Israel fires at Hamas positions in retaliation to Gaza rocket launching

JERUSALEM, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military said Monday it fired at Hamas positions in the Gaza Strip after rockets from the besieged Palestinian enclave were fired towards Israel but apparently failed to reach the target.

A military spokesperson said in a statement that two launching of rockets were identified on Monday evening. "Hits have not yet been identified," the spokesperson said, adding that forces are searching the area for remnants of the projectiles.

Less than an hour later, an Israeli tank and an air force aircraft struck Gaza. The strike was targeting Hamas military posts in the southern Gaza Strip, the spokesperson said.

No organization immediately took responsibility for the failed rocket launching but the military said that it holds Hamas accountable for any hostility from Gaza.

The incident comes amidst increasing tensions over U.S. President Donald Trump's Wednesday recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The controversial announcement was denounced worldwide. In the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, it triggered wide protests and clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces.

Three rockets were fired at southern Israel over the weekend, causing no damage, and at least four people were killed in Gaza by Israeli fire, according to Palestinian media. Enditem