In the wake of what Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu termed a “black day” for Israel, he pledged a strong retaliation against the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, emphasizing the use of full force. Netanyahu stated in a televised announcement, “The IDF (army) is prepared to employ all its force to eliminate Hamas’s capabilities.”
He further affirmed, “We will relentlessly strike at them and exact a forceful retribution for this dark day they have inflicted upon Israel and its people,” referring to the surprise dawn attack by Hamas militants, who infiltrated Israel amidst a massive rocket barrage.
Violent confrontations persisted late into the night following Hamas’ large-scale assault on Israel, marked by thousands of rockets launched from Gaza and incursions by militants targeting soldiers and civilians. This assault represents a significant combined offensive involving ground, air, and sea operations, a rare occurrence since the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.
“We are in a state of war,” Netanyahu declared to the nation, as Israel responded by heavily targeting locations in the besieged enclave, resulting in the destruction of several residential towers.
In the unfolding conflict, approximately 80 casualties were reported in Israel by medical services, while Gaza authorities disclosed a death toll of 232, marking one of the deadliest escalations in years and leaving hundreds injured on both sides. Netanyahu concluded with a stern warning: “The enemy will face an unprecedented price.”
