Israeli Navy Neutralizes Infiltration Attempt; Palestinian Armed Boats Intercepted Offshore
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Saturday that their naval units thwarted an attempt by several Palestinian militants to infiltrate Israeli territory via the sea.
The naval attack came as part of an operation launched by Hamas against Israel
In a statement released by the IDF, they detailed, “In the early hours of Saturday, naval fighters pursued and neutralized multiple militants who were aiming to breach Israeli grounds.” The statement further highlighted that the troops fired upon and destroyed two rubber boats along with two other vessels during the operation.
לוחמי זרוע הים חיסלו עשרות מחבלים במרחב הימי הדרומי ובקו החוף.
בשעות הבוקר המוקדמות, לוחמי זרוע הים ניהלו מרדף ימי וחיסלו עשרות מחבלים אשר ניסו להגיע לשטח ישראל.
הלוחמים פתחו באש לעברם וסיכלו שתי סירות גומי, שני כלי שיט נוספים וכלי חקלאי>> pic.twitter.com/R2ZBSxk0m6
— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) October 7, 2023
This maritime attempt was part of a broader operation by Hamas against Israel, which included firing thousands of rockets and efforts to infiltrate the Israeli interior.
In response, Israel carried out airstrikes targeting Hamas locations within the Gaza Strip.
Key Events from Saturday Morning:
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Rocket Barrage | Hamas launched dozens of rockets from the Gaza Strip towards Israel, triggering air raid sirens throughout the country. |
| Infiltration Alert | The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that several Palestinian militants managed to infiltrate from the Gaza Strip. Residents living near the border were promptly advised to remain indoors. |
| Reserve Troops Call | Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, greenlit a substantial call-up of reserve soldiers in line with the needs of the IDF. |
| Emergency Declaration | An emergency was declared within an 80-kilometer radius of the Gaza Strip, enabling the Home Front Command to restrict large gatherings. |
| Attack Casualties | Israel’s Channel 12 reported that the attacks resulted in hundreds of injuries, with at least 40 of those being critical. |
| Military Spokesperson Statement | IDF Spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, stated that Hamas has launched approximately 2,200 rockets and missiles towards Israel, in addition to carrying out infiltration operations into several areas and towns. |
| New Military Operation | The IDF announced the launch of a military operation, codenamed “Operation Iron Blades,” targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip. |
Well, not good. Israel under very serious attack. Hamas crossing the border 30 km plus over 2200 rockets fired into various cities. Who supports Hamas? Iran. Who just gave Iran 6 billion? Biden Admin.
👇 click on pic.twitter.com/iqQydFAaI7— ⚔Dennis⚔ (@clovis1931) October 7, 2023
This escalation in tensions has garnered international attention, with diplomatic channels actively seeking a de-escalation. The situation remains fluid, with both parties increasing their military posturing.
