Hamas kills 22 in major attack on Israel; Netanyahu declares war.
Unprecedented Attack by Hamas Shakes Israel on Major Holiday
The ruling Hamas militant group in the Gaza Strip caught Israel off guard with a surprise attack at daybreak on Saturday. In a display of strength, Hamas fighters infiltrated the heavily fortified border in multiple locations by air, land, and sea, firing thousands of rockets. The country was left reeling on a major holiday as gun battles raged inside Israeli communities, resulting in the deadliest attack in years with at least 22 people killed and hundreds wounded.
Israel’s Response and Casualties
The Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba reported treating at least 280 casualties, with 60 in serious condition. The Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon treated 182 wounded individuals, including 12 in critical condition. While casualties in Gaza were not officially confirmed, witnesses saw funerals and bodies arriving at a local hospital. Social media was flooded with videos showing Hamas fighters parading stolen Israeli military vehicles and capturing at least three Israelis alive.
Israel Declares War
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a mass army mobilization, emphasizing that the country was at war, not just engaged in an operation. He vowed that Israel would respond with unprecedented force, promising to make the enemy pay a heavy price. The invasion on Simchat Torah, a joyous Jewish holiday, evoked painful memories of the 1973 Mideast war, intensifying criticism of Netanyahu’s government for failing to anticipate such a well-planned and coordinated attack.
International Reactions and Historic Division
Western nations condemned the incursion and expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself. Saudi Arabia called for restraint from both sides. The attack occurred amidst historic division within Israel over Netanyahu’s proposal to overhaul the judiciary, leading to mass protests and concerns about the military’s readiness. The infiltration of fighters into southern Israel forced millions of Israelis to seek shelter, while roads near Gaza were closed and blood donations were urgently requested.
Blockade and Ongoing Conflict
Israel has maintained a blockade over Gaza since 2007, devastating the territory’s economy. The bitter enemies, Israel and Hamas, have fought four wars and engaged in numerous smaller conflicts. The recent escalation follows heightened tensions along Israel’s volatile border with Gaza and heavy fighting in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The attack also garnered praise from Hezbollah, further complicating the security situation in the region.
How is the international community, including the United Nations and Egypt, working to restore calm and facilitate a negotiated solution to the conflict
Ali Medical Center in Ashkelon also reported a significant number of casualties, with over 200 people injured and 20 in critical condition. Israeli forces swiftly mobilized to counter the attack, launching airstrikes on multiple targets in the Gaza Strip. At least 140 Hamas militants were reported killed in the retaliatory strikes, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack as an act of terrorism and vowed to retaliate with ”great force.” He declared a state of emergency in several Israeli cities and called for the mobilization of reserve forces. Israel has also activated its Iron Dome missile defense system, which intercepted a large number of incoming rockets, preventing further casualties.
Hamas’ Motive and International Response
Hamas, classified as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, claims that the attack was in response to Israeli aggression and violations in Jerusalem, particularly the recent clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The group’s leaders accused Israel of seeking to change the status quo in Jerusalem and vowed to defend the rights of Palestinians.
International leaders have expressed their concerns about the escalating violence and called for an immediate ceasefire. The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting to address the situation, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging both sides to exercise maximum restraint and restart negotiations.
The United States, a long-time ally of Israel, expressed its support for Israel’s right to defend itself while also urging de-escalation. President Joe Biden emphasized the need for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and announced plans to send an envoy to the region to facilitate diplomatic efforts.
The Impact on Israeli Society
The attack by Hamas has had a profound impact on Israeli society, particularly as it occurred during a major holiday. The violence and loss of life have generated widespread fear and grief among the Israeli population, with many expressing anger and demanding swift action to ensure their security.
The attack has further strained relations between Jewish and Arab communities within Israel. Reports of inter-communal violence and clashes have surfaced in mixed cities such as Lod and Acre, prompting the authorities to declare a state of emergency. There are concerns that the recent events may exacerbate existing tensions and deepen divisions within Israeli society.
International Efforts to Restore Calm
The United Nations and other regional powers are making efforts to restore calm and facilitate a negotiated solution. Egypt, which has played a key role in mediating previous conflicts between Israel and Hamas, has opened channels of communication with both sides. The Egyptian government is working tirelessly to broker a ceasefire agreement that would halt the violence and prevent further escalation.
While the situation remains tense and the possibility of further clashes looms, the international community is united in its call for an immediate end to the violence. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to be a long-standing issue that requires a comprehensive and sustainable solution that addresses the underlying grievances and aspirations of both sides.
In the meantime, innocent civilians on both sides continue to suffer the devastating consequences of this latest escalation. It is critical that all parties prioritize the protection of civilian lives and work towards a peaceful resolution to prevent further bloodshed and destruction.
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