More than 300 people were killed in a recent surprise attack by Hamas, a Palestinian group, in Israel. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to completely destroy Hamas’s hiding places in Gaza. As a result of Israel’s retaliation, more than 230 people have been killed in Gaza. Here are the top 10 updates on this significant event:
1. Benjamin Netanyahu has promised to retaliate against Hamas in Gaza with full force, calling it a “black day” for Israel. He stated that the IDF (army) will use all its power to destroy Hamas’s capabilities and avenge the attack.
2. The Israel military suffered considerable losses, and Hamas claimed to have captured dozens of soldiers. The army reported that terrorists attacked homes and killed civilians.
3. The Indian embassy in Israel has advised its citizens to remain cautious and follow safety protocols recommended by local authorities. They have urged people to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movements, and stay close to safety shelters.
4. As the situation escalated, the UN Security Council called for an emergency meeting on Sunday. US President Joe Biden expressed unwavering support for Israel and warned against any other parties hostile to Israel taking advantage of the situation.
5. Saturday’s attack, which is the largest incursion into Israel in decades, coincides with efforts to normalize ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, supported by the US. This normalization is expected to come with a defense deal between Washington and Riyadh.
6. The Islamist group initiated the multi-pronged attack with over 5,000 rockets, targeting cities as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Some rockets bypassed the Iron Dome defense system and hit buildings.
7. Hamas fighters breached Gaza’s security barrier and launched attacks on nearby Israeli towns and military posts, indiscriminately firing at residents and passersby.
8. Hamas released images of several Israelis that they had taken captive. The streets of the Israeli town Sderot near Gaza were littered with bodies, and car windshields were shattered by bullets.
9. Israel and Palestinian militants have engaged in several wars since Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007. The tensions have escalated recently due to Israel closing its borders to Gazan workers.
10. Osama Hamdan, the leader of Hamas in Lebanon, conveyed to Reuters that this operation should serve as a wake-up call for Arab states to understand that accepting Israeli security demands will not bring peace. He emphasized that ending the Israeli occupation is the starting point for stability and peace in the region.
This is an ongoing story, and further updates are awaited.