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2 Israeli Soldiers, 3 Palestinian Gunmen Killed Near Gaza Strip
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=12C4542:3919ACA Group says attack
was revenge for the killing of its leader and 14 civilians in recent
Israeli air strikes





Israeli soldiers remove the bodies of two dead comrades after an
attack by Palestinian militants at a military post near kibbutz Kerem
Shalom, just outside the Gaza Strip, Sunday June 25, 2006

At least two Israeli soldiers and two Palestinian militants have been
killed in an attack on an Israeli army position near the Gaza Strip.
One Israeli soldier was seized.

Eight Palestinian militants attacked an Israeli army post, entering
Israel through a tunnel under the Gaza border fence.

An Israeli tank and armored personnel carrier were blown up during
heavy exchanges of fire.  A militant group, called the Popular
Resistance Committees, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying
it was revenge for the killing of its leader and 14 civilians in
recent Israeli air strikes.  Gunmen from the Islamic militant group,
Hamas, which heads the Palestinian Authority, took part in the raid.

The army says an Israeli soldier was kidnapped during the attack and
is believed to be alive.

It was the first successful infiltration since Israel pulled out of
Gaza last summer, and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert threatened to strike
back.

"We hold the Palestinian Authority responsible for this attack, with
all that implies," Mr. Olmert said. 

The Israeli army chief blamed Hamas - a hint that Israel might target
Palestinian leaders and institutions.

Moderate Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the attack.  He
urged the United States, the United Nations and Egypt to appeal to
Israel for restraint, and avoid an escalation.

Israel gave the Palestinians an ultimatum, return the kidnapped
soldier within 24 hours, or face harsh retaliation.  


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