ATLANTA — Georgia leaders and political figures joined the world in reacting Saturday morning to a new outbreak of violence in Israel, with a sweeping surprise attack by Hamas ushering in one of the most serious situations in the area in decades.
Underscoring the gravity of the latest clash between the militant group and Israel, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "We are at war" in an address to the country.
Several hours after the invasion began, Hamas militants were still fighting gunbattles inside several Israeli communities in a surprising show of strength that shook the country. Israel’s national rescue service said at least 40 people have been killed and hundreds wounded, making it the deadliest attack in Israel in years.
At least 561 wounded people were being treated in Israeli hospitals, including at least 77 who were in critical condition, according to an Associated Press count based on public statements and calls to hospitals. According to reporting by The New York Times, 198 Palestinians have been killed and another 1,610 have been wounded as Israel retaliated with airstrikes on Gaza.
Here in Georgia, leaders from both sides of the political aisle reacted to the news.
Republican Gov. Brian Kemp wrote on X, quoting a post by Netanyahu: "This is an egregious act of war upon one of our nation’s greatest allies. The federal government must be swift and unequivocal: America stands with Israel and her people!"
Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock wrote he was "deeply saddened and alarmed by this morning’s news out of Israel."
"We must condemn terrorism in all its forms. Praying for the victims of this disturbing violence and that peace may prevail," Sen. Warnock posted.
Sen. Ossoff condemned Hamas' actions calling them "indiscriminate and murderous assault on our Israeli allies."
His office said he spoke with Israeli Consul General Anat Sultan-Dadon to convey Georgians' support for Israel and the Israeli people.
Both Democratic Rep. Lucy McBath and several Republican lawmakers - including Reps. Buddy Carter and Andrew Clyde, as well as Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper - expressed solidarity with Israel.
The Carter Center issued a statement calling for the protection of Israeli and Palestinian civilians as tensions and violence continue to escalate:
The Carter Center strongly condemns the targeting of Israeli and Palestinian civilians and calls for genuine dialogue as well as international collective action to halt hostilities in the region. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for the tragic loss of innocent lives on all sides of the conflict. We urge all parties to prioritize the protection and well-being of civilians by refraining from actions that target residential areas.
The Carter Center acknowledges the profound historical and religious significance this region holds for all parties involved. The fundamental human rights of all residents of the region must be protected, land claims and security concerns addressed, and the sanctity of Muslim and Christian holy sites preserved. In addition, it is crucial to recognize the complex dynamics of this situation, including the ongoing occupation.
The Carter Center calls upon the international community to engage actively in building peace in the region. The urgency for a robust and renewed peace process has never been greater. There is not a military solution to the crisis – only a political one. We implore the international community to fulfill its responsibilities and reinvigorate a credible process that brings peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians while safeguarding the lives of all civilians.
The Atlanta Hawks also issued a statement, condemning the senseless acts:
The Atlanta Hawks & State Farm Arena organization stands with the people of Israel and Israelis around the world. We strongly condemn the ruthless acts of violence taking place and grieve for the lives lost.
News happens fast. Download our 11Alive News app for all the latest breaking updates, and sign up for our Speed Feed newsletter to get a rundown of the latest headlines across north Georgia.