The IDF launched a massive counteroffensive on Saturday, hours after an early morning onslaught by the terrorist group Hamas from Gaza, which included 2000 rockets fired on Israel and multiple areas where terrorists raided and took over Israeli towns. The name of the Israeli offensive, which saw multiple air strikes in the Gaza Strip and a call-up of thousands of reserve troops for potential ground operations, was given the codename "Swords of Iron."
Video: Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warns Hamas / Credit: Shachar Worman
There were unconfirmed reports on some 30 Israelis captured, with Israel confirming that the mayor of the Shaar Hanegev Regional Council was killed in a gunbattle in one of the raids. Some four Israelis were killed in the southern town of Rahat due to rocket fire.
War in the South: Hamas' military wing leader, Mohammed Deif, spoke this morning (Saturday) and took responsibility for the rocket attacks launched toward Israel. Furthermore, the military wing of Islamic Jihad is participating in the offensive.
The Hamas has named the terror attack "Operation Al-Aqsa." Hamas Deputy Leader Salah al-Arouri stated that the "objective of the operation is to defend Al-Aqsa and release the prisoners." There is concern about potential abductions. Meanwhile, the IDF targeted Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
Deif also mentioned that this is a response to "crimes in Jerusalem, the confiscation of land, the expulsion of Palestinians from their homes, attacks on houses, and harassment of people in the West Bank, as well as the siege on Gaza." He added that "the era of occupation without consequences has ended."
In addition, top Hamas leaders abroad were seen in television images. "We thank Allah for this victory," said Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. His deputy, the terror strategist Saleh al-Arouri, was also documented alongside him.
