Israel warns Hamas against firing rockets during Sharon funeral

JERUSALEM  — Israel warned Hamas in Gaza not to fire rockets at Israel during the funeral of Ariel Sharon at his Sycamore Ranch in the Negev, Reuters reported.

“It was made clear to them that tomorrow would be a very bad day for anyone there to test Israel’s patience,” Reuters reported quoting an unnamed Israeli security source.

The former prime minister’s 1,000-acre ranch is located just a few miles from Israel’s border with Gaza and well within reach of rockets fired from the coastal strip.

Two rockets were fired in Gaza on Monday morning but landed in Gaza territory, according to Israeli media. The Israel Defense Forces characterized the rockets as “test fires,” according to Reuters.

Iron Dome anti-missile defense batteries reportedly were deployed in the area of the ranch for Monday’s funeral and burial, which is expected to be attended by family and close friends, including government and military officials.