Azerbaijani MFA condemns violence against civilians in Israel-Palestine conflict zone

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has condemned violence against civilians in the Israel-Palestine conflict zone.

"We condemn violence against civilians in the Israel-Palestine conflict zone. We express condolences for tragic loss of lives among many civilians both in Israel and Gaza Strip. We call for an urgent de-escalation of the situation," the ministry said on its social media account X, Caliber.Az reports.

Israeli Defense Forces spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed on October 7 that militants from the Hamas radical movement had taken some Israeli citizens hostage. He did not specify their exact number. Later, Palestinian groups announced that they had captured over 50 servicemen, security officers and civilians on the territory of Israel and took them to the Gaza Strip.

Early on October 7 morning, rocket attacks were launched at Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip. Alarm signals have sounded continuously since early morning in many localities across the country, including the Tel Aviv area and its environs. Shortly after, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they were launching Operation "Iron Swords" in retaliation for the attack, coming from the Palestinian exclave.

Under these circumstances, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has approved a call-up of reservists. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country was "at war" and was determined to win it. "The enemy will pay an unprecedented price," he added.