In the midst of the ongoing clashes between Israeli security forces and terrorists in the communities surrounding Gaza, Hamas claimed this Saturday morning that 35 Israelis, including IDF soldiers, have been kidnapped by its terrorist squads and taken to the Gaza Strip. Mohammed Deif, the commander of Hamas’s military branch, asserted, "We had previously warned Israel." He further emphasized, "We initiated the 'Tofan al-Aqsa' (Storm of Al-Aqsa) operation, launching over 5,000 rockets. Al-Aqsa's fury has erupted today, and our military operatives will demonstrate to the enemy that their time has passed. Starting today, security coordination will come to an end."

🚨NOW: Sirens sounding in Jerusalem and surrounding areas🚨 pic.twitter.com/78ZWgMi4D6

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 7, 2023

In response, the IDF issued an extraordinary alert of a state of war. "Within the last hour, there has been a significant barrage of rockets fired into Israeli territory from Gaza, with terrorists infiltrating Israeli territory at various locations. Residents of the southern and central regions are urged to seek shelter in protected areas, and those in the Gaza Strip to remain within protected zones.

A mother on N12 television LIVE whispering that Hamas terrorists have infiltrated her house and she is locked with her family in their safe room. She is calling for the IDF to come and save them. Just unbelievable.

— Lidar Gravé-Lazi (@LidarGL) October 7, 2023

The statement went on to say, "At this moment, the Chief of Staff is conducting a comprehensive situation assessment and approving plans for the continuation of IDF operations. Hamas, as the de facto authority in the Gaza Strip responsible for this attack, will bear the consequences and responsibility for these events." This situation remains fluid and ongoing.