Day 5 of the Gaza War 18-Nov-2012

Day 5 of the Gaza War 18-Nov-2012

Refresh your browser often to see latest updates from the IDF "Pillar of Defense" operation against Gaza's Palestinian terror.Now you can LIKE the Muqata on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Muqata

Hear every single air raid during the war -- at IDF Public Radio, Gal-Galatz 91.8 FM in Israel or here on the web:  http://rr-d.nsacdn.com/radio/glz/glglzradio/300/200
plays current Israeli music, and every single rocket launch and location is announced.

12:25 AM Goodnight world....off to bed.  JoeSettler might updates this a bit later tonight, otherwise I'll be back in the morning.

A Quiet Night to Israel's South!

--jameel

11:44 PM Tweeted by an Israeli in the South....

I think Hamas just dropped leaflets in my neighborhood warning me of incoming rockets.

Oh wait, no they didn't.

11:40 PM USA Embassy in Tel Aviv suspending consular services tomorrow, Monday Nov 19:

The U.S. Embassy will be operating at reduced staffing levels on Monday, November 19, and routine consular services are being suspended for that same day. Embassy families have been instructed to keep their children home from schools in areas south of Herzeliya. Embassy personnel from Beer Sheva have temporarily been relocated to Herzeliya. Non-essential official travel by Embassy staff to the south of Israel remains prohibited.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise caution and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and security in light of the escalating level of violence in Gaza and Israel. U.S. citizens should pay close attention to their surroundings and news reports, and follow the civil defense guidance provided by the Home Front Command. The Government of Israel’s Home Front Command website provides information on how to choose a secure space or room in a home or apartment. Visitors may also seek information on shelters from hotel staff or building managers. Please click here for further emergency preparedness guidance provided by the Home Front Command.  read more here

11:25 PM Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol region

11:13 PM Despite the direct hits from the previous rocket barrage attack, no reported injuries!

11:10 PM Unsuccessful Iron Dome attempted intercept near Ashdod :(



11:05 PM Air Raid sirens in Ashdod, Kiryat Melachi, and Gan Yavneh

11:04 PM At least 2 Grad rockets intercepted by Iron Dome....searches still ongoing.

11:02 PM Waiting for results of the rocket barrage from a few minutes ago....till then, a personal message, subtitled into English, the IDF Soldiers operating the Iron Dome system.




10:56 PM Air Raid Sirens Continues in Ashdod, Gan Yavneh, Kiryat Melachi, Beer Tuvia Region, Gederot, Chevel Yavneh, and Yoav region...

9:03 PM In response to increasing tensions in the Middle East, New York police increase security on Synagogues in the city.

8:50 PM El-Al giving major discounts to Israelis overseas who receive emergency call up orders.

7:25 PM Iron Dome systems knock down missiles over Gush Dan/Tel Aviv area. Sirens send residents running to shelters.

6:12 PM Ben Gurion university in Be'er Sheva will remain closed tomorrow.

6:10 PM IDF has hit 50 terror infrastructure spots in the Gaza strip today.

5:59 PM Message from Homefront Command:

Important Message for Residents of the South in Apartment Buildings: Leave the front door of your buildings OPEN so that during an Air-Raid siren, other people can access your building's bomb shelter (or stairwell).

Additionally, when driving and you hear an Air Raid siren via the radio, pull over, stop, get out of the car, lie down with your hands shielding your head.

These instructions SAVE LIVES.

5:45 PM Air Raid sirens in Ashkelon


5:35PM Unexploded GRAD rocket removed safely from roof of house in Ashdod.

5:30 PM Parks department opens all national parks to residents of the south for free.

5:29 PM IDF Artillery begins to shell strategic sites in Gaza.

5:28 PM 5 rockets land in town in Sha'ar HaNegev, no report of injuries.

5:20 PM Sirens going off in S'dot Negev and Sha'ar HaNegev. 10 rockets fall in Eshkol region. No injuries.

5:13 PM Pictures from the day in Israel
IAF Forces knock out antennae in Gaza.

Air strikes on strategic targets in Gaza

Soldiers called up and moved to southern region stand in prayer as the day breaks.

Damage to house in southern town of Netivot

Iron Dome system knocks out two rockets fired at Israel.

5:00 PM Air raid siren in S'dot Negev.

4:56 PM  4 rockets land in Eshkol region, no reports of injuries.

4:46 PM Once more, Israeli press talking about representatives going to Cairo to discuss a cease fire. UPDATE: Both Defense Min Barak and Foreign Min Leiberman say there will be no talking while rockets falling.

4:44 PM Rockets fired at S'derot and Sha'ar HaNegev.

4:29 PM Preliminary reports: 4 wounded, one seriously, one moderately in the Ofakim region. UPDATE: 2 seriously wounded. Rocket hit next to car.
UPDATE: 5 wounded, 2 adults and 2 year old daughter were in a car and two passersby.

4:18 PM Sirens going off in S'dot Negev and Sha'ar HaNegev. 7 rockets fired. Most fall in open areas.

4:05 PM Channel 2 TV reports that a car near Ofakim was hit by a rocket, and there are 4 wounded; 2 moderately, 2 lightly.

4:04 PM US Ambassador to Israel, Dan Schapiro met with Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak and reviewed the new Iron Dome (5th installation) protecting Greater Tel-Aviv and promised another 300 Million Dollars -- for their to be a total of 13 Iron Dome installations.  (source)

3:56 PM Reports of rocket strike in Negev area. MDA forces responding.

3:53 PM When Seconds Matter:  As correctly noted by a commenter below, there is a minor delay (usually 5-10 seconds) between the real time radio broadcast of IDF radio, and the internet version of the radio broadcast (due to the streaming technology).  Therefore, if you are in Southern Israel and relying on IDF Radio for warnings of rocket strikes, you gain an extra 5-10 seconds by listening to the radio via 91.8 FM instead of via the internet.   --Jameel.

3:52 PM Ofakim area - Air Raid Sirens

3:48 PM Yichyeh Abiya, Gazan Islamic Jihad Commander...has left the planet. Another successful IDF surgical strike.

3:13 PM Air Raid sirens in Eshkol region

3:10 PM In a lightening fast operation, the IDF Homefront command fixed a number of sirens in Central Israel that were not working well over the past few days.


3:04 PM Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol region

3:04 PM Fresh from the IDF Spokesman New Media Unit...



2:46 PM Video of Iron Dome taking out GRAD rockets less than an hour ago.



2:45 PM Two GRAD rockets taken out by Iron Dome (fired at Ashdod area)

2:36 PM Air Raid Sirens in Ashdod area.

2:33 PM Reports of multiple IDF targeted killings of Hamas and Jihad terrorists. IDF: Keep up the good work!

2:21 PM Direct hit on a house in Ashkelon....no injuries.

2:15 PM Reports that the last barrage of rockets towards Ashdod and area was over 15 rockets in one shot.

2:10 PM Air Raid Sirens as another rocket barrage is headed for Ashkelon.

2:05 PM Another rocket hits Ashdod.  Forces responding to 2 locations.

2:02 PM Iron Dome working overtime to take out Grad rocket strike on Ashdod and area....

2:01 PM Another Air Raid Siren in Ashdod....GRAD rocket lands in Ashdod...forces responding.

1:57 PM Rocket barrage at Ashdod and Gan Yavneh.

1:44 PM Notice to Ashdod residents. IDF sappers are going to explode a fallen rocket soon. If you hear a boom, its a controlled explosion.

1:40 PM 3 rockets land in Beer Sheva. No Injuries.

1:26 PM Air Raid Sirens in Beer Sheva area.

1:23 PM IDF dropping leaflets into Gaza: Important Message to Gaza Strip residents: Hamas is playing with fire and endangering your lives for naught.  The IDF is proceeding to the next phase. For your own safety, we ask you to adhere to our instructions and distance yourselves from Hamas operatives and infrastructure.  Sincerely, THE IDF. 

זהו לשון הכרוז: "הודעה חשובה לתושבי הרצועה: חמאס משחק באש ומסכן את חייכם לשווא", נפתחה ההודעה. "צבא ההגנה לישראל עובר לשלב הבא. למען ביטחונכם אתם נקראים לציית להנחיות ולהימנע מלהתקרב לתשתיות ולפעילים של חמאס. על החתום, צה"ל".

  1:21 PM Israeli Government meeting to decide on IDF ground incursion (Udi Segal, Channel 1 TV)

1:14 PM Reports of a direct in Sederot.  Unconfirmed, as MDA and Homefront command responds.

1:05 PM Another barrage of missiles over the southern region, over the past 15 minutes.

12:26 PM IDFSPOX: Rocket fell in Ashkelon near a nursery school.

12:15 PM Siren in Ashdod.

12:08 PM Syria claims IDF killed 3 Syrian soldiers, after IDF shot back at Syrian army position that shot at them on Saturday night.

11:59 PM Ashkelon Beach

11:47 AM IDF takes out launch team that shot at Tel Aviv

11:34 AM Serious injury in Shaar Hanegev from Rocket

11:20 AM Sirens going off in S'derot

11:15 AM Two more rockets shot down over Ashdod.

11:13 AM Rocket fell a short time ago in Ashkelon causing minor damage to a building. More sirens sounding there now.

11:04 AM Sirens in Gan Yavne and Gadera. Also Nitzanim, Beni Aiyish, Chatzor, Ashdod, Iron Dome knocking down rockets.

11:01 AM Two wounded lightly after hit building courtyard in Ashkelon. Car damaged by rocket parts crashing down in Holon.

10:48 AM Warning sirens in Holon, Ashdod. Rocket lands in Ashdod, security forces on their way.

10:39 AM Air raid sirens in Rishon L'Tzion, Givatayim, Gan Raveh.

10:35 AM Sirens and Iron Dome working over Tel Aviv (Gush Dan region). Two rockets shot down after Air Raid sirens sound.

10:29 AM  Hamas: Using human shields is our policy.

10:26 AM Conflicting reports: High ranking Hamas member - Cease fire within a day or two. High ranking Israeli parliamentarian - We're not stopping anytime soon.

10:18 AM IDF has, in principle, authorized plans for entry of ground troops into Gaza.

10:17 AM 3 rockets knocked down over Ashdod.

10:15 AM Rocket lands in kibbutz in Eshkol region. No reports of injuries. Sirens going off in Be'er Tuvia

10:05 AM Sirens in Ashdod

10:00 AM Most rockets from Northern Gaza.

A number of countries have expressed interest in buying Iron Dome systems.

Islamic Jihad #2 says from first rocket to last bullet, everything we have is from Iran. (GLZ)

9:56 AM Mortar land inside community near Gaza. Shrapnel damage to building. No injuries.

9:55 AM Rocket fell in Be'er Tuvia region. Open area. No injuries.

9:51 AM ALL the rockets landed in open areas from the massive barrage.

New Alert in Shaar haNegev

9:45 AM 2 rockets taken out by Iron Dome  over Ashdod.

9:42 AM MASSIVE rocket barrage on its way to Southern Israel, all along Gaza region, over 40 areas listed. Iron Dome responding

9:32 AM Siren in Eshkol Region

9:25 AM Chief Rabbi Amar calls for public prayer session at the Kotel at 3:30PM on Sunday.

9:06 AM Rockets shot at Gaza. 3 Sirens in the past hour. One hit a car. Another hit a house. One lightly wounded. A few treated for shock.

8:16 AM 2 Air Raid Sirens over Ashkelon...along with what sounded like 2 Iron Dome explosions taking out the rockets.

8:13 AM Air Raid Siren in Beer Sheva

8:11 AM A few minutes ago, IDF warplanes hit the "Philadelphia Corridor" in South Gaza, destroying 6 underground smuggling tunnels. (From Egypt to Gaza)

8:10 AM There was an Air Raid siren in the South Ashkelon area at 7:45 AM.

8:08 AM Hizbolla Leader, Hassan Naasrallah: Egypt hasn't done enough to help Gaza.


8:05 AM Yawn and Good morning! It was a relatively quiet night...the IDF spent all night pounding away at terrorist targets.

Gazan Despair: Gazans are crying on the social networks -- "We are under attack by the Zionists...why isn't the Hamas retaliating and firing back?!"

1:21 AM For the past few hours, there have been maybe 3 Air Raid sirens going off in Israel due to rocket attacks. I'm off to bed now...see you all in the morning. A Good night, and a quiet night to the residents of Southern and Central Israel (here in the Shomron, it's VERY quiet).

Regards from Israel,

Jameel


1:08 AM Video of "A Night in Beer Sheva"



1:02 AM IDF Radio reports that for the past hour, the IDF has been pounding away at terror targets in Gaza. The past few hours have been quieter than usual...and only a few rockets fired at Israel.

12:52 AM This evening, IDF Homefront command installed additional sirens in Herziliya due to the escalation down south.


12:48 AM IDF Spox video on Hamas lies...





12:39 AM Shooting attack at IDF forces from Syria in the Golan Heights near Tel-Chazeka. No injuries to IDF forces, which returned fire.

12:30 AM Photos of terrorist targets hit by IDF in Gaza

12:10 AM From a friend on facebook:

Surreal story from Eli Birnbaum in Tekoa:

Erev Shabbat in Tekoa (like most places) is a contradiction of tension and relief. This time the arrival of Shabbat was accompanied by warning sirens for a missile attack. Surprise and unbelief “Missiles here in the Judean desert?” Before we can really grasp what was happening, there came the resounding boom of an explosion echoing in the hills reflecting the shock in our faces. The security van careens through the streets calling people to find shelter. Within minutes another siren warning. This time prayers are halted . “Quickly under the shul,” someone commands. Within the confusion we grab our children and grandchildren in our arms and climb down to the open area under the synagogue which affords more protection. We all move quickly in the darkening evening finding space on the floor . I hold one of my grandchildren talking to him softly . He thinks it is a great game. We begin to sing and wait for the next boom.

It was at that moment that my son Pinny’s cell phone rings. As a member of a search and rescue team it is not uncommon for him to get calls even on Shabbat. But this call was different “Shabbat Shalom” . It is a familiar voice with a very distinct accent. “ Pinny, its Muhammad, what do I do? What’s happening? I heard your sirens”. There is real panic in his voice.

At first this may not appear to be an abnormal situation, but Muhammad is an acquaintance/friend who happens to live in the Arab village of Tuqua which the army will only enter in large numbers. Pinny quietly explains that we were being rocketed from Gaza and the best thing he could do is to remain in doors and stay away from windows. Muhammad thanks Pinny profusely apologizes for calling on Shabbat “ Shabbat Shalom Pinny – B’Emet todah!”. So this Friday night , a “Palestinian Arab” called a “Jewish Settler” for help regarding a rocket attack from Gaza – Surreal!

12:01 AM Today in Beer Sheva, a 73 year old man collapsed while running for shelter during an Air Raid Siren, due to a barrage of rockets fired at the city.  Magen David Adom medics attempted to resuscitate the man, but he was declared dead. (source)

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Wherever I am, my blog turns towards Eretz Yisrael טובה הארץ מאד מאד

Day 4 of the Gaza War 17-Nov-2012

Day 4 of the Gaza War 17-Nov-2012
Refresh your browser often to see latest updates from the IDF "Pillar of Defense" operation against Gaza's Palestinian terror.Now you can LIKE the Muqata on Facebook www.facebook.com/Muqata

Hear every single air raid during the war -- at IDF Public Radio, Gal-Galatz 91.8 FM in Israel or here on the web:  http://rr-d.nsacdn.com/radio/glz/glglzradio/300/200
plays current Israeli music, and every single rocket launch and location is announced.
 

Join us for a new day of reporting at Day 5 of the war...or click on www.muqata.com to go to the top of the blog.

11:50 PM Hamas claims they will have a "dramatic" announcement about Israel during their (ongoing) press conference now. Can hardly wait....

11:32 PM Palestinian sources report that the Gaza Islamic Jihad Commander of Rocket and Artillery, Yaamer Al-Hamari was killed by an IDF targeted air-strike.

11:25 PM I almost feel bad for the Gazans. Hamas internal propaganda tells their people they are "winning" the war....that they knocked down an Israeli F16, that they have bombed the Knesset in Jerusalem, that they have bombed 3 IDF bases....all lies, lies, lies. Reminds me of the same Arab lies from 1948 when during Israel's War of Independence, the Arabs announced they were winning, and the Jews were fleeing...

11:10 PM Before and After picture of the Hamas Parliament Building.

10:58 PM Jameel: The most powerful image in my head from this past Shabbat, was a friend getting an emergency call up message by cellphone in shul/synagogue on Friday night, going over to his father, giving him a hug, and then leaving quickly to the battle front.

10:56 PM In ongoing IAF airstrikes on Hamas terrorists and targets, another terrorist was killed this evening in a targeted, surgical strike in Gaza.


10:51 PM Impressive!  Much to Hamas' chagrin...

European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton Friday held Hamas responsible for the Israeli air raids on the Gaza Strip that had so far left 40 Palestinians, including women and children, dead and more than 400 injured, most of them civilians.

Ashton also justified the Israeli airstrikes that started on Wednesday saying in a statement that Israel has the right to protect its population.

“The rocket attacks by Hamas and other factions in Gaza which began this current crisis are totally unacceptable for any government and must stop,” said Ashton. (Wafa)

10:48 PM Air Raid Sirens in southern edge of Gaza Strip surrounding communities.

10:42 PM Israel's Prime Minister's Office says there is no truth that Israel is involved in cease fire talks with Hamas.

10:35 PM Photo of Ultra Orthodox Jews helping a woman get away from a GRAD rocket strike. (source)

10:20 PM Unconfirmed: IAF strikes of Hamas leader in Rafiah, reports of 6 wounded.

10:08 PM Lots of reports going out that Israeli delegation on its way to Cairo for cease fire talks.

9:52 PM  Hamas holding 22 foreign nationals. Israel keeps Erez checkpoint open for foreigners to leave.

9:46 PM Just because a rocket is shot down doesn't mean the coast is clear. Shrapnel landing in Ashdod. It has caused damage to vehicles and property in Ofakim and other places. This is why people are told to stay in shelters for 10 minutes after sirens stop.

9:42 PM Sirens sounding in S'dot Negev, Sha'ar HaNegev and Eshkol

9:37 PM How much time do you have and what should you do in case of a rocket attack?

9:33 PM Schools remain closed zone 40km around Gaza.

9:15 PM 4 rockets shot down over Netivot and Ofakim.

9:07 PM Sirens now going off in Netivot and Ofakim.

8:57 PM From earlier today, Israeli Border Guards protect Palestinians with their own bodies during rocket attack.

8:38 PM From earlier today. IAF airstrikes on terror targets in Gaza.


8:37 PM Sirens sounding in Ashdod and Ashkelon, at least 2 rockets knocked down by Iron Dome. Update: 4 rockets.

8:34 PM BREAKING! Iran condemns Israel!

8:30 PM Reports of a targeted strike on a car carrying terrorists in the Gaza strip. More news as it comes out. Earlier the IAF took out Hamas commander Muhamed Galab.

8:22 PM Israeli government in the process of giving out special beepers to hearing impaired to inform them of incoming rocket fire.

8:21 PM Sirens now going off again in the Ashkelon Beach region following rockets landing there about 15 minutes ago.

8:20 PM Back to live blogging.


Shabbat Recap:

5:51 PM Gush Etzion hit on Friday night with 2 rockets.

Hamas targets Tel Aviv on Saturday. Iron Dome intercepts 1.

Ashdod hit. 10 injured.

Army authorized call-up of 75,000 soldiers.


Visiting Israel?
Learn to Shoot at Caliber-3 with top Israeli Anti-Terror Experts!

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Wherever I am, my blog turns towards Eretz Yisrael טובה הארץ מאד מאד

Day 3 of the Gaza War 16-Nov-2012

Day3 of the Gaza War 16-Nov-2012
Refresh your browser often to see latest updates from the IDF "Pillar of Defense" operation against Gaza's Palestinian terror.Now you can LIKE the Muqata on Facebook www.facebook.com/Muqata

Hear every single air raid during the war -- at IDF Public Radio, Gal-Galatz 91.8 FM in Israel or here on the web:  http://rr-d.nsacdn.com/radio/glz/glglzradio/300/200
plays current Israeli music, and every single rocket launch and location is announced.

Join us at DAY 4 of the Gaza War - click here, or go to www.muqata.com
 



4:00 PM Going offline for Shabbat.  Wishing our readership and all the residents of Israel a very peaceful and quiet Shabbat.  Will return when Shabbat ends, Saturday night around 6 PM.

For our Israeli Soldiers:  May God bless and protect you, as you fight to secure our country from the terror of Gaza.

I'm personally very happy to be able to host 4 people this Shabbat from a community in Southern Israel.

Shabbat Shalom - Regards from Israel.

Jameel

 4:00 PM Uninterrupted rocket fire over the past hour; 7 rockets at Ashdod, all taken out by the Iron Dome.
  
3:53 PM Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Barak and Foreign Minister Leiberman meeting now along with the heads of Israelis Army and Security forces. (Channel 2)



3:46 PM Sirens sounding in Ashdod.

3:39 PM As of 3:30 PM today, the IDF Iron Dome system has knocked out 184 Gazan rockets, with a 87% successful it rate!



3:37 PM Ehud Yaari from Channel 2 TV: Traffic jam of IAF Fighter jets awaiting to bomb terror targets in Gaza.

3:23 PM Reports from Gaza that IDF is firing on a motorcylce



3:17 PM England says Israel will "lose support" if a ground incursion into Gaza takes place.  Thanks, send our regards to Her Majesty. 

3:09 PM Israeli Member of Knesset Zahava Galon (Meretz) says Israel must immediately start negotiating with Hamas.

3:07 PM Remember, now you can follow us through facebook by liking the Muqata Facebook page. www.facebook.com/Muqata

3:04 PM The house damaged in Beer Tuvia was hit by a fragment of a Iron Dome rocket, which blew into the home's living room of the house through the ceiling. No family members were home at the time and no one was injured.  There is damage to the home.


3:03 PM IDF Radio: Weekend weather is going to be hotter and dryer than usual for this season.

2:59 PM Air Raid Sirens in communities south of Ashdod.

2:59 PM IDF has hit over 30 targets in Gaza in the past hour.


2:54 PM Cleared for publication by IDF censor:  3 Wounded before in Eshkol rocket attack are IDF soldiers.   1 wounded moderately, 2 lightly wounded.

2:46 PM IDF reports that 510 rockets fired at Israel since the beginning of the operation; only 26 of them have hit Israeli communities.


2:46 PM Reports of a direct strike on a home in the Beer Tuvia region; no injuries.


2:43 PM Israeli police dealing with Arab rioters in Jerusalem's Abu-Dis and Ras Al-Amud nieghboohd. No injuires reported.


2:38 PM Israeli President Shimon Peres: "No one doubts the justification of this operation, We cannot abandon women and children to the insanity of Hamas".

2:33 PM Arabs throwing rocks in Ras Al Amud neighborhood of Jerusalem in response to IDF Airstirkes on Gaza.


2:28 PM Chief Commander of Hamas Military: I Promise there will be a severe retaliation which will not be forgotten.

Oh no. we're shaking.

2:27 PM Air Raid Sirens in Ashkelon and central/south areas adjacent to Gaza strip

2:26 PM IDF returning heavy fire against all areas that launched rockets in the past few minutes.

2:25 PM Air Raid Sirens in Shaar HaNegev Regional Council...

2:19 PM Air Raid Sirens in Yoav Region, Gan Yavneh Area...

2:17 PM Air Raid Sirens on Ashdod, Gan Yanveh, South Ashkelon area

2:16 PM Rocket Strike hits house in Beer Tuvia region (YNET)

2:11 PM Palestinians sources claim a UN worker was killed by IDF airstike. Unconfirmed.

2:04 PM Apparently the Fajr5 rocket launching at Greater Tel Aviv took place from within a heavily populated area in Gaza.  Nothing like using civilians as cover...

2:02 PM IDF Radio announces that additonal silent frequencies will operate from 3 PM today till Staurday night on 93FM and 92.8FM, and only emergency announcements will be made.

2:02 PM SKYNEWS (UK) reports that the rocket landed in Tel-Aviv suburb...

2:01 PM Massive rocket barrage on South Israel....air raid sirens throughout the South

1:58 PM Israeli Police announces no rockets landed in Eilat, and it was simply a training exercise...

1:57 PM Air Raid Sirens in Beer Sheva region

1:56 PM Air Raid sirens in Ashkelon.

1:55 PM In response to the rocket attack on Tel Aviv, all public bomb shelters are being unlocked and made available to the public.

1:53 PM 2 Roclets land in Eilat - forces responding.

1:51 PM Hamas takes responsibility for Rocket attack on Tel Aviv.

1:44 PM Rocket shot down by Iron Dome over Ashdod

1:44 PM Now you can LIKE the Muqata on Facebook!  www.facebook.com/Muqata

1:41 PM Rocket appears to have landed in open area near Tel Aviv. No injuries reported.

1:39 PM  Knesset Security and Foreign Affairs Committee meeting with Defense Minister Barak in Tel Aviv's Defense Ministry moved to bomb shelter during Air Raid Siren.

 
1:35 PM Air Raid Sirens in communities south of Ashkelon

1:33 PM Explosion heard in Tel Aviv - details to follow

1:31 PM Air Raid Sires in Tel Aviv

12:59 PM Running to mincha...be back in 15 minutes.

12:57 PM Air Raid Sirens in Beer Sheva, Ramat Negev, and many other places!

12:56 PM Important Information for Residents of Israel: This coming Shabbat, Radio Darom will be in "silent mode" and only broadcast emerrgency messages of Air Raids for targetted areas -- 101.5 FM.  This way you can keep your radio on, and it will be quiet except when messages are broadcast which are important to go to your bomb shelter.  The station will go quiet from 4 PM today to 6 PM on Saturday evening.

12:51 PM Air Raid Siren in Area adjacent to Central Gaza.

12:49 PM Air Raid Siren in Bnei Shimon Region

12:42 PM Almost done with a Muqata Facebook page...will publicize it shortly when it's ready.

12:40 PM My son just came in and handed me the mail...IDF Reserve Notice for me. Whew. Not for now...in a few weeks.

12:17 PM Air Raid in area adjacent to Central Gaza Strip.


12:14 PM Air Raid in area adjacent to Central Gaza Strip.

12:07 PM Rockets launched at Sederot 7 minutes ago were taken out by Iron Dome.

12:06 PM Air Raid in area adjacent to Central Gaza Strip.

11:55 AM Air Raid in area adjacent to Central Gaza Strip.

11:35 AM IDF Paratrooper Brigade Coammander, Colonel Amir Baram says to his soldiers in pre-incursion briefing minutes ago: "We are already 48 hours into this operation which we knew would finally happen. We discussed it in exercises and in our training. There  is no doubt we must act, and that is why we are here and what we have prepared for, what we trained for..."

11:28 AM Air Raid Sirens in area adjacent to South Gaza Strip area, and now center area as well.

11:24 AM  IDF combat troop commanders being briefing officers on operational details of [future/upcoming?] ground incursion into Gaza.

11:11 AM Reports of explosion near Ofakim of Iron Dome taking out Gazan rocket.

11:10 AM Reports of Air Raid Sirens in Ofakim.

11:09 AM Egyptian Prime Minister Hisham Qandil's visit to Gaza is ending...and he is returning to Egypt.  IDF:  Show Gaza some love!

11:04 AM Seems like Israel is sticking to its cease fire due to Egyptian Prime Minister Hisham Qandil's visit.  Hamas on the other hand has fired dozens of rockets at Israel.

10:52 AM Air Raid Siren in community south of Ashkelon


10:51 AM The civilian jeep hit by a Hamas anti-tank rocket in Eshkol, near Beeri, was full of reporters and cameramen.

10:48 AM Video from 2 nights ago, of Iron Dome taking out 14 out of 15 Gazan rockets over Beer Sheva.




10:47 AM Hamas takes responsibility for hitting civilian jeep in Eshkol region -- they used an anti-tank rocket. As reported, no injuries.
 
10:45 AM A person was serious wounded this morning in Beer Sheva when he was running to shelter due to the Air Raid siren, and he was hit by a car.

10:43 AM Rocket from Gaza hits civilian jeep in Eshkol region.    Car went up in flames, yet driver and passengers escaped unharmed. Currently waiting for rescue...

10:42 AM 4 rockets shot down by Iron Dome over Ashdod.

10:38 AM Reports that IDF attacks terrorists in Jabaliya/Northern Gaza -- one dead and 3 injured.

10:34 AM Rocket fired at Ashkelon hit the yard of a Public Building, no injuries.

10:33 AM Air Raid Sirens in communities south of Ashkelon

10:32 AM IDF Radio reports Air Raid Sirens in Beit-El.  Then they corrected themselves to a different city, and in Israel's South...

10:31 AM Air Raid Sirens in Ashdod, Gederot area and Sederot.

10:27 AM Air Raid Sirens in communities south of Ashkelon.

10:11 AM NRG/Maariv reports that on Motzei Shabbat/Saturday Night, a fifth Iron Dome installation will go on-line for active defensives.

10:09 AM Analysis of Egyptian Prime Minister Hisham Qandil's visit to Gaza and the temporary cease fire at the JewishPress.com  - click here.

10:08 AM  Air Raid Sirens in South Ashkelon area.

10:04 AM Air Raid Sirnes in communities of the Northern Gaza strip area

10:04 AM The Jerusalem light rail has resumed service after a terrorists planted fake bombs.

9:57 AM Air Raid sirens in Norhern Gaza Region and Ashkelon,

9:56 AM Hamas President Ismail hanieh walking around freely to meet Egyptian Prime Minister, Hisham Qandil

9:53 AM Air Raid Sirens in Ashkelon and Kiryat Melachi.-- heard on IDF Radio.

9:52 AM AIR RAID SIRENS -- during the "cease fire" -- Thanks Hamas! (And Egypt)

9:50 AM 5000 chickens murdered by rocekt attack this moring in Eshkol region.

9:49 AM Egyptian Prime Minister Hisham Qandil's visit to Gaza is scheduled for about 3 hours.  During this time, there is supposed to be a temporary cease fire.

9:42 AM YNET reports that the previous rockets before were shot towards Kiryat Gat.

9:41 AM Live:  Egyptian Prime Minister, Hisham Qandil is in Gaza.

9:41 AM In the previous rocket launches to the Eshkol region, 12 rockets were launched at the region.

9:39 AM Iron Dome malfunction results in rocket falling in Ashdod at 6:50 AM this morning. (Ashdod.net)


9:38 AM Running on Twitter now: Hamas will take advantage of Egyptian Prime Minister, Hisham Qandil's visit to Gaza, to fire rockets at Israel, and Israel won't retaliate.

9:35 AM One rocket shot down by Iron Dome, one rocket landed in an open area.


9:33 AM Sirens going off in a region to the East of Ashkelon and North of Beer Sheva.

9:30 AM Of the 30,000 IDF soldiers authorized by the government to be called up, the IDF has started calling up 16,000 including those from Combat and Engineering troops.

9:28 AM No injuries reported from the strike in the Eshkol region. Landed in the yard of a house.


9:19 AM Explosions heard in the greater Ashdod  region


9:16 AM Sirens going off in Ashdod

9:16 AM Sirens going off in numerous regions, North of Ashkelon.


9:14 AM Channel 10 TV reporting of a direct hit of a rocket in the Eshkol Region.

9:12 AM Air Raid Sirens in Asheklon and Eshkol Regions.

9:02 AM Reports that Israel has agreed to a temporary cease fire while Egyptian Prime Minister, Hisham Qandil visits Gaza this morning. (Channel 10 TV)

8:59 AM Air Raid Sirens in the Eshkol Region

8:54 AM Pipe Bomb found on Jerusalem's light rail.  Sappers dealing with it (Channel 10 TV)

7:35 AM NYC closed the area around the Israeli Consulate in light of the protests and for security reasons. Security has also been increased around other Israeli sites in the city.

The Federation announced they are donating 5 million dollars to Israelis in the South.

A Suspicious Object was found near the Jerusalem light rail at the Herzl train stop.

IDF was busy pounding terror targets overnight.

6:55 AM Missile hits house in Ashdod. No injuries.

2:00 AM Reports are coming in of a number of massive IDF attacks across Gaza.

Among the major attacks is that the IDF has destroyed over 70 medium range missile launchers in the past hour.

Another is a strike on a major Hamas security building in the Sheikh Reduan neighborhood of Gaza City, as well as the destruction of at least 2 large weapons storage facilities.

These are in addition to other attacks throughout Gaza.

12:54 AM IAF Helicopters shooting at a Palestinian rocket launching terror cell in Beit Hanun (ostensibly, the same cell that launched rockets towards the Ashkelon region a few minutes ago)

12:53 AM As noted by a commenter below, many Palestinian Web Sites are claiming the IDF ground offensive has started, yet Hamas is chiding them for spreading lies and propaganda.  I am not aware that the ground offensive has commenced....(but it shouldn't be long before it does)

12:48 AM Air Raid Siren in Ashkelon Region.

12:44 AM Amazing photo roundup of IDF Operation in Gaza....(source)

12:15 AM OK people, I'm going to call it a night.  Will be back blogging again in the morning.  If there's a ground incursion starting then I will post that -- even in the middle of the night.

Wishing all our readers and visitors to the Muqata blog, a very good evening, and wishing a quiet and safe night to our brothers and sisters in Southern Israel.  May God bless and protect the bravce soldiers of the IDF, who are fighting for the safety and security of our country.

Good night,

Jameel @ The Muqata

12:06 AM Air Raid Sirens in the general vicinity of the Beer Sheva metropolitan area.

Important Clarification: The IDF Spokesman Office has been sending out the message that it is "dangerous" to report siren announcements and rocket hit locations.  IDF Public Radio (Galei Tzahal, GalGalatz) announces precise locations of all sirens 24 hours a day and the MSM reports rocket hits.  It is unfathomable that social media and blogs need to be held to a higher standard for reporting than the MSM and Public Radio Stations, and the Muqata Blog will continue reporting rocket sirens in general areas and where rockets hit -- in general terms.  When MSM sites report exact locations, so will the Muqata Blog.


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Wherever I am, my blog turns towards Eretz Yisrael טובה הארץ מאד מאד

Day 2 of the Gaza War 15-Nov-2012

Day 2 of the Gaza War 15-Nov-2012

Refresh your browser often to see latest updates from the IDF "Pillar of Defense" operation against Gaza's Palestinian terror.   Link to us on Facebook!

Join us at our new link for the Gaza Operation - Day 3 of the Gaza war 16-Nov-2012 at the top of the blog: www.muqata.com


11:59 PM Islamic Jihad leader Haled Al-Batash: "Soon there will be new surprises"


11:53 PM Reports that 3 senior tactical members of Hamas killed earlier this evening by IDF airstrike.

11:42 PM Air Raid Sirens sounding in the general vicinity of the Beer Sheva metropolitan area.

11:36 PM IDF's targetted killing continue in Gaza....reports from Gaza of 4 killed and over 23 wounded.
 
11:34 PM More updates coming momentarily. In the meantime, here is a very high quality video of the Iron Dome system in actiom over Beer Sheva.



10:00 PM Rockets fired over Netivot and Sha'ar Ha Negev.

9:59 PM Ministry of Education: Schools withing 40km of the Gaza strip will be closed.

9:58 PM 80 sites in Gaza have been hit by IAF and Israeli Navel bombardment in the last hour.

9:16 PM Colleges in Rishon L'Tzion and the region closed tomorrow.

9:07 PM During meetings with Defense establishment, Prime Minister Netanyahu was forced to go to protected area when air raid sirens started.


9:04 PM Arab sources: Following 10 air strikes Gaza is totally blacked out.

9:02 PM Israeli Government sources: "We will not stop until Hamas begs for mercy."

8:53 PM IDF reporting that the are planning major ground operation in Northern Gaza.

8:52 PM Sirens in Eshkol region and Chevel Shalom. 

8:36 PM Storage area destroyed by rocket in Be'er Sheva, 3 treated for shock.

8:21 PM IDF Spokesman confirms, Defense Minister green lights calling up 30,000 reservists.


8:19 PM Direct hit on house in Be'er Sheva. No injuries reported.

8:16 PM 5 rockets shots down by Iron Dome system over Be'er Sheva.


8:14 PM Rockets landing near Kiryat Melachi during funeral of Mira Sharf HY"D and Aaron Semadje HY"D.

8:10 PM Explosions over Ashkelon. More rockets fired at Be'er Sheva, Benei Shimon and Ramat Negev.

8:09 PM Watching Rothschild Blvd in Tel Aviv during air raid siren.

8:08 PM Shooting attack on IDF jeep near Kalkilya, no injuries.

8:07 PM Rocket explosions heard around Ashdod. No confirmation of rockets landing or Iron Dome.


8:05 PM Palestians from Gaza shooting at Army vehicles on Israeli side of border.

8:03 PM More sirens in Ashdod, Kiryat Melachi, Be'er Tovia, Yavneh, Ashkelon Beach and Yoav.

8:00 PM How much time do you have?

7:54 PM Sirens now in Be'er Tovia, Ashkelon, Shafir, Kiriyat Melachi.

7:50 PM Sirens sounding now in Be'er Sheva and Har Hevron


7:45 PM Magen David Adom has raised the level of preparedness in the Central Region (Tel Aviv area) to the highest level possible.


7:43 PM More rockets fired at Eshkol region.


7:40 PM Reports that one rocket landed in Bat Yam.


7:36 PM Cellular networks in Tel Aviv area crashing under pressure.


7:35 PM Rocket lands in cow shed in Eshkol region. No injuries. No report on cow situation.


7:33 PM At least 1000 reserve soldiers mobilized on an emergency footing.

7:31 PM BREAKING: Anti-tank rocket fired at IDF troops from Gaza.

7:23 PM  Iron Dome system knocks down 7 rockets over Be'er Sheva.


7:22 PM IDF Spox confirms 2 rockets fired at Tel Aviv. 

7:15 PM Still know official confirmation of rockets landing in Tel Aviv area. Local residents reporting only.


7:10 PM Amorphous Statement from IDF Spox: "No Rockets Landed on the ground in Tel Aviv"  No known injuries in rocket attack on Greater Tel-Aviv. Islamic Jihad takes responsibility. Claims they shot a Fajr5 rocket.


7:06 PM Israel Radio saying the rocket may have landed in Bat Yam and not in Tel Aviv.  Other sources I know have contradicted this. 

7:01 PM IDF attacking Khan Yunis and Rafiach area.

6:58 PM In light of the Rocket attack on Gush Dan - its safe to say the countdown has started for the ground offensive.
 
6:55 PM No one wants to say exactly where the rocket landed due to security considerations.  Definite Rocket Strike on Tel Aviv area. Confirmed.

6:52 PM Air Raid Sirens in Sederot

6:51 PM Waiting for official confirmation of rocket landing on Tel Aviv beach...also checking reports of rockets hitting Rishon and Bat Yam

6:50 PM Confusion over location of where rocket landed...stay tuned.  Network Servers Crashing due to overload.
 
6:46 PM Rocket Lands on Tel Aviv beach.  No known injuries at this time...Forces responding.

6:46 PM Explosion Heard -- Forces checking for rocket location. First Time Tel Aviv has been attacked since the First Gulf War in 1991.

6:42 PM STANDING BY FOR REPORTS ON AIR RAID SIRENS IN TEL AVIV...

6:34 PM AIR RAID SIRENS IN TEL AVIV, BNEI BRAK, BAT YAM

6:32 PM Air Raid Sirens - Shaar HaNegev

6:29 PM More Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol region. Hamas announces it is not prepared for a cease fire.  IDF pounding away at terror targets in the Northern Gaza Strip.

6:19 PM Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol region

6:17 PM News claimed 4...(IDF radio this morning)

6:11 PM Bnei Akiva Youth Movement announces that it will be attending a massive prayer rally at the Kotel / Western Wall in Jerusalem on this coming Saturday evening, with buses of youth arriving from all over the country.  Jameel asks: I wonder if this means that the "Chodesh Irgun" closing celebrations will be postponed?

6:08 PM Tel Aviv mayor, Ron Huldai announces that Tel Aviv is opening its cultural centers to residents of the South, free of charge, including the Camari Theatre, HaBima, Beit Lessin, and many others.  (The entire list can be seen here)


6:05 PM Official Statement from the Rishon Municpality:

We request from the public to adhere to the directives of the IDF Homefront Command.
When hearing a siren, enter the nearest secure area; bomb shelter or room with the least amount of external walls, windows and doors. It is forbidden to leave the safe area till 10 minutes after the siren was sounded.  The municipality is now, at this very moment opening all the public bomb shelters

6:01 PM Since the rocket launch at Rishon, there is severe cellular service disruption.
 
5:59 PM 4 Grad rockets that were shot at Beer Sheva region were taken out by Iron Dome.  Ambulances are scouring the area.

5:51 PM 6 explosions heard in Beer Sheva region, Sirens in Chatzeirim (IAF airbase)

5:49 PM IDF combat soldiers and ground troops positioning themselves near Gaza, preparing for ground incursion.  Waiting for "go ahead" from Government.  Soldiers continue to stream southwards in preparation...

5:45 PM Internal Security Minister Aharonovitch confirms rocket launch towards Rishon LZiyon, says it landed, but not "in" Rishon. (Channel 2 TV)


5:42 PM Tzeva Adom / Air Raid Sirens in Sederot.

5:36 PM No reported injuries in any of the recent attacks.  Waiting for confirmation of any rockets strikes (this time) in the Southern Edge of Gush Dan.  As of now, none identified by Israeli sources.

5:33 PM Another barrage of rockets at the Kissufim area (adjascent to Central Gaza strip)

5:30 PM Sirens all over the southern edge of Gush Dan / Greater Tel Aviv:
Holon, Bat Yam, Rishon...rockets launches seen....

5:12 PM Mira Sharf HY"D, of Kiryat Melachi, killed this morning by rocket fire. Her husband Shmulik and and one year old son were also seriously injured. Their neighbor Aaron Semdaje HY"D was also murdered in the attack.Mira and Shmulik were planning to go to India to serve as Shluchim for Chabad. 4 years ago today (Rosh Chodesh Kislev) the Chabad Shlichim in Mumbai, India were murdered by Islamic terrorists.

5:03 PM Another barrage of rockets fired over Ashdod, air raid sirens sounding.


4:58 PM One of the rocket sites destroyed by Israel was dug in between an elementary school and a mosque. (Channel 10 news)

4:53 PM CONFIRMED: Grad missile lands in open area near Rishon L'Tzion.No injuries or wounded.


4:45 PM Rocket falls in S'derot. Unconfirmed report of rocket landing in Rishon. UPDATE: Sirens in S'derot were false. But reports of rocket landing in Ashdod.UPDATE: Sirens also heard in Bat Yam and Nes Tziona.


4:42 PM Sirens heard in Rishon L'Tzion which is much closer to the Dan Region. No report of rockets.


4:37 PM More rockets fired over Sderot as air ride sirens sound once more.


4:23 PM Round up of pictures for the 2nd day of Pillar of Deffense operation at The Blaze.

4:20 PM IDF soldiers firing of Iron Dome anti-missile missle.

4:13 PM Foreign press (Sky News, Al Arabiya) reporting that Israel has offered a "cease fire" starting at 5 PM. UPDATE: Reporter on Arutz 2 has said IDF has no plans to stop any time soon.

4:04 PM Direct hit on small factory in Sha'ar HaNegev. No injuries reported.

3:57 PM Rachel's Tomb closed to visitors due violent Arab protests, throwing rocks and molotov cocktails.


3:53 PM 5 additional rockets fired over Eshkol region.


3:44 PM Reports of IAF planes striking in Khan Yunis.

3:28 PM British Ambassador to Israel in Kiriyat Melachi declares UK's full support for Israel's defensive actions and her full right to self defense.

3:27 PM Since the start of Israel's actions in Gaza IAF has destroyed over 100 long range Hamas missile launchers.

3:20 PM Violent protest in front of Bahad 3 army base in Samaria. 40 people throwing rocks at civilian cars and army vehicles.


3:19 PM Another rocket fired at Sderot.


3:16 PM 3 soldiers wounded by mortar fire in Eshkol region. One with medium wounds and two with light.


3:15 PM Air Raid sirens in Eshkol and Tze'ilim


3:11 PM Kasam rocket falls in Sderot. No word of injuries.


2:58 PM Rockets fired over Sderot.

2:50 PM Security Commitee of the Knesset has decided on a broad call up of reserve units.


2:45 PM Be on the lookout for Pallywood!

  

Guess what, not a picture from Gaza. The picture is 3 weeks old and is from Syria. 

2:39 PM PA Prime Minster and Holcaust Denier Abbas calls for Hamas to stop the rockets.


2:38 PM Multiple rockets fired, sirens in Ashkelon and Asheklon Beach regional council.


2:35 PM Building in Kiryat Melachi that was struck with rocket has been evacuated for fear that it will collapse.

2:28 PM IDF dropped flyers earlier today over Gaza.  The following translation from the Arabic is from the IDF Spox:

2:24 PM Eshkol region Air Raid Siren.

2:22 PM Air Raid Sirens in Kiryat Gat, Eshkol Region, Ashkelon Beach area, Yoav Area, Lachish and Shapir.

3 wounded in previous attack on Eshkol region - 1 moderate, 2 light. Medivac Helicopter dispatched.

2:13 PM Iron Dome takes out 7 rockets simultaneously over Ashdod area.

 2:10 PM IDF firing at Beit Lahiya terror cell which is launching rockets at Israel.

2:06 PM Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol and Merhavim regions

2:04 PM Photo of Iron Dome shooting down a Gazan rocket over Ashkelon at 1:59 PM. (Courtesy: mickeyb/Rotter.net)

2:02 PM Air Raid Sirens going off in South Haifa/ Tirat HaCarmel region -- this is due to siren malfunction and NOT a rocket strike

2:00 PM From the Algemeiner: Source: Kiryat Malachi Victim Was Chabad Emissary From India Visiting Israel for Mumbai Victims’ Memorial Service

Israeli political consultant Jonny Daniels citing an Israeli source and a Chabad leader in Israel told The Algemeiner that among the victims of this morning’s Gaza rocket attack on the Israeli city of Kiryat Malachi was a Chabad “shlucha (female emissary)” to India, who was visiting Israel this week for the memorial service of Chabad Mumbai terror victims Gabi and Rivka Holtzberg. The Hebrew anniversary of their brutal murder is today.

A second victim said to be in his late forties was the father of the 8 month old baby girl who was injured. (source)

1:59 PM Ashkelon region Air Raid Sirens going off...

1:45 PM Air Raid Sirens in Shaar HaNegev and Sedot Negev Regions.

1:43 PM Update: The diplomats are being held by Hamas at the Erez crossing.

1:41 PM Air Raid Siren in Eshkol region

1:37 PM Channel 2 Israel TV: Hamas holding 43 diplomats hostage, and not allowing them to leave the Gaza strip.

1:03 PM Air Raid Siren in Eshkol region


1:01 PM Arutz Sheva reports of a direct rocket hit in Sederot, no injuries but there is a gas leak.

12:57 PM Report of a car hit by a rocket at Gilat interchange; car went up in flames. Confirmed: No injuries.

12:57 PM Marwan Issa (47) appointed by Hamas to replace Ahmed Jabri.  Dead Man Walking.

12:56 PM Reverse Pyschological Warfare? Hamas claims IDF ground offensive in Northern Gaza strip

12:52 PM Air Raid Sirens in Eshkol region.


12:45 PM Couple due to be married tonight in Ashkelon requests help... The Asheklon.Net website reports that the IDF homefront command has cancelled a wedding hall tonight, and the couple is looking for logistical help to relocate their wedding to Central Israel this evening.  For more information to help, the mother of the Bride, Tzippy, call be reached at 052-445-3941  They aren't looking for financial help -- just logistical help. Israeli students in Central Israel -- this is your chance to help! Source: http://ashqelon.net/?p=23844

12:42 PM Newly released IDF Spox video of IDF targeting underground Gaza rocket launcher.



12:40 PM Sirens sounding in South Hebron Hills, Omer, Lachish, Kiryat Gat and Rahat.

12:35 PM Multiple rockets shot at Sderot and taken out by Iron Dome anti missle system. No injuries.


12:32 PM Leftist and Arab students at Haifa University holding "moment of silence" for arch terrorist Ahmed Jabari.

12:30 PM How Hamas works.

12:28 PM Air raid sirens sounding in Ashkelon Beach region.


12:23 PM  Do you understand?

12:19 PM Rockets fired over Netiv HaAsarah.

12:11 PM So far 200 rockets have been fired into Israel since the start of the current offensive.


12:09 PM Rocket hits in Sderot. Magen David responding.UPDATE: House in Sderot hit. No injuries but gas leak detected.


12:08 PM Army Sources reporting that they have managed to cripple Hamas and Islamic Jihad long range missle capabilities.

12:06 PM Air Raid sirens sounding in Sderot.

12:05 PM In the Gaza mall at this minute

11:59 AM Putting things into perspective.

11:54 AM Two more rockets fired at Ashkelon. No report of damage or injuries.


11:49 AM How not to do PsychWarfare: Islamic Jihad say their retaliton will shock Israel. Says an IDF ground incursion will result in heavy caualties. Funny, they sad the same in Operation Cast Lead. When most of their minions ran away and hid.

11:48 AM YNET reporting that IAF fighter jets have been scrambled from the North to help with targeting the abundance of terror hotspots in Gaza.


11:44 AM Primer on the Fajr-5 Rockets by @DougPologe

11:42 AM Pictures from funeral of slain Hamas leader Ahmed Jabari

11:40 AM Air raid sirens sounding in Ashkelon.

11:34 AM In what CNN describes as a news report: 

CNN: (CNN) -- Israel continued a blistering assault early Thursday against Gaza, targeting what it described as 100 terror sites in response to ongoing rocket attacks by Palestinian militants, a move that has raised fears of a wider regional conflict. (emphasis added)

11:30 AM Preliminary reports of IDF soldier lightly wounded on the Golan Heights from gunfire out of Syria. UPDATE: Soldier wounded by shrapnel from mortar fire, not bullets.


11:15 AM Hamas threatening to live broadcast rocket attacks on Tel Aviv.


11:11 AM Operation Piller of Defense moves online.

11:05 AM UNCONFIRMED- Reports that a vehicle filled with armed men has broken through the border with Egypt near Eilat.


10:58 AM IDF video footage of strikes on Fajr missile sites in Khan Yunis camp in Gaza.


10:55 AM Another salvo of rockets reported to have been fired at Ashkelon.

10:54 AM 4th Israeli dies of wounds from rocket attack on Kiryat Melachi. 

10:46 AM Pictures of building hit by rocket that killed 3 and injured 6.

10:43 AM Grad Rocket from Gaza that was fired over Dan region knocked down by Iron Dome system. This is the farthest north that a rocket from Gaza has gotten. UPDATE: This report has been disputed. More information as it becomes available.


10:37 AM Video of rockets fired by Islamic Jihad earlier this morning.

10:35 AM Iron Dome system knocks down missile over Ashkelon. No damage or injuries reported. Sirens sounding in Kiryat Melachi.

10:27 AM Hamas military wing Izzadim Al-Kasam has taken responsibility for deadly rocket attack on Kiryat Melachi.

9:31 AM Ahmed Jabari eulogies have begun. At 11:30 they will be taking what's left of the terrorist's body to burial  Note to IDF: 11:30 might be a good time to kill a lot of terrorists in one shot.

9:29 AM Rockets landing in Ashdod. Sirens sounding throughout the city.

9:12 AM Israel Radio correspondent Nissim Keinan reported this morning that some of the Grad rockets fired from Gaza to Israel were also loaded with phosphorus. (IMRA)

9:08 AM 2 women, 1 man killed in Kiryat Melachi strike. Baby moderately wounded. Dozens being treated for shell shock.

9:05 AM In the past 5 minutes, 4 barrages of rocket attacks on Ashdod.
House in  Kiryat Gat hit. No injuries reported.
IDF expresses concern that as the day goes by, rocket attacks will intensify.

9:01 AM 3 confirmed dead in Kiryat Melachi, Rockets falling in Kiryat Melachi and Kiryat Gat. 6 injured.

8:52 AM There are 3 confirmed dead in the rocket strike in Kiryat Melachi, and a baby is injured, in moderate condition. 

 The rocket hit the 4th story of an apartment building.

IDF reporter is under rocket fire in Kiryat Melchi, as she is reporting live from the scene

8:52 AM There are confirmed dead in the rocket strike in Kiryat Melachi, and a baby is injured, in moderate condition.


8:46 AM Unconfirmed reports of 3 dead in 2 rocket strikes on Kiryat Melachi

8:40 AM In the past 20 minutes, 30-40 rockets fired from Gaza. There was a direct hit on a house in Kiryat Melachi. Reports of critically wounded woman.

MDA and police responding.

8:01 AM Muslim Bros call for global "Day of Rage" against IDF "aggression"

8:00 AM Sirens in Ashkelon

7:57 AM Sirens in Ashkelon / Beer Tuvia region

7:48 AM Sirens in Beer Sheva - massive explosion reported. Barrage of rockets launched at Beer Sheva.

7:14 AM Red Alert in Eshkol Region

7:14 AM Overnight Update
Two missiles launched since midnight (total 104 since the operation began Wednesday afternoon.

Three terrorists were killed in Khan Yunis that were firing rockets towards the Eshkol region.

28 Israelis were treated for shell shock.

1 person lightly wounded from broken glass, in Be'er Sheva.

UN Security Council discusses situation between Israel and Gaza, but reached no conclusions.

At 4:38 AM, Israel targeted the Palestinian Parliament building in Gaza.

13 dead in Gaza, and over 90 wounded.

President Obama discusses situation with Egyptian president Morsi, telling him it is Israel's right to defend itself.

Last rocket attacks for at 6:51 AM in the Eshkol region. No injuries reported. 

1:39 AM Last update before I go to bed.  IDF Homefront Command Webpage -- OOOPS!

1:22 AM Update to recent rocket attack on Beer Sheva; Iron Dome successfully knocked out 2 Grad rockets.  No reports of injuries.

1:16 AM I'm taking a break from liveblogging -- will resume early morning Israel time / 5 AM Israel time / 10 PM Eastern Standard Time / 0300 GMT.

To our brothers and sisters in Southern Israel, may you have a quiet and peaceful night.  To the IDF, may God bless and protect the brave warriors of the Israel Defense Forces.  May God grant wisdom to the Israeli government to direct the IDF to ensure the safety and security of the residents of the State of Israel.

Good night from the Muqata.

Jameel

1:13 AM Reports of 8 rockets launched simultaneously from Gaza towards Beer Sheva.

1:11 AM Two explosions heard in Beer Sheva; could be Iron Dome counter missiles.  

1:10 AM Air Raid Sirens erupt throughout the Beer Sheva region.

1:08 AM IDF and Hamas fight it out via Twitter.

1:06 AM IAF warplanes continue to pound Northern Gaza.  Palestinians report that there are wounded as a result of the attack.

1:02 AM Israeli Channel 2 TV reports -- Minister of Internal Security Aharonovitch says that Israel is prepared for the possibility of terror infiltrations from Yehuda vShmron/West Bank


12:57 AM YNET reports that Prime Minister Netanyahu has spoken to US President Obama and updated him on the IDF operation in Gaza, and thanked him for the USA support for Israel to defend itself. (source)

12:54 AM No way to confirm attacks / attempted attacks on Israeli positions in the Golan.  Lets assume for the time being that the report is incorrect. (12:43 AM report)

12:53 AM Israeli Cabinet Approves Open-ended Combat Reservists Draft

12:46 AM Gazan town of Beit Lahiya under attack by IAF warplanes and IDF artillery.

12:43 AM Totally unconfirmed reports from the Arab meda: REPORTS: Syria have attacked Israeli bases in Golan in retaliation to the aggression on Gaza. Unconfirmed. Investigating...

12:40 AM Israeli Military Reporter Alon Ben-David: "Finally Israel has conducted a pointed and decisive attack.  Hamas is currently still in shock.  When they regain their composure, there will be some difficult days for us.  Take care of yourselves, I'm on my way [to the battlefield]"


12:35 AM Palestinian Authority begs the UN to force Israel to stop the"agression" against the Palestinian people.  Note: Maybe the Palestinians should have thought of that before firing rockets at us...


12:15 AM Rocket Warning Sirens in Beer Sheva.

Continued from Day 1 of the Gaza War 14-Nov-2012

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Wherever I am, my blog turns towards Eretz Yisrael טובה הארץ מאד מאד