At least two people were gunned down and 18 injured on Sunday (Oct 29) early morning after a fight between two groups during Halloween festivities in Florida’s Tampa street.

"It was a disturbance or a fight between two groups," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw told reporters at the scene. And in this fight between two groups, we had hundreds of innocent people involved that were in the way."

The incident happened around 3 am&nbsp;on the 1600 block of East 7th Avenue in the Ybor City area.

<h2>Cause of the fight unknown&nbsp;</h2>

It is not revealed what caused the fight, but it happened in an area with several bars and clubs, and there were large numbers of people late at night at the time.

Police were not immediately sure if the people involved in the fight were inside any of the bars before the shooting.

A clip going viral online showed people in Halloween costumes drinking and talking on the street when shots rang out, creating a stampede.

Some people toppled over metal tables and took cover behind them. Video from the aftermath showed police officers treating several people lying wounded on the ground.

A volley of about a dozen shots rang out followed a few seconds later by a volley of about eight shots.

Warning: Some readers may find the below video disturbing&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shooting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shooting</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Halloween?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Halloween</a> festival in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Florida?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Florida</a> caught on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/livestream?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#livestream</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tampa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tampa</a> <a href="https://t.co/yiRTo84zmJ">pic.twitter.com/yiRTo84zmJ</a>
— Oʂɯαʅԃσ Rσყҽƚƚ (@oswaldosrm) <a href="https://twitter.com/oswaldosrm/status/1718639890533949740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>One suspect surrenders&nbsp;</h2>

Police said that a suspect surrendered—identified as a male—but they suspect that there were at least two shooters involved.

Officers were at the scene at the time of the shooting but none were injured, Bercaw said.

“While early in the investigation, indications are that an altercation between two groups escalated to gunfire, resulting in one male subject dying at the scene and 19 victims being transported to nearby hospitals. A second male victim died at a hospital as a result of sustained injuries,” a Tampa police report said, according to Sun Sentinel newspaper.

“Our thoughts are with the victims impacted by this senseless act and our detectives are committed to holding those involved accountable,” Bercaw said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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At least two people were gunned down and 18 injured on Sunday (Oct 29) early morning after a fight between two groups during Halloween festivities in Florida’s Tampa street.

At least two people were gunned down and 18 injured on Sunday (Oct 29) early morning after a fight between two groups during Halloween festivities in Florida’s Tampa street. "It was a disturbance or a fight between two groups," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw told reporters at the scene. And in this fight between two groups, we had hundreds of innocent people involved that were in the way." The incident happened around 3 am on the 1600 block of East 7th Avenue in the Ybor City area. Cause of the fight unknown It is not revealed what caused the fight, but it happened in an area with several bars and clubs, and there were large numbers of people late at night at the time. Police were not immediately sure if the people involved in the fight were inside any of the bars before the shooting. A clip going viral online showed people in Halloween costumes drinking and talking on the street when shots rang out, creating a stampede. Some people toppled over metal tables and took cover behind them. Video from the aftermath showed police officers treating several people lying wounded on the ground. A volley of about a dozen shots rang out followed a few seconds later by a volley of about eight shots. Warning: Some readers may find the below video disturbing #Shooting at #Halloween festival in #Florida caught on #livestream#tampa pic.twitter.com/yiRTo84zmJ — Oʂɯαʅԃσ Rσყҽƚƚ (@oswaldosrm) October 29, 2023 × One suspect surrenders Police said that a suspect surrendered—identified as a male—but they suspect that there were at least two shooters involved. Officers were at the scene at the time of the shooting but none were injured, Bercaw said. “While early in the investigation, indications are that an altercation between two groups escalated to gunfire, resulting in one male subject dying at the scene and 19 victims being transported to nearby hospitals. A second male victim died at a hospital as a result of sustained injuries,” a Tampa police report said, according to Sun Sentinel newspaper. “Our thoughts are with the victims impacted by this senseless act and our detectives are committed to holding those involved accountable,” Bercaw said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Two killed, 18 injured in shooting after a fight in Florida amid Halloween festivities

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack.

This comes after the heads of the military, the domestic spy agency Shin Bet and even the finance minister, all acknowledged their failures, except Netanyahu.

In a post on social media X, which has since been deleted, the PM, who is also referred to as Bibi by his supporters, said, “At no time and no stage was a warning given to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding war intentions of Hamas. On the contrary, all security officials, including the head of army intelligence and the head of the Shin Bet, estimated that Hamas was deterred and interested in an arrangement."

He had posted on social media after a joint press conference with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz.

<h2>Massive uproar&nbsp;</h2>

However, this post caused massive uproar among the political establishment and the public, and even among his cabinet, forcing Netanyahu to withdraw his statement and issue a rare apology hours later.

“I was wrong. The things I said following the press conference should not have been said and I apologize for that.”

“I give full backing to all the heads of the security services. I am sending strength to the [IDF] chief of staff and the commanders and soldiers of the IDF who are on the frontlines and fighting for our home.”

<h2>Cabinet minister, ex-Mossad chief&nbsp;criticise&nbsp;PM</h2>

The first rebuke came from Cabinet minister Gantz asking Netanyahu to retract his statement.

“On this morning in particular, I want to support and strengthen all the security forces and IDF soldiers, including the IDF chief of staff, the head of military intelligence, the head of the Shin Bet,” Gantz added. “When we are at war, leadership must display responsibility, make the correct decisions and strengthen the forces in a way that they will understand what we demand from them… the prime minister must retract his statement.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flood-brooklyn-for-gaza-rally-held-by-thousands-in-support-of-palestinians-652606">'Flood Brooklyn for Gaza' rally held by thousands in support of Palestinians</a>

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, who has refused to join the emergency war government, tweeted that “Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight” and must apologise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-snake-will-remain-a-snake-israeli-envoy-to-un-slams-erdogan-as-relations-with-turkey-plummet-652476">'A snake will remain a snake': Israeli envoy to UN slams Erdogan as relations with Turkey plummet</a>

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen, considered a close Netanyahu ally, said on Sunday to Kan public radio, “Responsibility is something you take at the start of your job, not midway.” Cohen noted that when he led the Mossad, “Everything that happened in the agency, from top to bottom, was my responsibility.”

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack. This comes after the heads of the military, the domestic spy agency Shin Bet and even the finance minister, all acknowledged their failures, except Netanyahu. In a post on social media X, which has since been deleted, the PM, who is also referred to as Bibi by his supporters, said, “At no time and no stage was a warning given to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding war intentions of Hamas. On the contrary, all security officials, including the head of army intelligence and the head of the Shin Bet, estimated that Hamas was deterred and interested in an arrangement." He had posted on social media after a joint press conference with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz. Massive uproar However, this post caused massive uproar among the political establishment and the public, and even among his cabinet, forcing Netanyahu to withdraw his statement and issue a rare apology hours later. “I was wrong. The things I said following the press conference should not have been said and I apologize for that.” “I give full backing to all the heads of the security services. I am sending strength to the [IDF] chief of staff and the commanders and soldiers of the IDF who are on the frontlines and fighting for our home.” Cabinet minister, ex-Mossad chief criticise PM The first rebuke came from Cabinet minister Gantz asking Netanyahu to retract his statement. “On this morning in particular, I want to support and strengthen all the security forces and IDF soldiers, including the IDF chief of staff, the head of military intelligence, the head of the Shin Bet,” Gantz added. “When we are at war, leadership must display responsibility, make the correct decisions and strengthen the forces in a way that they will understand what we demand from them… the prime minister must retract his statement.” Also read | 'Flood Brooklyn for Gaza' rally held by thousands in support of Palestinians Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, who has refused to join the emergency war government, tweeted that “Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight” and must apologise. Also read | 'A snake will remain a snake': Israeli envoy to UN slams Erdogan as relations with Turkey plummet Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen, considered a close Netanyahu ally, said on Sunday to Kan public radio, “Responsibility is something you take at the start of your job, not midway.” Cohen noted that when he led the Mossad, “Everything that happened in the agency, from top to bottom, was my responsibility.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu blames security chiefs over Hamas attack, deletes post after uproar

A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza.

There are at least 220 Russian citizens held as hostages by Hamas, according to the Israeli government.

Mousa Abu Marzook, the founder and political leader of Hamas, was among the delegation of the militant group who met Russian deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov, state-run Tass news agency reported.

According to reports, Marzook, who lives in exile in Qatar, travelled to Moscow after an earlier meeting in Doha with Bogdanov and the Iranian deputy foreign minister, Ali Bagheri Kani.

“Abu Marzook, a member of the political bureau of the Islamic resistance movement Hamas, is in Moscow,” said the Russian foreign ministry in a statement.

“Contact with him took place in pursuit for the immediate release of foreign hostages held in the Gaza Strip, and issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were discussed.”

Later, Hamas in its own statement praised Russia's President Vladimir Putin for his efforts to end "the crimes of Israel that are supported by the West", Russia's RIA news agency reported.

<h2>Russia-Hamas ties&nbsp;</h2>

The meeting comes after the deputy minister expressed his desire to meet the terrorist organisation in Qatar to discuss the release of Israeli hostages.

&nbsp;“If they are willing, we always are in favour of contact,” Bogdanov told state media earlier this month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/advancing-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-potential-reason-behind-hamas-attack-biden-651583">Biden links Hamas attack to economic corridor put out in G20 summit</a>

“Especially in this situation, [a meeting] would be useful for solving practical issues, including the freeing of hostages.”

<h2>Putin wants Gaza bombing to end&nbsp;</h2>

The meeting reflects Russia’s unwavering support to the Palestinians who have been affected by the Israeli counter-operations launched against Hamas for the October 7 terror attack.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-blocks-pro-palestine-account-on-instagram-due-to-security-reasons-651678">Meta blocks pro-Palestine account on Instagram, users accuse it of shadowbanning</a>

Earlier this week, Vladimir Putin warned that an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza could lead to a broader regional conflict, saying that “our main task is to stop the bloodshed and violence … otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza.

A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza. There are at least 220 Russian citizens held as hostages by Hamas, according to the Israeli government. Mousa Abu Marzook, the founder and political leader of Hamas, was among the delegation of the militant group who met Russian deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov, state-run Tass news agency reported. According to reports, Marzook, who lives in exile in Qatar, travelled to Moscow after an earlier meeting in Doha with Bogdanov and the Iranian deputy foreign minister, Ali Bagheri Kani. “Abu Marzook, a member of the political bureau of the Islamic resistance movement Hamas, is in Moscow,” said the Russian foreign ministry in a statement. “Contact with him took place in pursuit for the immediate release of foreign hostages held in the Gaza Strip, and issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were discussed.” Later, Hamas in its own statement praised Russia's President Vladimir Putin for his efforts to end "the crimes of Israel that are supported by the West", Russia's RIA news agency reported. Russia-Hamas ties The meeting comes after the deputy minister expressed his desire to meet the terrorist organisation in Qatar to discuss the release of Israeli hostages. “If they are willing, we always are in favour of contact,” Bogdanov told state media earlier this month. Also read | Biden links Hamas attack to economic corridor put out in G20 summit “Especially in this situation, [a meeting] would be useful for solving practical issues, including the freeing of hostages.” Putin wants Gaza bombing to end The meeting reflects Russia’s unwavering support to the Palestinians who have been affected by the Israeli counter-operations launched against Hamas for the October 7 terror attack. Also read | Meta blocks pro-Palestine account on Instagram, users accuse it of shadowbanning Earlier this week, Vladimir Putin warned that an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza could lead to a broader regional conflict, saying that “our main task is to stop the bloodshed and violence … otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas delegation visits Moscow to discuss release of hostages

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is getting worse, which is why there are more strikes. In an attempt to save hostages and maintain the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday that he "did not demand" that Israel postpone a ground invasion of the region.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel launches brief ground incursion in Gaza

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security.

China has&nbsp;launched&nbsp;its first nuclear-powered guided missile submarines, according to the Pentagon's latest report on China's military, giving it land and sea attack options that were once the sole province of US&nbsp;and Russian vessels.

"This does not cause us concern, our relations are an advanced strategic partnership, we have the most advanced stage of political dialogue, economic interaction," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"And in this case, China, which faces very serious challenges for its own security in the region, is taking steps that it considers appropriate."

"This is the absolute sovereign right of this country."

Russia has forged even closer commercial, political and security ties with China, part of what they call a "no limits" partnership, since Moscow's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering sweeping Western sanctions.

The Pentagon&nbsp;report, published on Oct. 20, marks the first apparent confirmation that modified submarines seen in Chinese shipyards over the last 18 months are Type 093B guided missile submarines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaining-ground-in-new-york-poll-shows-dip-in-bidens-popularity-rise-in-trumps-651196">Trump gaining ground in New York? Poll shows dip in Biden's popularity, rise in Trump's</a>

Russia has been tweaking its own legislation on nuclear matters this month, with parliament on Wednesday&nbsp;completing&nbsp;the passage of a law that withdraws Moscow's ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a>

Russia says it will not resume nuclear testing unless Washington does, but arms control experts are concerned it may be inching towards a test that the West would perceive as a threatening escalation in the context of the Ukraine war. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security. China has launched its first nuclear-powered guided missile submarines, according to the Pentagon's latest report on China's military, giving it land and sea attack options that were once the sole province of US and Russian vessels. "This does not cause us concern, our relations are an advanced strategic partnership, we have the most advanced stage of political dialogue, economic interaction," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "And in this case, China, which faces very serious challenges for its own security in the region, is taking steps that it considers appropriate." "This is the absolute sovereign right of this country." Russia has forged even closer commercial, political and security ties with China, part of what they call a "no limits" partnership, since Moscow's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering sweeping Western sanctions. The Pentagon report, published on Oct. 20, marks the first apparent confirmation that modified submarines seen in Chinese shipyards over the last 18 months are Type 093B guided missile submarines. Also read | Trump gaining ground in New York? Poll shows dip in Biden's popularity, rise in Trump's Russia has been tweaking its own legislation on nuclear matters this month, with parliament on Wednesday completing the passage of a law that withdraws Moscow's ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests. Also read | Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row Russia says it will not resume nuclear testing unless Washington does, but arms control experts are concerned it may be inching towards a test that the West would perceive as a threatening escalation in the context of the Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia unconcerned by China increasing nuclear arsenal capabilities, says Kremlin

Meta said it has blocked a prominent pro-Palestinian account on Instagram citing security reasons.

Eye on Palestine (@eye.on.palestine), which has more than 6 million followers and is popular among Palestine supporters, was not available as of Thursday (Oct 26).

Its official backup account, @eye.on.palestine2, which was recently created to bypass shadowbanning— a covert activity that limits the post’s visibility—had also gone dark.

Both the accounts were also inaccessible on Facebook and Threads as well.

The accounts focused on sharing invaluable first-hand accounts of the situation in Gaza, including videos and images of injured people.

The material was generally shared by unverified international journalists.

“These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and we’re working to make contact with the account owners to make sure they have access,” Meta said, according to the Guardian newspaper.

<h2>Users suspect Meta gagging pro-Palestine voice&nbsp;</h2>

Meta’s decision to close down the accounts drew angry responses from followers on social media X, who called&nbsp;the move an example of anti-Palestinian censorship.

Initially, Meta said on Wednesday that it had disabled the accounts because of security concerns.

“These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and we’re working to make contact with the account owners to ensure they have access,” Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said in a statement.

“We did not disable these accounts because of any content they were sharing,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-warns-meta-tiktok-over-allegedly-restricting-content-supporting-palestinians-651615">Malaysia warns Meta, TikTok over allegedly restricting content supporting Palestinians</a>

Later in an update on Thursday morning, Stone said the company had been able to reach the accounts' administrators and that the accounts would be able to reactivate.

<h2>Shadowbanning pro-Palestine accounts&nbsp;</h2>

“These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise,” Stone said in a text message. “We’ve helped the account owners regain access and they can reactivate their accounts.”

But these accounts are still unavailable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/south-korean-man-dies-from-heart-attack-after-choking-on-live-octopus-dish-651622">South Korean man dies from heart attack after choking on 'live octopus' dish</a>

The development comes at a time when Instagram has been accused of shadowbanning several pro-Palestine post, with users sharing examples of stories about Palestine receiving significantly fewer viewers, or accounts of users who share pro-Palestinian content not being searchable on the social network.

The social media watchdog group 7amleh, the Arab Center for Social Media Advancement, which has been monitoring cases related to the silencing of Palestinian voices, has documented more than 238 censorship cases in recent weeks, reports the Guardian.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Meta said it has blocked a prominent pro-Palestinian account on Instagram citing security reasons. Eye on Palestine (@eye.on.palestine), which has more than 6 million followers and is popular among Palestine supporters, was not available as of Thursday (Oct 26).

Meta said it has blocked a prominent pro-Palestinian account on Instagram citing security reasons. Eye on Palestine (@eye.on.palestine), which has more than 6 million followers and is popular among Palestine supporters, was not available as of Thursday (Oct 26). Its official backup account, @eye.on.palestine2, which was recently created to bypass shadowbanning— a covert activity that limits the post’s visibility—had also gone dark. Both the accounts were also inaccessible on Facebook and Threads as well. The accounts focused on sharing invaluable first-hand accounts of the situation in Gaza, including videos and images of injured people. The material was generally shared by unverified international journalists. “These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and we’re working to make contact with the account owners to make sure they have access,” Meta said, according to the Guardian newspaper. Users suspect Meta gagging pro-Palestine voice Meta’s decision to close down the accounts drew angry responses from followers on social media X, who called the move an example of anti-Palestinian censorship. Initially, Meta said on Wednesday that it had disabled the accounts because of security concerns. “These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and we’re working to make contact with the account owners to ensure they have access,” Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said in a statement. “We did not disable these accounts because of any content they were sharing,” he said. Also read | Malaysia warns Meta, TikTok over allegedly restricting content supporting Palestinians Later in an update on Thursday morning, Stone said the company had been able to reach the accounts' administrators and that the accounts would be able to reactivate. Shadowbanning pro-Palestine accounts “These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise,” Stone said in a text message. “We’ve helped the account owners regain access and they can reactivate their accounts.” But these accounts are still unavailable. Also read | South Korean man dies from heart attack after choking on 'live octopus' dish The development comes at a time when Instagram has been accused of shadowbanning several pro-Palestine post, with users sharing examples of stories about Palestine receiving significantly fewer viewers, or accounts of users who share pro-Palestinian content not being searchable on the social network. The social media watchdog group 7amleh, the Arab Center for Social Media Advancement, which has been monitoring cases related to the silencing of Palestinian voices, has documented more than 238 censorship cases in recent weeks, reports the Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Meta blocks pro-Palestine account on Instagram, users accuse it of shadowbanning

Slovakia’s newly elected Prime Minister Robert Fico on Thursday announced that they are stopping weapons delivery to Ukraine.

A day after taking charge, Fico told lawmakers that Slovakia would "no longer supply weapons to Ukraine" and would only send humanitarian aid to Kyiv, AFP news agency reported.

"I will support zero military aid to Ukraine ... An immediate halt to military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine," said Fico.

"The EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker," he added.

Fico further voiced his opposition to sanctions against Russia.

“I will not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia,” he said.

“If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them.”

In the run-up to the elections, Fico had repeatedly pledged to halt military aid for Ukraine, after the previous Slovak governments shipped military hardware including fighter jets, an S-300 air defence system, and fighting and de-mining vehicles to Ukraine.

<h2>Russia's response&nbsp;</h2>

Russia immediately dismissed the impact Slovakia's decision to halt military aid to Ukraine.

"Slovakia did not have such a big share in the supply of weapons, so it will hardly affect the entire process," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, when asked about Bratislava's decision.

Slovakia’s volte-face—from pro-Ukraine to pro-Russia—reflects Fico’s fractious personal relations with Kyiv that goes back at least a decade.

<h2>Slovakia’s volte-face</h2>

In January 2009, when Fico was the prime minister, Slovakia bore the brunt of a long-running spat between Russia and Ukraine over natural gas, and the Russian gas flows across Ukraine to EU countries stopped, a crisis that Slovakia couldn’t afford to ignore in the middle of winter.

The row over gas cost the Slovak economy around €100 million a day, reports Politico, as factories were forced to shut down.

A desperate Fico then called both Vladimir Putin, who was the Russian prime minister at that time, and Ukrainian PM Yulia Tymoshenko to get the gas restarted.

Later on January 14, a Slovak delegation led by Fico landed in Kyiv to meet with the Ukrainian government. However, he was made to wait for hours.

Three hours later, the delegation was taken to a meeting which was filled with the members of the press.

During the press briefing, Tymoshenko spent 20 minutes lambasting Fico for taking Moscow's side in the gas dispute.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/advancing-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-potential-reason-behind-hamas-attack-biden-651583">Economic corridor put out in G20 summit potential 'reason' behind Hamas attack</a>

"It was an absolutely unpleasant situation. Fico was red with anger. It was a disaster," an unnamed senior Slovak official with knowledge of the 2009 developments told Politico outlet.

"He was humiliated," the official added.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sco-meet-jaishankar-takes-veiled-dig-at-chinas-bri-debt-trap-exudes-confidence-in-imec-corridor-651439">SCO meet: Jaishankar takes veiled dig at China's BRI debt trap, exudes confidence in IMEC corridor</a>

The Slovaks then flew on to Moscow, where they were greeted by Putin at an elaborate ceremony held in the Kremlin's opulent St. George's Hall.

According to experts, it was since then he started openly expressing an anti-Ukrainian stance.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Slovakia’s newly elected Prime Minister Robert Fico on Thursday announced that they are stopping weapons delivery to Ukraine. A day after taking charge, Fico told lawmakers that Slovakia would "no longer supply weapons to Ukraine" and would only send humanitarian aid to Kyiv, AFP news agency reported.

Slovakia’s newly elected Prime Minister Robert Fico on Thursday announced that they are stopping weapons delivery to Ukraine. A day after taking charge, Fico told lawmakers that Slovakia would "no longer supply weapons to Ukraine" and would only send humanitarian aid to Kyiv, AFP news agency reported. "I will support zero military aid to Ukraine ... An immediate halt to military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine," said Fico. "The EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker," he added. Fico further voiced his opposition to sanctions against Russia. “I will not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia,” he said. “If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them.” In the run-up to the elections, Fico had repeatedly pledged to halt military aid for Ukraine, after the previous Slovak governments shipped military hardware including fighter jets, an S-300 air defence system, and fighting and de-mining vehicles to Ukraine. Russia's response Russia immediately dismissed the impact Slovakia's decision to halt military aid to Ukraine. "Slovakia did not have such a big share in the supply of weapons, so it will hardly affect the entire process," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, when asked about Bratislava's decision. Slovakia’s volte-face—from pro-Ukraine to pro-Russia—reflects Fico’s fractious personal relations with Kyiv that goes back at least a decade. Slovakia’s volte-face In January 2009, when Fico was the prime minister, Slovakia bore the brunt of a long-running spat between Russia and Ukraine over natural gas, and the Russian gas flows across Ukraine to EU countries stopped, a crisis that Slovakia couldn’t afford to ignore in the middle of winter. The row over gas cost the Slovak economy around €100 million a day, reports Politico, as factories were forced to shut down. A desperate Fico then called both Vladimir Putin, who was the Russian prime minister at that time, and Ukrainian PM Yulia Tymoshenko to get the gas restarted. Later on January 14, a Slovak delegation led by Fico landed in Kyiv to meet with the Ukrainian government. However, he was made to wait for hours. Three hours later, the delegation was taken to a meeting which was filled with the members of the press. During the press briefing, Tymoshenko spent 20 minutes lambasting Fico for taking Moscow's side in the gas dispute. Also read | Economic corridor put out in G20 summit potential 'reason' behind Hamas attack "It was an absolutely unpleasant situation. Fico was red with anger. It was a disaster," an unnamed senior Slovak official with knowledge of the 2009 developments told Politico outlet. "He was humiliated," the official added. Also read | SCO meet: Jaishankar takes veiled dig at China's BRI debt trap, exudes confidence in IMEC corridor The Slovaks then flew on to Moscow, where they were greeted by Putin at an elaborate ceremony held in the Kremlin's opulent St. George's Hall. According to experts, it was since then he started openly expressing an anti-Ukrainian stance. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Slovakia’s newly elected PM Robert Fico stops military aid to Ukraine. And its personal

Republican Mike Johnson was voted unanimously by 220 of his party members to become the&nbsp;new speaker&nbsp;of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, ending a three-week in-fighting that paralysed Congress.

Johnson, of Louisiana, was picked as the Republican's fourth nominee after Tom Emmer—the Republican’s no. 3 candidate—withdrew from the race hours after securing the nomination due to opposition from the party's extreme-right flank.

The seat was left vacant since a small faction of Republican party rebels ousted Kevin McCarthy&nbsp;on October 3.

Johnson’s bid had gotten a massive boost after former president Donald Trump encouraged the Republicans to vote for the Louisianan representative.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Mike Johnson?</h2>

The 51-year-old, who represents Louisiana's fourth congressional district—one of the poorest in the country—has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2016, and is currently serving his&nbsp;fourth term&nbsp;in the House.

He is the vice chair of the House Republican Conference, and also serves as a deputy whip for the 118th Congress, and currently sits on the House Judiciary Committee and on the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.

Johnson, who has billed himself as the bridge builder between the various Republican factions, is a well-known ally of Donald Trump.

“He knows everybody very well, does a great job with bringing people to the floor, talking about our policies, and that's what we need right now," said Republican Representative Kevin Hern, who withdrew his own bid to support Johnson.

<h2>Johnson and Trump’s relationship</h2>

Johnson is known to be a staunch Trump ally. He was also the first among many who defended the former president during the impeachment hearings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-shows-increasing-anti-black-racism-in-eu-led-by-germany-651233">Study shows increasing anti-Black racism in EU, led by Germany</a>

The Louisiana representative led the amicus brief signed by more than 100 House Republicans in support of a Texas lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 election results in four swing states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shamima-begums-lawyer-claims-she-was-victim-of-trafficking-while-joining-isis-651197">Shamima Begum's lawyer claims she was victim of trafficking while joining ISIS</a>

Trump, while arriving at a New York court for his civil fraud trial on Wednesday morning, talked up Johnson's prospects, saying "it looks like it's going to happen".

"I haven't heard one negative comment about him," he said. "Everybody likes him, he's respected by all.

(With inputs from agencies)

Republican Mike Johnson was voted unanimously by 220 of his party members to become the new speaker of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, ending a three-week in-fighting that paralysed Congress.

Republican Mike Johnson was voted unanimously by 220 of his party members to become the new speaker of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, ending a three-week in-fighting that paralysed Congress. Johnson, of Louisiana, was picked as the Republican's fourth nominee after Tom Emmer—the Republican’s no. 3 candidate—withdrew from the race hours after securing the nomination due to opposition from the party's extreme-right flank. The seat was left vacant since a small faction of Republican party rebels ousted Kevin McCarthy on October 3. Johnson’s bid had gotten a massive boost after former president Donald Trump encouraged the Republicans to vote for the Louisianan representative. Who is Mike Johnson? The 51-year-old, who represents Louisiana's fourth congressional district—one of the poorest in the country—has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2016, and is currently serving his fourth term in the House. He is the vice chair of the House Republican Conference, and also serves as a deputy whip for the 118th Congress, and currently sits on the House Judiciary Committee and on the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government. Johnson, who has billed himself as the bridge builder between the various Republican factions, is a well-known ally of Donald Trump. “He knows everybody very well, does a great job with bringing people to the floor, talking about our policies, and that's what we need right now," said Republican Representative Kevin Hern, who withdrew his own bid to support Johnson. Johnson and Trump’s relationship Johnson is known to be a staunch Trump ally. He was also the first among many who defended the former president during the impeachment hearings. Also read | Study shows increasing anti-Black racism in EU, led by Germany The Louisiana representative led the amicus brief signed by more than 100 House Republicans in support of a Texas lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 election results in four swing states. Also read | Shamima Begum's lawyer claims she was victim of trafficking while joining ISIS Trump, while arriving at a New York court for his civil fraud trial on Wednesday morning, talked up Johnson's prospects, saying "it looks like it's going to happen". "I haven't heard one negative comment about him," he said. "Everybody likes him, he's respected by all. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Mike Johnson, Republicans' fourth nominee who finally clinched Speakership?

Iran’s elite Quds Force gave specialised military training to 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighters in the weeks leading up to the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has claimed in a report.

Citing ‘people familiar with intelligence related to the assault’, the US-based newspaper claimed that the militants were trained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards' elite forces in Iran in September.

The report noted that the modus operandi of Hamas was similar to the techniques used by the Iranian paramilitary groups.

The terrorists had paraglided into southern Israel after disabling Israeli observation posts in drone strikes, while some rode in on motorcycles—techniques commonly used by Iranian paramilitary groups, and not seen among Hamas till now, the WSJ report claimed.

<h2>US and Israel long suspected Iran's role</h2>

US and Israel have long accused Iran of helping Hamas to launch terror attacks that left more than 1,500 Israelis dead and over 200 taken as hostages.

But US officials have said they have no evidence that Iran was involved in the planning or execution

“Before the war, Iran directly assisted Hamas with money, training and weapons and technological know-how,” IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari told Times of Israel on Tuesday (Oct 24). “Even now, Iran is helping Hamas with intelligence.”

Tehran, which lauded the attack, has denied its involvement. Iran’s mission to the United Nations issued a statement calling the attack “fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people.”

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly praised the massacre while at the same time denied the country’s role in the attack.

“We kiss the foreheads and arms of the resourceful and intelligent designers,”&nbsp;Khamenei said.

But he added: “Those who say that the recent saga is the work of non-Palestinians have miscalculated.”

<h2>Iran funds Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

Israel claims that Iran supports Hamas to the tune of around $100 million dollars a year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/israel-hamas-war-ground-invasion-looming-israel-asks-google-to-disable-live-traffic-maps-in-gaza-651219">Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza</a>

In 2021, the US State Department said that the group receives funding, weapons, and training from Iran, as well as some funds that are raised in Gulf Arab countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-un-staff-visas-after-antonio-guterres-branded-terror-apologist-over-controversial-hamas-remarks-651243">Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres is branded 'terror apologist' for his Hamas remarks</a>

Apart from Hamas, Iran has strong ties to Lebanon’s Shia armed group Hezbollah.

Tehran has often boasted about an ironclad security coordination with Palestinian Islamist groups.

<h2>Statement by Hamas and Iran</h2>

Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player.

Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.”

Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them.

“The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran’s elite Quds Force gave specialised military training to 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighters in the weeks leading up to the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has claimed in a report.

Iran’s elite Quds Force gave specialised military training to 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighters in the weeks leading up to the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has claimed in a report. Citing ‘people familiar with intelligence related to the assault’, the US-based newspaper claimed that the militants were trained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards' elite forces in Iran in September. The report noted that the modus operandi of Hamas was similar to the techniques used by the Iranian paramilitary groups. The terrorists had paraglided into southern Israel after disabling Israeli observation posts in drone strikes, while some rode in on motorcycles—techniques commonly used by Iranian paramilitary groups, and not seen among Hamas till now, the WSJ report claimed. US and Israel long suspected Iran's role US and Israel have long accused Iran of helping Hamas to launch terror attacks that left more than 1,500 Israelis dead and over 200 taken as hostages. But US officials have said they have no evidence that Iran was involved in the planning or execution “Before the war, Iran directly assisted Hamas with money, training and weapons and technological know-how,” IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari told Times of Israel on Tuesday (Oct 24). “Even now, Iran is helping Hamas with intelligence.” Tehran, which lauded the attack, has denied its involvement. Iran’s mission to the United Nations issued a statement calling the attack “fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people.” Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly praised the massacre while at the same time denied the country’s role in the attack. “We kiss the foreheads and arms of the resourceful and intelligent designers,” Khamenei said. But he added: “Those who say that the recent saga is the work of non-Palestinians have miscalculated.” Iran funds Hamas Israel claims that Iran supports Hamas to the tune of around $100 million dollars a year. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza In 2021, the US State Department said that the group receives funding, weapons, and training from Iran, as well as some funds that are raised in Gulf Arab countries. Also read | Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres is branded 'terror apologist' for his Hamas remarks Apart from Hamas, Iran has strong ties to Lebanon’s Shia armed group Hezbollah. Tehran has often boasted about an ironclad security coordination with Palestinian Islamist groups. Statement by Hamas and Iran Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player. Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.” Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them. “The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran’s Quds Force trained 500 Hamas terrorists ahead of Oct 7 attack: Report

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's 'full solidarity' with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

Israel-Hamas war: Macron says ground offensive will be an error

India has decided to resume its visa services to Canadians, weeks after temporarily closing down the services in the wake of tensions between both countries over the row on the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

The Indian High Commission in Ottawa on Wednesday in a press statement said that they are resuming some visa services with effect from October 26.

“After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services," it said.

"Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation," it added.

India will resume visa services for entry visa, business visa, medical visa, and conference visa, the High Commission said.

The development came after Canada withdrew 41 of its envoys on the request of the Indian government, which had sought parity in the presence of diplomats.

<h2>Jaishankar wanted assurances from Canada to restart services&nbsp;</h2>

On Sunday, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that they would "very much to resume the issuing of visas" provided Indian envoys are provided safety in Canada as per the Vienna Convention.

"If we see progress in the safety of our diplomats in Canada, we would like to resume issuance of visas there," Jaishankar said.

He also brushed aside the statements by the US and the UK over making Canada withdraw 41 of its 62 diplomats, both of whom claimed that it falls contrary to the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

“Parity (between the diplomatic presence of the two countries in each other’s capitals) is very much provided for by the Vienna Convention, which is the relevant international rule on this. In our case, we invoked parity because we had concerns about continuous interference in our affairs by Canadian personnel,” Jaishankar said while speaking at an event in New Delhi on Sunday.

“The relationship right now is going through a difficult phase. But I do want to say, you know, the problems we have are with a certain segment of Canadian politics and the policies, which flow from that,” said the external affairs minister, replying to a question on the Canada-India diplomatic row. &nbsp;“So, I want people to understand the extent of the issue.

<h2>India and Canada visa row&nbsp;</h2>

India stopped issuing new visas to Canadians on September 21 after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he had "credible" inputs about the involvement of Indian government agents in Nijjar's murder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-spy-vessel-shin-yan-6-docks-at-colombo-port-amidst-indias-security-concerns-651161">Chinese vessel Shin Yan 6 docks at Colombo Port amidst India’s concerns</a>

New Delhi categorically denied the claims made by Trudeau, calling them "absurd" and "motivated".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncert-recommends-replacing-india-with-bharat-and-highlighting-hindu-victories-in-textbooks-651136">NCERT panel recommends replacing 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks</a>

&nbsp;“We have seen and rejected the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister,” India’s foreign ministry said in a statement.

India has decided to resume its visa services to Canadians, weeks after temporarily closing down the services in the wake of tensions between both countries over the row on the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India has decided to resume its visa services to Canadians, weeks after temporarily closing down the services in the wake of tensions between both countries over the row on the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Indian High Commission in Ottawa on Wednesday in a press statement said that they are resuming some visa services with effect from October 26. “After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services," it said. "Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation," it added. India will resume visa services for entry visa, business visa, medical visa, and conference visa, the High Commission said. The development came after Canada withdrew 41 of its envoys on the request of the Indian government, which had sought parity in the presence of diplomats. Jaishankar wanted assurances from Canada to restart services On Sunday, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that they would "very much to resume the issuing of visas" provided Indian envoys are provided safety in Canada as per the Vienna Convention. "If we see progress in the safety of our diplomats in Canada, we would like to resume issuance of visas there," Jaishankar said. He also brushed aside the statements by the US and the UK over making Canada withdraw 41 of its 62 diplomats, both of whom claimed that it falls contrary to the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. “Parity (between the diplomatic presence of the two countries in each other’s capitals) is very much provided for by the Vienna Convention, which is the relevant international rule on this. In our case, we invoked parity because we had concerns about continuous interference in our affairs by Canadian personnel,” Jaishankar said while speaking at an event in New Delhi on Sunday. “The relationship right now is going through a difficult phase. But I do want to say, you know, the problems we have are with a certain segment of Canadian politics and the policies, which flow from that,” said the external affairs minister, replying to a question on the Canada-India diplomatic row. “So, I want people to understand the extent of the issue. India and Canada visa row India stopped issuing new visas to Canadians on September 21 after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he had "credible" inputs about the involvement of Indian government agents in Nijjar's murder. Also read | Chinese vessel Shin Yan 6 docks at Colombo Port amidst India’s concerns New Delhi categorically denied the claims made by Trudeau, calling them "absurd" and "motivated". Also read | NCERT panel recommends replacing 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks “We have seen and rejected the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister,” India’s foreign ministry said in a statement.

India decides to resume some visa services for Canadians

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.

Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”.

Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation.

Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.”

“In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.”

He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas.

“Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” &nbsp;

“I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.”

He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-un-staff-visas-after-antonio-guterres-branded-terror-apologist-over-controversial-hamas-remarks-651243">Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks</a>

“I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.”

<h2>What did Guterres say that irked Israel?</h2>

On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief&nbsp;said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a>

He further said that&nbsp;Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members.

<h2>Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy&nbsp;</h2>

The remarks created furore in Israel, with&nbsp;Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling&nbsp;a meeting with&nbsp;Guterres and&nbsp;Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the&nbsp;UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder."

Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives.&nbsp;

"Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack. Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”. Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation. Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.” “In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.” He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas. “Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” “I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.” He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”. Also read | Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks “I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.” What did Guterres say that irked Israel? On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation." Also read | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ He further said that Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members. Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy The remarks created furore in Israel, with Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling a meeting with Guterres and Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder." Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives. "Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

‘Need to set the record straight’: UN chief clarifies his Hamas remarks that riled Israel

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