By Milcah Tanimu
In the midst of an escalating conflict, Israel, grappling with its deadliest attack in 50 years, officially declared war on Hamas. The death toll from the conflict has reached 1,000 casualties as Hamas launched a massive surprise assault from Gaza.
AFP reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared the nation for a “long and challenging” war ahead. Hamas initiated the conflict by launching a barrage of rockets at Israel and sending fighters who targeted civilians and took hostages.
During these raids, several Germans, who are also Israeli nationals, were kidnapped by Hamas militants. German ministerial sources confirmed this on Sunday but did not specify the exact numbers involved.
In response to the attack, United States President Joe Biden ordered “additional support” for Israel, according to a White House statement. However, the statement did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the support.
In Gaza, which has been heavily struck by Israeli air raids on approximately 800 targets, officials reported at least 370 deaths, with thousands more wounded. The conflict zone witnessed widespread devastation.
Tens of thousands of Israeli forces were deployed to engage with Hamas fighters in the South. Bodies of civilians were found scattered on roads and in town centers.
The Israeli military intensified its efforts to secure desert regions near the Gaza Strip, rescue Israeli hostages, and evacuate areas near Gaza. Military spokesman Daniel Hagari stated that the enemy remained on the ground, and Israel was reinforcing its military presence near Gaza.
Gun battles continued as the Israeli army sought to reach and secure various communities, vowing to eliminate all terrorists in Israel. The conflict escalated after hundreds of Hamas fighters launched a surprise offensive, entering Israel using various means, including vehicles, boats, and motorized paragliders.
The abduction of approximately 100 Israeli citizens by Hamas into Gaza shocked and dismayed Israel. Disturbing images circulated on social media, depicting bloodied hostages and distraught relatives pleading for their rescue.