Hamas Launches Biggest Attack on Israel in Years: A Surprising Assault Combining Gunmen and Rockets
The Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas launched a major attack on Israel on Saturday, marking the biggest assault in years. The attack involved a combination of gunmen crossing the border and a heavy barrage of rockets fired from the Gaza Strip.
Israel’s military was put on high alert as warning sirens sounded across southern and central Israel, including in Jerusalem. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called an emergency meeting of security officials to address the situation.
This incident is unprecedented as it involved Hamas gunmen infiltrating Israel from Gaza. It is the most serious escalation since the 10-day war between Israel and Hamas in 2021. Israeli media reported gun battles between Palestinian fighters and security forces in towns in southern Israel. In Gaza, people rushed to buy supplies in anticipation of days of conflict ahead.
Hamas military commander Mohammad Deif announced the start of the operation in a broadcast on Hamas media, urging Palestinians everywhere to fight. He declared it as the day of the greatest battle to end the last occupation on earth and claimed that 5,000 rockets had been launched.
During the attack, one Israeli woman was killed, according to emergency services. Ambulance crews were deployed in areas around the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military confirmed that its forces were operating inside Gaza but provided no further details. They stated that a number of terrorists had infiltrated into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip and advised residents in the surrounding area to stay in their homes.
Israeli media reported that gunmen had opened fire on passers-by in the town of Sderot in southern Israel. Social media footage also showed clashes in city streets and gunmen in jeeps roaming the countryside. Residents in Beeri Kibbutz reported hearing gunfire and being told that there were terrorists inside the kibbutz.
Palestinian media reported that a number of Israelis had been taken captive by fighters, and Hamas media circulated video footage showing a destroyed Israeli tank. The Israeli military acknowledged reports of captives but did not provide further details.
In response to the attack, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office announced that he would meet with top security officials, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant authorized the call-up of reservists. The Israeli ambulance service dispatched teams to areas in southern Israel near Gaza, and residents were warned to stay inside.
The attack was carried out by Hamas, but the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group announced that its fighters were joining Hamas in the assault. They expressed their support and commitment to fight alongside Hamas until victory is achieved.
The infiltration of Hamas gunmen into Israel has left Palestinians in Gaza in disbelief. Many find it hard to believe that fighters have managed to enter occupied land. The attack occurred just a day after Israel marked the 50th anniversary of the 1973 war, which almost led to a catastrophic defeat for the country.
The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for further conflict. Israel’s military is on high alert, and residents in southern Israel near Gaza have been advised to stay indoors. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift resolution to prevent further casualties and damage.
In conclusion, the recent attack by Hamas on Israel has escalated tensions in the region. The infiltration of gunmen into Israel and the heavy barrage of rockets have raised concerns about the potential for further violence. The Israeli government is taking immediate action to address the situation, while Palestinians in Gaza express shock and disbelief at the events unfolding. The international community is calling for restraint and a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation.