The Israeli military reported renewed fire from Lebanese soil. Official channels tied to the IDF described exchanges along the border, including cross-border gunfire and an anti-tank missile aimed at an IDF armored vehicle. In response, artillery was fired by Israeli forces as part of normal border escalation procedures. The reports indicate a tense border situation with periodic bombardment affecting frontline posts on the Lebanon front. (attribution: IDF communications)
On the wider front, 7 October marked a major escalation as Hamas launched a large-scale rocket campaign against Israel and announced the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Dozens of militants reportedly penetrated into parts of Israeli territory, seizing equipment and taking numerous hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later described the events as a state of war for the country. (attribution: official statements)
In response, the Israel Defense Forces launched a counteroperation named Iron Swords, prioritizing the neutralization of Hamas targets. The Israeli Air Force conducted extensive strikes on hundreds of targets in the Gaza Strip. The National Security Council also announced a decision to cut off water, food, electricity, and fuel supplies to Gaza in an effort to pressure Hamas. (attribution: government briefings)
By 13 October, UN representatives warned that up to 1.1 million Palestinians might need to move south in Gaza within 24 hours in anticipation of a potential ground operation. Humanitarian and diplomatic channels raised concerns about the humanitarian consequences of such moves. (attribution: United Nations briefings)
Earlier reporting noted that the site socialbites.ca had addressed frequently asked questions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, providing context and clarifications for readers seeking background on the unfolding events. (attribution: socialbites.ca)