In a shocking turn of events, over 5,000 rocket barrages rained down on southern Israel from the Gaza Strip, marking the launch of Hamas’ audacious “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood” on Israel occupation. The relentless assault claimed the lives of at least 22 Israelis, with over 500 others sustaining injuries.
Eyewitness accounts painted a grim picture of the sudden retaliation by Hamas on Israeli occupation. “I spoke by text with an acquaintance in Tel Aviv. She says she was hurrying to get into a bomb shelter. The fact that several villages including some towns were attacked and captured – this is something that has never happened before,” recounted an astonished observer.
The precision and scale of this operation underscored meticulous planning and strategic execution on the part of Hamas. The gravity of the situation prompted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to issue a solemn declaration of war against Palestine, asserting that Hamas had committed a “grave mistake.”
In response to the Palestinian attacks, the Israeli military responded with air strikes into Gaza, a reprisal met with thunderous explosions witnessed by many.
This incident marked a historic offensive, as an undisclosed number of Hamas freedom fighters infiltrated Israel from Gaza, propelling one of the most severe escalations in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in recent memory, according to Reuters.
Israel’s police chief, confirming the gravity of the situation, reported “21 active scenes” in southern Israel, indicating the extensive scope of the attack.
Amidst the chaos, Gazans scrambled to secure essential supplies, bracing for days of relentless conflict. Some hastily abandoned their homes, seeking refuge in shelters.
In a bold proclamation, Hamas military commander Mohammad Deif announced the commencement of the operation through a broadcast on Hamas media, rallying Palestinians worldwide to join the war against Israeli occupation. “This is the day of the greatest battle to end the last occupation on earth,” he declared, revealing that an astonishing 5,000 rockets had been launched.
The last major flare-up between Israel and Hamas transpired during a 10-day war in 2021. The current offensive, however, signifies a formidable escalation, leaving both nations teetering on the brink of a protracted and devastating conflict.