In a sudden escalation of tensions, a massive barrage of rockets was fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel on Saturday. Simultaneously, Palestinian fighters initiated a ground incursion into Israeli territory from Gaza, marking a significant uptick in hostilities between the two sides.
The Israeli military confirmed the attack, stating that rockets were launched in large numbers, targeting multiple locations within Israel. Alarms sounded across several regions as residents sought shelter from the incoming fire. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from areas hit by the rockets.
The ground raid involved Palestinian militants crossing into Israel, engaging in direct confrontation with Israeli forces. The Israeli military responded with retaliatory strikes against targets within Gaza, asserting their right to defend their territory and citizens.
In an official statement, the Israeli military attributed the attack to Hamas, the Palestinian movement governing the Gaza Strip. “Hamas will bear the results and responsibility for the events,” the statement read, indicating potential for further military action.
Footage captured by local sources showed rockets being launched from Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, with trails of smoke marking their path towards Israel. Scenes of damage from rocket impacts emerged from various locations, highlighting the immediate impact on civilians and infrastructure.
This surprise attack marks one of the most significant escalations in recent times, raising concerns over a potential wider conflict. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint from both sides to prevent further deterioration of peace and stability in the region.
The latest developments underscore the fragile nature of the ceasefires that have been brokered in the past, with underlying tensions frequently erupting into violence. The global community has repeatedly called for a long-term solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing dialogue and negotiation over armed confrontation.
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Rockets fired out of Gaza towards Israel during Hamas' surprise attack
cgtn.com
