Border clashes: 2 Palestinians killed

Two Palestinians were killed in clashes near the border fence around the Gaza Strip on Friday, Palestinian media reported.

According to the reports, the two were injured from Israeli artillery near Kissufim, east of Khan Younis. It was also reported that heavy clashes and a powerful explosion took place in the area, and that IDF helicopters were circling the area.

The Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' military wing, claimed responsibility for the confrontation. While the organization has been working to maintain calm on the front for several months with regards to rocket attacks on Israel, it made no such policy on carrying out attacks against IDF soldiers at the border fence or inside the Strip.

Ambulances at site of incident (Photo: Reuters) 

"An Israeli army force raided 500 metres (yards) into Palestinian territory, and was confronted by our gunmen," said Abu Obeida, spokesman for the Hamas armed wing. "This was our work, but was carried out for defense."

Meanwhile, the unknown "Taliban Falasteen" organization also claimed responsibility for the incident. The organization is believed to be affiliated with al-Qaeda. The al-Quds Brigades, Islamic Jihad's military wing, also claimed responsibility for the clashes.

The two Palestinians killed on Friday were reportedly attempting to plant explosives near the border fence. The two were spotted by IDF soldiers, who opened fire at them.

Additional clashes then followed at the scene and Palestinians reported that IDF shells hit a number of houses.

Hanan Greenberg and Reuters contributed to this report