Hamas launches Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against Israel

GAZA: In a significant escalation of hostilities, the Palestinian armed group Hamas has initiated “Operation Al Aqsa Flood,” marking its most substantial offensive against Israel in decades.

The operation commenced with a barrage of what Hamas claims to be thousands of rockets fired toward Israel, resulting in multiple casualties.

Israeli military radio has reported that Palestinian fighters from Gaza have successfully “infiltrated” Israeli territory. Visual evidence shows armed individuals traveling in vehicles within Israel, and others utilizing paragliders to breach Israeli airspace. Disturbingly, footage has emerged depicting Palestinian fighters taking Israelis hostage.

In response to the heightened threat, the Israeli army has issued advisories urging residents residing near the Gaza border to remain indoors. Additionally, Israel’s defense minister has granted approval for the mobilization of military reservists to bolster security measures.

Meanwhile, the commander of Hamas’s military wing has issued a call for armed groups in Lebanon to join in the ongoing conflict against Israel. The situation remains fluid and continues to evolve rapidly, with both sides engaged in a tense standoff.

Hundreds of residents in the Gaza Strip have fled their homes to move away from the border with Israel, an AFP correspondent has reported.

Men, women and children were seen carrying blankets and food items as they left their homes, mostly in the northeastern part of the Palestinian territory, the reporter said.

Over the past three decades, Israel has enforced greater control over the Al Aqsa Mosque compound, including by controlling who enters and exits, restricting Palestinian access, conducting violent raids inside, and increasingly facilitating the entry of Jewish hardline groups who, since 1967, have publicly stated their aim to take over the compound, destroy the Dome of the Rock, and build a third temple there.

The US embassy in Israel says that it is “closely monitoring” the security situation in Israel after rocket attacks and the infiltration of Hamas fighters from Gaza.

“US citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning,” an embassy statement said.

It added that the US embassy personnel are currently sheltering in place