The Cutting Edge

IDF Air Force and Special Forces thwarted an attempt to execute a massive terrorist attack on Israel's southern border with Egypt.  At about two in the afternoon on Sunday, July 6, terrorists, presumed to be members of the Global Jihad movement, infiltrated an Egyptian outpost on the Egyptian – Israeli border. After a prolonged battle, during which sixteen Egyptian soldiers were killed and seven were wounded, the terrorists overtook the base. The terrorists then stole two BRDM armored vehicles and began to drive towards the Israeli border. One vehicle was destroyed on the Egyptian side. At about eight o'clock at night the second vehicle made it across the border and was met by the Israeli Air Force, tanks and Special Forces who destroyed the second vehicle.

The terrorists, who were carrying assault weapons, were also wearing explosive charges. There were initial concerns that some of the terrorists managed to infiltrate Israeli territory, and that an Israeli citizen may have been abducted. Israeli citizens in the vicinity were subsequently ordered to enter their shelters.

After hours of search executed by massive police and military forces, these uncertainties were clarified. No terrorist made it across and there were no abductions. It is assumed they meant to execute a colossal terrorist attack against Israeli citizens. Senior officers at the scene praised the forces for their quick and decisive actions which saved many lives and averted a sure tragedy. One unit which was especially noted for its quick action was the Bedouin Desert Recon Unit, which is currently marking the Ramadan month, fasting during the day. The unit was commended for its ‘exemplary’ action considering the difficult situation its’ members were in.

According to local reports, Egyptian forces have laid siege to the Gazan city Raffiah, on the Egyptian border. The Egyptian El-Aharam reports that Egyptian forces, accompanied by helicopters are executing a manhunt after the surviving terrorists and their collaborators. Many have been arrested. An Egyptian helicopter has destroyed several tunnels leading from Egypt to Gaza.It is unclear who exactly is responsible for the attack. Leads point to the terrorist infrastructure in Gaza. Some even point the finger directly at Hamas. Hamas' Mahmud A-Zahar has denied responsibility.

The IDF has divulged that there was prior intelligence about the attack, and the successful outcome is a result of the GSS activities. "This was a serious operation", senior Israeli security officials stated, "It could have been a most terrible attack. A heavy tragedy was eliminated".

Aryeh Savir writes from Tazpit News Agency, from where this article was adapted.