International

Israel declares war after Hamas launches major attack

Israel declared war on Saturday after the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a major attack, firing thousands of rockets into the country and infiltrating militants into Israel.

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The attack, which began in the early hours of the morning, is the worst violence between Israel and Hamas since the 2014 Gaza war.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said the attack was a "day of great revolution" and that the group had fired 5,000 rockets at Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attack was "an act of aggression" and that Israel would "respond with great force."

"Our first goal is to clear the territory of terrorists, and our second goal is to make the enemy pay a heavy price, including in Gaza," Netanyahu said.

Israel responded to the attack with airstrikes on Gaza, killing at least 200 Palestinians and wounding over 1,600, according to Palestinian health officials.

The United Nations Security Council condemned the attacks and called for an immediate ceasefire.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

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