The state of Israel has suffered a severe surprise attack, mounted by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas

That the Israeli inteligence services were caught off guard has caused consternation in Israel.

Ironically  , the attack was launched during the Jewish Sabbath and the day of the Jewish festival of Simchat Torah.  Meaning the joy of the Torah, it is thought of as a Jewish holiday of reading, renewal, and resilience.

Rishi Sunak , the UK"s Prime Minister said Israel had an absolute right to defend itself.