Jerusalem, Feb 06: Palestinian militants attacked an Israeli army base in the West Bank early today, shooting and killing two Israelis and, in the Gaza Strip, an Israeli helicopter opened fire with machine guns, killing two Palestinians. The violence came as Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was building a new coalition government after his Likud Party won last week's election. The team taking shape was likely to feature hawkish parties demanding even harsher measures against the Palestinians.
The two Israelis were killed when two Palestinian gunmen infiltrated the base on Mt Gerizim, overlooking the West Bank city of Nablus, Israeli security officials said on condition of anonymity. A third Israeli was injured in the attack, army radio reported. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the attack.
On the eastern edge of Gaza City, an Israeli helicopter fired a machine gun, killing two Palestinians, Palestinians said. Militants often set up rockets there to fire at a nearby village in Israel, Nahal Oz. Doctors said the two men, in their 20s, were working at a nearby home for the aged.


Bureau Report