Caption: U.S. President Biden giving remarks about the shocking attack Hamas launched on Israel
Top UN officials were “in close contact with all concerned to urge maximum restraint” following “horrific scenes of violence” that left dozens dead and hundreds wounded in Israeli cities near the Gaza Strip amid rocket attacks by armed Palestinian militants early Oct. 7, with the UN Security Council announcing it would hold a private meeting to discuss the matter.
The UN Secretary-General condemned “in the strongest terms” the attack by Hamas against Israeli towns, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said.
At dawn, a Hamas-led operation launched thousands of rockets towards Israel from the Gaza Strip, according to the UN relief agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, and its latest situation report.
In response, “Israeli authorities declared that the country is in a state of war and called up military reservists,” according to the agency, which is based in Gaza.
By mid-day, UNRWA reported that “Israeli forces launched operation ‘Iron Sword’ with strikes on the Gaza strip by air, land and sea.”
At nightfall, the agency said the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported 232 people had been killed and 1,697 injuries, including two UNRWA students. Meanwhile, “at least 20,363 internally displaced people were sheltering in 44 UNRWA schools in all areas in the Gaza Strip, except Khan Younis, 28 of which are designated emergency shelters.
“The attacks have so far claimed numerous Israeli civilian lives and injured many hundreds,” Mr. Dujarric said. “The Secretary-General is appalled by reports that civilians have been attacked and abducted from their own homes.”
The UN chief is deeply concerned for the civilian population and urges maximum restraint and that “all diplomatic efforts” are made “to avoid a wider conflagration” the UN Spokesperson said. “Civilians must be respected and protected in accordance with international humanitarian law at all times.”
With deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the UN chief called for the immediate release of all abducted persons, Mr. Dujarric said.
“He stresses that violence cannot provide a solution to the conflict, and that only through negotiation leading to a two-State solution can peace be achieved,” the UN Spokesperson said.
Also, in response to the attack, Israel has cut off food, fuel, and electricity from Gaza. Hamas has threatened to kill hostages if Israel advances into Gaza.
As of 1:00 p.m. on Oct. 10, over 1,600 people in Israel have been killed, including at least 14 American citizens. Over 800 are reported dead in Palestine. Some Americans who were not in the line of fire are still stranded there. Among the Americans caught up in the chaos was none other than U.S. Senator Cory Booker, who did manage to get out of Israel.
In describing his ordeal, Booker posted the following to X (fka Twitter): “I was in Israel when the horrific attacks carried out by Hamas started on Saturday. My team and I are now safe, but like many we are shaken, angered, and heartbroken by the hundreds killed, the thousands injured, those taken hostage, and all who are directly affected by these sickening terrorist attacks.
“After this experience, more than ever, I am committed to working with my colleagues in the Senate to continue supporting Israel’s security and ensuring stability in the region – and I hope one day soon, a long-term and just peace in the region.”
Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden came out condemning the atrocities:
“I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu about the horrific and ongoing attacks in Israel. The United States unequivocally condemns this appalling assault against Israel by Hamas terrorists from Gaza, and I made clear to Prime Minister Netanyahu that we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support to the Government and people of Israel.
“Terrorism is never justified. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people. The United States warns against any other party hostile to Israel seeking advantage in this situation. My Administration’s support for Israel’s security is rock solid and unwavering.
“Jill and I are keeping in our prayers all of the families who have been hurt by this violence. We are heartbroken by the lives that have been tragically cut short and hope for a swift recovery for all those who have been wounded.
“My team and I are tracking this situation closely, and I will remain in close touch with Prime Minister Netanyahu.”
