Israeli politician Sharren Haskel has spoken out on her fears for family and friends following Hamas’ devastating terror attack in the country.
Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened the group would “pay a price that it hasn’t known until now” after declaring war.
Rishi Sunak is among world leaders to have condemned the incursion by Palestinian militants from the Gaza Strip which resulted in more than 200 deaths.
Speaking on GB News, Haskel said the wellbeing of many loved ones in the country remains unclear as it comes to term with the impact of Hamas’ attack.
Sharren Haskel is 'extremely worried' of what is to come
REUTERS / GB NEWS
“We’ve seen women being taken as hostages into the streets of Gaza”, she said.
“It’s similar to what we’ve seen in videos spread by ISIS. We are extremely worried about the hostages.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
“We can see them being spat on. I’m worried about my family, friends, members that I’ve known who we are still looking for.
“This is a devastating situation.”
At least 250 people have been killed and 1,500 have been wounded in the violence, according to the country’s national rescue service – making it the deadliest attack in Israel in years.
And at least 232 people have been killed and 1,700 wounded in Gaza in Israeli retaliation, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
Israel PM says 'we are at war' after major attack from HamasReutersHaskel said Hamas committed “war crimes” with their incursion.
She told Camilla Tominey: “This has been one of our most devastating attacks that we have experienced in more than 50 years.
“This was war crimes committed against Israeli people.
“They invaded and infiltrated 22 towns, going from house to house, completely massacring family after family, elderly and children civilians.
Aftermath of Israel strikes on Gaza following a Hamas surprise attackReuters“This was not just a declaration of war, this was acts against humanity committed by Hamas against Israel.”
The attack revived memories of the 1973 war almost 50 years to the day, in which Israel’s enemies launched a surprise attack on Yom Kippur.
Videos released by Hamas suggested at least three Israelis had been captured alive.
US President Joe Biden said he spoke to Netanyahu about the “horrific and ongoing attacks” in Israel.
He said: “The United States unequivocally condemns this appalling assault against Israel by Hamas terrorists from Gaza, and I made clear to Prime Minister Netanyahu that we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support to the government and people of Israel.
“Terrorism is never justified. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people. The United States warns against any other party hostile to Israel seeking advantage in this situation. My administration’s support for Israel’s security is rock solid and unwavering.
“Jill and I are keeping in our prayers all of the families who have been hurt by this violence. We are heartbroken by the lives that have been tragically cut short and hope for a swift recovery for all those who have been wounded.
“My team and I are tracking this situation closely, and I will remain in close touch with Prime Minister Netanyahu.”
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly wrote on social media: “Hamas are not ‘fighters’.
“Hamas are not ‘militants’.
“Hamas are terrorists.
“There is no other word to describe the brutality of firing rockets or terrorist attacks targeting civilians.”