Israeli airstrikes persist as the country’s military mobilizes approximately 300,000 reservists in anticipation of a potential ground invasion of Gaza.
Border Conflict Escalates
The conflict between Israeli soldiers and Islamist Hamas militants intensifies in the border area with Gaza. Israel’s defence minister pledges a “complete siege” of the coastal strip.
U.N. Urges Restraint
U.N. Secretary General António Guterres appeals for restraint, recognizing Israel’s legitimate security concerns while expressing deep concern over the “extremely dire” conditions facing civilians in Gaza, which are expected to worsen significantly.
Israel Vows Massive Retaliation
Israeli leaders vow to retaliate harshly and extensively for the deadly attacks launched by Hamas from Gaza on Saturday.
Widening Conflict
Israeli gunships strike southern Lebanon, raising concerns of further escalation and the potential broadening of the conflict across the region.
Netanyahu’s Response
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declares that Israel’s response “will change the Middle East.” During a meeting with officials from southern Israeli towns, he states, “What Hamas will face will be harsh and terrible. We are only at the beginning.”
Netanyahu also calls for the opposition to join an emergency government and emphasizes national unity, proclaiming, “We are engaged in a mission for our homeland, a war to secure our existence, a war that we will win,” in a televised address.
Tragic Losses and Captives
Israeli authorities report that at least 900 Israelis were killed and 2,600 wounded in the Hamas attacks on Saturday, making it the deadliest civilian tragedy in the country’s history. Official figures indicate that over 4,500 rockets have been fired at Israel in retaliation.
Consequently, Israeli airstrikes on densely populated Gaza have resulted in at least 687 fatalities and over 3,800 injuries, according to the health ministry.
Furthermore, Hamas militants have taken around 150 individuals captive, including women, children, and the elderly, bringing them back to Gaza. Among the captives are believed to be citizens of various countries.
