In the aftermath of a sudden and devastating Hamas assault that resulted inthe loss of hundreds of Israeli lives, Israeli President Isaac Herzogpointed a finger of blame squarely at Iran. In a statement released lateSunday, President Herzog asserted that Hamas, acting under the support andguidance of their Iranian proxy commanders, had executed an unprovoked andheinous attack on the Jewish state, an act that took place on a sacredJewish holy day.
Herzog expressed an unwavering commitment to safeguarding Israeli citizens,emphasizing that Tel Aviv would employ any necessary measures to eliminatethe imminent threat.
In a call to the international community, President Herzog implored thecollective nations to respond decisively, marking this confrontation as apivotal moment. He urged for unambiguous condemnation of Hamas, itsassociates, and its patrons in Iran, stressing the importance of standingfirmly with Israel as it engaged in a just and morally guided battleagainst a loathsome adversary.
The Hamas assault unfolded dramatically on a Saturday, featuring theinfiltration of Israeli towns near the Gaza Strip by dozens of militantsamidst a barrage of rocket fire. The attack left a devastating toll in itswake, with at least 300 Israelis losing their lives and over 1,500sustaining injuries. Additionally, several soldiers and civilians werecaptured by Hamas and transported back to Gaza, further intensifying thecrisis.
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In response, Israel launched a series of airstrikes within the Gaza Strip,resulting in a significant loss of life and injuries among Palestinians,with over 250 casualties and more than 1,700 wounded, according to theHealth Ministry. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, determined toeliminate Hamas’ capabilities and avenge the tragic events, pledged toemploy the full might of Israel in pursuit of these objectives.
Meanwhile, the Iranian Foreign Ministry framed the Hamas attack as an actof self-defense, a stance that underscores Iran’s longstanding status as abitter adversary of Israel. This violent incident unfolded on a poignantoccasion for Israel, as the nation marked the 50th anniversary of the 1973war—a conflict that had brought Tel Aviv perilously close to a catastrophicdefeat, adding a layer of historical significance to the unfolding events.