Israel faced a surprise attack on Saturday when Palestinian militant group Hamas fired 5,000 rockets. In response, Israel declared a state of war with Hamas.
The death toll in Israel has surpassed 1,200, with Gaza officials reporting 765 killed so far. Meanwhile, Hamas threatens to execute one hostage every time Israel drops a bomb.
Celebrities from different parts of the world are expressing their opposition to violence.
Gal Gadot
In an Instagram post, the Wonder Woman actress wrote: “At least 250 Israelis have been killed and dozens of women, children and the elderly held hostage in Gaza by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. More than 3,000 rockets were fired from early morning. Hamas holds hostages and controls bases and settlements in Israel. More than 1,500 people were wounded and heavy fighting is still ongoing.”
“My heart hurts. I pray for everyone who is suffering,” she added.
In another post, Gal Gadot expressed her support for Israel, saying: “I support Israel and you should too. The world cannot sit idly by while these horrific acts of terrorism occur!”
Madonna
American singer Madonna published a video of the attack on Heartbreaking. Imagine if this happened to you?
She continued: “To everyone who is suffering or who will be affected by this conflict. I pray for you. I know that this is the work of Hamas, and there are many innocent people in Palestine who do not support this terrorist organization.”
What is happening in Israel is devastating. It is heartbreaking to watch all these families, and especially children, being harassed, attacked and killed in the streets.
Imagine if this happened to you??
It’s incomprehensible.
Conflicts can never be resolved by violence.… pic.twitter.com/KHvMvdL8sg— Madonna (@Madonna) October 9, 2023
Natalie Portman
Israeli-American actress Natalie Portman expressed her support for Israel by sharing a note on Instagram that read: “My heart breaks for the people of Israel. Children, women and the elderly were killed and kidnapped from their own homes. “I am horrified by these barbaric acts and my heart beats with love and prayers for the families of all those affected.”
Katy Perry
American singer and songwriter Katy Perry posted a statement on her Instagram from UNICEF Executive Director Katherine Russell. Part of the statement emphasizes: “What the children of Israel and the State of Palestine need most is a long-term political solution to the crisis so that they can grow up in peace and without the shadow of violence.”
Lena Headey
Game of Thrones actress Lena Headey shared a message originally posted by author Ben Sheehan that said: “The killing of innocent Palestinians is appalling. The killing of innocent Israelis is horrific. If you don’t feel the same way, I think you should ask yourself why that is.”
Indian actress Nushratt Bharuchcha was stranded in Israel at the time of the attack. She returned safely to India on Sunday.