Rocket sirens blared across central Israel, including Tel Aviv, on Sunday for the first time in months as Hamas launched rockets from Gaza, Reuters reported. The al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas’ armed wing, claimed responsibility for the “big missile attack” on Tel Aviv, stating it was in response to “Zionist massacres against civilians,” according to their Telegram channel. Al-Aqsa TV confirmed the rockets were launched from Gaza.
This incident marked the first time in four months that rocket sirens were heard in Tel Aviv. The Israeli military responded by sounding sirens to warn of incoming rockets but did not immediately clarify the cause. Israeli emergency medical services reported no casualties. At least eight rockets were launched from the Rafah area in southern Gaza, with several intercepted by the Israeli military. Sirens were also sounded in Herzliya and Petah Tikva.
The missile attack on Israel coincided with the entry of new aid trucks into Gaza from southern Israel through an agreement to bypass the Rafah crossing, which had been blocked for weeks. The aid shipments resulted from an agreement between the US and Egypt to temporarily send aid through the crossing. Israel faces mounting pressure to increase aid to Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage and food shortages after over seven months of conflict.
Earlier in the day, Israeli airstrikes killed at least five Palestinians in Rafah, according to local medical services. Israeli tanks operated near Rafah’s outskirts, particularly close to the primary southern crossing into Egypt, but did not significantly enter the city. Israel claims its objective is to eliminate Hamas fighters entrenched in Rafah and free hostages allegedly held in the area. However, the military action has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis for civilians and sparked international condemnation.
Gaza’s health ministry reports nearly 36,000 Palestinian casualties from Israel’s offensive, which began after Hamas militants attacked southern Israeli communities on October 7, 2023. This attack resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties and over 250 hostages, according to Israeli records. The ongoing conflict continues to inflict severe humanitarian suffering and elevate tensions in the region.
More Stories
The Indian Coast Guard rescued the sinking ship with 11 sailors missing
12 players from Kit-Kiss College at the Paris Olympics
Blinken headed for Middle East to push Gaza ceasefire plan.