The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) declared a 'state of readiness for war' as rocket barrages were launched from the Palestinian territory of Gaza Strip and Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on Saturday. A senior Hamas military commander announced the commencement of the operation in a broadcast on the Palestinian militant outfit's media.
"This is the day of the greatest battle end the last occupation on earth," said Hamas commander Mohammad Deif. He further claimed that as many as 5,000 rockets had been launched as part of the latest operation against Israel.
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Meanwhile, the IDF said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), "Israelis across the country-on Shabbat and the holiday of Simchat Torah-woke up to sirens sounding and Hamas firing rockets at them from Gaza this morning. We will defend ourselves."
The IDF added that sirens sounded in Jerusalem and surrounding areas. "Hamas… which is behind this attack, will bear the results and responsibility for the events," the IDF said in a statement.
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According to The Times of Israel, four people have lost their lives so far in the Hamas rocket fire from the Gaza Strip. Israeli media reported that gunmen had opened fire on passersby in the town of Sderot, in southern Israel, and footage circulating on social media appeared to show clashes in city streets.
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"A number of terrorists have infiltrated into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip," the military said in a statement, adding that residents in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip had been told to stay in their homes.
(With inputs from Reuters)