The IDF Spokesperson’s Office reports that IDF soldiers patrolling along the Israel-Egypt border Thursday night identified a group of suspects who had infiltrated into Israel. The soldiers called on the suspects to stop, and when they failed to comply, the soldiers acted in accordance with the Army’s rules of engagement. Simultaneously, shots were fired from Egyptian territory. Three suspects were hit during this exchange of fire.
Following a short pursuit, the soldiers caught the three injured suspects, and found at the point of infiltration a fourth, deceased, suspect. The injured suspects were evacuated by helicopter to receive medical care in an Israeli hospital.
The Israeli forces sustained no injuries or damage in this incident.
Last February, a powerful explosive device was planted along the Israel-Egypt border during a smuggling attempt. The device was found following a joint IDF-Israel Police activity meant to thwart similar smuggling attempts along the border.
The IDF is increasing its activity along Israel’s western border, to meet the rise in infiltration attempts into Israel.
Smuggling and infiltration into Israel from its western border are occasionally used by terrorist organizations planning to attack Israeli civilians and military targets.