Two Gaza rockets hit Israel as Ariel Sharon laid to rest

The Israeli defense forces said two rockets were fired from the Gaza strip into southern Israel on Monday afternoon, shortly after former prime minister Ariel Sharon was buried in his farm in the vicinity of the enclave.

The projectiles hit open areas in the Sha'ar Hanegev regional council, causing no injuries or damage.

Earlier in the day, Gaza militants fired two rockets at the same area an hour before a state memorial service for Sharon was set to commence at the parliament in Jerusalem, where foreign dignitaries and Israel's top political and military leaders were in attendance.

However, Israeli media said the rockets were fired into the sea and didn't cause injuries.

Security measures at the Sharon family's ranch, where the late premier was laid to rest, were intensified on Monday due to its close proximity to Gaza and concerns that militants would attempt to target the funeral with rockets.

Local media said two iron dome anti-missile batteries were deployed near the Sharon family ranch, which had been hit by Gaza rockets in the past. And hundreds of military and police forces were deployed to protect the dignitaries.