Israel Matzav

We cease, they fire

A 'cease fire' went into effect at 1:00 am Tuesday morning along the border with Gaza. As usual, it's 'we cease, they fire' with the 'Palestinians' 'only' shooting two rockets and a mortar shell into southern Israel after the deadline. Will it hold? I'll tell you this much: If it doesn't, Israel will go right back to targeting terror leaders.

Despite the reported truce, two Qassam rockets and a mortar shell exploded in the area between Sha'ar Hanegev and Ashkelon Coast regional councils.

No injuries or damage were reported. The Color Red alerts sounded in the area prior to the explosions.

According to the report, the truce was finalized via Egyptian mediation and without pre-conditions. However, Israeli officials denied earlier that a deal was reached, saying that airstrikes in Gaza will be halted only once rocket attacks end.

The officials did confirm that Egypt was involved in mediation efforts but said no negotiations were taking place. "Quiet will be met with quiet. Should the fire not end, we’ll see further escalation," one official said.

Home Front Defense Minister Matan Vilnai confirmed the armistice in an interview with Israel Radio, saying that while there was "an agreement in place, Israel will follow the situation on the ground."

What could go wrong?

Labels: cease fire, Gaza, Palestinian Islamic Jihad

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 9:41 AM