Third Anniversary of 'Al-Aqsa Flood' Marked Amid Ongoing Gaza War

The third anniversary of the "Al-Aqsa Flood" operation, carried out by Hamas's Al-Qassam Brigades on October 7, 2023, is being observed amidst an extended war in Gaza. The surprise attack significantly impacted Israeli security and military systems, initiating a large-scale conflict in the Gaza Strip whose repercussions continue. The initial assault involved infiltrations and crossings targeting over 50 military sites and positions of the Israeli military's "Gaza Division" and Southern Brigade, accompanied by an intense rocket barrage, reportedly exceeding 5,000 projectiles. The operation led to a temporary collapse of the division's defense system, with fighting spreading to military bases, settlements, and areas deeper within Israel, including Ofakim, Sderot, and Be'eri. The attack resulted in approximately 1,136 Israeli deaths, including hundreds of soldiers and security personnel, and the capture of over 250 hostages, many later returned in prisoner exchanges. The operation utilized naval landings, drone attacks on military installations, and infiltrations to sustain fighters in various locations.

Al-Qassam Brigades commander Mohammed al-Deif stated the operation was a response to escalating Israeli violations in Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque, including repeated incursions and restrictions on worshippers. In retaliation, Israel launched a major war on Gaza, characterized by heavy bombardment, ground operations, and widespread destruction of infrastructure and residential areas, displacing hundreds of thousands.

Palestinian figures indicate over 74,000 deaths and around 7,000 missing in Gaza, with widespread damage to civilian facilities. The Israeli military reported over 1,100 of its soldiers and security personnel killed since the conflict began. The war has seen significant US political and diplomatic support for Israel, including vetoes in the UN Security Council.

During the conflict, Hamas has lost several prominent leaders. In October 2024, Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas's political bureau in Gaza, was reportedly killed in Rafah. On July 31, 2024, Ismail Haniyeh, head of Hamas's political bureau, was assassinated in Tehran. In January 2025, the Al-Qassam Brigades announced the deaths of commander Mohammed al-Deif and his deputy Marwan Issa, along with other commanders.

Internationally, the war has triggered widespread protests, particularly on university campuses, demanding a ceasefire and boycotts of Israel. Within Israel, protests have called for hostage exchange deals and accountability for pre-October 7 failures. Legal actions include the International Court of Justice's provisional measures against Israel in a genocide case and arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes.

In anticipation of the third anniversary, Israeli forces heightened readiness in Gaza, with Defense Minister Israel Katz instructing the military to prepare for various scenarios, including potential Hamas attacks. As the war enters its fourth year, the "Al-Aqsa Flood" continues to reshape the regional political and security landscape, sparking international confrontations and ongoing debates about Gaza's future, hostages, reconstruction, and accountability.