Israel launched “Operation Breaking Dawn” against the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist organization on Friday afternoon.
In a proactive move designed to minimize casualties, the Israeli Air Force began bombing PIJ targets in Gaza – but notably, not those of Hamas.
“ … Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” Says the Lord. “Yet Jacob I have loved;
But Esau I have hated …” Malachi 2-3
“Following the direct threats posed by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza, the IDF is currently striking in the Gaza Strip. A special situation has been declared on the Israeli home front,” the IDF said in a terse statement posted to Twitter.
The IDF ordered residents of communities near the Gaza border to stay near protected areas. Be’er Sheva, Ashdod and Ashkelon were instructed to open public bomb shelters.
Iron Dome aerial defense systems were deployed to central and southern Israel, as well as to the capital, Jerusalem, and surrounds.
Defense Minister Benny Gantz explained in a lengthier statement, “I wish to strengthen the residents on the Gaza Strip who over the years have shown a civil resilience that is worthy of all appreciation.
“Our mission is to ensure that the tension ends and routine returns.”
“We will do everything necessary to protect you, responsibly, decisively, and according to the considerations of the use of force that will lead to the required result.
“To our enemies in general and to the heads of Hamas and Islamic Jihad I say explicitly – your time is limited. The threat will be removed one way or another.
“The situation in which irresponsible terrorists took the residents of Gaza hostage will return and harm them.
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