15:58: A Kassam rocket landed in the Chof Ashkelon Regional Council. No injuries were reported. A second rocket landed in an area under Hamas occupation.

16:47: A bomb was detonated against an IDF patrol operating near the Gaza border fence. Baruch Hashem there were no injuries. Four additional bombs were detected by the force.

** Representatives of soon-to-be striking residents have been summoned to meet with the prime minister in the hope of averting a nationwide walkout, which would result in devastation in government hospitals.

** The Senate has approved Robert Ford as America’s next ambassador to Syria.

18:10: Unconfirmed reports from Cairo indicate Ilan Grapel will not be released to the custody of visiting US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)