Fierce Clash Between Israeli Troops and Hamas Friday Night

Israel soldiers battled Hamas operatives along the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip on Friday night. The Israeli army said that two of its soldiers — one a major — and four Hamas gunmen were killed in what was the bloodiest clash in more than a year. Israel’s military is trying to ascertain whether Friday’s clash signals escalation on the part of Hamas or whether other groups are asserting themselves in defiance of Hamas control. The Israelis warn that Hamas will be held responsible for the deteriorating situation. Israeli troops crossed into Gaza again on Saturday night when ground forces including tanks and backed by helicopters penetrated as far as Khan Younis. One Palestinian was killed and seven wounded by tank fire. As is customary before Jewish holidays, a general closure has been placed on the West Bank. The closure, with exceptions for medical and humanitarian reasons, begins on Sunday and continues until April 6^th.