Hamas terrorists launched a surprise attack in southern Israel leaving the country in a state of disbelief and devastation. The early morning assault, which took place during a major Jewish holiday on Saturday, caught the country off guard and resulted in the loss of numerous lives.
Hamas militants displayed their aggression by firing thousands of rockets and sending dozens of fighters into Israeli towns near the Gaza Strip. This unprecedented act of violence has left the nation stunned and mourning the loss of innocent lives. Per the Associated Press, Israel has now said it is at war with Hamas and launched airstrikes in Gaza while vowing to inflict an “unprecedented price.”
According to the latest updates, the death toll continues to climb with over 300 people reported dead in Gaza and Israel. The Palestinian Health Ministry said 198 are dead and 1,610 others are injured in Gaza. Meanwhile, the Israeli Health Ministry said over 100 people are dead and over 900 others are injured.
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US President Joe Biden has since released a statement on the breaking news and extended his condolences for lives lost and wished those wounded a “swift recovery.” He said,
“I made clear to Prime Minister Netanyahu that we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support to the Government and people of Israel. Terrorism is never justified. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people. The United States warns against any other party hostile to Israel seeking advantage in this situation. My Administration’s support for Israel’s security is rock solid and unwavering,” Biden said in a statement.
He continued, “My team and I are tracking this situation closely, and I will remain in close touch with Prime Minister Netanyahu,” Biden said.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin alsonspoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on Saturday to offer his condolences.
“Secretary Austin made clear to Minister Gallant his ironclad support for the Israeli Defense Forces and the Israeli people. He reaffirmed that the Department’s commitment to Israel’s security and its absolute right to defend itself from acts of terrorism is unwavering. Secretary Austin has directed his team to ensure that DoD is closely consulting with all of our Allies and partners who share a commitment to peace and oppose terrorism. Secretary Austin will continue to consult with Minister Gallant in the coming days and weeks to ensure that Israel has the support it needs,” the Pentagon said in a statement.
As a result of this United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Airlines have since announced operation suspensions to Israel Saturday night following unrest in the region.
“The safety of our customers and crew is our top priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and we are adjusting flight schedules as required,” the carrier told ABC News. “American Airlines has temporarily suspended operations to and from Tel Aviv, Israel (TLV) [Saturday] and [Sunday], and has issued a travel alert providing additional flexibility to customers whose travel plans are affected. We will continue to monitor the situation with safety and security top of mind and will adjust our operation as needed,” airline Airlines added.
Delta also said the airline is working to “safely transport Delta people back to the U.S. and will work with the U.S. government as needed to assist with the repatriation of U.S. citizens who want to return home.”
We will continue to keep you updated as RBIs story develops.
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