Thousands have died after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel.

Israel has declared a ‘state of war’ after Islamist militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack and fired thousands of rockets into the country early on Saturday (7 October).

Gunmen were confirmed to have “infiltrated” the country from several locations on the Gaza Strip - a territory claimed by Palestine located at the southern border of Israel. Militants stormed homes, attacked and killed civilians, and took people - including children - hostage.

Hamas military commander Mohammad Deif claimed responsibility for the violent attack - saying thousands of rockets had been fired into Israel. In a rare public statement, he declared “enough is enough” and urged Palestinians everywhere to fight.

Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his citizens "we are at war" as he promised "the enemy will pay a price he has never known." He then launched retaliatory air strikes at Gaza.

As of 11 October, 1,200 Israelis and 1,055 Palestinians have been killed since Hamas launched began its attack. Follow below for the latest updates.