The Israeli army on Monday targeted Hamas activity sites and terrorist squads in the Gaza Strip in response to the launch of dozens of rockets at southern Israeli communities, the IDF spokesperson announced.
"The IDF will not tolerate any attempt to harm Israeli civilians, and will operate against anyone who uses terror against the State of Israel. The Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for any terrorist activity emanating from the Gaza Strip," the army said in a statement.
Hamas and Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the barrage of Qassam rockets and mortar shells that hit the Eshkol Regional Council, in the western Negev .
Shrapnel from the shells caused damage to some residential buildings, but no injuries were reported.
Israelis were marking the last day of the Sukkot holiday on Monday, and schools and offices were closed.
Since the beginning of this year, more than 470 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip at Israel, over 10 in October alone.