Prime minister says ‘long and difficult war’ lies ahead as Israeli forces work to free hostages they say are being held after unprecedented Hamas attacks
A fresh wrap of the latest developments is live here. Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel is embarking on a “long and difficult war” after the surprise attack by Hamas, with gunbattles continuing into the night, and hostages standoffs in two towns.
In a televised address on Saturday night, Netanyahu, who earlier declared Israel to be at war, said the military would use all of its strength to destroy Hamas’ capabilities and “take revenge for this black day”. But he warned, “This war will take time. It will be difficult.”
