AP Top NewsGaza StripGeneral NewsHamasIsraelIsrael governmentWorld News Sudden Assault by Hamas from Gaza Shocks Israel, Resulting in Extensive Fatalities and Counterattacks by Chloe Baker October 7, 2023 written by Chloe Baker October 7, 2023 10 comments Bookmark 47 In an unexpected pre-dawn offensive on a significant Jewish holiday Saturday, Hamas militants, supported by a flurry of rockets, penetrated the Israeli blockade surrounding the Gaza Strip. They infiltrated various Israeli localities, causing multiple fatalities and abductions. In a swift response, Israel initiated airstrikes over Gaza, as the Prime Minister declared the nation to be in a state of war against Hamas, pledging unprecedented retaliation. The militants targeted as many as 22 different locations outside of Gaza, including communities up to 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the Gaza-Israel border. In some areas, they remained at large for hours, attacking both civilians and military personnel while Israeli forces scrambled to respond. Hostage situations were reported in two towns, and a police station was overtaken in another. Israeli sources indicate that this is the most lethal attack on Israeli soil in decades, with at least 250 fatalities and 1,500 injured. Palestinian health authorities reported that at least 232 Gazans were killed and 1,700 were injured due to Israeli counterattacks. An undisclosed number of Israelis were captured and taken to Gaza, which was documented through harrowing scenes on social media. The crisis threatens to escalate further given Israel’s intent for intensified retaliation. Previous confrontations between Israel and Hamas have caused large-scale destruction in Gaza and ongoing rocket attacks on Israeli localities. The political and social landscape has now become particularly precarious, with Israel’s far-right government being criticized for the security failure and Palestinians increasingly despairing due to prolonged occupation and blockade. In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to dismantle Hamas’ operational capabilities and exact revenge for what he called “this black day.” However, he also cautioned that achieving these objectives will require time and present difficulties. Israeli counterattacks escalated after dark, leading to extensive structural damage in Gaza, including the collapse of a residential building that also housed Hamas offices. These airstrikes were accompanied by a renewed volley of rockets from Hamas into central Israel, causing serious injuries. The meticulous planning and execution of the Hamas operation caught Israel by surprise. Using explosives, militants breached the border fence and proceeded to infiltrate using various means including motorcycles, pickup trucks, and boats. The assault left a disturbing tableau of civilian and military casualties. Hamas’ military wing declared that they were holding several captured Israelis in “safe locations” and tunnels within Gaza. If accurate, this could herald complex negotiations for a prisoner exchange, as thousands of Palestinians are held in Israeli detention facilities. The situation has aggravated existing divisions within Israel, heightened tensions between Israel and the Palestinians, and attracted international attention. U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the Hamas attack, affirming Israel’s right to defend itself, while other nations called for restraint from both sides. This extensive conflict comes at a moment when Israel is deeply divided over domestic political issues and when the Israeli-Palestinian peace process has been stagnant for years. Palestinians also staged protests in various West Bank towns during the hostilities, leading to additional casualties. The report is contributed by reporters based in Rafah, Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem, and includes additional information from correspondents Isabel DeBre and Julia Frankel. Table of Contents Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hamas-Israel ConflictWhat triggered the recent attack from Hamas on Israel?What was the scale of the attack and how many locations were targeted?What was the response from the Israeli government?What are the reported casualties on both sides?How has this event impacted the political climate?What has been the international response to the event?Is there any precedent to this type of attack?What are the implications for Israeli civilians and soldiers who have been abducted?More about Hamas-Israel Conflict Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hamas-Israel Conflict What triggered the recent attack from Hamas on Israel? The attack was initiated by Hamas militants, who infiltrated multiple Israeli towns from the Gaza Strip. According to the shadowy leader of Hamas’ military wing, Mohammed Deif, the assault was in response to a 16-year blockade of Gaza, Israeli raids in the West Bank over the past year, violence at Al Aqsa, attacks by settlers on Palestinians, and the growth of settlements. What was the scale of the attack and how many locations were targeted? The attack was of unprecedented scale and sophistication, involving dozens of Hamas militants who targeted as many as 22 locations outside the Gaza Strip, some as far as 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the Gaza border. What was the response from the Israeli government? The Israeli Prime Minister declared that the country is now at war with Hamas and vowed to inflict an “unprecedented price” on them. The Israeli military conducted airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, flattening several residential buildings and increasing troop presence near the Gaza border. What are the reported casualties on both sides? According to Israeli media citing rescue service officials, at least 250 people were killed and 1,500 wounded in Israel. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported that at least 232 people in the Gaza Strip have been killed and at least 1,700 wounded in Israeli strikes. How has this event impacted the political climate? The attack has led to heightened criticism of the Israeli government’s security measures, as it failed to anticipate the scale and planning involved in the Hamas attack. The event has also stoked fears among the Israeli population and could potentially have long-term political ramifications. What has been the international response to the event? U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stating that Israel “has a right to defend itself and its people.” Saudi Arabia has called for restraint from both sides, while Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group congratulated Hamas for the attack. Is there any precedent to this type of attack? The attack revives memories of the 1973 Mideast war, almost exactly 50 years prior, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during Yom Kippur, a major Jewish holiday. This recent Hamas attack occurred during Simchat Torah, another significant Jewish holiday. What are the implications for Israeli civilians and soldiers who have been abducted? The abduction of Israeli civilians and soldiers is a sensitive issue for Israel and could set the stage for complicated negotiations on a swap, as Israel has a history of making heavily lopsided exchanges to bring captive Israelis home. More about Hamas-Israel Conflict Israeli Prime Minister’s Statement Hamas Leader Mohammed Deif’s Statement Report on Airstrikes in Gaza Strip Palestinian Health Ministry Casualty Report U.S. President Joe Biden’s Remarks Saudi Arabia’s Call for Restraint Hezbollah’s Reaction to the Attack Historical Context: 1973 Mideast War Israel’s Policy on Captive Exchanges You Might Be Interested In ‘Unabomber’ Ted Kaczynski died by suicide in prison medical center, AP sources say A volcanic eruption has created a new island off Japan, but it may not last Uvalde Tragedy Victim’s Mother Seeks Mayoral Seat Nissan will invest $1.4 billion to make EV versions of its best-selling cars at its UK factory Taylor Swift’s Argentina concert takes political turn as presidential election nears Insights into the Continuing Israel-Hamas Conflict on its Fifth Day airstrikesAP Top NewscasualtiesGaza StripGeneral NewsHamasHostagesIsraelIsrael governmentIsraeli-Palestinian conflictMiddle East TensionsPolitical Reactions Share 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Chloe Baker Follow Author Chloe Baker is a travel journalist who covers the latest news and trends in the world of travel. She enjoys exploring new destinations and sharing her experiences with her readers, from exotic locales to hidden gems off the beaten path. previous post Rangers’ Bullpen Overcomes Challenges to Secure 3-2 Win Over Orioles in ALDS Opener next post Nevada Secretary of State’s Office to Conduct GOP Presidential Primary Despite Upcoming Party-Run Caucus You may also like Bookmark A woman who burned Wyoming’s only full-service abortion... December 28, 2023 Bookmark Argument over Christmas gifts turns deadly as 14-year-old... December 28, 2023 Bookmark Danny Masterson sent to state prison to serve... December 28, 2023 Bookmark Hong Kong man jailed for 6 years after... December 28, 2023 Bookmark AP concludes at least hundreds died in floods... December 28, 2023 Bookmark Live updates | Israeli forces raid a West... December 28, 2023 10 comments LindaH October 8, 2023 - 12:35 am this is the kind of journalism we need today. So tired of clickbait articles with no substance. Reply Dave_S October 8, 2023 - 1:52 am Intense. Following this closely and this is the most in depth coverage I’ve found. keep it up! Reply Anthony_R October 8, 2023 - 8:19 am Where are the interviews? Real stories from the ground could make this even better. Reply Sarah J October 8, 2023 - 10:32 am wow, this is a lot to unpack. i’ve never seen such a comprehensive look at the israel-palestine situation. kudos to the author. Reply Timothy K October 8, 2023 - 4:02 pm Excellent article. Well researched and detailed. Good job! Reply Mike_89 October 8, 2023 - 4:52 pm Anyone else think this feels a bit one-sided? Like, I get the details but wish there was more on the Palestinian pov. Reply PeterQ October 8, 2023 - 6:19 pm Facts, facts, facts. finally an article that cuts through the noise. Reply Omar_N October 8, 2023 - 8:25 pm its like a history lesson and current events in one. good stuff but complicated. Reply JaniceW October 8, 2023 - 9:08 pm Could use more data to back up some of the claims but otherwise, pretty solid piece. Reply KellyM October 8, 2023 - 10:11 pm A bit long, but def worth the read. So much happening that mainstream media just isn’t covering. Reply Leave a Comment Cancel Reply Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ
