Palestinian militants in Gaza launched four rockets into Israel on Monday while mourners commemorated the anniversary of the Oct. 7 attack. The rockets did not disrupt a nearby ceremony, but Hamas also reported attacking Israeli forces in various parts of Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed that three rockets were intercepted, and the fourth landed in an open area, causing no casualties or damage. In response to what it deemed an imminent attack, the military conducted artillery and airstrikes overnight and into Monday, targeting Hamas launch posts and underground militant infrastructure.
The skirmish on the anniversary highlighted the resilience of the militants following a severe Israeli offensive that has led to the deaths of approximately 42,000 Palestinians, as reported by local medical officials. The offensive has left significant devastation in Gaza, with around 90% of the population displaced.
A year ago, Hamas-led militants breached Israel’s security fence, infiltrating army bases and farming communities in a surprise attack. They killed around 1,200 people, primarily civilians, and kidnapped 250 individuals. Presently, about 100 captives remain in Gaza, with a third of them presumed deceased.
Israel is currently engaged in conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon. Additionally, Israel has expressed intentions to retaliate against Iran following a recent ballistic missile strike on its territory.
In a separate report, hundreds gathered at the Nova music festival site in Re’im, Israel, to honor the victims of the Oct. 7 attack, where almost 400 people were killed during Hamas’ assault. Families and friends of the victims mourned together, lighting candles and placing mementos around the former DJ stage. The poignant moment was interrupted by the sound of army helicopters overhead and distant booms from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Indonesian nationals and a Lebanese citizen evacuated from Lebanon arrived in Jakarta amid growing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The Indonesian government has prioritized the safety and evacuation of its citizens in Lebanon as tensions in the region escalate.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned Hamas’ assault on Israel on Oct. 7, acknowledging the pain and ongoing impact of the attack. He affirmed Australia’s stance against discrimination and hatred, emphasizing the importance of upholding values of peace and shared humanity.
Meanwhile, new Israeli airstrikes targeted Beirut suburbs, while Hezbollah claimed a missile attack on Israel’s Haifa. The escalation of conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and potentially with Iran underscores the volatile situation in the region a year after the initial Oct. 7 attack by Hamas.
