Israel bombs targets and moves forces into Gaza

June 28, 2006

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Israeli forces launched air strikes Wednesday, targeting three bridges and a power station in the southern Gaza Strip. Following the attacks, Israel sent tanks and troops into Gaza in a bid to rescue Cpl. Gilad Shalit, kidnapped by Palestinian militants.

A spokesperson for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said infantry and armored units moved into southern Gaza at about 2:30 a.m. Israeli time shortly after the air strikes. In an official statement, the IDF said the attack on the three bridges was aimed at preventing the kidnappers from fleeing with their hostage.

Palestinian groups said to be holding Shalit issued a statement Monday saying they would release information on his condition only if Israel frees Palestinian women and those under 18 now held in jail. "The Israeli Army will not find flowers in his path,'' a Palestinian gunman said. "The soldiers will be met with rocket-propelled grenades and suicide bombers.''