The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), launched a large-scale military operation against Israel on Saturday. This operation included the firing of thousands of rockets and shells, as well as infiltration and raids into Israeli settlements, resulting in the capture of Israeli citizens.
The General Commander of the al-Qassam Brigades, Mohammed al-Dayf, announced the start of “Operation Al-Aqsa Tempest” against Israel, with the launch of thousands of rockets towards its territory. In a recorded voice message, al-Dayf reported that the initial strike of “Operation Al-Aqsa Tempest” involved over 5,000 rockets and shells targeting Israel.
Since the morning, Palestinian resistance groups have launched intense rocket barrages from the Gaza Strip towards Israel. These attacks were accompanied by ground, sea, and air infiltrations. Air raid sirens were sounded in various areas, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Ashdod, and Ashkelon.
The Israeli military spokesperson confirmed the activation of the Iron Dome missile defense system and the sounding of air raid sirens. Additionally, the Israeli army declared a state of readiness for war following the infiltration of Palestinians into the heart of Israel.
Israel’s Channel 13 reported that the Israeli military has initiated “Operation Iron Swords” against the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera’s correspondent noted that the attacks on Israel resulted in one fatality in Ashdod and direct injuries in Ashkelon, Be’er Sheva, and Kiryat Gat, with orders to take shelter issued.
Israel’s public radio reported that “Hamas” has captured 35 Israelis since the start of the attack from Gaza. Israeli media sources also mentioned that the numbers of casualties and injuries cannot be definitively counted at this point. Soroka Hospital in Be’er Sheva reported receiving more than 80 wounded individuals so far.
Medical sources informed Al Jazeera that two martyrs and five injuries were admitted to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in central Gaza. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will hold an evaluation session with top security officials later today.
