Deadly Escalation: Hamas Attack Claims Lives in Israel, Retaliatory Strikes Intensify
In a devastating turn of events, over 200 Israelis lost their lives in a large-scale attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday, according to the army. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to demolish Hamas’s Gaza hideouts, declaring war on the group. Intense air strikes in the coastal enclave raised the Palestinian death toll to at least 232, with nearly 1,700 injuries, marking the bloodiest escalation in decades.
Fierce gun battles ensued between Israeli forces and hundreds of Hamas fighters in at least 22 locations, including instances where hostages were held. “Terrorists rampaged and broke into homes, massacring civilians,” stated the army, adding that over 1,000 people in Israel were wounded by gunshots or the barrage of over 3,000 incoming rockets.
Netanyahu addressed the nation, declaring, “We are at war,” urging residents in Gaza to evacuate immediately. He emphasized retaliatory actions against all locations where Hamas operated, vowing to turn them into rubble. As night fell, the Israeli army continued live gun battles in various locations, accompanied by air strikes and rocket fire.
Hamas’s multi-pronged attack began at dawn, breaching Gaza’s security barrier and targeting Israeli towns and military posts. Gunmen attacked residents and passersby, leading to chaos and despair. Israelis sought refuge in safe rooms, while bodies lay strewn on the streets in the aftermath of the assault.
International leaders expressed support for Israel, condemning Hamas’s aggression. The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting, and President Joe Biden reiterated unwavering support for Israel while warning against hostile parties seeking advantage in the situation.
As the conflict escalates, the situation remains precarious. UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland called on all parties to step back from the brink, emphasizing the urgent need for de-escalation. The region teeters on the edge of a dangerous precipice, raising concerns globally.
