Image Credits - Reuters
The Israeli military reported that approximately 2,200 rockets had been launched from Gaza into Israel on Saturday since the commencement of the recent conflict. This figure contradicted the earlier statement by Hamas military commander Muhammad Al-Deif, who had claimed that 5,000 rockets were fired from Gaza.
In response to the ongoing rocket attacks, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari announced that the military would be reinforcing southern Israel and the communities in close proximity to Gaza. IDF soldiers, including special forces, were deployed to the areas surrounding the Gaza Strip to enhance security and safeguard the residents of southern Israel.
In a significant development, Hamas claimed to have captured Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border during a surprise attack on Saturday morning. Videos released by the militant group showed at least three individuals dressed in civilian clothing being held at gunpoint, with Hamas asserting that these individuals were Israeli soldiers, as reported by CNN.
However, the Israel Defense Forces refrained from commenting on this claim by Hamas, and CNN was unable to verify the accuracy of Hamas’ assertion. The situation on the ground remains fluid, and both sides are grappling with the ongoing hostilities in the region.
مشاهد من أسر عدد من الضباط الاسرائيليين من قبل كتائب الشهيد عز الدين القسام في كمين الدبابة على حدود غزة فجر اليوم. pic.twitter.com/dPTGWb5lBu
— Younis Tirawi | يونس (@ytirawi) October 7, 2023