Israeli jets have struck at a Gaza City target hours after two Israeli women were killed in a shooting attack in the southern Israeli city of Beersheba.

Palestinian witnesses said at least 10 people were injured in the Gaza City air strike, which hit the security headquarters in the compound of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

Palestinian reports said Israeli helicopter gunships also rocketed targets in the northern Gaza Strip.

Israeli officials said earlier that the two Palestinian gunmen who killed the women in Beersheeba were shot dead by Israeli security forces. At least 18 other people were wounded in the attack near the headquarters of the Israeli army's southern command. Police said one of the dead gunmen wore a belt of explosives, which was later detonated safely.

Police said many soldiers were enjoying their lunch break when the two gunmen opened fire in all directions with automatic weapons.

Today's (Sunday's) violence came as Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon headed home following a three-day visit to the United States. While in Washington, Mr. Sharon failed to convince President Bush to break off relations with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

European Union foreign ministers meeting in (Caceres) Spain say Middle East peacemaking efforts should focus less on guaranteeing security and more on resolving political aspects of the conflict. The ministers heard a French proposal that would involve Palestinian elections followed by Israeli recognition of a Palestinian state.

U.S. peace efforts have focused on attempts to negotiate a ceasefire.

(AFP, REU, EFRON CR, Prev)

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