Gaza Militants Launch Major Assault on Israel

October 7, 2023

In an unprecedented surge of violence, Israel faced a massive rocket barrage from Gaza early Saturday morning. As confirmed by sources on the ground, including a CNN producer based in Gaza, multiple rockets were fired, reaching areas as expansive as Tel Aviv and Beer Sheva.

In response to the assault, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have declared a “state of war alert.” The seriousness of the situation is underscored by the mobilization of troops and the call-up of reservist soldiers to reinforce the defense.

Hamas, the militant group operating out of Gaza, has taken responsibility for the onslaught, dubbing it 'Al-Aqsa Storm' and claiming to have unleashed a staggering 5,000 rockets on Israeli soil. Furthermore, several militants from Gaza have penetrated Israeli territory, leading the IDF to advise Israelis residing near the Gaza border to remain indoors.

The rocket attacks have already had tragic consequences. Israel’s primary emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA), has reported the sad demise of a woman in her 70s and injuries to at least three other individuals.

Muhammad Al-Deif, the military commander of Hamas, in a broadcasted message, urged for a broad-based uprising against Israel. In a stark directive, he stated, “If you have a gun, get it out. This is the time to use it.” Elaborating on the reasons behind the attack, Al-Deif attributed it to the perceived desecration of the al-Aqsa mosque, attacks on women, and the ongoing blockade of Gaza. He made an impassioned plea to Arabs and Muslims globally to rally and “free al-Aqsa,” referring to the historic mosque in Jerusalem.

In a subsequent development, a video that emerged on social media seems to spotlight the gravity of the situation on the streets of Israel. The footage displays what appears to be armed individuals in a pickup truck in Sderot, a southern Israeli city. The alleged militants, donned in dark attire, are seen menacingly pointing their weapons at an oncoming SUV, followed by audible gunshots.

As the situation remains fluid, the international community watches anxiously, hoping for a swift resolution and cessation of hostilities.