Fact Sheet: Israel at War (Nov. 13)

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[vc_row][vc_column column_width_percent=”100″ align_horizontal=”align_center” gutter_size=”3″ overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1/1″ uncode_shortcode_id=”150680″][vc_custom_heading text_font=”font-762333″ text_size=”bigtext” text_weight=”700″ text_transform=”capitalize” text_space=”fontspace-111509″ separator=”yes” sub_lead=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”197012″]Israel at War – November 2023 Updates[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”357192″]

Reported as of November 13, 2023 2:00 AM PDT

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”468502″]The attack began at around 8:30 PM (Pacific Time) on Friday night, October 6, 2023, triggered by a surge of rocket fire and terrorist infiltration from Hamas in Gaza into Israeli territory. These attacks have resulted in military and civilian casualties, injuries, and a heightened state of alert across Israel and for Jewish communities around the world.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”635398″]

Subject: Update on Ongoing Conflict

Date: November 13, 2023

Executive Summary:

  1. Meeting with City Leaders in the South: The IDF Chief of Staff met with city and council leaders in the south, emphasizing the IDF’s commitment to security. He acknowledged the leaders’ efforts and assured that military operations would continue to achieve their objectives.
  2. Operations in Gaza: IDF forces are conducting attacks on Hamas strongholds in the Shati camp and penetrating deeper into Gaza City. Infantry and engineering units, led by the 401st Armored Brigade, have raided numerous buildings on the outskirts of Shati, neutralizing terrorists who were part of the camp’s defense system. In parallel, forces of the 36th Division, in cooperation with naval fighters, conducted a raid in the Gaza Strip.
  3. Targeting Terror Infrastructure: IDF soldiers are locating and destroying long-range missile launchers, anti-tank missile launch sites, tunnel openings, and other terrorist infrastructures. They are also arresting Hamas terrorists for interrogation in Israel.
  4. Northern Operations: IDF combat aircraft are attacking Hezbollah terror targets in southern Lebanon in response to rockets fired towards Israeli cities. The IDF has neutralized a cell that attacked Israeli civilians with an anti-tank missile.
  5. Civilian Assistance and Hospital Support: The IDF has opened specific routes from hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip southward, communicating with hospital administrators to offer assistance in safely transferring patients and the injured. Despite Hamas’ pressure on hospitals, the IDF is ready to provide fuel and assist in the safe transfer of newborns to other hospitals.
  6. Security Situation in the North: The IDF is prepared and remains highly alert in the north, with plans to change the security situation if necessary to ensure the safety of northern residents.
  7. General Security Efforts: The IDF is continuously engaged in operational and intelligence activities to try and safely return kidnapped individuals. They have updated the families of 239 kidnapped individuals and the families of 361 fallen IDF soldiers.
  8. Response to Questions: The IDF is operating on multiple fronts, including Gaza, the northern border with Lebanon, Judea and Samaria, and Syria. They are prepared to respond sharply to any attacks and have plans for the northern border to ensure the security of residents.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”197152″]IDF Discovers Hamas’ Terrorist Infrastructure and Weapons in Shati Area
November 13, 2023, 1:54 AM

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reported significant operational activity in the Shati area. Key findings include the discovery of Hamas’ terrorist infrastructure at Quds University and inside the Abu Bakr Mosque. Additionally, IDF soldiers located a tunnel shaft, intelligence materials, and weapons in the Beit Hanoun area. A particularly concerning discovery was made inside the residence of a senior Islamic Jihad terrorist, where a large number of weapons were found in a child’s bedroom. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the IDF to counteract terrorist activities and ensure regional security.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image media=”86977″ media_width_percent=”100″ uncode_shortcode_id=”106830″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”194651″]

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Impact Recap (Nov. 13):

Casualties:
– Israel:
1,200+ murdered. (Updated: Reduced by 200.)
5,300+ wounded.
500,000 displaced.

Abductions:
239+ Individuals

Rockets:
~10,000+ Rockets Fired | 1000+ Failed

Incursions:
22 locations outside the Gaza Strip, including towns and other communities as far as 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the Gaza border

Eliminations:
3,000 Hamas terrorists neutralized.
Dozens of senior Hamas terrorist leaders eliminated.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”188074″]

Detailed News Update: U.S. Military Support to Israel During the 2023 Israel–Hamas Conflict

U.S. Mobilizes Military Support Following Israel-Hamas War Outbreak

Date: October 2023

Summary:

  • Immediate U.S. Response: Following the outbreak of the 2023 Israel-Hamas war on October 7, the United States swiftly initiated military support for Israel. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin ordered the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford-led Carrier Strike Group 12.
  • Israel’s Request and U.S. Commitment: Israel requested Iron Dome interceptors, to which President Joe Biden responded affirmatively, promising rapid provision of additional equipment and resources, including ammunition. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged full support, including guided missile launchers and F-35 fighter jets.
  • Biden and Blinken in Israel: President Biden and Secretary Blinken visited Tel Aviv on October 18, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security.
  • Escalation of U.S. Military Presence: By October 10, additional U.S. ships and troops were en route to Israel, with further deployments ready if needed. This included two aircraft carriers in the eastern Mediterranean, three naval warships, and a significant increase in aircraft at U.S. bases in the Middle East. U.S. special operations forces collaborated with the Israeli military for planning and intelligence.
  • Ground Attack Preparations and U.S. Aid Package: As Israel prepared for a potential ground attack on Gaza, the U.S. government and Congress were organizing a $2 billion aid package for Israel, as reported by Time.
  • Reiterated Commitments and Increased Military Presence: Secretary Blinken reaffirmed U.S. support on October 12. Defense Secretary Austin announced the dispatch of a second aircraft carrier and increased air squadrons to the Persian Gulf on October 14, significantly boosting U.S. aerial capabilities in the region. A team of Special Operations personnel was also sent to Israel for intelligence and rescue operation preparations.
  • Congressional Approval for Aid Package: The White House sought congressional approval for a $2 billion military aid package for Israel and Ukraine on October 15. Defense Secretary Austin prepared 2,000 troops for potential deployment to Israel.
  • Hezbollah’s Potential Involvement and U.S. Readiness: Discussions in the Biden administration about using military force if Hezbollah joins the conflict were underway. The U.S. was ready to send additional forces as a deterrent.
  • Continued U.S. Military Support: By October 17, five shipments of American weapons and equipment had arrived in Israel. The U.S. had 2,000 troops on high alert and extended the deployment of an aircraft carrier in the Middle East.
  • Biden’s Call for Increased Military Aid: On October 19, President Biden urged Congress to boost military aid to Israel and Ukraine. He emphasized the threat posed by Hamas to Israeli democracy.
  • Substantial Increase in Military Aid: On October 20, Biden announced a request for a total of $14 billion as part of a $105 billion military aid package.
  • Deployment of Advanced Missile Defense Systems: On October 21, the Pentagon announced the deployment of THAAD and additional Patriot batteries to the Middle East.
  • Congressional Approval of Military Aid: The U.S. House of Representatives approved a Republican plan allocating $14.5 billion in military aid for Israel. Historical context was provided, noting that Israel has received the highest amount of U.S. military assistance since World War II, exceeding $124 billion.

This detailed summary provides a comprehensive overview of the U.S. military support to Israel during the October 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting the rapid response, significant military deployments, and substantial aid packages involved.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”201287″]

Detailed News Update: U.S. Defense Official’s Stance on Protecting Troops in the Middle East

Date: November 9, 2023

Summary:

  • Recent Attacks by Iran-Backed Militias: Over the past three weeks, U.S. bases and facilities in Iraq and Syria have been attacked 41 times by Iran-backed militia groups. The U.S. has actively defended against these attacks.
  • U.S. Response to October 7 Attacks on Israel: Following the October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas, the U.S. Department of Defense has organized its efforts in the Middle East along four key lines: protecting U.S. forces and interests, supporting Israel’s right to self-defense, coordinating with Israel on hostage recovery, and containing the conflict to Gaza.
  • Deployment of U.S. Military Assets: The U.S. has enhanced its military presence in the Middle East, including the deployment of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and Patriot missile defense systems, additional fighter squadrons, two carrier strike groups, and an Ohio-class nuclear-powered guided missile submarine.
  • U.S. Commitment to Israel’s Security: The U.S. has demonstrated its commitment to Israel’s security and regional stability by deploying over 2,000 personnel and various units on a heightened state of readiness, some of which have been subsequently deployed. These actions aim to deter conflict expansion and bolster the department’s rapid response capabilities.
  • Support for Israel Against Terrorism: The U.S. Department of Defense’s commitment to Israel’s defense against terrorism is described as “ironclad.” The department is actively working to provide Israel with necessary munitions and equipment, including air defense systems, medical supplies, artillery, ammunition, and precision-guided munitions, with deliveries occurring nearly daily.
  • Hamas’ Use of Civilians and Humanitarian Blockade: Since the initial attack, Hamas has reportedly used civilians as human shields, blocked humanitarian aid, and continues to hold at least 200 civilians. The U.S. Department of State has designated Hamas as a foreign terrorist organization since 1997.
  • U.S. Strikes in Syria: The U.S. has conducted precision self-defense strikes on facilities in eastern Syria used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliates, following President Biden’s direction on October 26. The U.S. maintains its readiness to take further necessary measures to protect its personnel.

This detailed summary provides an overview of the U.S. Department of Defense’s recent actions and stance regarding the protection of its troops in the Middle East, particularly in response to the attacks by Iran-backed militias and the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”151888″]

Public Affairs:

The Israeli-American Civic Action Network respectfully urges elected, appointed, and otherwise public officials to speak out and condemn the Hamas terrorists in Gaza, support Israel, and demand that U.S. officials give them the latitude necessary to dismantle and remove the terrorists from Gaza.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”178141″]Timeline (First Day of War):

 

Event – October 7, 2023 IDT EDT PDT
First reports of rocket attacks on Israel. 2,500 rockets estimated. 6:30 a.m. 11:30 p.m. (Oct. 6) 8:30 p.m. (Oct. 6)
First reports of infiltrations into Israel. Residents ordered to stay near homes. 7:30 a.m. 12:30 a.m. 9:30 p.m. (Oct. 6)
First reports of casualties from attacks. 8:00 a.m. 1:00 a.m. 10:00 p.m. (Oct. 6)
First sirens warning of rockets in Jerusalem. 8:15 a.m. 1:15 a.m. 10:15 p.m. (Oct. 6)
Reports of Israeli retaliatory strikes in Gaza. 8:20 a.m. 1:20 a.m. 10:20 p.m. (Oct. 6)
IDF Launches “Operation Iron Swords” and initiates reserve call-ups. 10:20 a.m. 3:20 a.m. 12:20 a.m.
Netanyahu makes his first public statement, declaring, “Israel is at war.” 11:30 a.m. 4:30 a.m. 1:30 a.m.
IDF Home Front Command places restrictions on gatherings. 12:00 p.m. 5:00 a.m. 2:00 a.m.
Israel deploys battalions to the Gaza border, retaking towns. Rocket fire subsides. 12:20 p.m. 5:20 a.m. 2:20 a.m.
The White House announces President Joe Biden has been briefed on Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. 4:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 6:30 a.m.
Israel reports 100 killed and 900 injured. 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemns Hamas’ attack on Israel, issuing a statement of solidarity with Israel and condolences for the lives lost. 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m.
IDF confirms Hamas hostages; Israel fighting at 22 locations. Four divisions at Gaza border. 5:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m.
Israel strikes two high-rise towers in Gaza housing Hamas assets. 6:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.
Israel announces hundreds of terrorists killed in southern Israel and Gaza. 7:15 p.m. 12:15 p.m. 9:15 a.m.
Israeli Energy Minister halts electricity supply to Gaza. 7:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.
Rocket barrage strikes central Israel; 150 killed. 8:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m.
Israel raises the official death toll to 200. 8:45 p.m. 1:45 p.m. 10:45 a.m.
IDF announces a new wave of airstrikes on Gaza. 9:20 p.m. 2:20 p.m. 11:20 a.m.
Israeli Defense Minister extends the emergency situation to the entire state of Israel. 10:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m.
Israel raises the official death toll to 250. 10:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m. 12:15 p.m.
Netiv HaAsara municipality releases names of 15 residents killed in the attack. 11:45 p.m. 4:45 p.m. 1:45 p.m.
Event – October 8, 2023 IDT EDT PDT
Netanyahu makes a televised address in Israel, elaborating on the war situation and his directives to the security establishment. He emphasizes that Israel will prevail. Midnight (Oct. 7-8) 5:00 p.m. (Oct. 7) 2:00 p.m. (Oct. 7)
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin releases a statement on the situation in Israel. Austin also has a call with U.S. Centcom Commander Gen. Eric Kurilla. 3:30 a.m. 8:30 p.m. (Oct. 7) 5:30 p.m. (Oct. 7)

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Background:

On the morning of October 7 (Shabbat 7.10, the holiday of Simchat Torah) began massive rocket fire from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory, while terrorists infiltrated Israel from a number of different points.

This is an extensive terrorist attack on the civilian population in Israel in the midst of Simchat Torah, when hundreds of thousands of Israelis were on their way to the synagogues to celebrate with their communities and families.

As part of the attack, which continues at this moment in full force, the terrorist organization is firing missiles toward cities in the south and center of Israel and toward Jerusalem – indiscriminate fire intended to hit the civilian population. During this time, Hamas terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory in order to harm and murder civilians as much as they can.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”711669″]

Key Points:

  • The terrorist organization Hamas launched an extensive attack on the citizens of Israel, through widespread and indiscriminate firing of missiles and rockets at the citizens of Israel from the south to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, infiltration of terrorists into the southern towns and villages and attempts to murder families and individuals on their way to synagogues.
  • This is an initiated attack by terrorist organizations led by Hamas, without any pretext or prior action on the part of Israel. Moreover, this attack comes after a long period in which Israel is trying to bring calm to the Gaza Strip, throughextensive efforts to improve the civilian situation in the Gaza Strip.
  • This attack proves once again, for those who still had a doubt, Hamas has no interest in the safety and well-being of the citizens of the Gaza Strip and sees them as nothing more than a pawns in its efforts to harm the citizens of Israel.
  • Israel will act in any way necessary to protect its citizens, and will not shy froma broad operation in Gaza. Israel will exact the full price from the terrorist organizations, and is prepared to act as necessary until its goals are achieved. Hamas is the sovereign power in the Gaza Strip, standing behind this attack, and will bear the results and responsibility for the events.
  • The terrorist organization are a branch of the Ayatollah regime in Iran, which proactively promotes terrorist activity in Israel and against Israeli and Jewish targets all over the world.
  • The residents of the Gaza Strip are not enemies of Israel, but the terrorist organizations that operate knowingly and deliberately from within densely populated areas and adjacent to humanitarian buildings and institutions make cynical use of them. Israel does and will do everything possible to prevent harm to non-involved people, but the terrorist organizations knowingly operate from within the civilian population, committing double war crimes – indiscriminately.

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