Israel has fired shells into Lebanon in response to rocket attacks that injured three Israelis.

Rockets fired from southern Lebanon landed in the Israeli town of Maalot earlier today.

Local ambulance services said three Israelies were receiving treatment in hospital for injuries while a woman suffered slight cuts after an explosion.

A spokesman for the Israeli army said: "The Israeli army considers this a serious incident and believes it is the responsiblity of the Lebanese government and the army to prevent this rocket fire."

The Lebanese army said three rockets had been fired at Israel from the town of Mansouri and stated that seven artillery shells had been fired in retaliation by Israel.

No group has claimed responsibility for the rocket attacks as yet. No details have been released of injuries on the Lebanese side.

Israeli forces fought a war in Lebanon with Hezbollah militants in 2006 during which 4,000 missiles were fired.

Israeli forces launched air strikes across southern parts of its neighbour and launched a limited ground offensive during the 34-day war to eliminate Hezbollah forces.

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