Operation Swords of Iron entered its 17th day on Sunday as Israel continued to strike Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in the north. The IDF engaged in intense airstrikes in the Gaza Strip overnight after destroying many targets of the Hamas terrorist organization during the weekend, while simultaneously engaging in another front in the north. IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari told the media on Sunday that "the IDF is ready for a ground maneuver; we will act once we are told to do so by the civilian echelon."
Here are the latest key developments:
Monday:
08:00: Arab reports: IDF operates in Gaza Strip.
06:22: IDF attacked a group of terrorists located in Lebanon last night, destroying their UAV launchpad. It is suspected that the group planned to launch UAVs into Israeli territory.
06:15: IDF attacked a group of terrorists located in Lebanon last night, destroying their UAV launchpad. It is suspected that the group planned to launch UAVs into Israeli territory.
06:00: Permission to release information: Staff Sergeant Tamir Barak, 19 years old, from Nir Eliyahu, an IDF combat engineer, fell in operational activity in the Kisufim area while operating against terrorists in the Gaza Strip.
05:00: The Palestinian news agency WAFA reports that more than 400 Palestinians were killed in overnight airstrikes by the Israeli Air Force (between Sunday and Monday). According to the agency, the attacks were carried out in Jabalia, Beit Lahia, Nuseirat, Al-Rimal, Al-Shati, Khan Yunis, and Rafah. However, it is important to note that in many cases, the numbers reported from Gaza are inflated and not proportional. For example, in the case of the hospital that was hit by a misfire from the Islamic Jihad, "hundreds of casualties" were initially reported, but it later turned out to be dozens.
04:14: Palestinians in Gaza report in the last minutes on Twitter that the attacks in Gaza have resumed, and according to them, it is the deadliest night so far in terms of the severity and scope of the attacks. They claim that "Israel is raining hell on Gaza."
03:10: According to a report from the Palestinian news agency WAFA to Reuters, combat aircraft attacked the vicinity of Al-Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals in Gaza using "a number of missiles." It should be noted that Israeli security officials have repeatedly claimed that Hamas uses Gaza's hospitals and their surroundings to hide terrorists, weapons, and command centers.
03:47: Hezbollah reports one casualty from IDF attacks last night (Reuters).
02:50: Leaders of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement last night (between Sunday and Monday): They support Israel, affirming its right to self-defense. The statement calls for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians in Gaza. The signatories of the statement include President Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
02:25: Residents in the Gaza periphery report that the extensive Israeli Air Force attack on Gaza continues: "The entire house is shaking from the explosions."
02:04: The IDF recently targeted military targets of the Hezbollah terrorist organization, including a military compound and an observation post that served the organization. In addition, IDF aircraft attacked a group of terrorists operating along the border and destroyed the weapons they possessed.
01:26: Palestinian reports indicate an attack near Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza.
01:16: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Iran's Foreign Minister spoke on the phone last night. According to their statement, they discussed "Israel's brutal crimes in Gaza."
01:03: The US chargé d'affaires in Egypt A. Elizabeth Jones stated that Americans have not abandoned their support for Palestinian aspirations for independence despite Israel's war against Hamas. She emphasized the commitment to a two-state solution and expressed that Palestinian civilians are not to blame and should not suffer because of Hamas' heinous terrorism.
00:55: The Prime Minister's Office denies the White House statement that, in Washington, claimed that President Biden and Netanyahu agreed that "critical humanitarian aid will continue to flow into the Strip." The Prime Minister's Office clarified that Israel "will not provide any humanitarian aid to Gaza and will prevent any unmonitored supply from others."
00:31: The White House: President Biden and Netanyahu discussed efforts to release all of the Israelis held by Hamas.
00:24: Hamas' information bureau head claimed in a conversation with Qatar's Al-Jazeera network that the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) withdrew from the northern Gaza Strip at Israel's request.
00:18: Al-Jazeera reports: 18 killed in an attack on two buildings in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza.
00:15: After hours of searches and evacuation of the mall, nothing was found. The police bomb squad and the K9 unit of the Central District carried out searches in the Renanim Mall in Ra'anana following a report that raised concerns about a suspicious object. After inspecting all the suspicious items at the mall, no threat was detected.
00:10: The US State Department urged American citizens who wish to leave Lebanon to do so now due to the unexpected security situation. The message comes in light of the escalation on the northern border, as the IDF targeted and eliminated six Hezbollah terrorist cells in the past day.
00:05: The Élysée Palace in France announced that French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Israel on Tuesday.
Sunday:
21:15
The IDF says Israel has confirmed that 212 people are being held hostage in Gaza, adding that Israeli strikes overnight killed dozens of Palestinian fighters, including the deputy chief of Hamas rocket forces. "For your own safety move southward, we will continue to attack in the area of Gaza City and increase attacks," IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari says.
On the northern front, Israel has been attacking fighters trying to fire missiles in across the Lebanese border and struck a site in Lebanon from where a missile was fired at an Israeli aircraft.
14:02: Sirens were activated in the Yiftah community in northern Israel.
Video: IDF forces destroy mosque were terrorists were holed up in Jenin / Credit: IDF Spokesperson's Unit
13:48: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet Monday with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, as well as the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Armenia.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov is expected to hold an "urgent discussion" with the Iranian foreign minister, but the subject of the discussion was not disclosed.
13:29: Sirens were activated in the Kibbutz Re'im in the Gaza envelope.
12:59: Rockets were fired towards the area of Beit Shemesh, Gaza border communities, and the Judean foothills.
12:40: Gal Hirsch, responsible for captives and missing persons, met today with a delegation from the Red Cross.
12:31: One of the suspects apprehended yesterday is a member of the Nukhba unit. Furthermore, the IDF estimates that Hamas has suffered thousands of casualties, and the comparison to ISIS has become a concern among its leadership.
12:25: Hezbollah launched a missile attack towards an outpost in the Sheba Farm area. According to reports, the IDF responded with artillery fire towards the source of the missile launch.
11:40: An unmanned aircraft that approached from Lebanon into Israeli territory was shot down by the Israeli Air Defense Forces. Additionally, the IDF targeted a group of terrorists that was detected while attempting to launch rockets towards the Zrifin area. The IDF responded with fire towards Lebanese territory, as well as in response to the launch of antitank missiles towards the Zifron area.
11:34: Sirens were activated in the Nahal Oz area.
11:13: Sirens were activated in Karm Shalom.
11:03: Sirens were activated in Ashkelon, Netiv HaAsara, Karmiya, Yad Mordechai, Givat, Mivkaim, and in the Roman Industrial Zone in Ashkelon.
10:50: IDF Spokesperson Colonel Daniel Hagari responded this morning to the elimination of the terrorists in the mosque in Jenin last night with an Israeli Air Force Jet, stating that this is a hallmark of Hamas: "They hide within civilian places, such as hospitals, mosques, and children's homes, hoping that they will be harmed, allowing them to launch a campaign against Israel. They use the civilian population and Islamic symbols as human shields."
"Since the start of the war, over 450 wanted Hamas individuals have been arrested in Judea and Samaria. We work with all security forces thanks to precise intelligence for counter-terrorism," he added, stating that the IDF does not cease its operations in the Gaza Strip: "With the help of the Israeli Air Force, dozens of Hamas terrorists have been killed in the city of Gaza, and we targeted Hamas targets for the next phase of the war."
Hagari called on the residents of the Gaza Strip to move south since the IDF is intensifying its attacks on Hamas targets in the north, while humanitarian conditions have been created in the south to strengthen the population there. "Head south; Hamas exploits you," he said. He also referred to the IDF's actions in Lebanon, stating that the army continues to target Hezbollah targets along the border.
He also mentioned that messages were conveyed to the families of 212 captives and 307 fallen IDF soldiers: "We tell the families of the captives that we will not rest until we bring every piece of operational and intelligence information that will bring them home. We are in contact with all the families."
10:47: The IDF eliminated a group of terrorists shortly after they attempted to launch anti-tank missiles towards the Har Dov area in Israel.
Video: IDF takes out Hezbollah squad that engaged in anti-tank fire / Credit: IDF
10:42: Six ships of the Chinese Navy anchored today in Kuwait as part of their tour in the region. This marks a relatively significant presence of the Chinese Navy in the Middle East, possibly related to the heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas and the increased presence of the US Navy in the area.
10:34: 46 suspects, including 7 Hamas terrorists, were arrested last night in the activities of the IDF and Shin Bet in Judea and Samaria. In addition, a printing press used by terrorist organizations was closed in Hebron.
10:21: Reports from Iraq indicate missile launches towards the Ain al-Asad base, where American forces are stationed.
10:16: Sirens were activated in Ashkelon and Karmiya in the Gaza envelope.
10:11: Sirens were activated in Bat Yam, Holon, and Rishon LeZion. No injuries or fatalities have been reported.
08:45: Two Hamas terrorists were killed along with other terrorists near the border on Saturday night. According to the IDF spokesperson, fighter jets targeted dozens of Hamas terror targets in the Gaza Strip, with some located in multi-story buildings. Throughout the day, dozens of tunnel openings, weapon depots, command centers, and operational Hamas terrorists were destroyed. Among the terrorist targets attacked were mosques used by Hamas.
08:24: The IDF eliminated a group of terrorists who attempted to launch anti-tank missiles towards Israel in the Avivim area on the Lebanon border. The terrorists were killed before they could carry out the launch.
06:15: Reports from Syria: Israel attacked the airports in Aleppo and Damascus.
02:55: In a joint operation by the IDF and the Shin Bet, an underground terror infrastructure at the Al-Antari Mosque in Jenin was targeted. Inside the mosque, there was a terrorist cell belonging to the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad organizations, planning an imminent attack. Recent intelligence indicated that the terrorists were planning to carry out a major attack soon. The mosque served as the command center for planning these attacks and as a launchpad for their execution.
02:41: In Jenin, there are reports of two casualties at the Al-Nasser Mosque. According to Palestinian reports, an airstrike was carried out by IDF aircraft.
01:15: Al-Jazeera reported from the Hamas prisoners' affairs official that "the detained civilians are not bargaining chips, and when the suitable conditions on the ground are met, they will be released. The Israeli leaders' rejection of the recent initiative shows they are not interested in the return of their detained civilians."
02:20: Palestinian reports of an explosion in a mosque in Jenin. Several people were injured. The background of the explosion is still unclear.
01:10: Red alert in the Gaza periphery.
00:45: Palestinian reports from Gaza: IDF carried out simultaneous, extensive attacks on 5 locations: Khan Yunis, Jabalia, Rafah, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahia.
00:20: Rocket launches on Gaza border communities
00:18: An IDF spokesperson stated that the IDF targeted Hezbollah's assets, including a military compound from which a ground-to-air missile was fired towards an IDF drone in the Lebanese border area. The missile was intercepted by Israel, and the drone completed its mission successfully without damage.
00:16: Cleared for publication: An IDF soldier was seriously injured due to a missile fired by Hezbollah at the northern border with Lebanon.
Saturday:
19:57: Defense Minister Yoav Galant to members of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee: "It's impossible to receive support from the Americans and say 'no' to their demands."
19:56: Rocket sirens in Ashkelon and the Gaza envelope.
Video: President Joe Bide speaks with Natalie and Judith Ra'anan / Credit: Twitter/@POTUS
19:53: Current guidelines from the Home Front Command regarding studies:
Home Front Command guidelines for studies, Photo: N/A 19:48: The government meeting scheduled for tomorrow is canceled.
19:20: Opposition leader Yair Lapid in a statement on the strategy to end the conflict: "All the diplomatic moves that will come after the war need to ensure that the affected villages can return to live in a sense of security, without fear of terrorism or further rounds of fighting. They need to know that their communities are safe, and their strengthening is a top national priority. Ending the conflict cannot stop at a military victory. It needs to bring about a change in reality, under the following conditions: the disarmament of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Gaza, the return of the captives to their homes, Gaza being governed by a different Palestinian leadership with the assistance of the Arab community, the neutralization of Hezbollah's empowerment and its removal from the border, and, above all, the recovery and strengthening of the community, both physically and socially, in the communities along the conflict's front lines."
19:05: The leaders' convoy to Israel continues: Italian prime minister is expected to arrive in the country tonight for a meeting with Netanyahu. French President Macron is also expected to visit the country later this week.
18:35: IDF sources claim: "The events in Lebanon are heading towards escalation; last night a terrorist who tried to return to Gaza was killed." Infrastructure of Hezbollah in Beirut and observation and firing positions were targeted during the night. The sources state that the price Hezbollah is paying in the fighting indicates that there is no decision yet to engage in a full-scale war. In the IDF, it is clear that the central arena is Gaza, and despite the provocations in the north, the events on the Lebanese border need to be managed prudently.
18:15: Egyptian channel Al-Raed reports the killing of Talal Al-Hindi, a senior member of Hamas.
18:00: Commander of the Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar, assesses the damage Hamas has suffered from the attacks by the Air Force units and squadrons, preparing for the next stage of the war: "So far, we have hit Hamas with thousands of aerial strikes, thousands of precise hits. I would not want to switch with any enemy and face a division or brigade of the Israel Defense Forces. Hamas is not starting from scratch now; nevertheless, we treat it with full weight and address it as if it has not been harmed at all. We will come with full force and strike them."
17:57: The military wing of Hamas claims to have launched a guided missile at an Israeli tank from east of Khan Yunis.
17:52: Biden releases footage of him talking to the captives, Judy and Natalie, American residents who were released yesterday by Hamas.
17:50: Hamas: "What happened on October 7 will be nothing compared to what will happen if Israel decides to enter Gaza on the ground."
17:43: Terrorists fired an anti-tank missile towards an Israeli vehicle near Rosh HaNikra; IDF forces respond with fire towards the source of the shooting. Hezbollah announced that one of its terrorists was killed in southern Lebanon.
17:35: The War Cabinet meeting led by the prime minister in the Southern Command has concluded. Outside the location, a protest erupted against Netanyahu, with the demonstrators calling for his resignation. Protesters shouted to the police, "Take him to jail! He knew! He did nothing! Take him to jail!"
17:30: The police are currently dealing with several incidents in the Tel Aviv district, where rocket fragments fell without causing damage or injuries. Bomb disposal experts and Tel Aviv district police are now isolating the fall areas and scanning for additional remnants to eliminate further risk to the public. Among other things, a fragment fell from the last rocket volley on the coastline.
17:00: Evacuation in the north is expanding.
16:40: International pressure is mounting: 10,000 demonstrators gathered for a pro-Palestinian protest in support of the residents of Gaza in central London.
16:25: Blinken says "A delegation is delivering humanitarian aid to those in desperate need in the Gaza Strip, which is facing a humanitarian crisis. We thank our partners in Egypt, Israel, and the United Nations for facilitating the passage of life-saving supplies."
16:20: Cyber National Unit and the Ministry of Health announce that as part of their efforts to boost the resilience of hospitals to attacks, they are taking various actions and continue to monitor for any suspicious activity. At this stage, there is no impact on the functioning of hospitals, and service to patients continues as usual.
16:14: Heavy shelling on southern settlements and Gush Dan. Sirens were heard in Tel Aviv, Rishon LeZion, and Ashdod.
15:47: Two men (foreign workers from Thailand) in their mid-30s were injured by shrapnel in the Galilee region. One is in moderate condition with chest injuries, and the other is in light condition with injuries to the limbs.
15:24: The IDF attacked two terrorist positions at the Lebanon border. An earlier rocket fired by terrorists towards Mount Dov landed in an open area. IDF surveillance identified the position, and remotely piloted aircraft attacked it. Additionally, terrorists recently fired an anti-tank missile towards the Margaliot area. IDF forces responded with fire towards the sources of the attack.
15:29: Firing of an anti-tank missile towards Hanita, the IDF responded with fire.
15:08: Anti-tank missile fired towards a position in the Margaliot area, IDF forces responded with fire. A foreign worker was seriously injured.
14:45: The commander of the Nahal Brigade, Colonel Yair Tzukerman, who took over from Colonel Yehonatan Steinberg, who was killed on Saturday, October 7, 2023, stated: "The Nahal Brigade has gathered its forces, trained in recent days, and is ready for any mission. We are looking ahead, looking into the eyes of the enemy, and we tell him, 'No more.' With Israel alive, we, the representatives of this generation, will prevail."
Friday:
19:50 Hamas releases two American hostages. Reuters reports: Hamas has released two US hostages - a mother and her daughter - "for humanitarian reasons" in response to Qatari mediation efforts, Hamas armed wing spokesman Abu Ubaida said in a statement on Friday. Israel confirmed that Hamas has released two hostages. The source of the Israeli confirmation was not disclosed and it was not immediately clear where the hostages were released to.
Video: 'It's a massacre' - Israeli kibbutz highlights destruction of Hamas attack / Credit: Reuters
14:31: Additional details on the security event: A terrorist near the town of Margaliot fired towards a civilian vehicle and fled. He was armed with a firearm, according to the person in the vehicle.
14:24: Another time, alarms in the Judean Plain region: Nof Ilan, Neshon, and Nes Harim.
13:54: IDF spokesperson: Three terrorists from the Hezbollah terrorist organization were identified a short while ago near the Lebanon border. IDF aircraft in the area targeted the terrorists.
13:46: Defense Minister Gantz spoke at the Foreign Affairs and Security Committee: "We are in a no-choice war. October 7 is the day we began the process of eradicating Hamas. This is a three-stage operation: We are currently in the first stage, which involves military action, with the ultimate goal of eliminating active members and damaging infrastructure for the purpose of deterrence and Hamas destruction. The second stage will be an intermediate stage of continued combat with lower intensity and the elimination of pockets of resistance. The third stage will involve establishing a new security regime in the Gaza Strip, removing Israel's responsibility for life in the area, and creating a new security reality for Israeli citizens and those in the surrounding areas."
13:00: Alarms were heard in the Judean foothills region. No information is available about casualties or injuries.
12:50: The security event in Margaliot: Following the initial report, shots were fired at an IDF unit operating in the Margaliot settlement area. The soldiers returned fire. IDF forces are currently conducting a search for suspects in another area.
12:40: IDF: "Shots were fired towards the Margaliot settlement in the north. An attempted infiltration from Lebanon is being examined."
12:25: Northern alert: Due to a security event in Margaliot, all routes in the Ramim Range are closed. Residents of Manara, Mesheq HaEm, and Kfar Giladi are requested to enter protected areas until further notice.
13:00: Sirens were heard in the Judean foothills. No casualties or injuries are known at this time.
12:50: The security incident in Margaliot on the northern border. Following the initial report, shots were fired toward an IDF force operating in the Margaliot area, and the soldiers returned fire. IDF forces are currently searching for suspects in another area.
12:40: IDF Statement: "Shots were fired towards the Margaliot settlement in the north, and an attempted infiltration from Lebanon is being investigated."
12:25: Northern Alert: Due to a security incident in Margaliot, all routes in the Ramim Ridge are closed. Residents of Menara, Mesheq Aba, and Kfar Giladi are requested to enter protected areas until further notice.
12:15: On Sunday, the education system in Tel Aviv-Jaffa will restart. Sheltered kindergartens will operate from 8:00 to 14:00. Kindergartens that are not protected will be moved to secure locations and will operate on a half-day schedule to accommodate as many kindergartens and parents as possible.
12:05: Sirens in Ashkelon and Ashdod.
11:17: Sirens in Kisufim.
11:15: IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says US warship intercepting a number of missiles and drones launched from Yemen on Thursday, possibly toward Israel, "points to the defense capabilities of the US, and their ability to build a picture of the region," as well as the coordination.
10:51: Gaza periphery targeted by more rocket fire.
10:05: Government votes to shut down Al Jazeera's Israel bureau for endangering national security.
10:02: Rocket fire renewed toward south after a relatively quiet night.
09:04: IDF Spokesperson: UAV eliminated a terrorist in Lebanon last night and targeted several military targets of Hezbollah in response to rocket fire launched Thursday towards Israeli territory, which was claimed by Hamas.
08:30: Joint statement by IDF Spokesperson and Shin Bet spokesperson: The IDF carried out over a hundred operational targets in the Gaza Strip overnight. Among those killed was a terrorist who participated in the murderous infiltration near the Gaza border. Additionally, a cell that was planning to launch missiles toward aircraft was attacked.
Video: IDF strikes against terrorists in Gaza on Oct. 20, 2023 / Video: IDF Spokesperson
07:45: The Ministry of Defense and the IDF spokesperson announced the implementation of a plan to evacuate the residents of Kiryat Shmona to hotels, funded by the state. The plan was approved by Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant. The Northern Command updated the city's mayor shortly before the decision.
06:15: Security forces operated last night in the village of Urif in Samaria to demolish the home of one of the terrorists who carried out the shooting attack at the Alon Gas Station, where four civilians were killed. The terrorist is affiliated with the Hamas terrorist organization.
03:24: President Biden delivered a speech from the Oval Office, stating "The terrorist group Hamas unleashed pure unadulterated evil in the world, but sadly, the Jewish people know perhaps better than anyone that there is no limit to the depravity of people when they want to inflict pain on others." He also said, "Hamas and Putin represent different threats, but they share this in common. They both want to completely annihilate a neighboring democracy."
02:50: CNN sources: The Rafah crossing is not expected to open for the transfer of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip on Friday. A source involved in the discussions said, "I wouldn't bet on these trucks passing tomorrow." American officials said the delay is likely to be brief.
02:41: In Gaza, reports of airstrikes and gunfire towards the eastern part of the refugee camp of Al-Bureij, located in the center of the Gaza Strip.
02:30: In recent hours, the discussion in the War Cabinet has concluded.
01:32: Reuters reported from Lebanon tonight that a communication officer was killed in the south of the country by IDF gunfire.
01:00: Thousands gathered in a massive demonstration in Times Square, New York, calling for the release of the captives.
Thursday:
18:10 Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reveals the government's wartime economic plan.
17:45: Rocket hits building in Kiryat Shemona. No serious injuries are reported.
17:34: IDF troops respond with artillery fire after 20 rockets are fired from Lebanon.
17:32: Hezbollah claims responsibility for rocket fire from Lebanon.
16:32: Hamas confirms security chief Jihad Mahisan has been eliminated by the IDF.
16:22: Hamas calls for mobilization on Friday to stop the "aggression against the Gaza Strip and resistance to the deportation of its residents."
16:21: Sderot municipality says two rockets fall in the city, one hitting a vehicle and another in an open residential area. No injuries are reported.
16:10: State Department warns US citizens in Lebanon to leave amid fear of second front opening in Israel-Hamas war.
16:05: Air raid sirens sound in northern Israel, close to the border with Lebanon.
15:00: Defense Minister Yoav Gallant visits the south and meets with soldiers serving on the Gaza border.
Speaking to the press at a military assembly ground, he says, "I am responsible for the defense establishment. I was responsible for it in the last two weeks, even in the difficult incidents, and I am responsible for bringing it to victory in the battle."
14:45: IDF drone strikes a cell of Palestinian terrorists in the Nur Shams refugee camp
14:40: Sirens blare in major cities in central Israel, including Tel Aviv, shortly after a massive barrage fired on southern towns. in the following places: Gaza Village, Mimon Village, Tushiya, Sharsheret, Shiboelim, Ma'agalim, Giv'olim, Melilot, Tekuma, Yizre'am Farm, Beit Hagei, Sa'ad, Zemrat, Shuva, and Netivot.
13:39: Exchange of fire continues between law enforcement and terrorists in the Tulkarm area. An attack helicopter is operating in the area.
13:28: During a joint press briefing held by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, Netanyahu said, "80 years ago, you fought the Nazis, and the Western world stood by your side in your darkest hour. Now, this is our darkest hour. This is our fight, and we need you and other countries to stand with us."
Sunak, for his part, said, "This country has experienced events in the past two weeks that no country should go through. I know you take every measure to avoid harming innocent civilians and act only against terrorists. We stand with Israel in these difficult times."
13:24: A 19-year-old resident of Furadis was arrested on suspicion of publishing messages of solidarity and support for Hamas on social media. His arrest has been extended until Sunday.
13:21: Report: Jihad Mhaisen, the commander of Hamas' police was killed in an attack at his home in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood in Gaza.
13:17: An exchange of fire is currently taking place between security forces and armed terrorists in the Nour al-Shams refugee camp in the West Bank
12:47: After a quiet morning, sirens were heard in Ashkelon and the Gaza area due to incoming rockets.
12:37: More than 80 wanted individuals, including 63 Hamas terrorists, were arrested overnight on suspicion of involvement in terrorist activities, as part of a large-scale operation by security forces in Judea and Samaria. Numerous weapons were also seized during the operation.
11:49: According to an IDF spokesperson, two anti-tank missiles were fired towards the Menara area in the Upper Galilee. The IDF responded with artillery fire towards the source of the attack.
No casualties have been reported, but damage was caused to a house in Menara. Residents of Menara and Misgav were instructed to take cover in protected areas, and roads leading to the Hula Valley were closed.
11:45: President Herzog met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, and said, "We are dealing with one of the worst terrorist organizations in the world. I know that in modern democracies like ours and yours, you cannot intervene in everything, but since the BBC has connections to the government and is the UK's voice worldwide, there should be an outcry for Hamas to be defined as a terrorist organization there. What else do they need to see to understand the magnitude of the issue?"
13:00 Rocket fire from Gaza on southern communities resumes.
11:49: IDF says anti-tank missiles fired from northern border on the Kibbutz Manara area. IDF responded with artillery shells.
10:30: IDF says 203 families whose loved ones are believed to have been kidnapped to Gaza have been notified. Some of the information has been less reliable, but all information has been transmitted to them.
9:11: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak lands in Israel for a solidarity visit. "Every civilian death is a tragedy. And too many lives have been lost following Hamas' horrific act of terror," Sunak said in a statement ahead of his visit.
07:41: The IDF destroyed terror targets in the Gaza Strip and assassinated key figures and activists from various terrorist organizations, including the head of the military wing of the "People's Resistance Committees" in Rafah.
Video: IDF spokesperson release incriminating recording showing PIJ fired rocket on hospital / Credit: IDF
07:03: The IDF is operating in the area of Tulkarm to target terror network, with reports of several casualties among the Palestinian combatants.
06:00: The IDF publishes the names of three more soldiers who fell on October 7, and their families have been notified.
Video: IDF attacks targets in Lebanon / Credit: IDF
03:30: An IDF spokesperson releases footage of the attacks carried out in Lebanon. One of the targeted sites was an observation post facing the sea from which a rocket was fired at southern Israel yesterday. The attacks were in response to recent rocket fire towards Israel.
Video: President Biden arrives in Israel on Oct. 18, 2023 / Credit: Reuters
02:00: Iranian General Ali Fadavi is quoted as saying that the mass killing of Hamas in Israel on October 7 led to the collapse of normalization talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
"The normalization of Saudi Arabia and some Arab countries (with Israel) was a conspiracy of the United States," said the Deputy Commander of the Revolutionary Guards in a statement published by the Fars news agency, "they worked on it for several years and reached a certain point. 'Sword of al-Quds' (the name of Hamas' operation) ruined it. And now the countries have taken positions against the Zionist regime."
Video: PM Netanyahu's address to the nation / Credit: GPO/X/IsraeliPM
00:30: The IDF targets Hezbollah terrorist organization sites in Lebanon.
00:25: The bodies of Carmela (80) Dan and her granddaughter Noa (13) were found. Carmela was abducted to Gaza with her granddaughter, who is on the autism spectrum, and two other grandchildren, Sahar and Erez Kalderon, aged 16 and 11, who were together with their father Ofer (53). Yesterday was Carmela's 80th birthday.
00:03: The IDF destroyed launchers and eliminated a rocket launcher in southern Syria before it was fired towards Israel.
00:00: Arab media reports a mass riot in Tunisia that broke into a synagogue in the city of El Hamma last night. Apparently, the building was abandoned, and there were no casualties in the incident. According to reports, the mob vandalized the building, set it on fire, and raised the Palestinian flag.
Wednesday:
16:30: IDF provides a recording showing that a failed rocket launch by terrorists was responsible for the blast at the hospital in Gaza on Wednesday. The recording was between Hamas terrorists who blame the PIJ for the incident.
11:20: "Welcome Mr. President; God Bless you for protecting the nation of Israel," Herzog says.
11:15: The US leader is embraced by PM Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog on the tarmac. The lightning tour comes 12 days after brutal massacre by Hamas. Rocket sirens in Gaza border communities blare after Air Force One touches down.
Video: Miya Shem describes her ordeal in Hamas captivity in Hamas-released footage
11:00: Biden arrives for solidarity visit, to attend War cabinet
Tuesday
22:00 IDF provides proof, as do Arab news channels, that failed rocket by Palestinian Islamic Jihad caused the explosion at the hospital.
20:30: Gazan authorities claim at least 500 casualties in Israeli air strike on hospital.
19:05: Magen David Adom (MDA) spokesperson: Following the recent sirens, MDA paramedics and emergency personnel are going out to search areas where casualties have been reported. At this point, there are no known casualties, although a direct hit was reported in Sderot.
19:00: Sirens in the Gush Dan area, Judean foothills, Ashdod, and many areas in the Gaza border.
18:55: IDF spokesperson: The IDF is currently targeting Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
18:55: Finance Minister Zeev Elkin instructs to recognize the families of captives and missing persons as victims of enemy activities to provide them with full rights, benefits, and psychological support immediately.
Video: IDF seized hundreds of Hamas weapons in the Gaza periphery / Credit: Shmuel Buchris
18:50: Iranian sources report that the Biden administration sent a message to Tehran's representative at the UN, demanding a de-escalation approach regarding the situation in Gaza. The message cautioned Iran against direct involvement that could trigger direct US military action.
Video: President Biden arrives in Israel on Oct. 18, 2023 / Credit: Reuters
18:36: The Homefront Command presents current restrictions on educational activities starting tomorrow.
18:32: Transportation Minister Miri Regev, in an Israel Railways status update: "We are entering an emergency routine that may last for some time. Israel Railways has a critical role in times of conflict and national effort. Railway employees are prepared and mobilized for any scenario from day one of the war, and they do it in the most professional and best way possible. Give the workers who need it full support and assistance, and with God's help, we will prevail."
18:28: Hamas sources report the death of Naseem Yassin, the nephew of the organization's founder Ahmed Yassin. It is not explicitly stated if he was killed during an attack. Hamas also claimed responsibility for the rocket fire towards Rishon LeZion and Holon.
18:20: Hezbollah reports the death of a fifth terrorists during today's clashes.
18:15: Olena Zelenska, the First Lady of Ukraine, expressed condolences to the victims of the Hamas terror attack in a phone conversation with Israel's First Lady, Michal Herzog.
18:12: IDF spokesperson releases the names of three additional casualties.
18:05: Red alert sirens and rocket fire in Holon and Rishon LeZion. Currently, no damage or casualties are reported.
17:45: Palestinian media reports approximately 3,000 casualties and over 12,500 injuries in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, there are reports of 61 casualties and more than 1,250 injuries among Palestinians in the West Bank.
17:17: Hezbollah announces the death of two more of their terrorists in clashes with the IDF today.
17:13: In Gaza, reports indicate the death of Hamas Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh's nephews during an IDF attack on their house. Hamas has also claimed responsibility for rocket fire towards Rishon LeZion and Holon.
17:03: IDF spokesperson: Following the initial report, two rocket launches were identified from Lebanese territory into Israel. One was successfully intercepted, while another fell in open territory.
16:39: Sirens in Beit Hillel and Kiryat Shemona Hezbollah announces the deaths of two more of their terrorists in clashes with the IDF.
16:26: Hamas terrorist organization reports that a high-ranking member of its military wing, Ayman Nofel, was killed by the IDF in central Gaza.
16:20: Education Minister Yoav Kisch visited a school in Tel Aviv as part of preparations for a gradual and safe return to studies.
16:08: Head of the IDF Intelligence Directorate Aharon Haliva admits to intelligence failure in handling the recent conflict. He acknowledges the full responsibility for this failure and the need for a deep investigation into the matter.
12:49 French President Emmanuel Macron to make wartime solidarity visit to Israel against the backdrop of the kidnapping of dual Israeli-French citizen Miya Shem by Hamas.
11:15 IDF confirms it is striking the area in Lebanon where anti-tank missiles were shot at northern Israel.
10:52 Three reportedly wounded in Metula, including 1 seriously, by anti-tank missile fired from Lebanon.
9:30: Rocket barrage on southern town, after 11 hours of calm.
09:27: Hospital directors received guidance from the Health Ministry's CEO to stockpile medications and supplies sufficient for four months, as well as "to prepare for an increase in medical activity related to complex injuries and trauma." They also mentioned that 3,500-4,000 foreign doctors are volunteering in Israel.
09:06: 80% of Sderot's residents and towns in areas 0-4 kilometers from the Gaza border have evacuated.
08:48: In the north, there was a morning attempt to infiltrate by a terrorist unit that tried to place an explosive device near the fence. Four infiltrators were attacked from the air.
Hamas is a genocidal terrorist organization.
We will eliminate Hamas. pic.twitter.com/pjz6mC2FYl
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 16, 2023
08:07: Reuters reports that trucks with aid equipment are moving from Egypt towards the Rafah border crossing in southern Gaza. It is unclear whether the crossing will indeed open.
07:15: During the last 24 hours, the IDF targeted over 200 military assets belonging to terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip.
06:17: The head of the Hamas Shura Council in Gaza was officially confirmed to be killed.
06:15: Head of the US Central Command General Michael E. Kurilla arrived in Israel to meet with senior IDF officials and security leaders, expressing the US commitment to assist in security and prevent other actors in the region from intervening in the conflict.
05:55: The White House officially announced that President Biden will visit Israel tomorrow and later fly to Jordan.
04:05: The IDF targeted military assets used for terrorist activities and Hezbollah's targets in southern Lebanon in response to rocket fire towards Israel yesterday.
03:45: Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, also announced her solidarity visit to Israel.
02:00: The Hamas Health Ministry in Gaza reports 2,837 casualties and 12,000 injuries in the Gaza attacks so far.
01:50: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing US commitment to accelerate security assistance and prevent escalation.
01:42: Palestinian sources report the arrest of Hamas figure Isa al-Ghazari in Hebron, who formerly served as a local authority official.
01:35: The IDF struck military targets of the terrorist organization Hezbollah in Lebanese territory.
01:20: Palestinian reports indicate attacks against a house in the Shati refugee camp west of Gaza City and in the city of Dir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, with casualties reported.
00:55: The IDF and the Shin Bet confirmed that the head of Hamas's Shura Council in Gaza was killed.
00:50: Iranian ambassador in Lebanon tweeted a warning about Israel's actions and urged others to take it seriously.
00:40: CNN reports that a US Marine force is on its way to the Israeli region. The source of the information comes from a high-ranking US security official familiar with the matter.
00:15: Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin and said, "Israel will not stop until Hamas is destroyed."
Monday
22:40: Testimony from captivity: Hamas has published a video of one of the captives, Miya Shem, a 21-year-old from Shoham, during which she describes her captivity in Gaza. Miya holds French citizenship, which may help her be released from captivity. She said she was treated for her injury and says "the most important thing is to bring me home."
22:05: The spokesperson of the military wing of Hamas, Abu Ubaida, said, "The enemy's threat of a ground invasion does not scare us. Our initial estimate is that the number of prisoners from the occupation in our hands is between 200-250. We have a group of various citizenship holders, those who visited us, and we are working to protect them. We will act to release the foreign prisoners in our possession if the necessary conditions are met."
21:45: Rocket fire towards central settlements: Tel Aviv, Holon, Rishon LeZion, and other places in central Israel. No reports of casualties.
21:30: Arab media reports that the Turkish foreign minister talked with the leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, and discussed the release of the captives held by the organization.
20:43: Reports from Syria: Explosions were heard in the Damascus area.
20:26: After a conversation between Netanyahu and Putin, the Kremlin stated that the Russian President "expressed condolences to the families of the victims, emphasized that any action against civilians is unacceptable, and held talks with the leaders of the region, expressing Russia's readiness to assist in ceasefire efforts."
20:33: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, for the second time since the outbreak of the conflict. Blinken also attended the special emergency War Cabinet meeting in Tel Aviv.
20:12: An IDF spokesperson addressed the issue of friction in the north and said that the main effort of the IDF is in the south. Additionally, he mentioned that IDF forces are operating on both sides of the border to locate missing individuals.
18:48: A survey by the German newspaper Bild shows that the majority of the German public supports Israel's right to defend itself. According to the survey conducted between October 13 and 16, 70% of Germans believe that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas using military force. Only 11% believe that Israel does not have this right.
18:32: The Shin Bet security agency chief, Ronen Bar, wrote in a letter to the organization's employees: "Despite a series of actions we took, unfortunately, on Saturday, we failed to create a sufficient alert that would enable the interception of the attack. As the head of the organization, the responsibility is mine. There will be time for investigations. For now, we fight."
18:11: Russian news agency TASS reports that Russian President Putin and Palestinian Authority leader Abbas had a telephone conversation. It was reported that Abbas praised Russian support for Palestinian rights.
18:07: IDF Spokesperson: There has been light machine gun fire towards several IDF positions along the Lebanon border in the last half-hour. Additionally, an anti-tank missile was fired at an IDF tank a short while ago, with no injuries to our forces. In response, the IDF is striking the sources of the fire with artillery.
11:00 IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari says 199 families notified that their loved ones were confirmed to have been abducted to Gaza.
10:30 Israel denies humanitarian ceasefire reached with Egyptian and US mediation to allow aid to enter Gaza.
9:00 IDF says northern border area to be evacuated from residents in strip extending to 2 km (1.2 miles). This includes 28 towns along the border. The reason is the ongoing attacks by terrorist group Hezbollah.
8:30: Reports on humanitarian ceasefire that would take place on Monday involving the reopening of the Rafah crossing for aid and exit of foreign nationals.
8:15: The Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, which is close to Hamas and Hezbollah, reported this morning on a US effort in collaboration with Egypt and Qatar to propose a deal for the release of all civilian captives held by terrorist organizations in Gaza. According to the report, the initiative also includes American captives and opening the way for the release of all foreigners from the Gaza Strip in exchange for humanitarian aid.
According to the report, the Americans presented the offer, and the Qataris returned with a list of demands from Hamas, such as providing details about the captives and a statement that anyone who used to be a soldier would be included in the prisoner release deal in exchange for prisoners in Israel. Additionally, Hamas denied having a comprehensive list of all captives, claiming they were held by several factions (terrorist organizations), and they demanded a long-term ceasefire in order to gather information.
07:23: A senior Biden administration official confirmed that the President is considering a visit to the region this week after PM Netanyahu officially extended an invitation on Sunday.
7:00 Biden says, "I think it'd be a big mistake," regarding possible Gaza occupation. "Look, what happened in Gaza, in my view, is Hamas and the extreme elements of Hamas don't represent all the Palestinian people. And I think that it would be a mistake for Israel to occupy Gaza again." But "taking out the extremists" there, he stressed, "is a necessary requirement."
06:01: Permission was granted to release the names of two more fallen IDF soldiers, whose families have been informed: Lieutenant Amitai Tzvi Granot, 24 years old, from Tel Aviv, serving as a squad commander in the 75th Battalion 75. He was killed during operational activity due to a close-range anti-tank missile near the Nurit outpost. Sergeant Daniel Rashed, 19 years old, from Shfaram, serving in the 13th Battalion, Golani Division.
03:31: The National Security Council approved regulations that ease the eligibility requirements for obtaining a firearm license.
03:00: Palestinian sources report extensive Israeli attacks throughout the Gaza Strip, including on the "Civil Defense HQ" of Hamas in Saja'iyah, east of Gaza City. Hamas' Interior Ministry in Gaza claims that during the Israeli attacks against the "Civil Defense" personnel last night, several members of the "Civil Defense" apparatus were killed in a direct airstrike in Gaza.
02:30: IDF forces targeted military sites belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization in Lebanon a short while ago in response to yesterday's (Sunday) rocket fire toward Israeli territory.
Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the Palestinian Authority, initially condemned Hamas' terrorist attack on settlements in the vicinity but shortly thereafter retracted his statement. His initial statement read: "Hamas' policy and actions do not represent the Palestinian people. The policy, plans, and decisions of the Palestinian Authority are the sole representation of the Palestinian people."
A few hours later, a new version of his statement was issued, in which he stated: "He emphasized that the policy, plans, and decisions of the Palestinian Authority represent the Palestinian people as their exclusive representative, not the policy of any other organization."
Abu Mazen made these statements during a conversation with the President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro.
00:20: The American network NBC reports that a Rafah crossing will open today (Monday) for the exit of foreign nationals from the Gaza Strip and for the entry of humanitarian aid.
Sunday
18:28: Military says it has seized hundreds of Hamas weapons in the Gaza periphery
17:25: IDF says combat helicopters hitting targets in Lebanon amid border clashes
17:22: IDF rules out possibility of infiltration in Metula
17:13 Metula residents asked to remain in shelters until further notice due to security event.
16:37: Israel reportedly restores water supply to the Gaza Strip.
16:15: Nine rockets are launched at Israel from Lebanon.
16:00: Deadline for northern Gaza residents to evacuate expired.
15:27: IDF spokesperson: A report of rocket fire towards an IDF force on the Lebanon border has been received. Details are under investigation.
15:15: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with representatives of the families of captive and missing soldiers at the IDF Central Command base in Ramla Sunday afternoon.
15:05: Government convenes in new emergency format, with former Opposition members participating for the first time. Meeting was held in the Kirya, the IDF headquarters. PM tells ministers that IDF will "take apart" Hamas in its crushing response to the deadly October 7 atrocities.
15:00: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will arrive in Israel Monday for a visit that will last a few hours. Blinken expressed support for Israel during his visit last Thursday and has since held discussions in Arab countries. He is expected to return to Israel for a few hours tomorrow and then likely depart for the United States.
14:45: The President of Israel visited Kibbutz Be'eri and inaugurated the renovated printing factory: "It was a paradise that turned into hell. From here, we say to the whole world – nothing will break us. We have a moral and national duty to restore Be'eri to being a paradise."
14:35: Rocket fire towards a position on the Lebanon border, residents of the area have been instructed to enter shelters.
14:15: Hezbollah parliament member Fadlallah says, "Our equation is that every Israeli attack will be met with a response. The central axis of the conflict now is the Gaza Strip, and the confrontation in Lebanon is based on Hezbollah's national defense project. What is happening on the borders now is part of the resistance's defense work from day one."
14:03: According to Magen David Adom (MDA) reports, there are no casualties reported at the moment from the rocket fire toward central Israel.
13:45: Rocket fire towards the Gush Dan and Sharon regions.
13:00: Sirens in the Eshkol region. The additional evacuation window that the IDF provided to residents of the northern Gaza Strip has been closed.
12:41: The National Insurance Institute will automatically transfer thousands of shekels as an advance payment to all war wounded.
11:31: The IDF is targeting Hezbollah military targets in response to anti-tank missile attacks.
11:26: Direct missile hit on a house in Sderot, no casualties reported.
11:25: Documentation of a conversation between an intelligence officer from Unit 504 and a Gaza resident from Jabalia. In the conversation, the Gazan admits that Hamas prohibited the people at the shelter where he is staying from taking personal belongings and car keys.
11:20: Concern about the infiltration of terrorists into Metula. A third anti-tank missile was fired in the past few hours in the area.
11:15: Sirens in Sderot, Ibim, and Nir Am.
11:07: Hezbollah officially claimed responsibility for the missile firing towards Shetula and stated that it was an anti-tank missile, which killed one and injured three.
10:59: IDF spokesperson: "In Gaza, we are evacuating the population; over a hundred thousand have already left. Hamas is actively preventing civilian evacuation. The captives are a top priority."
10:44: Following the situation assessment and the shooting incident in the north, it was decided to isolate the area up to four kilometers from the northern border with Lebanon. The IDF clarifies that entry into the area is strictly forbidden and asks the public to be alert and not to enter the area. There may also be disruptions to GPS systems in the region.
10:35: Residents of Kiryat Shemona and the surrounding area are required to enter protected spaces due to the anti-tank missile fire towards IDF positions in the area. Forces are responding with artillery fire.
10:21: A terrorist was killed in the Nir Am area. Return to routine in Sderot and the surrounding areas.
10:13: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated this morning that he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and that the meeting was very productive.
9:50 Reports of anti-tank missiles fired on northern border, injuring one critically and two others. The incident occurred in the Western Galilee Moshav of Shtula.
09:02: IDF GOC Southern Command says, "I see the strength, I see the professionalism, I see the gravity of the situation. We are in a war, not a simple one, but with your help, with the help of spirit, dedication, and values, we will continue to strike the enemy with determined blows, as we have been doing, and we will prevail!"
09:00: The Gaza Health Ministry reports 2,329 killed and 9,042 wounded in the attacks in the Gaza Strip.
08:44: The Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council instructs its residents to stay in sheltered areas until further notice.
08:25: International response to Israel continues. A bipartisan delegation of US senators arrived in the country for a solidarity visit, and they are expected to meet with the prime minister, other senior officials, and tour the combat areas. The head of the delegation is Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Additionally, the French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna will visit Israel today.
Video: It is a Human Issue': Israeli-American families rally for support for missing relatives // Credit: Reuters
07:19: IDF Spokesperson says: "We killed Bilal al-Kadra, the commander of Nukhba Force in southern Khan Yunis and the one responsible for the attack in Nirim. In foreign media, they falsely reported that the IDF had struck civilian convoys heading south. This is a false report. Hamas is cynically using civilians. It's a war crime. In the north, it appears that rockets were fired from Syrian territory, and in response, we carried out artillery fire. Regarding US assistance, a second aircraft carrier is being sent to the region, the USS Eisenhower, in addition to cargo planes with advanced weaponry. This allows for the expansion of operations as needed."
6:43: Rocket fire to the north continues: Sirens in the Upper Galilee. Israel fired an interceptor on the suspicious object.
6:20: Cleared for publication: Cpl. Camay Eyal was killed yesterday in a technical malfunction in the IDF's naval unit during operational activity in the northern maritime area.
06:17: According to The New York Times, tens of thousands of soldiers will soon enter Gaza through a ground entry.
6:15: The IDF has released the names of seven more fallen soldiers:
5:00: ABC News report: The New York Times published that the IDF plans to enter Gaza with tens of thousands of soldiers.
4:45: President Biden criticized Hamas for using civilians as human shields. "Innocent Palestinian families — and the vast majority have nothing to do with Hamas — being used as human shields," Biden said. He added that the Hamas atrocities are the "worst massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust."
3:40: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh met with the Iranian Foreign Minister in Qatar and received his support.
Saturday
17:26: Netanyahu visits Kibbutz Be'eri, which lost dozens of its residents in the early morning Hamas massacre. He ows border communities will rejuvenate and flourish.
17:00: Central comes under heavy rocket barrages, no casualties reported. Multiple interceptions.
13:55: Representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) met with representatives of the families of the abducted individuals yesterday. The ICRC noted that they have established contact with Hamas regarding the approach to the captives. The Families' Committee for the Return of the Abductees and Missing Persons has provided the ICRC with information about medicines and humanitarian aid collected from 150 families.
13:26: IDF and Shin Bet activity: Security forces arrested 56 wanted individuals in Judea and Samaria last night, including 25 Hamas operatives. Among the Hamas members arrested were two senior figures within the organization from Nablus: Adnan Asfour (59) and Ahmad Ouad (49). In the village of Azoun, near Qalqilya, a Hamas weapons manufacturing workshop was destroyed.
So far, approximately 280 wanted individuals have been arrested since the beginning of the conflict throughout Judea and Samaria and the Jordan Valley region. 157 of them are affiliated with the Hamas terrorist organization.
13:15: Heavy exchange of fire is taking place near Gaza, close to Khan Yunis. A group of terrorists attempted to infiltrate into Israel and fired anti-tank missiles at IDF forces but were taken out by aircraft.
12:53: Sirens were activated in the Galilee region following reports of an aerial vehicle's intrusion. Further details are under investigation. The alarm was later identified as a false alarm.
12:31: Red alert sirens in the Ashkelon area.
12:24: IDF aircraft, based on intelligence from the Shin Bet and Military Intelligence (AMAN), eliminated Ali Qadi, one of the key architects of the Oct. 7 attack and a commander in its commando unit (Nukba).
https://x.com/IDF/status/1713129176104923383?s=20
"Ali Qadi led the inhumane, barbaric October 7 massacre of civilians in Israel. We just eliminated him. All Hamas terrorists will meet the same fate," the IDF said.
11:57: Four people were injured as a result of a rocket explosion in Kibbutz Nirim near Gaza. One of the injured individuals is in critical condition.
11:46: Palestinian reports indicate that the Israeli Air Force conducted attacks in Beit Lahia in northern Gaza.
11:45: The commander of the Gaza Division, Brigadier General Avi Rosenfeld, spoke for the first time since the recent Hamas terrorist attack. He stated, "On Saturday morning, we all woke up to a very cruel surprise of a terrorist attack by the Hamas terrorist organization."
According to him, "Those who witnessed these difficult sights, which were unimaginable on Saturday, will also witness the great victory of the IDF and the State of Israel. We are raising our heads in the face of this severe loss, but we are not lowering our heads. We only look ahead – to defense and offense, until victory, until we crush and defeat Hamas."
11:46: Palestinian reports of an airstrike by the Israeli Air Force in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip.
11:45: Gaza Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Avi Rosenfeld, stated earlier: "On Saturday morning, we all woke up to a very cruel surprise, a heinous attack by the Hamas terrorist organization. It will take a long time to investigate what happened. Those who witnessed these difficult, unimaginable scenes on Saturday will also witness the great victory of the IDF and the State of Israel over Hamas. There is no mission and no challenge that we cannot overcome. At this moment, we are grieving the heavy loss but not bowing our heads. Our heads are held high; we are proud of our country. We are only looking forward – for defense and offense, until victory, until we crush and break Hamas."
11:37: Hamas stated, "We targeted Tel Aviv with missile fire in response to the eviction and harassment of civilians in Gaza."
11:36: The Ministry of Health reported that 355 people are hospitalized in hospitals across the country due to the war. 95 of the injured are in critical condition, 186 in moderate condition, and the rest are in light condition. So far, 3,526 injured have been admitted to hospitals.
11:30: Rocket sirens sounded in Gush Dan and the Shfela. The sirens were heard in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, Ashkelon, and other settlements. Hamas claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.
11:16: Majd Ibrahim, a 19-year-old from the town of Abu Ghosh near Jerusalem, who was injured this week by shrapnel from a rocket explosion near his home in Abu Ghosh, has passed away from his injuries at Shaare Zedek Hospital.
11:04: Simultaneously with the IDF spokesperson's statement, there was rocket fire towards the Gaza periphery.
11:02: IDF spokesperson: "We identify a high degree of concern in Hamas's leadership from the evacuation of residents in southern Gaza, as their military infrastructure will be exposed and left without human shields. According to the IDF's estimation, hundreds of thousands of residents have evacuated the Strip. Brigadier General Hareli added that "those who come near the border to infiltrate into Israeli territory will not survive."
11:00: Regarding Egypt and the transfer of equipment to the Gaza Strip, the IDF spokesperson said, "The crossings with Egypt are closed, and any movement towards Egypt will be coordinated with us. At the moment, this is not happening. If it does happen, we will inform the public of what exactly occurred. At this stage, the crossings are closed. We are monitoring the movement of southern Gaza residents."
10:55: IDF spokesperson: "We are preparing our forces, implementing plans, and operating in all areas, in the south, north, and center. We are focused on Gaza, but we have a broad deployment that allows us to operate simultaneously in all areas. The IDF is a strong and large army." Additionally, he stated that "the IDF is well-prepared in cyber defense against Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas."
10:50: IDF Spokesperson in a daily briefing: "We are preparing our forces for the next stages. The goal is to defeat the Hamas organization. This organization will not control Gaza militarily or politically." He also stated that "the IDF has significant strength in the north - those who approach the northern border will not survive. Last night, we eliminated a cell of terrorists who attempted to infiltrate from the Gaza side into Israel."
10:35: The head of the World Health Organization reported that a plane carrying medical supplies to support Gaza's emergency needs has landed in Al-Arish, Egypt. In the southern Gaza Strip, there are reports of covert movement of trucks on the Egyptian side in the Rafah area. According to their claims, this activity is related to the establishment of a battery to strengthen the border and prevent infiltration from the Gaza side into Egypt.
10:24: Avichai Brodtz, a resident of Kfar Aza who survived the attack on Kibbutz and whose wife and three children were kidnapped to the Gaza Strip, has decided to sit in protest in front of the Kirya in Tel Aviv until the abductees are returned to their homes. Throughout the country, calls to join him in front of the entrance to the Kirya and the Ministry of Defense on 35 Kaplan Street are heard.
10:19: The municipality of Kiryat Bialik reports that the city's alert system is functioning and is only activated by the Home Front Command in coordination with the events on the ground. Following the overnight incident, the municipality has approached the Home Front Command to investigate the incident, which is currently under examination.
10:18: Following the recent rocket fire on the city of Sderot, the city's spokesperson reports four impacts: one in an open area, one on the train tracks, one on the roof of the yeshiva building, and one that directly hit an educational institution. There are no casualties, but property damage has occurred.
09:51: The Gaza periphery remains a closed military zone. An IDF tank killed two terrorists who approached the border near the Ouz Stream.
09:46: After nearly ten hours of calm, rocket fire resumed in the Gaza periphery. Sirens were heard in the city of Sderot and in nearby settlements.
09:37: The Qatari newspaper Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed reports that Egypt has permanently closed the Rafah border crossing. According to the report, concrete walls have been erected at the site.
09:03: According to the UN, 420,000 people have fled their homes in the Gaza Strip so far.
09:02: The IDF has informed residents of this that between 10:00-16:00 today, a humanitarian corridor will be established, allowing residents to flee to the south. IDF Spokesperson in Arabic called on residents, saying, "If you care about yourselves and your loved ones, take advantage of the short time to move south to Khan Yunis. The IDF will allow movement on these streets without harm."
08:44: IDF forces eliminated, using an airstrike, a cell of terrorists who attempted to cross into Israeli territory from Lebanon. At this moment, searches are ongoing to rule out the possibility of infiltration into the settlement.
08:28: More than 30 wanted individuals have been apprehended, including two senior Hamas members in Shechem (Nablus). Additionally, the IDF sealed two more businesses that recently published advertisements inciting and encouraging terrorism. This comes after a pizzeria that used an image of an elderly Israeli woman who was kidnapped as an advertisement for pizza sales was sealed two days ago.
08:15: During the night, the IDF eliminated Marad Abu Marad, the head of the air disposition in Gaza. The attack in which Abu Marad was killed was aimed at the operational commander of Hamas, responsible for the organization's aerial activities.
08:07: IDF fighter jets continued to strike military targets across the Gaza Strip with intensity. Simultaneously, a wave of attacks targeted dozens of Hamas military targets and many Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives who were in the deployment area. Additionally, IDF fighter jets targeted the operational commander of the Hamas terrorist organization's aerial activity during the last 24 hours.
07:00: Palestinian reports suggest that IDF arrested Hamas activists in the West Bank. The IDF updated that over 230 Hamas operatives have been arrested in the West Bank since the beginning of the conflict, including Adnan Asfour in Shechem (Nablus) and several other senior Hamas members in the West Bank.
07:00: A vehicle traveling from the direction of the West Bank to Jerusalem broke through the Al-Zaim checkpoint at high speed and did not heed the fighters' calls to stop. During their escape, the suspect hit a Givati Brigade jeep that pursued them, and did not follow the fighters' orders to stop. In the area of the Ma'ale Adumim, the suspect turned his vehicle against the direction of traffic and continued to flee wildly. During the chase, a Givati Brigade force fired at the suspect, who endangered them, and neutralized him. Later, his death was confirmed. The police have opened an investigation to examine the circumstances of the incident.
05:14: Arab reports indicate that the IDF arrested senior Hamas Sheikh Adnan Asfour in Shechem (Nablus).
04:20: According to Arab reports, the IDF is operating extensively to arrest terrorists in the West Bank.
03:54: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA): More than 400,000 Palestinians have left their homes in Gaza since the IDF began operating in the Strip.
03:06: IDF Spokesperson announced that the IDF struck a Hezbollah target in southern Lebanon in response to the penetration of unidentified UAVs and shots fired at unoccupied IDF aircraft. The launch towards the aircraft was thwarted.
02:02: Arab reports indicate explosions in the Galilee.
01:43: Widespread IDF strikes across the entire Gaza Strip, with several buildings targeted in Khan Yunis.
01:17: IDF Spokesperson: Two unidentified UAVs were shot down over the city of Haifa. No alert was activated according to policy. Another unidentified object was shot down over Shefar'am, causing damage to a house.
Friday
15:00: Haifa area rocked by sirens, residents in sea-side towns hear loud explosions. Hamas claims responsibility for barrage, says it used extended-range Ayash rockets. Israel's David Sling intercepts rocket but shrapnel could have hit the Zevulun Valley area.
11:30: Hamas says it launched 150 rockets on Israel in response to evacuation orders. Claims Israeli bombing overnight killed dozens of Israeli hostages.
10:00 Reuters: A staffer at the Israeli embassy in Beijing was assaulted on Friday, Israel's foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that the person was in a stable condition and is being treated in hospital.
9:00 World reacts in horror as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other government offices share horrific images of burnt babies from Saturday's attacks.
08:05: The IDF attacked approximately 750 military targets throughout the Gaza Strip overnight, including underground tunnels of Hamas, facilities and military positions, buildings that served as military command centers, storage facilities, communication rooms, and terrorists from various terror organizations. During the attacks, dozens of IDF fighter jets struck numerous military targets of Hamas across the Gaza Strip, including 12 multi-story buildings housing military infrastructure of the terror organization. The 12 buildings were attacked in a simultaneous attack by the fighter jets, all within a single minute.
08:04: Since the beginning of the conflict, 685 wounded individuals with varying degrees of severity have been brought to Barzilai Medical Center, including a significant number of critical and severe cases. At this stage, 25 are hospitalized.
07:51: In response to calls to evacuate Gaza City, the Hamas Interior Ministry called on residents to remain and not cooperate with Israel's "psychological warfare."
07:32: IDF Spokesperson: "The evacuation of residents from Gaza will take a number of days; we are committed to everyone and to the global community. In contrast to human life, we are far from being like Hamas. We are expediting the elimination of senior figures in the Strip - we will intensify the force of the attacks. There were numerous incidents on the border and within the envelope area yesterday. It is still a combat zone and a closed military area. Most of the incidents were on the border, with terrorists who didn't cross and individuals we found in the area."
05:50: Israel has informed UN personnel in the Gaza Strip: The civilian population is instructed to evacuate the northern area of the strip in the coming day.
00:00 Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian has arrived in Beirut. In a statement to the media, he said that all options are being considered regarding Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza.
Thursday
16:30: Patriot defense missile is launched over northern Israel.
16:00: IDF Chief of Staff addressed the nation for the first time since the beginning of the war.
Hamas leader in Gaza "Yahya Sinwar decided on this horrible attack, and therefore he and the entire system under him are dead men. We will attack them, we will dismantle them, dismantle their system," he said.
15:50: France says it has found no direct evidence of Iranian involvement in the Hamas assault on Israel.
14:30: Syria accuses Israel of striking Aleppo International Airport and Damascus International Airport.
13:49: Air raid sirens in and near Beit Shemesh
12:22: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who traveled to Israel to express solidarity on behalf of the Biden administration.
Netanyahu thanked Blinken for the "incredible support for Israel in our war against the barbarians of Hamas," which he said was "another example of America's unequivocal support for Israel ... This is a time, a particular time, a special time, that we all must stand tall, proud and united against evil. Tony, you are taking that stand, America is taking that stand."
"We're here, we're not going anywhere," Blinken promised.
11:37: Two Israelis critically injured in rocket attack on Sderot
11:28: Southern Israel continues to be targeted by rocket fire throughout the morning
10:53: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz harshly criticizes Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas for failing to condemn Hamas for atrocities committed against Israelis.
10:23: Senior PFLP member Awad al-Sultan reportedly killed in overnight IDF raid in Gaza
09:35: Southern and central Israel targeted by rocket fire.
08:39: Hamas has not sent rockets into Israel for over 10 hours.
07:48: Overnight, the IDF conducted an extensive attack on Hamas sites in Gaza, killing Muhammed Abu Shamala, a senior operative in Hamas naval forces.
07:45: IDF says that between 1,000-2,000 terrorists infiltrated Israel. It has collected the bodies of 1,000 terrorists so far.
07:40: IDF: We will settle accounts with every terrorist who took part in the atrocities. We will get to each and every one of them.
06:01: The names of 31 more IDF soldiers who lost their lives in the fighting are released
05:53: Israeli forces come under fire while in Jenin; Terrorist arrested
04:38: Israel Air Force targeting multiple Hamas sites in Gaza
Wednesday
20:00: IDF Spokesperson said the mass alerts that were sent to virtually all residents of the north were due to a glitch, and may have been related to an incident of drones entering Israeli airspace, but no current incident is in place. Residents can emerge out of protected space in the north.
19:04: Residents from Haifa to the northern border are asked to go to a protected space due to possible aerial threat.
18:52: Multiple aircraft appear to have entered Israeli airspace in the north, residents all across the area have been told to be close to shelters, possible targets were in central Israel.
18:21: Residents of dozens of communities in north hear sirens blast over suspected aerial infiltration.
16:45: National unity government deal announced: Benny Gantz, Gadi Eizenkot and Ron Dermer will join the special "War Cabinet" along with PM Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Five State Party MKs from the Opposition will serve as ministers.
16:28: Electricity has been cut off in the security prisoners' cells in the prisons, based on the claim that the decision was made today by the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet to prevent harm and terrorist intentions through contraband phones held by the prisoners.
16:27: The Ashkelon Regional Council: Due to security concerns, residents are advised to seek shelter in protected areas and lock their doors until further notice.
16:21: Kitchen fire in a restaurant in Rishon LeZion. Firefighters responded to a kitchen fire in a restaurant on Rothschild Street. Fire and rescue teams arrived at the scene and began search operations to locate any trapped individuals, evacuate the smoke from the restaurant, and extinguish the fire at the source.
16:20: Sirens also in the Gaza region.
16:17: Rockets to the Gush Dan, HaShfela, and the South. At this stage, there have been no reports of casualties or injuries.
16:16: Direct hit on the Brazilian Medical Center in the Center for Child Development.
16:16: Direct hit on the Barzilai Medical Center in the Center for Child Development.
09:20: Five direct hits on buildings in Sderot. A man in his 40s was moderately injured.
09:15: Palestinian Ministry of Health: 950 casualties in Gaza since the beginning of the Israeli counteroffensive.
07:54: Documentation of the first plane arriving in Israel with advanced weaponry from the United States.
07:20: IDF Spokesperson's Unite update: 'Hamas terrorists have not crossed the border in the past two days. Thousands of targets and weapons were struck in the Gaza Strip. Last night (Tuesday)we destroyed dozens of cameras deployed as a reconnaissance system for aerial images in the Gaza Strip. So far, we have counted 1,000 bodies of terrorists in the vicinity, with several hundred more on the border. This attests to the scale of the operation. They had equipment and preparations for occupation, not just looting. The IDF destroyed an advanced reconnaissance system developed by Hamas, which served for aerial surveillance over the territory of the Gaza Strip."
06:42: Naval, air force, and artillery units targeted maritime targets of Hamas. A diver who attempted to infiltrate Israeli territory was eliminated."
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
On Monday, three out of four infiltrators from Lebanon into Israeli territory were killed. In the encounter, Deputy Commander of the 300th Brigade, Brigadier General Alim Abdallah, aged 40, from Yanuch-Jat, was killed. The high alert on the northern border continues.
Rocket fire from Gaza towards Israel persists, with rockets fired toward communities near the Gaza border, the central region, and Jerusalem. At least 1,000 Israeli residents have been killed, and 2,800 have been injured, several hundreds of which in very critical condition. Terror organizations in Gaza claim to hold more than 130 Israeli prisoners. Israeli authorities believe there about 100 Israeli residents captives.
On Monday, a soldier was wounded in an encounter in the Admit area, and 13 Hezbollah terrorists were killed in an IDF attack in response.
Hundreds of residents from the Pisgat Ze'ev neighborhood in Jerusalem accompanied the family of Major Ophir Testa, who was killed in battles in the South and was laid to rest in the military section of Mount Herzl Cemetery. They responded to the call of his family to have people join the funeral. They carried Israeli flags, and thereby showed their support for the family of the soldier who lost his life defending the State of Israel.
23:35: The Central Command of the United States Army announces that the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier has arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. The USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier is considered the most advanced aircraft carrier in the American fleet.
23:20: The IDF continues to target Hamas terrorist organization's objectives in the Gaza Strip at this time.
23:12: Residents of Kfar Maimon, Tushiya, Zimrat, Shuva, Shokeda, Tekuma, Alumim, and Sa'ad. Please lock your doors and seek sheltered areas until further notice.
22:59: The Secretary-General of Hezbollah in Iraq, Abu Hussain al-Hamidawi, has threatened a response against American bases if the United States intervenes in the war.
22:57: Due to the extended security and diplomatic-security cabinet consultations, the meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Knesset Member Benny Gantz will take place tomorrow at 11:00.
22:54: During a breach of order near the Jalameh Crossing in the Menashe Brigade area, terrorists fired at IDF forces on site. The forces returned fire and neutralized two terrorists who were killed. The forces are working to disperse the situation. The forces also located the terrorists' vehicle in the area and found multiple explosive devices ready for use. A unit from the Haruv Reconnaissance Brigade was responsible for thwarting the terrorists.
22:50: Ashkelon Municipality: Following the exchange of gunfire at the industrial area in southern Ashkelon, the terrorists have been identified and neutralized by military and police forces present on the scene. Residents of the city are requested to minimize their exits from their homes in the coming hours, with an emphasis on the coastal area, and to maintain vigilance and high alert.
22:47: IDF forces are responding with artillery fire and mortar fire towards the source of the fire in Syrian territory. According to the Syrian opposition, the Israeli attack is targeting positions of Hezbollah and pro-Iranian militias.
22:35: Several explosions were identified from Syrian territory to Israeli territory a short while ago, some of which crossed into Israeli territory and likely fell in an open area.
21:22: Clashes between terrorists and security forces in the area of Ashkelon. At least one terrorist was encountered. The event is ongoing.
21:19: Hamas claimed responsibility for firing missiles from southern Lebanon.
21:00: Salvo fired on southern Israel.
20:45: The number of fatalities in the Hamas terror attack has risen to a thousand people.
20:40: Two terrorists killed in clashes.
20:40: IDF spokesperson: 103 terrorists were eliminated in the terror attack on Kibbutz Be'eri.
19:00: Sirens in Ashkelon.
18:58: A combat helicopter attacked another Hezbollah observation post.
18:45: A antitank missiles was launched on Avivim; no casualties.
18:41: Sources says a conversation between US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is expected to take place later this evening.
18:32: Tel Aviv district police officers arrested a suspect of foreign nationality wearing an IDF uniform in the area of the promenade in Tel Aviv. They immediately approached the suspect and performed an examination, during which it became clear that he was a 48-year-old man with foreign citizenship. The suspect was detained for questioning.
18:29: IDF: Further to the report of launches from Lebanon, about 15 launches were detected. The air defense fighters successfully intercepted four launches; ten launches fell in open areas.
18:26: Arab media reported the death of a Palestinian from the village of Baka al-Sharqiya in northern Samaria. This followed the fall of a rocket launched by the terrorist organizations in Gaza.
16:20: The IDF confirms that two members of Hamas' political bureau were assassinated in the ongoing airstrikes of Gaza Strip. One is the head of the Hamas National Bureau Zakariya Abu Muammar, was known to be close to the head of bureau Yahya Sinwar and as part of his role he worked extensively to coordinate between Hamas and other groups.
The other is Jawad Abu Shamala, who ran the terror group's coffers.
16:02: The Ministry of Education announces that tomorrow (Wednesday) classes will not take place on-site, but schools will be allowed to carry out remote classes.
15:44: Hamas claims the firing of the massive rocket salvo on Israel was in response to the assassination of two senior members of the organization. No confirmation on whether Israel indeed carried out the targeted killing and whether it took place. Another barrage took place several minutes later toward Tel Aviv and the surrounding areas.
15:30: Major salvo fired on Israeli cities, with many aimed at the Tel Aviv metropolis and the Judean foothills.
12:12: Police Spokesperson: The police are requesting the public to leave the mobile devices of the missing individuals operational and connected. In the past few hours, mistaken recommendations have been circulating, advising families of the missing to disconnect their loved ones' phone lines through cellular companies or turn them off. This information is incorrect and may hinder the location of the missing individuals.
Video: Drone footage show destruction, abandoned cars after rave party attack in Israel / Credit: Reuters
11:45: IDF Spokesperson Daniel Yagari said regarding the reported shortage of military equipment shortages: At the beginning of Operation Iron Swords, within 48 hours, in a wide-scale effort, the IDF, including the Technology and Logistics Branch, mobilized and deployed hundreds of thousands of reservists across the country. Such a large-scale reserve mobilization has not been recorded in decades, and therefore, there are occasional temporary equipment shortages that are being addressed daily.
11:33: Minister of Foreign Affairs Eli Cohen: "I spoke with my friend, the American Secretary of State Antony Blinken. I thanked him on behalf of the entire people of Israel for his unequivocal support for Israel and his commitment to Israel's security. The steadfast stance of the Biden administration by our side at this hour demonstrates the strong and unshakable alliance between Israel and the United States. Together, we will prevail."
11:32: Minister of Energy and Infrastructure and member of the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet, Knesset Member Israel Katz: "Until today, supplied Gaza with 54,000 cubic meters of water and 2,700 megawatts of electricity per day. It's over. Without fuel, even the local electricity will cease within days, and water pumping stations will stop within a week. This is what will be for a people of murderers and child killers. What was will not be."
11:15: IDF Spokesperson says that an IDF combat helicopter targeted a group of terrorists that was spotted near the border in the Zikim area this morning (Tuesday). An IDF force from the Maglan commando unit identified the group of armed terrorists near the border in the Zikim area. The force was directed to the location by a combat helicopter, which attacked the group shortly thereafter and eliminated them.
11:10: IDF Spokesperson says that a report of a suspected airspace breach in the Golan Heights and Upper Galilee region was received. IDF forces are accompanying dispersed aircraft and scanning the area. Following the initial report, there is no longer a suspicion of an airspace breach in the Golan Heights and Galilee region. There is no security event to be concerned about.
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
