According to the Israeli news portal Ynet, a rocket launched from the Gaza Strip has hit a residential house in the city of Ashkelon in southern Israel. Firefighters are currently battling the blaze in the apartments. The fire broke out in two apartments after the rocket struck directly. Rescue services are trying to determine if there were residents inside.
Earlier, the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian movement Hamas, claimed responsibility for launching a barrage of rockets towards the Ben-Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, as well as firing 100 rockets towards the city of Ashkelon.
On Saturday morning, Israel faced a massive rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. According to the Israeli army’s press office, more than 3,000 rockets were launched. In addition, Hamas fighters infiltrated border areas in southern Israel following the intense rocket strikes.
In response, Hamas’ military wing declared the start of the “Sword of Al-Aqsa” operation against Israel, while Israeli forces are conducting operations to clear populated areas.
Against this backdrop, Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir declared a state of emergency within the country on October 7th. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the country is in a state of war. The Israeli Defense Forces’ operation against Hamas has been named “Operation Iron Swords.”
Earlier, the Israeli police predicted the duration of the conflict escalation.
