Israel Declares ‘State of War’ Act as Attack from Palestinian Fighters Intensify

Israel has declared a state of war as the country is facing continuous attack from Palestinian fighters in several areas across the southern part of Israel.

The declaration was in accordance with Article 40 of Israel’s Basic Law, which serves a similar purpose of constitution. This came a day after a surprise attack by al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, that governs the Gaza Strip.

The attack came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened to launch a ground invasion of Gaza, saying that he will turn the besieged Palestinian enclave into a deserted island.

On the other hand, Hamas stated that the attack was in response to continued brutality by Israel and its occupation administration against Palestinians.

Israel and Palestine have been at war since the mid-20th century as the Palestinians seek to establish their own independent state where it is believed to be a “Promised Land” in the Bible.

According to several media and official reports, the latest death toll stood at 370 for Palestine and at least 600 for Israel.