Around 12:30 p.m. (Sunday), Hamas terrorists fired two rockets towards Ashkelon. The rockets exploded in two residential areas, causing injuries. Magen David Adom paramedics were called to the area of the explosions, and evacuated two people who were lightly injured from rocket fragments to the Barzilai Hospital in Ashdod. The residential areas were damaged and eight residents were treated for shock.

The IDF is preparing for the possibility that the rocket range might be able to reach Beersheba and Yavneh. The Home Front is recommending that residents in these areas follow Home Front instructions.

In addition, the government has approved of a general call-up of soldiers in reserve units. The reserve troops will be called-up primarily to assist the civilian populace. However, some will be called to serve in special operations.

The government approved of Defense Minister Barak’s request for a special emergency condition for the next 48 hours in the areas bordering Gaza. Under the special situation, the Defense Minister and the Home Front Commander will receive authorization to obligate the populace to remain in bomb shelters and to operate essential industries and emergency services.