Hamas Launches “Big” Rocket Attack on Tel Aviv, Israel
Hamas has launched a “big” rocket attack at the Tel Aviv area in central Israel, marking the first time in nearly four months that the militant group has targeted central Israel. At least eight rockets were launched from the Rafah area in southern Gaza, with several being intercepted by the Israeli military. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The attack comes as Israel continues its military operation in Rafah, defying a ruling by the UN’s top court. The Israeli army faces challenges as it moves further into southern Gaza to oust Hamas from what it calls its “last major stronghold”.
The barrage of rockets highlights the ongoing threat Hamas poses to people across Israel. The attack took place ahead of further ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, expected to resume next week. The military wing of Hamas, the Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, stated that the attack was in response to “the massacre of civilians”.
Air raid sirens sounded in cities including Herzliya and Petah Tikva, with the Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepting three of the eight projectiles. While most rockets landed in open areas, minor damage was reported in Herzliya, where two people suffered light injuries.
The rocket attack also caused a large crater in a field in Kfar Saba, north of Tel Aviv. Sirens rang out in border villages adjacent to Gaza, where residents have recently returned to live following previous attacks by Hamas.
Despite international concern, Israel began its offensive in southern Gaza about three weeks ago, aiming to eliminate Hamas presence in the area. The latest rocket attacks serve as a reminder of Hamas’s military capabilities after months of Israeli offensive operations.
War cabinet minister Benny Gantz emphasized the need for the military to continue its assault in response to the rocket launches. The UN reports that over 800,000 Palestinians have fled Rafah, with about 1.5 million seeking shelter elsewhere in Gaza.
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza was sparked by an attack by Hamas gunmen on October 7, resulting in casualties and hostages. The conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 36,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
