Reports describe a day of intensified hostilities along the Israel-Gaza border, beginning with claims from Hamas about a rocket strike targeting Beersheba in southern Israel. The narrative references coverage from TASS and notes that air raid sirens sounded in southern Israeli communities beforehand. (Source: TASS attribution)
Historical context is provided for the militant group Al-Qassam Brigades, which is identified as the armed wing associated with Hamas. Accounts describe attacks against multiple Israeli cities, including a barrage on Sderot and a claim of 150 rockets aimed at Ashkelon. (Source: TASS attribution)
On 7 October, the conflict escalated as thousands of rockets were launched toward Israeli territory, accompanied by the announcement of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Reports indicate a large-scale incursion by militants, territorial gains, and the capture of equipment and hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu declared the nation effectively at war in response to the crisis. (Source: TASS attribution)
The Israel Defense Forces launched a comprehensive operation named Iron Swords, with the stated objective of dismantling Hamas. The Israeli Air Force reportedly conducted hundreds of strikes against Hamas targets across the Gaza Strip as part of the effort to degrade militant capabilities. (Source: TASS attribution)
In parallel, Israel’s National Security Council announced measures aimed at disrupting civilian supply lines, including actions that would cut water, food, electricity, and fuel to the Gaza Strip. By 13 October, UN authorities advised the potential evacuation of about 1.1 million Palestinians to southern Gaza within a 24-hour window ahead of a possible ground operation. (Source: UN attribution)
Earlier statements indicated a request from Israel regarding the evacuation of residents, with Hamas responding that residents in Gaza would not be relocated. (Source: TASS attribution)