Lufthansa reduces flights to Israel amid escalation in Hamas attacks

German airline Lufthansa is cutting its flights to Israel due to the heightened security situation in Tel Aviv. While one flight to Frankfurt will be maintained, all other Lufthansa flights to and from Tel Aviv have been canceled for Saturday.

This move comes in the wake of a series of Palestinian attacks, including rocket launches by Hamas into Israel, leading to increased tensions in the region. Reports suggest that Hamas militants have taken several Israelis hostage.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz denounced the Hamas attacks and expressed Germany's support for Israel.

World leaders have called for an end to hostilities and the safe passage of civilians amidst what's being described as a "war" between Israel and Hamas.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his shock at the terrorist attacks in Israel and extended thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families, standing in solidarity with Israel during this difficult time.

The United States unequivocally condemned the attacks by "Hamas terrorists" against Israel, with the White House stating that National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was in close contact with Israeli partners.

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the attacks and affirmed Israel's right to defend itself, urging British nationals in Israel to follow travel advice.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, strongly condemning the ongoing terrorist attacks.

The Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, expressing unequivocal condemnation of the terrorist violence and full support for Israel's right to self-defense.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's senior adviser Rahim Safavi expressed support for Hamas' attack on Israel, referring to it as a "proud operation."

Egypt warned of "grave consequences" from the escalating tensions and called for restraint to avoid further danger to civilians.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan called for restraint from all parties involved in the conflict and urged them to refrain from aggressive acts.

Russia, in contact with Israel, the Palestinians, and Arab countries, emphasised the need for restraint in the situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel was at "war" with Hamas, describing it as a "murderous surprise attack." He ordered an extensive mobilisation of reserves and vowed that the enemy would pay an unprecedented price.

The Israeli army reported that it was engaged in fighting Gaza militants who entered Israel by land, sea, and air using paragliders, describing it as a combined ground raid involving multiple methods of entry.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments and international concerns regarding the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas.