Israeli soldier, 2 gunmen killed in Gaza -Hamas

GAZA, Oct 29 (Reuters) Two Palestinian gunmen and an Israeli soldier were killed in fierce clashes in the Gaza Strip today, the ruling Hamas faction and hospital officials said.

The Israeli army confirmed its forces were operating in Khan Younis and Beit Hanoun, towns in south and north Gaza from where Palestinian militants often launch rockets into Israel. The army had no immediate word on any Israeli casualties in Gaza.

Hamas said its fighters fired an anti-tank rocket at Israeli soldiers near Beit Hanoun, killing one and wounding at least one of his comrades.

Israeli tanks and helicopters shelled Beit Hanoun, killing a gunman and wounding at least 10 other Palestinians, Hamas and hospital officials said.

Asked about Beit Hanoun, the Israeli army confirmed that its forces were fighting there but did not immediately elaborate.

REUTERS SKB KN1430