Israeli Army Engaged in Intense Fighting Against Hamas in 22 Areas, Says Army Representative

The spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces, Brigadier General Daniel Hagari, has confirmed that Hamas militants have taken several Israeli civilians and soldiers hostage. Hagari's remarks were cited by CNN.

“There are hostages and prisoners of war taken by Hamas. There are casualties among the Israel Defense Forces personnel. We do not yet have a clear number, as we are in a state of war,” said Daniel Hagari.

According to him, the Israeli army has engaged in significant battles against Hamas in 22 areas. “Our goal is to eliminate all terrorists who have infiltrated Israel and to clear all sites,” he stated (as quoted by Haaretz).

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad organization, which has joined Hamas's “Al-Aqsa Deluge” operation, has announced that it has taken men, women, and children hostage. “All prisoners held by resistance organizations will be kept until all our prisoners are released from Israeli jails,” said Islamic Jihad spokesman Daoud Shihab, as quoted by Haaretz.