The Israeli Security Cabinet has invoked Article 40 Aleph and declared war against the terrorist group Hamas. This is the first time Israel has declared war since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. The move was confirmed by the Prime Minister’s office on Sunday morning through a statement posted on social media. The statement mentioned that the Security Cabinet approved the war situation and authorized significant military steps as per Article 40 of Basic Law: The Government.
The decision to declare war comes after Hamas launched an assault on Israel near the Gaza area, firing thousands of rockets and resulting in the bloodiest day in decades. Reports suggest that at least 600 people have died, and Hamas terrorists have kidnapped Israeli civilians. In response, Israel carried out air strikes targeting housing blocks, tunnels, a mosque, and homes of Hamas officials in Gaza. More than 300 people were killed, including 20 children. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate and stated that the entire government supports this decision. He emphasized that Israel will use all its strength to destroy Hamas and avenge the dark day forced upon the country and its citizens.
Hamas gunmen were still engaged in fighting Israeli security forces in southern Israel, 24 hours after the initial surprise assault. Gunmen attacked army bases and towns, resulting in the death of at least 600 people and the abduction of dozens more. Concerns grew for the safety of Israeli citizens, including children, who were kidnapped by Hamas. Efforts to secure their release were demanded, with appeals made to human rights organizations, leaders, governments, and people of conscience.
An Egyptian official reported that Hamas was holding several dozen Israeli hostages, but the full number of captives remained unclear. Hamas leaders expressed their preparedness for a protracted fight and their determination to secure the dignity and freedom of their people. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that additional aid could be granted to Israel in response to their requests, with the aim of providing everything needed to deal with attacks from Hamas.
In conclusion, Israel has declared war against Hamas, marking the first time since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. The situation escalated after Hamas launched a violent assault on Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and the kidnapping of Israeli civilians. Israel responded with airstrikes and vowed to destroy Hamas. Efforts are underway to secure the release of kidnapped citizens, and the U.S. has expressed willingness to provide further aid to Israel.