An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) officer was seriously wounded by Palestinians early Tuesday near the Kissufim crossing with Gaza, the army told Xinhua.

Militants often set bombs and perpetrate shooting attacks in the area, the army said, noting an attempted bombing last week against troops.

The IDF is investigating whether the officer was hurt in a bomb blast, military sources told Xinhua.

The officer, who was on a morning patrol, was evacuated to a hospital in Beersheba, Israel Radio said.