Latest violence between Palestinian militants and Israel in picturesLIVE updates: Israel launches major strikes in Gaza after surprise Palestinian attackMOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFEPalestinian militant group Hamas has launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing thousands of rockets from the Gaza strip, which it controlsAmir Cohen/ REUTERSSeveral rockets hit the southern city of Ashkelon. At least 40 Israelis have been killedItai Ron/REUTERSThis apartment block in Tel Aviv was among those hitItai Ron/REUTERSIsraelis have been taking shelter from the barrage as air raid sirens soundRonen Zvulun/REUTERSBut some had to try and seek shelter outsideAmmar Awad/REUTERSThe attack came on the day of the Jewish festival of Simchat TorahSAID KHATIB/AFPHamas militants have also crossed into Israel - these ones were still in Gaza, heading for the borderAshraf Amra/Anadolu Agency via Getty ImagesSome used a bulldozer to break through the border fenceAshraf Amra/Anadolu Agency via Getty ImagesAn Israeli tank was captured and destroyedAhmed Zakot/ REUTERSHamas militants also seized this Israeli military vehicle and took it back to GazaSAID KHATIB / AFPAlong with this tractorAmmar Awad/REUTERSIsrael says it is now at war with HamasMohammed Salem/REUTERSIt has responded with a wave of air strikes on Gaza, killing 198 people, Palestinian officials say EYAD BABA/AFPSeveral militants are among the deadMAHMUD HAMS / AFPSome Gaza residents worried about Israeli reprisals have fled their homes near the borderAll pictures subject to copyrightIsrael confirms soldiers and civilians taken hostage by militantsIsrael 'at war' after 250 die in attack from GazaRockets launched from Gaza streak across skyIsrael & the PalestiniansGaza