Israeli forces fight to drive out Hamas militants as death toll passes 600

Israeli security forces are engaged in operations to rescue hostages taken by

Palestinian militants from Gaza and to regain control of areas they seized during a surprise attack. The military has reported securing 22 locations by Sunday morning and is still clearing another eight.

The attack, carried out by hundreds of gunmen from Hamas amid intense rocket fire, has resulted in a reported death toll of at least 600 people in Israel. In retaliation, over 370 people in Gaza have been killed in Israeli strikes.

Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has declared a "long and difficult war," vowing to reduce Hamas hideouts to rubble. Meanwhile, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed confidence in a "great victory."

The attack began on the Jewish Sabbath and the festival of Simchat Torah, with Hamas militants breaching Gaza's fortified fence and infiltrating southern Israel using various means.

Over 3,000 rockets were fired towards Israeli cities and towns, with attacks on Israeli civilians reported. Israeli forces have conducted rescues and faced ongoing confrontations with militants near Gaza.

The situation remains fluid, and the death toll continues to rise on both sides, with concerns about hostages held by Hamas. Gaza is experiencing widespread destruction and casualties.

Israel has warned Gazans to leave their homes and take shelter. The conflict has led to extensive damage, including the destruction of key infrastructure and buildings in Gaza.

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Source:BBC news