Egypt launched air strikes in the Sinai region close to the border with Israel on Wednesday, August 8, killing at least 20 suspected Islamic militants, Haaretz reported. The air strikes on positions in the town of Sheikh Zouaid followed the deaths of 16 border guards Sunday in a terrorist attack, as well as clashes Wednesday between armed men and security forces at several security checkpoints in the Sinai. The incident marks the first time the Egyptian Air Force has been called into action in Sinai since 1973. As per peace agreements, Egyptian Air Force activity in Sinai must be coordinated with Israel. The Egyptian General Intelligence Service, the body responsible for collecting information and thwarting attacks by foreign entities, reported that the attack in which 16 Egyptian border guards were killed was carried out by rebel groups from Gaza and Sinai.