The death toll from the massive Hamas attack on Israel last Saturday has climbed to 300, with over 1,000 people injured, according to Israeli media reports on Sunday. Palestinian gunmen managed to escape with dozens of hostages, including military personnel. In retaliation, Israel launched one of its most devastating days of strikes, resulting in the death of more than 230 Gazans. The fighting continued into the night, with Hamas citing the desecration of the Al Aqsa Mosque and Israeli atrocities against Palestinians as the reasons for its offensive.
Hamas military commander, Mohammed Deif, emphasized that there would be consequences for Israel’s actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to turn Gaza into a “deserted island” and promised vengeance for the attack. The conflict spread to the West Bank and Jerusalem, with Israeli civilians and military personnel among the casualties. The situation escalated further as Israel’s security cabinet approved measures to cripple Hamas and Islamic Jihad’s capabilities, including cutting off electricity and fuel supplies to Gaza.
The conflict led to widespread destruction, with residential towers in Gaza reduced to rubble. The violence disrupted normal life in southern and central Israel, triggering air raid sirens and forcing residents to flee to safety. The conflict also sparked clashes in the West Bank and Jerusalem, resulting in more casualties and injuries. International leaders condemned the attacks, while some adversaries of Israel expressed support for Hamas. UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland warned of a dangerous situation and called on all parties to step back from the brink of further escalation.