Israeli military said it was targeting militants in the attacks Three Hamas militants have been killed in two Israeli air strikes on cars in Rafah, southern Gaza, Palestinian officials said. The first attack killed an activist from Hamas' military wing and hurt his companion. Dozens of bystanders were also hurt, Palestinian doctors said. Two Hamas militants were killed in a second strike on a car in Rafah. Israeli forces have been carrying out raids and air strikes on Gaza after the capture of an Israeli soldier in June. Hundreds of Palestinians have since been killed by Israeli action.
An Israeli military spokeswoman said the first of the two strikes on Tuesday targeted militants who were planning an attack on Israel. "After the aerial attack, there were a number of explosions, proving that the vehicle was carrying explosives," the spokeswoman said. At least 18 people were hurt in the first blast, Palestinian medical officials said. The injured are said to have been hit by a second blast, having rushed to the vehicle to help its passengers after the initial explosion.