Death Toll surpasses 500 in Hamas unprecedented Land-Air-Sea attack on Israel
In the aftermath of a shocking surprise attack, the death toll has risen to over 232 in Gaza, Palestine. Meanwhile, Israel has reported over 300 fatalities as a result of the assault, which involved the militant group Hamas launching a staggering 5,000 rockets. Israel has responded by officially declaring war against Hamas and has initiated a series of airstrikes, vowing to retaliate fiercely in response to the attack.
Also Read: International Community stunned as Hamas launches surprise attack on Israel
Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared a state of war, emphasizing that this is not merely an operation or escalation but a full-blown conflict. In a video message, he addressed the citizens of Israel, asserting, "Citizens of Israel, we are at war. This is not an operation, not an escalation—this is war. And we will win. Hamas will face consequences like never before."
On a festive holiday morning, Israel faced an onslaught of over 5,000 (death toll) rockets piercing the sky, triggering blaring sirens across the country. Israel's defense forces reported the alleged infiltration of Hamas militants, classified as terrorists. The attackers even utilized paragliders and opened fire on passing vehicles along the roads.
Defense Minister of Israel Yoav Gallant expressed that Hamas had committed a serious error by initiating a conflict against Israel. In a statement, he remarked, "Hamas has made a significant mistake today by declaring war against the State of Israel. IDF troops (Israeli army) are engaged in combat with the adversary at various locations."
The Indian embassy in Israel has issued a cautionary message to its citizens, urging them to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines recommended by local authorities. Their advisory emphasized, "Please exercise care, limit non-essential travel, and stay near designated safety areas." India has additionally established a helpline and an email contact for its citizens to seek assistance and guidance.
The Israel Defense Forces have announced a state of readiness for war. "Extensive rocket attacks into Israeli territory from Gaza have occurred, and there have been reports of terrorist infiltrations through multiple entry points into Israeli territory," the country's military declared, pledging to safeguard the nation.
The armed wing of Hamas declared it launched "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" and fired over 5,000 rockets in the "first strike of 20 minutes". "We have decided to put an end to all of this, with the help of God, so that the enemy understands that the time of recklessness without accountability is over," Hamas militant leader Mohamed Deif said in a recorded message.
Sirens sounded across Jerusalem and throughout Israel as reports of numerous impact points emerged in the southern and central regions of the country. The government issued an advisory for civilians to remain in shelters, and those in close proximity to the Gaza Strip were instructed to stay at home.
Disturbing images have emerged online, depicting individuals evacuating their residences in the border regions of Gaza. Hundreds of men and women were observed departing from the border area adjacent to Israel, transporting blankets and essential food supplies.
Israel and Palestinian militant factions have engaged in multiple conflicts since Hamas assumed control of Gaza in 2007. The most recent escalation follows heightened tensions triggered by Israel's closure of its borders to Gazan laborers. In the ongoing conflict this year, a total (death toll) of 247 Palestinians, 32 Israelis, and two foreigners have lost their lives. Among these casualties are both combatants and civilians.
The eruption of violence occurred a day after Hamas called for a definitive stand to terminate the occupation, emphasizing Israel's ongoing actions on Palestinian soil, including the holy site of Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, which they characterized as criminal.
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