations nearby in the previous minutes.
Television footage circulated showing Israel’s air-defense system intercepting several missiles launched from Gaza. Local reports described Iron Dome interceptions as missiles were launched toward southern Israel, with some footage indicating multiple interceptors engaged targets in quick succession, as observers noted the effectiveness of the country’s air-defense network in real time.
Media outlets reported that no serious injuries were recorded from the initial attacks, though two civilians required medical evaluation after experiencing a panic reaction upon hearing the Red Alert sirens. Emergency services monitored the scene and provided necessary care, while municipal authorities advised residents to seek shelter as a precautionary measure.
The Tel Aviv municipality announced plans to keep bomb shelters open for public access to ensure safety and readiness for residents who may need protection in the event of renewed threats, a move widely covered by national broadcasters and security agencies. Israeli authorities stated that about 80 rockets had been fired from Gaza by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, with a substantial portion failing to reach populated areas. Reports indicated 46 rockets crossed the border, 33 were neutralized by Iron Dome defenses, and the remainder landed in open fields or unpopulated zones. The occurrence highlighted the ongoing risk to civilians living near the Gaza boundary and reinforced the importance of rapid defense and warning systems. These figures and the incident outline the ongoing security challenges in the region, as noted by multiple eyewitness accounts and official briefings. [Cited: Israel Defense Forces press updates and regional security briefings]
Operation Dawn
In a formal statement, the Israel Defense Forces announced the launch of a broad operations campaign named Dawn against the Islamic Jihad network. The defense minister affirmed a policy of decisive action against any organization or faction that threatens the country, emphasizing that security forces would pursue those threats with full resolve. [Source: Israeli government communications]
The campaign involved air operations targeting logistical hubs, arms depots, and firing positions associated with the group. The strategic objective, officials explained, was to degrade the group’s ability to conduct hostilities and to restore a sense of security to communities at risk. Prime Minister Yair Lapid reiterated a firm stance that hostilities would continue as long as threats persisted, underscoring a policy of zero tolerance toward attacks emanating from Gaza. [Cited: Office of the Prime Minister statements]
Government spokespeople and military officials stressed that the action was aimed at militants rather than civilians in Gaza, and that efforts would be made to minimize harm to noncombatants. The higher level message from leadership indicated a commitment to protecting Israeli citizens while recognizing the broader humanitarian concerns in any protracted conflict. Earlier remarks suggested discussions and diplomacy would continue alongside military measures, though no ceasefire appeared imminent. A Palestinian official noted that Islamic Jihad had urged Hamas to join the response, but no formal position from Hamas had been issued at that time. The security situation remained tense as authorities monitored developments on the ground. The mobilization of militant groups in Jenin and other areas was reported by regional observers, with authorities noting heightened readiness among security forces in response to potential escalations. [Cited: regional security analyses]
Discussion is too dangerous
United Nations Middle East peace process envoy Thor Wennesland voiced serious concern about the escalating standoff between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. He warned that further escalation could result in severe consequences for civilians and stressed the need for restraint from all sides. The envoy urged an immediate halt to missile launches and called on all parties to refrain from actions that could provoke a broader conflict. The UN stated its intention to work with all stakeholders to prevent further escalation and to reduce the risk to civilian populations. [Cited: UN statements and diplomatic briefings]
Reported casualties from the Israeli air campaign were confirmed by various outlets, including Sky News Arabia, which cited multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. Among those killed was a senior member of the militant wing associated with Islamic Jihad, along with a young child, underscoring the human toll of the fighting. The situation at the Gaza border intensified later in the day when Israeli forces detained a leading Islamic Jihad figure in the Jenin refugee camp, prompting traffic restrictions near Gaza and the closure of the Erez checkpoint as a precaution against possible retaliation. Authorities cautioned residents to remain vigilant and to follow official guidance as the security landscape shifted. [Cited: regional casualty reports and security announcements]