Israel/PT: Authorities confirm hundreds of injuries following rocket attacks in Southern and Central districts Oct. 7 /update 2

Event

Officials have confirmed at least five fatalities and hundreds of injuries following large-scale rocket attacks targeting southern and central Israel early Oct. 7. Authorities reported over 2,200 projectile firings, with several landing in Ashkelon, Bethlehem, Kfar Aviv, Mevaseret Zion near Jerusalem, Rishon LeTsiyon, Tel Aviv, and Yavne. The official toll could rise in the coming hours as authorities continue with emergency response and damage assessments.

A ground assault by Gaza-militants remains ongoing in multiple Israeli communities in the Southern District, with local accounts suggesting armed fighters in Netivot, Ofakim, and Sderot targeting civilians and Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel. Reports indicate gunfight between IDF and militants in Be’eri, Kfar Aza, Magen, Nahal Oz, Re’im, and Sufa. Unconfirmed reports claim militants are holding an unknown number of civilians and IDF soldiers hostage. Unverified sources claim militants have taken over several checkpoints and at least one military outpost near the Gaza border. Hamas leadership has reportedly called on other militant groups in the region to participate in the assault.

IDF has begun airstrikes against potential militant targets in the Gaza Strip in response to the attacks. Israeli officials have also declared a state of readiness for war and started large-scale activation of reserved military personnel and nationwide mobilization of the police force. Authorities have asked people in affected areas to remain in their homes. A ban on all gatherings is in place in areas 80 km (50 miles) from the Gaza Strip. Reports indicate that airports in southern and central Israel are closed to commercial flights, though Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) serving Tel Aviv remains operational. IDF has reportedly closed roads near the border with the Gaza Strip, including Route 4 from the Zikim junction to Netiv Ha'asara, Route 34 from the Yad Mordechai junction to Nir Am, and Route 232 from Mefalsim to Sa’ad and Nir Yitzhak to Kerem Shalom. Authorities have also closed Zikim beach on the Gaza border and suspended train services between Ashkelon and Sderot.

Heightened security measures and transport disruptions are almost certain in the affected regions. Further armed clashes and rocket attacks are likely over the coming days. Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in impacted areas.

Advice

Reconsider nonessential travel until the situation stabilizes, particularly to central and southern Israel. Monitor local media and abide by security forces' directives. If incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If there is no shelter nearby, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.