Israel Responds to Hamas Invasion with Counter-Offensive: Key Developments and International Reactions
Following the devastating invasion of Israel by the militant organisation Hamas 48 hours ago, Israel has initiated one of its most robust counter-offensives in decades. The operation aims to rescue hostages taken by Hamas and reclaim territory that has been invaded.
Unprecedented Violence
The crisis escalated over the weekend when Hamas launched an unexpected assault, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,000 Israeli lives. Women, children, and civilians were not spared, violating established norms of armed conflict.
Origin of Hamas
Emerging from the Muslim Brotherhood in 1987, Hamas considers Israel an occupying power and aims to liberate Palestinian lands. The organisation has refused peace talks due to its non-recognition of Israel and has been a dominant force in Gaza, often coming into conflict with Israeli forces.
Iranian Support
The Wall Street Journal reports that commanders from Hamas and Hezbollah claim Iran was involved in planning the recent attack on Israel. However, U.S. officials have so far denied having any evidence of Iran’s involvement.
U.S. Response
Reacting to the Hamas aggression in southern Israel, the U.S. is deploying an aircraft carrier, ships, and jets to the eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, the U.S. is providing extra weapons and ammunition to Israel. President Biden has labelled the attack “shocking and disgusting.”
Australian Perspective
A pro-Palestinian demonstration in Sydney faced criticism for supporting Hamas’ invasion of Israel. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the protest, and the Sydney Opera House will be illuminated in blue and white in a show of solidarity just like what was done for the people of Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia.
This move contradicts the Labor government’s recent expression of support for Palestinian states, highlighting the complex political landscape and surely intensifying the calling for an urgent reassessment of Australia’s Labor government’s supportive stance against aggressors.
Penny Wong, in particular, appears most out of step with the Labor Party, and, more importantly, the general Australian population by responding to these atrocities in what could be suggested as a light-handed support of the actions of Hamas by trying to suggest Israel should show restraint. This personal viewpoint through government communications channels is not helpful and causes distress to those impacted and should be immediately condemned by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who continues to strongly show support for our Israeli allies.
The Latest – Key Events Timeline
- 2:00 AM Gaza and Tel Aviv Time: Israel intensifies airstrikes on Gaza and cuts off food and fuel supply. The death toll approaches 1,600, including 680 Palestinians and over 900 Israelis. A massive mobilisation of 300,000 Israeli reservists is underway.
- 10:02 AM AEDT: U.S. President Joe Biden confirms 11 American citizens killed and voices support for Israel.
- 10:08 AM AEDT: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas plans to visit Moscow as Russia condemns the violence.
- 9:45 AM AEDT: Biden to address the conflict on Tuesday, reiterating American casualties.
- 9:35 AM AEDT: The U.S. rules out sending troops to Israel but questions Iran’s indirect involvement.
- Other Key Points: UN Secretary-General calls for an end to the bloodshed, EU reconsiders suspending payments to Palestinians, and Israeli forces counter militants crossing from Lebanon.
Note: All times are in AEDT and local time where specified.
The rapidly unfolding events demand a unified global response to a situation that is both tragic and volatile. As international powers weigh in, the world watches anxiously, hoping for a swift resolution and lasting peace.
