Israel formally declared war on Sunday and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas after the terrorist group that controls the Gaza Strip launched a surprise attack on the country from the air, land, and sea on Saturday. The White House confirmed that several U.S. citizens had died in the Hamas attacks. Lawmakers were told during an unclassified briefing that four Americans are “believed” to have been killed, with that number expected to rise. Israeli Marines captured a senior Hamas commander, while the UN Security Council held a meeting but took no immediate action on the U.S.’s demand for condemnation of the attacks. There is bipartisan unity in Congress to support Israel, according to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. New Zealand condemned the attack and recognized Israel’s right to defend itself. Thailand ordered its nationals to leave Israel following the deaths of 12 Thais, and Australia warned its citizens not to travel to Gaza or near its border. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered support to Israel, and Hamas claimed to be holding over 100 Israelis captive in Gaza. The U.S. House is preparing a resolution in support of Israel.