In POINTS | Over 200 dead in Israel-Palestine conflict; Air India cancels flights to and from Tel Aviv
Israel-Palestine conflict: At least 198 have been killed in Gaza, while 40 were killed in Israel as 5,000 rockets were fired by militant group Hamas in a surprise attack, Palestine said.
Israel has declared war against Hamas, vowing vengeance for the brutal attack and launched airstrikes.
According to the health ministry, over 1,500 people have been wounded in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza during Israel’s retaliation.
Citizens of Israel, we are at war. This is not an operation, not an escalation - this is war. And we will win. Hamas will pay an unprecedented price: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a video message.
Yoav Gallant, Israel's Defense Minister, said Hamas made a "grave mistake" in waging a war against Israel. "Hamas has made a grave mistake this morning and launched a war against the State of Israel. IDF troops (Israeli army) are fighting against the enemy at every location," Gallant said.
The Indian embassy in Israel has urged its nationals to remain cautious and follow local authorities' safety guidelines. "Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement and stay close to safety shelters."
"The Israel Defense Forces declares a state of readiness for war. There has been widespread rocket fire into Israeli territory from Gaza, and terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory through various entry points," the Israeli military said.
After the Hamas terrorist group attacked Israel on Saturday morning, Air India cancelled a flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv, as well as the return flight. The flights were cancelled in the interests of the guests and crew's safety, according to a statement from Air India.
"Passengers are being extended all support, as per their requirements."
Visuals of people fleeing their homes in Gazan border areas have also surfaced on the internet. Hundreds of men and women could be seen bringing blankets and food goods away from the Israeli border.
- With inputs from agencies
