The radical Islamic group Hamas attacked Israel from the Gaza Strip on Saturday, by air, land and sea. Dozens of people were killed and hundreds more were injured. The Israeli military was on alert and was already responding with counterattacks. According to Palestinian authorities, there were also many deaths and injuries here.
Online since today, 12:14 pm
Armin Sattler and Guido Tiefenthaler (text), Kaja Stepien (image), Iris Preißler (editing), all ORF.at/agencies
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke of “war”. The Israeli army called its defensive action “Iron Swords”. For example, war readiness allows the army to mobilize reservists. Israeli Defense Minister Joav Galant said: “Hamas made a serious mistake this morning and started a war against the State of Israel.” At least 2,200 rockets were fired at Israel from the Gaza Strip.
There are said to be at least 100 deaths on the Israeli side and 900 injuries, Israeli media reported, citing medical circles. Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip have killed 161 people and injured up to 1,000, according to local Palestinian authorities.
Hostage reports
Hamas also reportedly held hostages, possibly including soldiers. Western politicians strongly condemned the attacks and possible hostage-taking by Hamas.
The attack from the Gaza Strip was unexpected. However, the situation, especially in the occupied West Bank, has recently worsened again. Four Palestinians have been killed there since Thursday in their own attacks or in clashes with the army.