The entire world watched the terror group Hamas attack Israel on October 7, 2023 with disbelief. Today, we already know that it was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Our hearts are broken.
Sadly, that dark day was just the beginning. At FIRM, we want to keep you informed about what is happening in Israel, and we want to share how you can help. Please keep us in your prayers, as our team serves you in the best way we can on the ground in Israel.
This article will be periodically updated with the latest information.
Day 1. Saturday (Shabbat): Hamas attacks Israel
6:30 AM – Israelis woke up to sirens all across the southern part of the country, including even in central Israel, like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Thousands of rockets barraged sleepy towns and villages surrounding the Gaza Strip.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, soon the news spread of the terror organization of Hamas infiltrating into Israel. By land, water and air, armed terrorists stormed into peaceful neighborhoods, killing hundreds. Hamas took dozens of innocent Israelis hostage back into Gaza.
The events have taken Israel by surprise – it seems both civilians, as well as the government and the military were shocked by the attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared Israel is at war. It is Israel’s first declaration of war since the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
Later that same day, Israelis in various parts of the country showed up to donate blood and started impromptu collection centers to share essentials, like baby equipment, clothes and food for the affected communities.
Day 2. Sunday: the Nightmare Continues
Shockingly, even more terrorists crossed the border into Israel on the second day of the war. More rocket sirens went off in the nearby communities, up to the Rishon LeZion area. Blasts were heard in Tel Aviv.
On this somber day, about 100,000 of Israelis were called up into the reserves. This number includes many of our friends, FIRM staff members and volunteers, ministry partners, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters.
The schools across the country have been closed until further notice. Universities are postponing the beginning of the semester. Israel has also gathered large forces on its northern border fearing Hezbollah might join the war.
Tragically, the number of innocents killed has doubled on Sunday, when almost 250 bodies were found at a music festival site in southern Israel. Many terrorists were still at large by nightfall.
Day 3. Monday: Israel is Regrouping
The Israeli Air Force carried out a series of massive airstrikes on the Gaza Strip overnight. The rockets were once again launched to central Israel at noon, while the south had been under fire all morning.
The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) reports that 300,000 reserve troops have been called up. While some 80 terrorists have been apprehended, Israelis have been warned that many terrorists remain in Israeli territory since Saturday. More are trying to infiltrate.
FIRM has already dedicated 200,000 USD to relocate families from vulnerable areas in the south of Israel to safer parts of the country. We are also providing emergency food and water, and life-saving equipment. In a joint effort with our local partners, we are doing what we can to preserve life and keep families together.
By late afternoon, news spread that a rocket from Gaza made impact near the Ben Gurion Airport. All residents were advised to gather supplies for the next 72 hours. Meanwhile, reports come in of antisemitic attacks abroad (i.e., London kosher restaurant vandalized).
Day 4. Tuesday: Aid is on the Way
This morning, the Israeli government approved the callup of a further 360,000 reservists – doubling the numbers of yesterday. The military is advising the civilians in Gaza to seek shelter in Egypt, their southern neighbor.
Meanwhile, in northern Israel, including the Galilee, residents were instructed to shelter amid concerns of terrorist spreading throughout Israel.
FIRM representatives drove to a moshav near the Gaza border to share food and supplies with the locals and soldiers stationed nearby, who needed support. Thank you for your contributions to make this possible!
This story is developing. Latest update: Oct 10, 2023
—
The local body of believers is working together to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of this darkness. We thank everyone who has already donated to the FIRM Emergency Crisis Response fund. We couldn’t do this without you.
If you want to be more involved with helping and supporting Israel right now, visit: FIRM Emergency Crisis Response
Help provide emergency relief for families across Israel
Emergency Crisis Response Fund
Give now
Articles Related to What is Happening in Israel? The Terrorist Attack on Israel from Gaza
Ready to Rebuild: Support for Israel after Hamas Terror AttacksHow to Talk to Others about the Crisis in Israel & GazaRemembering the Lives Lost in the Holocaust This Remembrance DayGood Friday // A Personal Reflection on GriefHolocaust Survivors – Heroic Overcomers in Israel
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
The post What is Happening in Israel? The Terrorist Attack on Israel from Gaza appeared first on FIRM Israel.
SOCIAL
Latest Activity
-
LeoFreskos became a registered member 6 hours, 8 minutes ago
-
Nereihix became a registered member 2 days, 3 hours ago
Visual Verse of the Day
“Then they spoke against God; They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness.” Psalm 78:19
