Israeli helicopters fired three missiles in a failed assassination attempt in Gaza City on Tuesday evening, according to Palestinian sources quoted by news agencies.
One bystander, identified as Hassan Hamlawi, 65, was killed and more than 20 people were wounded in the attack. Palestinian Health Minister Kamal Sharafi said four of the wounded were in critical condition, including an 8-year-old girl.
Reports said that the shells targetted a car of a Hamas operative. An eyewitness said "the people in the car jumped out and ran in two different directions" after one rocket landed near the front of the car. After the men fled, two more missiles hit.
Three men were in the car, including Khaled Masoud, a member of the Hamas military wing, sources said.
Israel said last week that all Hamas activists were considered "legitimate targets." On Wednesday, Israeli security officials were quoted as saying that the army would continue to target Palestinian activists.
The latest assassination attempt reflected the Israeli government’s brutal policy, which will resume the cycle of violence in the region, Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas said late Tuesday.
"Israel has taken a dangerous decision to continue this assassination policy," Palestinian security chief, Mohammed Dahlan, said in a statement. "They want there to be a civil war between the Palestinians." Dahlan added that the attack will cause a violent Palestinian reaction. (Albawaba.com)
