Never Seen 'Unprovoked Attack Of This Scale" In Israel: Expert

LONG ISLAND, NY — Many Long Islanders woke up on Saturday to images from Israel, where Hamas conducted a surprise attack. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his country is now at war as dozens of Israelis were killed and hundreds were injured, according to reports.

The shock rippled across Long Island as news spread, with many speaking out.

"In Israel, it's something we haven't seen in my lifetime, an unprovoked attack of this scale," Eric Post, Long Island regional director for the American Jewish Committee (AJC), said.

Members of Hamas launched thousands of rocket strikes from Gaza, while on the ground they shot Israelis and took several hostages as dawn broke Saturday, reports indicated.

It was not only the Sabbath, but a Jewish holiday, as the sneak attack comes on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, another unexpected offensive against Israel.

"Our main concern right now is solidarity with Israel," Post said. That includes getting support from local elected officials, he added. "We expect the U.S. government to support Israel's right to defend itself and to make sure that Hamas suffers a blow and is unable to commit attacks like these moving forward."

Congressman Anthony D'Esposito (R-Island Park), whose 4th district covers parts of Nassau's South Shore, said in a statement: "I stand with our Israeli allies as they work to counter this recent surprise attack by Palestinian terrorists. Americans must always remain steadfast in our support for the people of Israel — especially now."

Post said he is happy to see a global outrage at the terrorist attack on Israel.

"[It was] a blatant attack on civilians and I think this is very clear for most people who are of good morals and sound reasoning," he said.

On a personal note for Post: "As an American Jew, there's a kinship with the state of Israel." But more than that, war with Hamas takes on a larger meaning for him.

"My colleagues in our Jerusalem office, my family, my friends in harm's way is extremely disturbing," Post said.

However, he's confident in Israel's ability to persevere.

"We'll survive much more than a conflict in Gaza. Not to minimize what's going on here. It's serious, there's a loss of life and it's terrible, but I believe strongly in the will of the Jewish people, the pride of the Jewish people, and I have no doubt this will make us stronger and more unified."