The Jamaat Ansar Bayt Al-Maqdis has claimed responsibility for rocket attacks on Southern Israel in the past and now, boasts its rockets ‘scared Israelis into shelters’ although explosions were heard, no signs of rockets were found.

By Roi Kais

The Jamaat Ansar Bayt Al-Maqdis group, which operates in the Sinai Peninsula, took responsibility on Friday evening for the alleged launch of two Grad missiles toward Eilat on Thursday.

Searching for the rockets – Photo: Meir Ohayon

Though Eilat residents reported hearing two or three loud bangs, security forces have yet to finds any trace of the rockets.

In an internet statement, the group boasted the bangs “frightened Allah’s Jewish enemies” and made them run for shelter.

Against the background of Egypt’s revolution and the ouster of President Mohamed Morsi, which raised concerns for the already volatile Sinai Peninsula, the group said: “The situation in Egypt, which the Jews’ long hand has a part in, will under no circumstances stop the wheels of jihad.

“With Allah’s help, this situation will increase the determination to act for this religion and enforce Allah’s Sharia.”

The Jamaat Ansar Bayt Al-Maqdis have taken responsibility before for attacks against Israel.

Searching for the rockets – Photo: Meir Ohayon

Unlike the previous incident in which blasts sounded in Eilat, no air raid siren was heard, nor were flashes seen in the area.

Following the blasts, the IDF turned to Egypt, looking into a possibility that any rockets that might have caused the blasts exploded in Egyptian territory.

The blasts were heard in neighboring Aqaba as well. Large forces of army and police combed the area, but failed to find anything

View original Ynet publication at: http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4401321,00.html