Qassam rocket launchers in Gaza. Photo: Israel Defense Forces.

JNS.org – Three mortar shells were fired from Gaza into Israel’s south on Thursday, two hours after a “humanitarian” pause went into effect, with both sides agreeing to halt fire. The rockets exploded in open areas in the Eshkol region, causing no injuries or damage.

The truce, agreed to at the behest of the United Nations and meant to allow Gazans to stock up on food and supplies, went into effect at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Around 8:45 a.m., shortly before the pause began, sirens sounded in major population centers in central Israel. One rocket reportedly hit an open area in the Hof Hasharon area. There were additional reports of Iron Dome missile defense system interceptions in the Petach Tikva area.

Additionally, around 9:30 a.m., the Iron Dome intercepted four rockets in the Beersheba area. Israeli authorities said eight people received treatment following the barrages, including three who were injured as they were running for cover in Petach Tikva, Even Yehuda, and Beersheba. The authorities said five people were treated for shock.