Jerusalem, Oct 24: Three Israelis were killed early today in an attack on the Israeli settlement of Netzarim, Israeli military officials said. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Palestinians infiltrated into the settlement and opened fire, killing three Israelis and wounding two others. One of the infiltrators was later killed, the officials said.
The military officials said the infiltrators crossed the exterior fence and opened fire. They did not enter the settlement itself. The two wounded Israelis were flown by helicopter to Soroka Hospital in Beersheba. One was in serious condition and the other lightly wounded.
The officials would not immediately identify the victims. They said one of the Palestinian infiltrators was shot and killed, and searches were underway for another Palestinian. Heavy fog in the area aided the infiltrators and hampered soldiers searching for them, Israel radio said.
Netzarim is an isolated Israeli settlement southwest of Gaza City. It is heavily guarded by Israeli soldiers. In the past, it has been the target of many infiltration attempts by Palestinian militants.
Bureau Report