Hamas launches surprise attack on Israel from Gaza, sparking regional crisis

A surprise attack from Gaza sparks a regional crisis

Israel is facing a major security challenge after hundreds of Palestinian militants launched a surprise attack from the Gaza Strip, infiltrating southern Israel and firing thousands of rockets. The Israeli military declared a “state of war alert,” is calling up reservist soldiers and has announced strikes on neighboring Gaza. “We are at war,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a video statement in front of Israel’s military headquarters. “The enemy will pay a price it has never known,” he said, noting that he has decided on a large call-up of reserves. The Israeli leader also asked citizens to follow safety instructions.

Hamas claims responsibility and calls for regional war

The Islamist militant group Hamas, which controls Gaza, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was a response to Israel’s “crimes” against the Palestinians. In a statement, top Hamas militant commander Mohammed Deif called for a regional war against Israel, saying the Palestinian people had “decided to say enough is enough.” He also warned that Hamas had “thousands of rockets” ready to strike Israel. Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States and the European Union.

Casualties and damage on both sides

The attack, which took place early on Saturday morning, caught Israel off guard and caused widespread panic and chaos. According to Israel’s emergency services, at least 22 Israelis have been killed and hundreds more wounded by the rocket fire and the clashes with the infiltrators. Several buildings and vehicles were also damaged or destroyed by the explosions. On the Palestinian side, the health ministry in Gaza reported one death and several injuries as a result of the Israeli airstrikes. The Israeli military said it was targeting Hamas sites, including rocket launchers, tunnels and command centers.

International reactions and implications

The surprise attack by Hamas has drawn international condemnation and calls for restraint. The United Kingdom, the European Union, the United States and several Arab countries have denounced the attack as “horrific” and “unacceptable,” and urged both sides to avoid further escalation and civilian casualties. They have also expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself against the aggression. The attack comes amid rising tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians in recent months, especially in Jerusalem and the West Bank. The attack also poses a challenge for the new Israeli government, which was sworn in less than four months ago and includes parties from across the political spectrum.