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Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades militants participate in a demonstration calling for the release of prisoners jailed in Israel. (AP)
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| By Associated Press June 27, 2006 |
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Palestinian bulldozers on Tuesday blocked roads in northern Gaza with sand piles, bracing for a possible Israeli invasion after the recent abduction of an Israeli soldier.
The bulldozers, operated by Palestinian militant groups, left small spaces in the sand piles to allow cars to pass slowly.
"We are ready to confront any stupid act that the Zionists might commit," said Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas' military wing. "We are well prepared and God willing, we are not going to welcome them with flowers."
Separately, the Islamic Jihad militant group called for a general mobilization of its fighters "in anticipation for the looming Zionist aggression." The group is believed to have several thousands armed members.
Israel has massed troops along the border following Sunday's abduction of Cpl. Gilad Shalit, who was seized by militants who infiltrated Israel through a tunnel.
On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert threatened to carry out a "broad and ongoing" offensive into Gaza. Israel has sent ground troops into Gaza just three times -- all for brief periods -- since pulling out of Gaza last September.
Palestinian militants released a statement Monday demanding the release of all female prisoners and Palestinian minors being held by Israel in exchange for information about Shalit.
Olmert has ruled out negotiations with militants and demanded the unconditional return of Shalit.
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