Netanyahu says Israel ‘at war’ after Hamas attack; Israeli civilians and military personnel held captive in Gaza Strip
Via Washington Post
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that “we are at war, and we will win it” after the Islamist militia Hamas launched an assault and took captives following the 50th anniversary of the start of the 1973 Yom Kippur war. At least 100 Israelis are dead, the national emergency service Maged David Adom said, according to the Associate Press. At least 740 people were injured. This has been one of the most serious confrontations in years after weeks of rising tensions along the volatile border…
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Israel ‘at war’ after unprecedented assault by Hamas militants from Gaza
Excerpt:
The assault began early Saturday when Hamas launched thousands of rockets toward Israeli cities and sent militants into Israeli territory overland and by using paragliders and speedboats. Gunmen seized control of pockets of southern Israel, taking hostages and leaving bodies of civilians in the streets. At least 100 Israelis have been killed, according to the country’s emergency services. With many others badly injured, the death toll is expected to rise.
ClaudeAI assisted summary of the news:
- On Saturday, Hamas militants launched a major multipronged attack on Israel from Gaza, including rocket strikes targeting cities, ground incursions into Israeli territory, and use of paragliders and boats.
- The assault left dozens of Israelis dead and hundreds wounded. Hamas gunmen seized control of areas in southern Israel, taking hostages and leaving civilian casualties.
- Israel retaliated with airstrikes on Gaza that killed at least 198 Palestinians and wounded over 1600, according to health officials.
- Israel’s PM Netanyahu declared “we are at war” and said Israel will respond forcefully, including mobilizing reservists. But he did not formally declare war which would require cabinet approval.
- Hamas carried out the attacks on the Jewish holiday of Simhat Torah, representing an intelligence failure for Israel. Hamas said it launched the attack to avenge “aggression” at Al-Aqsa Mosque.
- Palestinians celebrated in the streets, while Arab states urged restraint. Israel’s allies, including US, condemned the attacks on Israel.
- There are fears the violence could ignite a broader regional conflict. The UN called for pulling back from the brink.
