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Israeli Security Cabinet launches operation to 'destroy Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad'

IDF launches 'Operation Swords of Iron' as Hamas claims to be holding 163 Israelis hostage in Gaza

October 8, 2023 08:10
Israeli tank Gaza
Israeli troops gather with their military equipment at an undisclosed location on the border with the Gaza Strip on October 8, 2023. Israel's prime minister of October 8 warned of a "long and difficult" war, as fighting with Hamas left hundreds killed on both sides after a surprise attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group. (Photo by JACK GUEZ / AFP) (Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images)
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(JNS) Israel's Security Cabinet early on Sunday morning launched the offensive phase of "Operation Swords of Iron," ordering the Israel Defense Forces to prepare for the "destruction of the military and governing capabilities of Hamas and [Palestinian] Islamic Jihad".

"We are embarking on a long and difficult war that was forced on us by a murderous Hamas attack," said Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

"We will restore security to the citizens of Israel and we will win," he vowed.

"The first stage is ending at this time with the destruction of the vast majority of the enemy forces that infiltrated our territory. At the same time, we have begun the offensive phase, which will continue with neither limitations nor respite until the objectives are achieved," he added.

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