In a surprise attack on Saturday morning, militants crossed into Israel from Gaza under the cover of heavy rocket fire and took dozens of Israelis captive. Some hostages were taken back to Gaza. Many Israelis have died, and at least two thousand were injured.
Israel has responded with a wave of air strikes on targets in Gaza, killing many and wounding thousands. The death toll from both sides has surpassed 1,400. This is one of the most serious escalations in the Israel-Palestinian conflict in years. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was “at war” and vowed that Hamas, the militant group that rules Gaza, will “pay a price it has never known.”
As usual, innocent civilians on both sides will suffer. Our staff in Israel are watching the situation and looking for ways to help. Join us in praying for the situation.
Updated October 9th, 2:30 p.m.
