Malfunction causes sirens to sound in southern Israel, IDF to probe

The rocket sirens heard in the Israeli city of Sderot on Sunday evening, according to the IDF spokesperson's unit, were caused by an internal malfunction. 

Sirens were also sounded in the areas of Sapir College, Gevim, Ivim, Nir Am and Or Haner.

According to the IDF, the red alert siren was likely activated due to system over-sensitivity. There were projectiles, but nothing that would cause danger or legitimately trigger a red alert. 

According to the MDA spokesperson, the emergency medical services did not receive any calls about casualties except for a 30-year-old woman who collapsed from severe anxiety and is being treated by MDA responders.

Rockets from Gaza earlier in the week

The IDF struck weapon production and storage facilities in Gaza overnight on Thursday after rocket sirens sounded in Sderot, Ibim and Nir Am at various points throughout the night on Wednesday.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed the strikes on Thursday morning, saying "any shooting at the State of Israel or any attempt to harm the lives of the residents of the south will be met with the strength of the IDF."

The escalating violence between Israel and the various Palestinian militant groups has continued despite appeals from the United States for calm from both sides.

This is a developing story.

Reuters contributed to this story.