The death toll in the Israel-Gaza conflict has risen significantly, nearing 1,000 casualties, as the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a massive surprise assault from Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared the nation for a “long and difficult” war after Hamas initiated rocket attacks on Israel, leading to civilian casualties and the taking of hostages. This conflict has escalated tensions in the Middle East and resulted in over 600 casualties on the Israeli side, marking Israel’s worst losses since the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.
The surprise attack caught Israel off guard, leaving many Israelis in shock and drawing comparisons to the 9/11 attacks. In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes caused significant destruction, with at least 370 reported deaths and numerous casualties. Israeli forces were mobilized to engage with Hamas fighters in the southern regions, where civilian casualties were discovered in towns and on roads.
The Israeli military intensified its efforts to secure desert areas near the Gaza Strip, rescue Israeli hostages, and clear areas near Gaza. Military spokesman Daniel Hagari emphasized Israel’s determination to eliminate terrorists within the country, following Hamas’ surprise offensive, which saw them enter Israel using various means, including vehicles, boats, and motorized paragliders.
