Topic: Ashkelon

Israel's Iron Dome system reassures nation on Gaza

Israel's 'Iron Dome' missile-defense system protected Israeli civilians from Gaza rockets, reducing pressure for retaliatory strikes and giving mediators a window for hammering out a cease-fire.

Both Hamas and Israel look for ways to avoid Gaza war

A recent escalation in violence between Gaza militants and Israeli forces has stoked fears that Israel will launch a ground invasion of Gaza as it did in December 2008.

What Egypt's unrest could mean for Hamas

Both Israel and Palestinian Authority officials fear the empowerment of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt might prompt Cairo to ease access to Gaza, and help Hamas consolidate its rule there.

Rocket attacks on Israel: Why Hamas has an interest in keeping Gaza quiet

Rocket attacks near the Israeli towns of Sderot and Eilat have raised concerns of escalating Israel-Hamas tensions. But while Hamas could be a potential spoiler in peace talks, it also has an interest in avoiding a fresh clash.

Hamas attacks: A bid to scuttle direct talks?

The mood is tense in Gaza after Israeli airstrikes in response to Palestinian rocket attacks injured scores and killed a top Hamas commander. Analysts say Hamas launched the attacks to scuttle direct peace talks.

Israel strikes Gaza smuggling tunnel after rocket attack

An Israel airstrike early Monday morning targeted a smuggling tunnel in Gaza in retaliation for a militant rocket attack on Israel.

Middle East peace effort's missing key: female negotiators.

Women bear the brunt of conflict, so their input for peace is essential.

UN probe into Gaza conflict

Israelis and Palestinians question the credibility and effectiveness of 'unprecedented' public hearings about last January's attacks.

In southern Israel, ordinary life takes the most abnormal turns

Israeli town copes with return of near daily rockets

In Sderot, Purim holiday fun masks stresses of rocket attacks from Gaza militants.

Israeli limits stymie Gaza rebuilding

Without a shift in the Israeli policy that doesn’t allow building materials into Gaza, much of the $2.8 billion that Palestinians hope to raise at a donors’ conference Monday will be limited to humanitarians needs.

New drive for Israel, Hamas cease-fire deal

With no official agreement, Israel's Kadima Party could falter in Tuesday's vote.

New drive for Israel, Hamas cease-fire deal

With no official agreement, Israel's Kadima Party could falter in Tuesday's vote.

Israel launches airstrikes in Gaza Monday

Israel said it was responding to rocket attacks Sunday.

World

Israeli strikes in Gaza risk political win for Hamas

The Islamist militants in Gaza may emerge as a symbol of defiance, much as Hezbollah did in its 2006 war with Israel.

World

Violence flares as Bush marks Israel's anniversary

On his second trip to Israel, President Bush will address the issue of settlement building and try to push for progress on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israelis bolster new front line with Gaza

Ashkelon, an Israeli city 11 miles north of Gaza, has become a new target for Palestinian rocket fire.

Gaza fighting sidelines Israeli-Palestinian peace bid

President Abbas halted negotiations Sunday. Secretary of State Rice arrives this week.

Second day of violence may trigger Israel-Hamas escalation

A series of rocket attacks have spurred calls in the Israeli government for an invasion of Gaza.

Gaza strike hardens Hamas position

In an interview, key Hamas strategist Mahmoud Zahar discusses how his movement has been preparing for a potentially imminent Israeli assault on Gaza.