The IDF responded aggressively by attacking Palestinian targets throughout Gaza, Judea, and Samaria. Armored forces, covered by combat helicopters, entered the outskirts of Bethlehem from several directions and took over the neighborhoods originally founded for refugees that have since become terrorist strongholds. IDF troops entered Beit Jala, from where fire is often directed at homes in Jerusalem\'s Gilo neighborhood, and tanks approached the town as well. Among the some two-dozen Arabs reported killed in the various offensives was one terrorist eliminated in a helicopter-missile strike.
In Khan Yunis, Gaza, IDF forces killed about ten of Muhammad Dahlan\'s forces, including Gen. Ahmed Mafrej, commander of the central Gaza district and the most senior Palestinian killed since the Oslo War began. The IDF said his death was unintentional; he was not actively engaged in the fighting at the time. Arab sources said that Israeli naval ships launched several rockets at Gaza.
In Tul Karem in western Shomron, IDF forces continue to surround some 300 armed terrorists of Tanzim, Force 17, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad. Fire was exchanged there during the night; a Border Guard policeman and a soldier were each lightly wounded. Nine Arabs were killed there yesterday, and dozens were wounded. IDF sources said the army would not leave the area until all the terrorists were arrested. PLO sources said that the terrorists had planted mines in the camp, and that men wearing explosives packs were awaiting the IDF soldiers. PA diplomatic sources have begun an international campaign to pressure Israel not to enter the camp.
In Khan Yunis, Gaza, IDF forces killed about ten of Muhammad Dahlan\'s forces, including Gen. Ahmed Mafrej, commander of the central Gaza district and the most senior Palestinian killed since the Oslo War began. The IDF said his death was unintentional; he was not actively engaged in the fighting at the time. Arab sources said that Israeli naval ships launched several rockets at Gaza.
In Tul Karem in western Shomron, IDF forces continue to surround some 300 armed terrorists of Tanzim, Force 17, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad. Fire was exchanged there during the night; a Border Guard policeman and a soldier were each lightly wounded. Nine Arabs were killed there yesterday, and dozens were wounded. IDF sources said the army would not leave the area until all the terrorists were arrested. PLO sources said that the terrorists had planted mines in the camp, and that men wearing explosives packs were awaiting the IDF soldiers. PA diplomatic sources have begun an international campaign to pressure Israel not to enter the camp.