First Thing: IDF decries surprise Hamas attack as ‘worst day in Israeli history’

A relative of an Israeli missing since a surprise attack by Hamas militants near the Gaza border is overcome by emotion during a press conference in Ramat Gan, Israel. Photograph: Maya Alleruzzo/AP

Good morning.

The death toll after the surprise Hamas attack on Israel over the weekend has surpassed 1,100. The Israeli toll has risen to at least 700, including 44 soldiers, as the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said Israel was embarking on a “long and difficult war”. In Gaza, which was pummelled by Israeli airstrikes, officials have reported at least 413 deaths.