The Indian Embassy in Israel issued an advisory for Indian citizens on Saturday as a ‘state of war’ was declared in Israel following a massive attack by Palestine soldiers from Gaza.
The Hamas operation is a response to the decades-long atrocities faced by Palestinians, including the ongoing situation in Gaza and the treatment of Palestinian people, as well as concerns regarding the sanctity of holy sites such as Al-Aqsa mosque.
The officials asked Indians in Israel to remain vigilant and to observe safety protocols.
“In view of the current situation in Israel, all Indian nationals in Israel are requested to remain vigilant, and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities. Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement and stay close to safety shelters,” the embassy said in a statement.
The Embassy authorities also urged citizens to contact officials in case of an emergency.
Israel declared a ‘state of war’ on Saturday morning after Hamas launched around 5,000 rockets from Gaza in a biggest attack on Israel in years. Multiple armed forces from Palestine also crossed the Israel border.
Earlier in the day, the Palestinian soldiers initiated “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood” against Israel, marking the most serious escalation in tensions since the 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestine in 2021. This operation has unfolded amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Hamas has announced that it launched an astonishing 5,000 rockets as part of this operation, signaling a substantial and coordinated assault. Israel has also confirmed that Hamas fighters have entered its territory.
Daniel Hagari, a spokesperson for the Israeli army, has reported that Hamas launched attacks from multiple fronts, including land, sea, and air, underscoring the complexity and intensity of this operation. However, Hamas has time and again clarified that attacks on Israel is a retaliatioin against occupation and oppression on Palestinains by Israeli forces.
The initial wave of rocket attacks occurred at 06:30 AM local time (03:30 GMT), catching many by surprise and exacerbating the already tense situation in the region. These attacks coincided with Simchat Torah, a significant holiday that marks the conclusion of the weeklong Jewish festival known as Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles.
In response to the Hamas attack, the Israeli army has launched its own operation, named “Operation Iron Swords,” against Palestinians.
The international community is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation, with concerns growing about the potential for further escalation and the safety of civilians on both sides. Efforts to mediate and de-escalate tensions are expected to intensify, as regional stability hangs in the balance.
