According to statements by US officials relayed by the Washington Post on the evening of Sunday, October 8, Israeli forces are preparing to launch a ground operation against Hamas and its allies in the Gaza Strip over the next two days.

“We expect an Israeli ground incursion into Gaza within 48 hours,” these officials reportedly told the US capital’s daily newspaper.

These statements come as the Hebrew state and the Islamist movement controlling Gaza prepare for another night of clashes.

A new salvo of missiles was fired from Gaza towards Israel on Sunday evening, while Israel’s anti-missile system, the “Iron Dome,” was once again activated in response.

Sirens sounded in Tel Aviv and central Israel. Ben Gurion airport, Israel’s largest, was the target of projectiles, where explosions could be heard, as witnessed by a video initially posted by a CNN reporter.

Hamas quickly claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, Al-Qassam Brigades announced 100 missiles fired at Ashkelon, next to Gaza.