New Delhi - Following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep shock over the news of terrorist assaults in Israel. In a tweet, he conveyed India's unwavering support, saying, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel during this challenging time."
On Saturday morning, Hamas launched a barrage of rockets in the southern regions of Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and over 500 injuries. In response, Israel initiated counter-operations, which included the destruction of Hamas' interior ministry building. Reports indicate that Hamas has seized control of several towns and villages in southern Israel and has also taken hostages and kidnapped soldiers. A disturbing video depicting Hamas terrorists killing an Israeli female soldier and parading her naked has gone viral.
Younis Tirawi, a reporter covering Palestinian Affairs, stated that Hamas militants had taken over the Sderot police headquarters and seized armored vehicles in the town.
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has begun targeting Hamas facilities in the Gaza Strip. The IAF stated in a tweet, "In the last few hours, dozens of IDF fighter jets struck 17 military compounds and 4 operational command centers belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip." Numerous fighter jets targeted various Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
According to reports from Israel-based Haaretz, Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed to have captured several Israeli soldiers. The chief of the Israeli police southern district mentioned that the conflict would likely continue for days, with casualties, including police officers.
Meanwhile, Egypt issued a warning about the "grave consequences" of escalating tensions between Israel and the Palestinians, as reported by Reuters. Egypt's foreign ministry called for maximum restraint and the avoidance of further endangering civilians.
Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shukri held a conversation with European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell to discuss developments between Israel and the Palestinians since Friday evening, emphasizing the need for both sides to exercise restraint to prevent serious risks.