Israeli envoy to Germany sees Iran behind Hamas attacks

Israel's ambassador to Germany blamed Iran for being behind Saturday's unexpected massive attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel and vowed to punish those responsible, reported dpa.

"We will do everything not only to defend ourselves, but also to punish all those who are responsible," Ron Prosor told Deutschlandfunk radio.

The Hamas leadership made the decision to attack Israel without provocation, he said, adding that Iran is also at fault.

In the ambassador's view, in addition to Hamas, which is classified as a terrorist organization by the European Union, the United States and Israel, Iran is also responsible.

"It is clear to us that Iran is behind this," the ambassador said. Iran is trying everything to bring the region into a state of war, he added.

Prosor spoke of a "monstrous" attack against civilians and said it would not be without consequences.

Currently, the army is liberating Israeli towns. "Rockets are flying without pause, homes are burning and civilians are being taken hostage," he said.

"The people of Gaza need to know that the Hamas leadership really made the decision and will be responsible for everything that is happening now."