Posted on 10/13/23
| News Source: WSJ
Residents of Gaza fled their homes but were unable to leave the strip as it came under heavy bombardment in the midst of an escalating humanitarian crisis. Israel is massing troops along the border with the Palestinian enclave.
Here's what to know:
Casualties: More than 1,300 Israelis have died since the Hamas assault began. Gaza officials say more than 1,500 Palestinians have died in Gaza and another 6,600 have been injured.
Air strikes: The Israeli Air Force said it has dropped about 6,000 bombs targeted at Hamas in Gaza since the war began, adding that it will continue the campaign as long as necessary.
Hamas planning: Militants who flooded into southern Israel from Gaza last weekend carried detailed maps of the towns and military bases that they targeted. Some also carried tactical guides identifying weak spots on Israeli army armored vehicles. Hamas said it began planning the attack two years ago.
Hostages: Israel said it had so far confirmed the identities of 97 hostages taken to Gaza. Hamas said it had placed them inside Gaza to impede Israeli operations. Hamas has threatened to execute hostages.
U.S. involvement: Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting the region in an effort to stave off a wider war and pledged U.S. support to Israel. The death toll of American citizens has risen to 27 people, while 14 remain unaccounted for.