Hamas Launches Surprise Rocket Attack, Igniting Israel-Gaza War

Hamas launched a surprise rocket attack on Israel, firing thousands of missiles that targeted indiscriminate locations, resulting in hundreds of casualties and widespread destruction. The attack coincided with the Jewish festival of Sukkot and was described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "dark day" and a military official compared it to "our 9/11." The death toll in Israel has surpassed 700, including at least nine Americans. In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes have killed hundreds in the Gaza Strip. The conflict continues to escalate, with ongoing fighting, hostage situations, and rockets fired from Lebanon. The international community, including the US, has condemned Hamas' attack and pledged support to Israel.