1 in 3 man runs after an explosion caused by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip in Israel October 7, 2023 Photo: Portal/Amir Cohen Man runs after the explosion caused by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip in Israel October 7 Rocket was caused in 2023 Photo: Portal/Amir Cohen
According to the country’s authorities, Israel was bombed and attacked by gunmen on Saturday morning (7 a.m. local time). The surprise attack is considered one of the largest the country has suffered in recent years.
The armed Islamic movement Hamas claimed responsibility for the attacks and said it was the start of an operation. Pictures show armed men marching into Israel from the Gaza Strip.
A senior Hamas military commander said 5,000 rockets were fired. Bomb warning sirens were reported in several regions of the country, including Jerusalem. There are records of damaged buildings in Tel Aviv and other cities.
“This is the day of the greatest battle to end the last occupation,” said Hamas commander Mohammad Deif.
2 of 3 Hamas said 5,000 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip Photo: Portal/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa Hamas said 5,000 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip Photo: Portal/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa
Israeli emergency services confirmed the death of a woman in a rocket attack. Ambulances are deployed in various regions of the country. A number of victims has not yet been released.
In addition, the Israeli press reported that gunmen shot at pedestrians in the southern city of Sderot. Images circulating on social media suggest a clash broke out on the region’s streets.
“Several terrorists have entered Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip,” the military said in a statement. Authorities have asked people near the Gaza Strip to stay home.
“Israeli forces will defend Israeli civilians and the terrorist organization Hamas will pay a heavy price for its actions,” he said.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said he would meet with security officials in the coming hours. The Israeli Ministry of Defense approved the tender for military reservists.
3 of 3 Building catches fire after being hit by a missile in Tel Aviv, Israel on October 7, 2023 Photo: Portal/Itai Ron Building catches fire after being hit by a missile on October 7, 2023 in Tel Aviv, Israel was hit by a rocket — Photo: Portal/Itai Ron