Eight killed in blasts at 'militant training field'

Five explosions rocked a field tonight in the eastern part of Gaza City used by militants for training, witnesses said, killing at least eight people and wounding dozens.

There was no word on what caused the blasts, but Israeli attack helicopters were seen hovering overhead. The Israeli military refused to comment.

Palestinians were seen searching the blacked-out area with candles and flashlights, looking for victims.

Ambulances and cars brought casualties to Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Doctors said at least eight people were killed and dozens wounded. Half an hour after the blasts, casualties were still arriving.

The blasts went off in the Shajaiyeh section of Gaza City, a known stronghold of the violent Islamic Hamas group. Possible explanations were an Israeli air strike or accidental detonation of explosives militants were preparing.

Witnesses said they did not see or hear an Israeli missile strike, but the helicopters remained in the area after the blasts.