In a significant and unexpected escalation, the Palestinian militant group Hamas, has launched a large-scale attack against Israel, firing thousands of rockets from Gaza and deploying fighters to carry out attacks and abductions.
In response, Israel has retaliated with devastating air strikes, resulting in a mounting death toll and widespread destruction.
As the conflict intensifies, at least 70 people have been reported killed in Israel, while Gaza authorities have released a death toll of 198, marking one of the bloodiest escalations in years. Hundreds more have been wounded on both sides, further underscoring the severity of the situation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially declared the outbreak of war as the Israeli military initiated a series of strikes on various targets within the blockaded coastal enclave. This included the complete destruction of several residential tower blocks, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The militant group initiated the attack around 6:30 am, launching thousands of rockets that reached as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, some evading the Iron Dome defense system and causing damage to buildings.
The rapidly evolving situation has raised deep concerns and prompted international calls for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and destruction in the region.