Israel: On October 7, 2023, the armed wing of Hamas declared it had begun “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood” and fired over 5,000 rockets into Israel in the “first strike of 20 minutes.” This was the heaviest rocket barrage ever fired from Gaza, and it caused widespread damage in Israel.
“Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour”, tweeted PM Modi.
Hamas said that the attack was in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, which had killed several people, including a senior Hamas commander. Hamas also said that the attack was a warning to Israel to stop its “aggression” against the Palestinians.
The Israeli military responded to the Hamas rocket barrage with airstrikes on Gaza. The airstrikes targeted Hamas military installations and training camps. The Israeli military also said that it was targeting Hamas leaders and commanders.
The fighting between Hamas and Israel continued for several days, and resulted in the deaths of dozens of people on both sides. The United Nations and other international organizations called for a ceasefire, but neither side was willing to back down.
The Hamas rocket barrage and the Israeli airstrikes were a major escalation in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. The conflict has been ongoing for decades, and there is no easy solution. However, it is important to note that the vast majority of the victims of the conflict are civilians.
Hamas said that the attack was in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, which had killed several people, including a senior Hamas commander. Hamas also said that the attack was a warning to Israel to stop its “aggression” against the Palestinians. Hamas may have been hoping that the attack would force Israel to change its policies towards the Palestinians. Hamas may have also been trying to demonstrate its strength and capabilities to the Palestinian people and to the international community.
The Hamas rocket barrage and the Israeli airstrikes were a major setback for peace efforts in the region. The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians is complex and there is no easy solution.