JERUSALEM -- Israeli soldiers shot and killed an Egyptian man near an Israeli-controlled road in the Gaza Strip on Monday, as many Israelis observed Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

Although Yom Kippur ended Monday evening, Israeli forces said they would stay alert for terror attacks through Tuesday. Israel has tightened security in Palestinian areas during the holiday for fear of attacks.

Monday's shooting happened at an intersection on the main north-south road through Gaza, near the Jewish settlement of Gush Katif. There were conflicting reports about how it took place.

The Israeli army said the Egyptian man threw several grenades at Israeli soldiers, but the army did not comment further.

Palestinian security officials identified the man as Abdelfatah Abudo, a 25-year-old Egyptian citizen they said was visiting Gaza.

Witnesses said the shooting took place as soldiers stopped vehicles at the crossing and forced passengers to get out. The man confronted the soldiers after being told to get out of his car, said one witness.