Israel threatens attacks on Gaza

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TEL AVIV, Israel, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Israeli President Shimon Peres called for an end to Hamas missile strikes being launched from Gaza, saying relations would never be normal with the violence.

"Hamas needs to decide if it wants a quiet and developing Gaza or an unruly Gaza with no hope," Peres said in a speech to students at the Academic College of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. "There is no confusion. If you want a normal life, stop firing."

The Jerusalem Post said Tuesday southern Israel border towns have been inundated with rocket attacks over the last several weeks with residents and local leaders growing increasingly frustrated at the perceived lack of response by the Israeli military.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak promised the military would be ready to respond to further threats, but declined to say how, citing the need for secrecy in military operations.

"This clearly isn't over and we will decide how and when to act the minute there will be a need to do so," the defense minister said.