Palestinian bulldozers on Tuesday blocked roads in northern Gaza Strip with sand piles, bracing for an Israeli invasion after the recent capture of an Israeli soldier.
The bulldozers, operated by Palestinian groups, left small spaces in the sand piles to allow cars to pass slowly. "We are ready to confront any stupid act that the Zionists might commit," said Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas' military wing. "We are well-prepared and God willing, we are not going to welcome them with flowers."
Separately, the Islamic Jihad called for a general mobilization of its fighters "in anticipation for the looming Zionist aggression." According to the AP, Israel has massed troops along the border following Sunday's capture of Cpl. Gilad Shalit, who was seized by Palestinian fighters who infiltrated Israel through a tunnel.
Palestinian militants released a statement Monday demanding the release of all female prisoners and Palestinian minors being held by Israel in exchange for information about Shalit.
A Palestinian leader said Tuesday the captured soldier was being held in a "secure place." "The soldier is in a secure place that the Zionists cannot reach," PRC spokesman Mohammed Abdel Al said, according to AFP.
