On Sunday, the Palestinian enclave of Gaza was heavily bombarded by Israel’s military, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people. This followed a surprise attack by the Hamas group, which left over 600 Israelis dead, marking the deadliest assault on Israeli soil in decades.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the nation to brace themselves for a “long and challenging” war, a day after Hamas unleashed a barrage of thousands of rockets at Israel. Simultaneously, Hamas sent a wave of fighters who targeted civilians, killing many and taking at least 100 hostages.
Israel was shocked by the multi-pronged offensive launched by Hamas on Saturday, which occurred on the Jewish Sabbath. More than 3,000 rockets rained down, accompanied by fighters infiltrating towns and kibbutz communities. They also attacked an outdoor rave, where numerous attendees were shot dead.
Frightened Israelis, seeking refuge in their homes, reported that militants were going from door to door, either shooting civilians or forcibly taking them away.
The world should respond to this deadly Palestinian assault with unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself; outrage is the only appropriate reaction.
President Joe Biden, along with the European Union, has rightfully pledged unreserved support for Israel.
While Israel is compelled to take necessary military actions to safeguard its citizens, it is crucial for all parties in the region to collaborate and restore some level of stability, thereby preventing a wider conflict.
