GAZA STRIP - The Israeli Air Force (IAF) targeted a smuggling tunnel near the border crossing Thursday night in response to a seven mortar shell barrage launched by Gaza-based Palestinian terrorists into Israel.

Following the air strike, the IDF Spokesperson's Office issued a statement confirming the IDF's response to the shelling.

According to the statement, the tunnel, which was located slightly less than a mile from the border fence, was used to smuggle terrorists into Israel. The air strike hit its target successfully and no was injured.

The first round of mortars, fired Thursday morning, fell short of their target - a kibbutz just north of the Strip - exploding inside Gaza. No injuries were reported.

Palestinians fired five more mortar shells at Israeli farming communities later in the day, all of which landed in the farmers' fields, but no one was injured in those attacks either.

Palestinian snipers also opened fire on IDF (Israel Defense Forces) troops working near the Kissufim border crossing. The soldiers returned fire. There were no injuries on either side.

About two hours later, snipers again fired on troops, this time managing to hit a piece of equipment, slightly damaging it.

Earlier this week, the IAF targeted a tunnel near the border fence in northern Gaza. No one was injured in that strike either.

On Monday, the Israeli navy fired on a Palestinian fishing boat that ignored warning shots fired in the air. One Palestinian was injured.