IDF soldier, Palestinian killed near Gaza

A Palestinian medical source, announced Friday morning the death of a young Palestinian male in a gun battle near Kissufim, after he managed to cut smuggle into the occupied territories. The Israeli army, said an IDF solider, 20, was killed Friday in a clash with an armed Palestinian, near Kissufim. According to the Yedioth Ahronot newspaper, the incident took place at around 04:00am, when the gunman, using the heavy fog covering the area, was able to reach the security fence, cut it and infiltrate Israel. An IDF force was scrambled to the area and engaged with the Palestinian man, who opened fire. The Palestinian was killed. The gunfight left one Israeli solider dead. IDF medics attempted to stabilise his condition, but he succumbed to his wounds. An IDF Spokesperson’s Unit statement, said that the force was able to thwart the attack, saying: "the IDF will not tolerate any attempt to harm Israeli civilians or IDF soldiers, and will continue to fight any elements which employs terror against the State of Israel". The statement added: "the Hamas terror group is responsible for any such acts". At around 05:50 am, the residents of Kibbutz Nirim, which is adjacent to Kissufim, were informed of an infiltration in the area, and were instructed to remain indoors. The order was lifted within an hour. Palestinian sources, reported that IAF jets were flying over Gaza following the incident. The Palestinians also reported that the IDF forces fired shells at several open areas east of Khan Younis. IAF flyovers and helicopter fire were reported in that area as well. Palestinian witnesses reported hearing gunshots near Abassan, a border village in southern Gaza that is also close to the Egyptian border. They said the Israeli forces set off smoke bombs to obscure the view as helicopters landed at the scene. Last week, an IDF officer and soldier were lightly injured by Palestinian sniper fire near the Kissufim border crossing.