IAF targets several sites in Gaza, hours after Iron Dome intercepts rockets fired toward Ashkelon.

For the second time in two nights, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) launched an airstrike on terror targets in Gaza on Sunday night.

According to an IDF statement, the airstrikes targeted a terrorist center and three weapons storage sites in northern Gaza. Also targeted was a terrorist center in southern Gaza.

Direct hits were identified and all aircraft returned safely to their bases, the statement said, adding that the airstrikes were in retaliation for recent rocket attacks on southern Israel.

“The IDF will not tolerate attempts to harm Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers, and will operate against anyone who uses terror against the State of Israel,” said the statement.

Earlier on Sunday, Gaza terrorists fired two rockets towards the city of Ashkelon. They were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-missile system before they exploded in populated areas.

On Saturday, four rockets were fired from Gaza, causing no physical injuries or damages.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) later retaliated by launching airstrikes against terror targets in Gaza.

It is unclear whether the rocket fire has been connected to events surrounding the kidnapping of three teenage yeshiva boys from Gush Etzion, as Israel has placed responsibility on Hamas and the PA for the attack - and surrounded Gaza with roadblocks to prevent the boys from being taken there.