As the rocket attacks from Gaza into southern Israel escalate we hear the names of a number of regional councils that are hit hard, in proximity to Gaza and therefore most frequently hit with rockets and mortar shells.

Following is a bit of information on these areas towards increasing familiarity with events in southern Israel.

B’chasdei Hashem, over and over again we hear how rockets land and there are no injuries or damage. On Wednesday 8 Cheshvan 5773, over 70 rockets and mortar shells pounded the region and there were no fatalities. Two Thai workers were seriously injured and five homes were damaged. There are vast areas of open space and agricultural fields and that is where most of the rockets impact.

Ashkelon Coast Regional Council

The council is situated about 4.5km (2.7 miles) from the Gaza border. There are 377 families living in the council and 186 homes that are not fortified against rocket attacks.

Eshkol Regional Council

The council is situated 7km (4.2 miles) from the Gaza border. There are 1,179 families and 881 homes are not fortified against rocket fire.

Shar HaNegev Regional Council

The council is situated 4.5km (2.7 miles) from the Gaza border. There are 81 families and all the homes are not fortified to withstand an attack.

S’dot HaNegev Regional Council

The council is situated 7km (4.2 miles) from the Gaza border. There are 430 families and 334 homes are not fortified to withstand an attack.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)