A barrage of rockets slammed into southern and central Israel Saturday morning, including at least one rocket that directly hit a building in the Gederot Regional Council, killing a woman in her 60s, according to Magen David Adom.
“The IDF declares a state of readiness for war,” the army said in a statement. “There has been widespread rocket fire into Israeli territory from Gaza, and terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory through various entry points. Residents in the south and center of the country are required to be in close proximity to protected areas, and those in the Gaza periphery should remain within a secure space.”
The IDF said that the chief of staff was conducting a situation assessment Saturday morning and approving plans for the continuation of IDF operations.
“Hamas is the ruling entity in the Gaza Strip, responsible for this attack, and will bear the consequences and responsibility for the events,” the IDF said.
As of 8 a.m. on Saturday morning, Magen David Adom (MDA) said it had thus far treated 16 people throughout the country, including two who were in critical condition, six in moderate condition and seven with minor injuries.
In addition, MDA teams were providing care for victims of anxiety and other minor injuries resulting from falls on the way to shelters.
Aside from the woman who died of her wounds, the injured included a 52-year-old man from Gederot who was moderately injured, and a 20-year-old man from Yavne, also moderately injured. Both victims were transferred to Kaplan Hospital.
Rockets fell into multiple cities and communities, the IDF said. This included Tel Aviv, where initial reports by Israeli media said there was a direct hit to a home. Moreover, a direct hit was reported on a building in Ashkelon. Dozens of vehicles also caught fire in the city.
The IDF and Israel Police have requested that residents stay in their homes. Shelters have been opened across the country.
“We urge residents to stay in protected areas, avoid approaching the scenes, and refrain from touching rocket remnants that may contain explosives or similar hazards,” Israel Police said.
“The public is urged to follow the instructions of the Home Front Command to stay close to protected areas, and residents of the Gaza periphery are requested to stay indoors,” the army requested.
In addition to the rocket fire, terrorists attempted to infiltrate into southern Israel.
Hamas has announced that a message from Mohammed Deif will soon be released.
Reactions by Israeli officials
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is on his way to Gederot. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was convening top security officials.
National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz said that “Hamas made a grave mistake and they will bear the consequences. All citizens of Israel stand behind the IDF and the security forces, and the government has full backing to exact a heavy price for any determined and responsible action.
“We will remain attentive, united and deliver a heavy and painful blow to the enemy,” he continued.
Reuters contributed to this report. This is a developing story.
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