In a shocking turn of events, the world witnessed an unprecedented series of rocket attacks on Israel by the Palestinian armed group Hamas on Saturday (October 7), leading to a swift and resounding international response. Israel’s national rescue service said at least 40 people have been killed and hundreds wounded, making it the deadliest attack in Israel in years.

At least 561 wounded people were being treated in Israeli hospitals, including at least 77 who were in critical condition, according to an Associated Press count based on public statements and calls to hospitals.

In the aftermath of the relentless rocket strikes, Israel declared a 'state of war,' citing numerous infiltrations and rocket attacks originating from the Gaza Strip.

In a video statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel was now at war and pledged that Hamas would "pay a price" for their aggression. Reports have also emerged suggesting that Hamas militants have taken several Israelis hostage, intensifying the crisis further.

אנחנו במלחמה. pic.twitter.com/XNM3l7fEQH

— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 7, 2023

Global Leaders Express Outrage and Solidarity

Reacting to the distressing developments in Israel, leaders from around the world were quick to condemn the attacks and offer their solidarity with the nation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep shock at the "terrorist attacks" on Israel. He conveyed India's unwavering support, saying, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour."

Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2023

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak echoed the sentiments, labeling the perpetrators as "Hamas terrorists" and affirming Israel's absolute right to self-defense.

I am shocked by this morning's attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli citizens.

Israel has an absolute right to defend itself.We're in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice.— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) October 7, 2023

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan called for restraint on all sides, urging Israelis and Palestinians to refrain from actions that could further escalate the volatile situation. He emphasised the need for parties involved to avoid "aggressive acts," as reported by Reuters.

European Council President Charles Michel and French President Emmanuel Macron also joined the chorus of condemnation. Michel stated that the European Union stood in solidarity with the Israeli people, while Macron decried the "terrorist attacks" against Israel, expressing full solidarity with the victims and their families.

I strongly condemn the current terrorist attacks against Israel. I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones.

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) October 7, 2023

The US White House also issued a firm condemnation of the attack launched by "Hamas terrorists" on Israel. The United States expressed unwavering disapproval, stating, "The United States unequivocally condemns the unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians."

Additionally, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan maintained close communication with Israeli counterparts regarding the situation.

White House on the unfolding war in Israel. pic.twitter.com/Jf4J79d4Ed

— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) October 7, 2023

Prime Minister Mark Rutte of The Netherlands spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, denouncing the unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. He emphasised The Netherlands' unwavering condemnation of this terrorist violence and its full support for Israel's right to self-defense.

Just spoke with Prime Minister @netanyahu about the unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. I told him that the Netherlands unequivocally condemns this terrorist violence and fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself.

— Mark Rutte (@MinPres) October 7, 2023

Calls for Restraint and Diplomacy

Egypt, a key regional player, issued a warning about the potential "grave consequences" of an escalation in tensions between Israel and the Palestinians. The Egyptian foreign ministry called for the exercise of maximum restraint and emphasised the importance of safeguarding civilian lives.

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shukri engaged in discussions with European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, underlining the need for restraint from both sides to prevent serious risks.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the Hamas attack against Israel, insisting that violence and rockets against innocent civilians must cease immediately. She expressed unwavering support for Israel's right to self-defense under international law.

Russia, maintaining a diplomatic stance, reported that it was in contact with Israel, the Palestinians, and Arab countries to address the escalating conflict. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stressed the importance of restraint as a fundamental principle in managing the situation.

The Ukrainian foreign ministry also issued statement condemning the ongoing rocket attacks on Israel. They expressed their support for Israel's right to defend itself and called for an end to violence and terror.

#Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We express our support for #Israel in its right to defend itself and its people.

— MFA of Ukraine