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In a grim turn of events, Israel is grappling with the gravest attack it has encountered in half a century. Ongoing combat in the Gaza Strip has unfolded as Israel responds to an unexpected offensive launched by the militant group, Hamas, during the early hours of Saturday.
As reported by CNBC, the toll of this conflict is devastating, with more than 700 Israelis falling victim to what Hamas has dubbed "Operation Al Aqsa Flood." In retaliation, Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip have claimed the lives of at least 490 Palestinians. The overall death count has now surpassed a staggering 1,200, tragically including foreign nationals.
This crisis has left Israel in a state of turmoil. An undisclosed number of Israelis, encompassing both civilians and soldiers, have been taken captive by Hamas in the midst of hostilities. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a state of war, vowing to secure the release of the hostages.
Additionally, Israel has announced its regaining of control over areas outside Gaza following 48 hours of relentless fighting. The Israel Defense Forces report having targeted more than 1,000 enemy positions in a series of overnight and daytime assaults on Gaza.
It is crucial to note that Hamas, the group responsible for this conflict, is designated as a terrorist organization with backing from Iran. They have governed the Gaza Strip since 2007. Gaza itself, a minuscule strip of land housing over 2 million Palestinians within an area of roughly 140 square miles, is among the most densely populated regions on Earth.
Furthermore, it has remained under a comprehensive Israeli land, air, and sea blockade since 2007, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in this besieged territory.
[With information sourced from CNBC]
