Palestinian militants launched a barrage of rockets into southern Israel

Following an Israeli air force attack on an alleged rocket launching pad in the Gaza Strip on 14 November 2008, Palestinian militants launched a barrage of rockets into southern Israel; in contrast to other recent attacks, the rockets used were Soviet-made Grad rockets (the longest range rocket that Hamas is said to possess) as opposed to typical Qassam rockets. Approximately five Grad missiles (which have a maximum range of 15 mi/25 km) were launched toward the coastal city of Ashkelon, which in the several months prior to the implementation of a ceasefire in June 2008 had experienced several rocket attacks but has not been hit as frequently since the truce went into effect. Several of the missiles landed on the city's outskirts while at least one hit an area in the city center; several individuals were treated for shock, but there were no reports of damage or injuries. Additionally, as many as eight shorter-range Qassam rockets -- used very frequently by militants based in the Gaza Strip -- were also launched, landing in and around Sderot (which has been hit frequently); several buildings were damaged and at least one person was injured by shrapnel.