Latest violence between Palestinian militants and Israel in pictures

MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFEPalestinian militant group Hamas has launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing thousands of rockets from the Gaza strip, which it controls

Amir Cohen/ REUTERSSeveral rockets hit the southern city of Ashkelon. At least 40 Israelis have been killed

Itai Ron/REUTERSThis apartment block in Tel Aviv was among those hit

Itai Ron/REUTERSIsraelis have been taking shelter from the barrage as air raid sirens sound

Ronen Zvulun/REUTERSBut some had to try and seek shelter outside

Ammar Awad/REUTERSThe attack came on the day of the Jewish festival of Simchat Torah

SAID KHATIB/AFPHamas militants have also crossed into Israel - these ones were still in Gaza, heading for the border

Ashraf Amra/Anadolu Agency via Getty ImagesSome used a bulldozer to break through the border fence

Ashraf Amra/Anadolu Agency via Getty ImagesAn Israeli tank was captured and destroyed

Ahmed Zakot/ REUTERSHamas militants also seized this Israeli military vehicle and took it back to Gaza

SAID KHATIB / AFPAlong with this tractor

Ammar Awad/REUTERSIsrael says it is now at war with Hamas

Mohammed Salem/REUTERSIt has responded with a wave of air strikes on Gaza, killing 198 people, Palestinian officials say

EYAD BABA/AFPSeveral militants are among the dead

MAHMUD HAMS / AFPSome Gaza residents worried about Israeli reprisals have fled their homes near the border
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