Israeli Troops Battle Hamas Fighters, Expect a Tough, Lengthy War Ahead

In a shocking escalation of violence, the conflict between Israeli forces and the Palestinian group Hamas has reached a devastating peak, with hundreds reported dead on both sides. The conflict began after an attack on Israel, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to issue a warning of a prolonged and challenging war.

Hamas launched a massive offensive involving rockets and ground, air, and sea attacks, resulting in a high casualty toll. According to Israel's army, over 300 Israelis have been killed, and approximately 1,000 others have been wounded. Gaza officials reported that intense Israeli airstrikes in the coastal enclave have pushed the Palestinian death count to at least 400, with nearly 1,700 wounded.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed determination to avenge what he referred to as a "black day" for Israel, stating, "The IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) is about to use all its force to destroy Hamas's capabilities. We'll strike them to the bitter end and avenge with force this black day they brought on Israel and its people." He urged Palestinians living near Hamas sites in Gaza to evacuate, warning of imminent strikes intended to reduce these hideouts to rubble.

Israeli officials disclosed that Hamas had abducted approximately 100 soldiers and civilians, accusing the group of rampaging through homes and massacring civilians. Hamas fighters fired thousands of rockets, breached Gaza's security barrier, attacked nearby Israeli towns and military posts, and opened fire on residents and passersby. Hamas referred to its attack as "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" and called on "resistance fighters in the West Bank" and in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh claimed that the group was on the "verge of a great victory."

Images of several Israelis taken captive by Hamas were released, and scenes of violence and chaos unfolded in the Israeli town of Sderot near Gaza, with bodies strewn on the streets and inside vehicles.

In response to the deadly attacks, the Israel Defense Forces declared a "readiness for war" and initiated "Operation Swords of Iron," targeting various locations in the Gaza Strip. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stern warning, saying, "We have seen the face of evil. Hamas launched a criminal attack, without distinguishing between women, children, and the elderly. It will realize very quickly that it made a grave mistake. We will change the face of reality in the Gaza Strip."

As international concern grew, the United Nations Security Council called an emergency meeting, and US President Joe Biden reaffirmed "rock-solid and unwavering" support for Israel while cautioning against hostile parties seeking to exploit the situation.

This escalation comes after months of rising violence, primarily in the occupied West Bank, and heightened tensions around Gaza's border and contested holy sites in Jerusalem.

The Indian embassy in Israel has issued an advisory to its citizens, urging them to remain vigilant, adhere to safety protocols recommended by local authorities, exercise caution, and stay close to safety shelters in light of the ongoing conflict.