Israeli forces clashed with Palestinians in both the West Bank and in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Soldiers met with resistance as they carried out an arrest raid in Nablus. Several Israeli soldiers were wounded, one seriously, when explosive devices were set off. A group of armed Palestinians opened fire on the soldiers when they entered the city on Thursday morning. There were no injuries in that confrontation. Israeli troops, backed by tanks and attack helicopters, launched a mission to seek out terrorists, weapons and tunnels at both ends of the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. At least 12 Palestinians were reported killed and more than 40 wounded. Soldiers conducted house-to-house searches. Palestinian resistance was fierce at times, and reportedly included the use of anti-tank missiles.