Israel Under Attack: Gaza Terrorists Launch Sudden Rocket Assault and Infiltrate Israel [UPDATING]
Dozens of armed Palestinian terrorists from Gaza infiltrated Israel this morning following a two-hour mass rocket attack. They opened fire on civilians from vehicles, prompting the Israel Defence Forces to respond by launching an attack on the Gaza Strip and mobilizing reserve battalions. One person was killed, and 16 were injured in rocket strikes across the country.
Subsequently, Hamas terrorists declared that they had kidnapped a soldier in the Gaza Strip. Dozens of Gaza terrorists who infiltrated Israeli territory are holding civilians hostage as rocket sirens blare across the nation. One woman was killed during the rocket bombardment. Police sources report an ongoing shootout with militants in a police precinct. Military reservists, protesting judicial reform, have announced their return to service.
Defence Minister Yoav Galant responded to the Hamas attack in a public statement: "Hamas made a grave mistake this morning and initiated a war against the State of Israel. IDF soldiers are engaged in battles at all points of penetration against the enemy. The State of Israel will win this war."
President of the European Parliament Roberta Mecola strongly condemned the attack: "I am appalled by the attacks on Israel. We condemn terrorism and violence against innocent people," she wrote. "My thoughts are with all those under fire, with all the emergency response teams, and those defending themselves against these brutal attacks. Terrorism will never prevail."
[UPDATE 17:00]
US: We will ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself - Sky News.
US secretary of defence Lloyd Austin has said Washington is working to ensure that Israel "has what it needs" to defend itself.
"Over the coming days, the department of defence will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism," Austin said in a statement.
[UPDATE 16:30]
The United States unequivocally condemns the unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians. There is never any justification for terrorism. We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has spoken to Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, and we remain in close contact with our Israeli partners.
According to the Israel Defence Forces, this morning, approximately 2,200 rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel.
At least 40 people have died, and 779 others have been injured. There are reports of Israelis being abducted in Gaza.
16:00 An IDF spokesperson expressed hope that "there will be no more living terrorists in Israel by the end of the day" - CNN.
15:50 In East Jerusalem, terrorists who began firing at police officers have been neutralized.
15:43 The IDF has announced the continuation of attacks on HAMAS targets in the Gaza Strip. During this operation, a group of terrorists infiltrated the town of Netivot.
15:10 Reports of terrorists infiltrating the town of Ariel.
15:00 Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv has announced the opening of rapid response locations for those affected by anxiety and psychological trauma. The facility is located within the emergency department, and it will be staffed by Ichilov psychiatric system doctors.
10:13 Soroka Hospital in Ashkelon reported approximately 80 wounded individuals who received medical assistance. Aid is being provided to the injured in various departments on-site.
10:02 Kaplan Hospital in Rehovot reported 21 injured, including two in critical condition, who were transferred to the operating room. Tel Hashomer announced blood donation operations due to the security situation.
9:56 Armed individuals fired at outdoor gatherings near Orim. One attendee said to Walla!: "We scattered in different directions; people didn't know what to do. We have friends still in the field who don't know where they are." Report missing persons on site.
9:41 Terrorists in IDF uniforms fired on IDF soldiers near Otaf.
9:33 Security forces initiated rescue efforts for civilians kidnapped by terrorists in buildings in the southern part of the country.
9:10 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that the Cabinet for Policy and Security will convene at 13:30 following an expanded assessment of the situation, which will take place in the coming hour.
7:55 One casualty and 16 injured due to rocket impact, 2 in critical condition.
7:36 Rockets hit the centre of Tel Aviv.
7:32 Gaza Strip terrorists infiltrated Israeli territory, reporting dozens of armed terrorists roaming the streets and opening fire in surrounding towns.
7:18 The Israel Defence Forces launched combat drones in the Gaza Strip, while gunfire from machine guns was reported from the Sector towards neighbouring communities.
7:05 Defence Minister Yoav Galant headed to the Kirya base in Tel Aviv, where he will assess the situation alongside senior defence officials.
6:35 Numerous alarm signals sounding in Tel Aviv.
6:31 A state of alert declared in Rishon LeZion.
Rishon LeZion