In the midst of escalating hostilities following an offensive by the Palestinian group Hamas, Russia has issued a call for an urgent ceasefire between Palestine and Israel. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized the need for both sides to promptly halt hostilities, renounce violence, and exercise the required restraint.

Hamas, responding to the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence, initiated "Operation Al Aqsa Flood" on Saturday. The surprise attack involved rocket launches, resulting in the capture of several Israelis. In retaliation, the Israeli army launched "Operation Swords of Iron" against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The toll of the conflict is evident, with medical sources in Gaza reporting at least 232 Palestinian casualties, while Israeli authorities place their death toll at 250. The international community watches with growing concern as the situation continues to unfold.