Today marks two years since the bloody Hamas attack on Israel. On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a deadly assault on southern Israel, marking one of history's most lethal terrorist attacks. In retaliation, Israel continued its vigorous response, reshaping the Middle East landscape with its intensity, leaving countless lives lost, homes devastated, and the region shaken to its core.
On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas and other Palestinian factions breached the Israeli border, invading via paragliders, motorbikes, and on foot. They targeted kibbutzim, music festivals, and military bases, accompanied by a barrage of rockets.
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Casualties: Around 1,200 Israelis were killed, mostly civilians, marking the greatest assault on Jews since the Holocaust.
Hostages: 251 individuals, including women, children, and foreigners, were taken hostage. Over two years later, more than 45 hostages remain captive in Gaza.
Hamas Tactics: Assaults with firearms, grenades, and arson were rampant. At the Supernova Music Festival alone, 360 lives were claimed. Hamas coined this the 'Al-Aqsa Flood.'
Israel's Initial Response: Prompt aerial assaults commenced, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring 'Operation Iron Swords.'
The attack left Israel in shock, with thousands injured and nationwide mourning prevailing.
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A week afterward, on October 27, 2023, Israel launched a ground operation in Gaza aimed at dismantling Hamas and rescuing hostages. However, this move resulted in catastrophic destruction throughout Gaza.
Key Facts and Figures (as of October 2025...)
Israeli Military Losses: 454 soldiers dead, 2,840 wounded.
Palestinian Casualties: As per Gaza's Health Ministry, over 69,100 people, mostly women and children, have died. Al Jazeera reported 67,160 deaths with 169,679 wounded. The UN highlights that 90% of homes are damaged or destroyed, leaving 1.9 million homeless.
Devastation: Around 80% of Gaza has been affected. Over 61,000 lives lost, with 151,000 injured. Structures, schools, and hospitals lie in ruins. Aid targeted, causing 875 deaths.
Israel's Offensive: Air raids, ground invasions claimed over 12,000 Hamas fighters (as per Israeli statements). Civilian casualties spark controversy. Amnesty indicates evidence of atrocities. The UN seeks to probe war crime allegations.
Source: aajtak
Even two years on (October 2025), the conflict endures. Commemorative events took place in Israel, while hostage families' discontent grew. In September 2025, former US President Donald Trump proposed a 20-point peace plan urging Hamas to disarm and restore aid. Hamas, however, rejected this proposal.
Division within Israeli Society:
A split between war advocates and those seeking accountability. Meanwhile, Gaza grapples with famine and adversity. Global leaders voice concerns, but action remains scant.
