Picture: for illustration purposes
Tensions have escalated dramatically in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict after an organised infiltration targeting Israel by Palestinian militants from Gaza Strip. Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has declared "we are at war," signalling a grim period in the dispute that has been escalating since early last year.
The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed forces of Hamas controlling the Gaza Strip, announced Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, stating that they have fired more than 5,000 rockets. Israel army spokesman, Richard Hecht, confirmed the infiltration was heavily orchestrated with the infiltrators coming in by paragliders, sea and ground routes.
The escalation has resulted in two fatalities in Israel, while military engagement continues on several fronts along the Gaza Strip. Israeli forces have given a code name to their operation: "Swords of Iron."
The rockets launched by Hamas reportedly caused widespread devastation in Ashkelon, an Israeli city approximately 10km north of Gaza. This marked a significant escalation in the conflict as the attack occurred on Shabbat, a Jewish holiday.
Israeli military has commenced airstrikes on Gaza following the rocket barrage, with the IDF ("Israel Defense Forces") committing significant resources and multiple fighter jets against Hamas targets. Israeli defense systems have engaged in intercepting multiple rockets across southern and central Israel, including an unusual number of times in Jerusalem.
The retaliation by Israel follows initial promises made by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israeli Major General Ghasan Alyan to counterattack with "unprecedented" force.
In the wake of escalated conflict, hundreds of residents are fleeing from their homes within the Gaza Strip, seeking safety elsewhere. The same applies to residents living in the Israeli commercial centre of Tel Aviv.
Western nations, including the United States, have denounced the Palestinian attacks and urged de-escalation from both sides. However, the situation continues to deteriorate, ushering a grim phase in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.