The NDTV crew recently witnessed the intense conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups in Ashkelon, a coastal city near Gaza. Reports describe the skies being lit up with rocket trajectories as they made their way through barricaded roads and traffic jams. The crew experienced a close call when a rocket exploded near their hotel, causing them to seek shelter in the basement. The city, which was once bustling with civilians, now appears empty and silent. The crew’s driver had clear instructions to stop the car and have everyone lie down on the road if an air raid siren went off. As they reached their hotel, the sirens blared, prompting them to abandon their luggage and quickly find shelter. Being only 10-12 km away from Gaza, the crew could witness Israel’s retaliatory attacks, hearing the sounds of rockets and fighter jets in the background. Live visuals captured rockets piercing the skies, and the sounds of missiles continued throughout the night. Israel has launched a fierce counterattack in response to Hamas’s rocket attacks, aiming to change the situation in Gaza. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 1,100 civilians and soldiers on both sides, with more than 700 casualties in Israel alone.
Fri. Sep 20th, 2024
