Jewish community groups have said they are “shocked and devastated” by attacks on Israel by Palestinian militant groups.

At least 700 people have reportedly been killed in Israel and another 2,200 wounded after groups led by Hamas, recognised as a terrorist organisation in many Western countries, launched a large-scale invasion and offensive into the country.

At least 3,000 rockets have been fired into Israel, with reports of explosions heard in Jerusalem, with dozens of people also abducted.

The attack, which coincided with the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, is the first direct conflict within Israeli territory since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.

Israel has declared a state of emergency and has compared the incident to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States in 2001.

Almost 500 people have died in Gaza following retaliatory air strikes by Israeli forces.

The Brighton and Hove Jewish Community (BNJC) said they “stand in solidarity” with the people of Israel following the attack and have offered accommodation to Israeli families in Brighton and Sussex who are unable to return to the country.

A spokeswoman for the BNJC said: “We are shocked and devastated by the brutal and barbaric terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel.

“What should have been a day of joyful celebration for Simchat Torah has become a time of mourning, horror, fear and sadness.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Israel. We pray for the immediate return of those taken hostage and the safety of those still under attack, and we share the pain of those who have been injured and bereaved.”

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The Sussex Jewish Representative Council also expressed their “profound shock” following the “unprecedented terrorist attack against ordinary, innocent Israeli citizens”.

A spokesman for the group said: “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims of this senseless violence.

“We stand in solidarity with them and hope for a swift resolution and the safe return of those who have been kidnapped.

“We also extend sympathy to the innocent people of Gaza, many of whom will no doubt suffer as a result of the decisions of their leadership.

“We hope for a future where peace prevails and tragic events such as these become a thing of the past.”

A candlelit vigil will be held this evening at 6pm outside Hove Town Hall to show support for Israel following the attack.

Dozens of protesters gathered in Brighton yesterday to show their support for Palestine after Israel launched air strikes in response to the attack by militant groups.

Activists from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign held placards and signs which said “Free Palestine” and called for Israel to end its bombing of Gaza.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has advised against all but essential travel to Israel due to the ongoing conflict, with several nations evacuating citizens from the country.