(Communicated by the IDF Spokesperson)

An IDF force identified a Palestinian gunman planting explosive devices near the security fence in the Northern Gaza Strip earlier this morning. The gunman threw a hand grenade at the force, which responded by firing back. During the exchange of fire, the force identified hitting the gunman. No injuries were reported amongst IDF soldiers.

It should be noted that in a similar incident earlier this week, on Tuesday, April 13th, IDF soldiers thwarted an attempt to plant an explosive device near the central Gaza Strip security fence.

The presence of Palestinian civilians in the area adjacent to the security fence in Gaza is used by terrorist organizations as cover for their activities, including planting explosive devices, planning terrorist attacks and attempts to kidnap IDF soldiers. For this reason, the IDF considers this a combat zone.

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On April 25, during an operational activity near the security fence in the central Gaza Strip, Engineering forces discovered three land mines planted in the ground, thus thwarting an attack against IDF soldiers. The mines were detonated in a controlled manner. No injuries or damage were caused.