In a video that has gone viral, Israeli soldiers in military tanks were seen getting met with cheering crowds of citizens throwing water bottles and food packs at them.

According to the Associated Press, at least 700 people have been killed in Israel, and a further 400 in Gaza, since the Hamas terrorists began the incursion on Saturday. Israel has officially declared war against the Islamist organization.

Also Read | White House ‘unequivocally condemns’ Hamas attack on Israel

On Monday, Israel’s defense minister Yoav Gallant ordered a “complete siege” of Gaza. Military said it had retaken control of Israeli communities near the coastal enclave. Also, there is no ongoing fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas militants inside Israel, the Israeli military said on Monday.

Gallant said Israel would halt the supply of electricity, food, water, and fuel to Gaza. “I have given an order – Gaza will be under complete siege,” Gallant said. “We are fighting barbarians and will respond accordingly.”

Also Read | Biden under fire for hosting BBQ party at White House while Israel’s at war with Hamas terrorists

On Monday, Hamas launched a fresh barrage of rocket attacks even as Israeli forces battled to expel the last assailants from the country. The terrorists fired 120 rockets toward the coastal cities of Ashdod and Ashkelon, as they responded to Israeli airstrikes.

According to Mousa Abu Marzouk, chief deputy of Hamas’ political bureau, their militants claimed on Sunday that they were holding more than 100 hostages in Gaza, including high-ranking Israeli army officers.