Latest violence between Palestinian militants and Israel in pictures

Palestinian militant group Hamas has launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing thousands of rockets from the Gaza strip, which it controls

Several rockets hit the southern city of Ashkelon. At least 40 Israelis have been killed

This apartment block in Tel Aviv was among those hit

Israelis have been taking shelter from the barrage as air raid sirens sound

But some had to try and seek shelter outside

The attack came on the day of the Jewish festival of Simchat Torah

Hamas militants have also crossed into Israel - these ones were still in Gaza, heading for the border

Some used a bulldozer to break through the border fence

An Israeli tank was captured and destroyed

Hamas militants also seized this Israeli military vehicle and took it back to Gaza

Along with this tractor

Israel says it is now at war with Hamas

It has responded with a wave of air strikes on Gaza, killing 198 people, Palestinian officials say

Several militants are among the dead

Some Gaza residents worried about Israeli reprisals have fled their homes near the border

All pictures subject to copyright