Jerusalem: In a pre-dawn incursion, Israeli forces killed at least five Palestinians, including a Hamas commander, in Southern Gaza Strip today (March 21, 2004).

Local Hamas commander Bassam Qdeih, who was in his late 30s, was killed along with his wife when they tried to evade arrest by Israeli Army in the town of Khan Younis, the Israeli military said.

Three others were killed in exchange of fire with Israeli troops. Several of those killed were armed, Palestinian sources were quoted as saying.

Hospital officials said several people were also injured during the Israeli incursion.

The Israeli military said it destroyed three structures during the raid, including a workshop where militants made rockets, mortars and missiles.