Hamas Warns Israel After Retaliation

Hamas on Tuesday warned that Israeli retaliation on Gaza after rocket attacks by terrorists “will set the region on fire. They are playing a very dangerous game,” warned Hamas spokesman Fauzi Barhoum.

Barhoum was speaking after IDF forces struck targets in Gaza early Tuesday, after a rocket struck at an open area in the southern Negev earlier Monday night. No injuries or damage were reported in that attack. Islamic State took responsibility for the rocket attack.

Barhoum said that the supposed claim by IS had been “made up” by Israel, which was just looking for an “excuse” to attack Hamas. “We warn Israel against the increased incitement and tension against us. There will be consequences for this behavior,” Barhoum said.

Overnight Monday, security officials said they arrested five wanted security suspects in other areas in Yehudah and Shomron. The suspects were wanted for participating in rioting and throwing stones and firebombs that endangered Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. Several of the suspects were also charged with belonging to Hamas. All were being questioned on their activities by security forces.