United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".

Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced.&nbsp;

"We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas.

On Oct 7, Hamas took the world by surprise after it launched an unprecedented attack against Israel. The violence in the region has claimed the lives of at least 1,400 people, which includes mostly civilians.

Guterres said "the grievances of the Palestinian people are legitimate and long" after "56 years of occupation with no end in sight" but stressed that "nothing can justify the reprehensible assault by Hamas that terrorised Israeli civilians".&nbsp;

He then stressed that "those abhorrent attacks can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people".

Jordan's King Abdullah II called for "an immediate end to the war on Gaza" and condemned what he labelled "global silence" on Palestinian death and suffering.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-cairo-peace-summit-palestinian-president-abbas-warns-of-any-attempts-to-displace-people-from-gaza-649661">At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza</a>

"The message the Arab world is hearing is loud and clear: Palestinian lives matter less than Israeli ones. Our lives matter less than other lives," he charged.&nbsp;

"The application of international law is optional. And human rights have boundaries -- they stop at borders, they stop at races, and they stop at religions."

The summit comes on the day when a convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing.

"The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement.

The UN has said that about 100 trucks per day are needed to meet worsening needs in Gaza.

The Palestinians need "a continuous delivery of aid to Gaza at the scale that is needed", the UN chief told the Cairo "Summit for Peace".

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare". Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced. "We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. On Oct 7, Hamas took the world by surprise after it launched an unprecedented attack against Israel. The violence in the region has claimed the lives of at least 1,400 people, which includes mostly civilians. Guterres said "the grievances of the Palestinian people are legitimate and long" after "56 years of occupation with no end in sight" but stressed that "nothing can justify the reprehensible assault by Hamas that terrorised Israeli civilians". He then stressed that "those abhorrent attacks can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people". Jordan's King Abdullah II called for "an immediate end to the war on Gaza" and condemned what he labelled "global silence" on Palestinian death and suffering. Also read: At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza "The message the Arab world is hearing is loud and clear: Palestinian lives matter less than Israeli ones. Our lives matter less than other lives," he charged. "The application of international law is optional. And human rights have boundaries -- they stop at borders, they stop at races, and they stop at religions." The summit comes on the day when a convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing. "The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement. The UN has said that about 100 trucks per day are needed to meet worsening needs in Gaza. The Palestinians need "a continuous delivery of aid to Gaza at the scale that is needed", the UN chief told the Cairo "Summit for Peace". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN chief Antonio Guterres urges ceasefire to end Gaza's 'godawful nightmare'

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults.

"Week 270. Today we are striking in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected."

In the post, the 20-year-old shared a picture where she along with three other women can be seen holding pro-Palestine posters.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreePalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreePalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IStandWithPalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IStandWithPalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithGaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithGaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FridaysForFuture?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FridaysForFuture</a> 
Thread🧵 <a href="https://t.co/0hVtya0yWO">pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1715355502337499332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Israel responds</h2>

Israel taking a dig at the climate activist, took to its official X handle and responded to her post saying that the militant group Hamas doesn't "use sustainable materials for their rockets which have butchered innocent Israelis".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-cairo-peace-summit-palestinian-president-abbas-warns-of-any-attempts-to-displace-people-from-gaza-649661">At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza</a>

"The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up,” the post added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GretaThunberg</a>, Hamas doesn’t use sustainable materials for their rockets which have BUTCHERED innocent Israelis . 
 
The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. 
 
Speak up. <a href="https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N">https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z4orsm2UjD">pic.twitter.com/Z4orsm2UjD</a>
— Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1715370190714589677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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&nbsp;

It also shared the photos of three 19-year-old Israelis, who were allegedly killed in the Hamas assault.

Earlier, Thunberg was charged by the UK's Metropolitan Police Service after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London.

She was among the 26 people charged by the UK police after being held at the demonstration site on Tuesday. She was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" levied under Britain's Public Order Act that deals with public assemblies and was released on bail.

She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Nov 15.

Before her arrest, Thunberg denounced "closed-door" agreements struck between politicians and representatives of the oil and gas industry.

London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests.

"The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults. "Week 270. Today we are striking in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected." In the post, the 20-year-old shared a picture where she along with three other women can be seen holding pro-Palestine posters. Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.#FreePalestine #IStandWithPalestine #StandWithGaza #FridaysForFuture Thread🧵 pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) October 20, 2023 × Israel responds Israel taking a dig at the climate activist, took to its official X handle and responded to her post saying that the militant group Hamas doesn't "use sustainable materials for their rockets which have butchered innocent Israelis". Also read: At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza "The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up,” the post added. .@GretaThunberg, Hamas doesn’t use sustainable materials for their rockets which have BUTCHERED innocent Israelis . The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up. https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N pic.twitter.com/Z4orsm2UjD — Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) October 20, 2023 × It also shared the photos of three 19-year-old Israelis, who were allegedly killed in the Hamas assault. Earlier, Thunberg was charged by the UK's Metropolitan Police Service after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London. She was among the 26 people charged by the UK police after being held at the demonstration site on Tuesday. She was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" levied under Britain's Public Order Act that deals with public assemblies and was released on bail. She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Nov 15. Before her arrest, Thunberg denounced "closed-door" agreements struck between politicians and representatives of the oil and gas industry. London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests. "The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel takes dig at Greta Thunberg over her post showing support for Palestinians

In Pics | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off 'Namo Bharat' train

Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war.

The counter-offensive by Israel has presented&nbsp;an opportunity for both Moscow and Beijing to come up as the champs of the developing world as Washington has fairly and squarely backed its ally Tel Aviv.

Though China has repeatedly called for restraint and a ceasefire, it has also strongly denounced Israel over its bombardment of the besieged Palestinian enclave.

"Israel's actions have gone beyond the scope of self-defence," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said earlier this week, calling on it to stop its "collective punishment" of Gaza residents, Chinese state media reported.

Russia, amid the conflict, has expressed sympathy for the Palestinians while condemning the United States, stating that the upsurge of violence and tensions between Israel and Hamas showed the failure of the United States' Middle-East policy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Washington sought to monopolise the international efforts aimed at forging peace in the region, further condemning the US for not seeking compromises acceptable to both sides.

"I think that many people will agree with me that this is a vivid example of the failure of United States policy in the Middle East," Putin had told Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani last week.

"The US tried to monopolise the solution (of the crisis between Israel and Palestinians), but, unfortunately, was not concerned with finding compromises acceptable to both sides, but, on the contrary, promoted its own ideas about how it should be done and put both sides under pressure. That's both sides, at one or another," he said.

Both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have strived to strengthen links to the global south, witnessing economic prospects and conceivably a way to negate the diplomatic influence of the United States and its allies. This strategy was on its full display earlier this week as China hosted a summit for Xi's Belt and Road Initiative, which has loaned hundreds of billions of dollars for infrastructure projects across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia.

Putin attended and met Xi for three hours of talks that included "an in-depth exchange of views on the Palestinian-Israeli situation", China said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a>

"China and Russia still see (the crisis) more in terms of the United States than in terms of either Palestine or Israel," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

"If the United States can effectively rally the world, it's bad for them. If the US and its allies grow increasingly isolated, they see that as good for them."

<h2>China and Russia's support for Palestine</h2>

The way both Moscow and Beijing operate in the Middle East has a lot in common. Russia has been a staunch critic of the United States, however, China has mainly opted to bypass denouncing the US.

This year, China signalled its growing influence in the Middle East when it announced a deal on the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

On the other hand, Russia too has been enhancing its relationship with Iran via its move to back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and supplies of Iranian drones.

Both Moscow and Beijing have strongly voiced support for Palestinians and are critical of what they say is the stigmatisation of them by the United States.&nbsp;

"There's clearly a shared interest in emphasising the negative role of the US in the conflict," news agency Reuters quoted Jean-Loup Samaan, senior research fellow at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore, as saying.

"And that fits within their broader narrative on the need to build an alternative world order to the US."

Earlier, Putin, accusing the West of not taking into consideration the fundamental interests of Palestinians, had stated that it was necessary to "implement the decisions of the UN Security Council on the creation of an independent sovereign Palestinian state."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also echoed the same sentiment saying that the creation of a Palestinian state was the "most reliable" solution for peace in Israel.&nbsp;

"Creation of a Palestinian state that would live side by side with Israel.. is the most reliable path to solve (the conflict). We cannot agree with those who say that security can only be ensured through a fight with terrorism," he said.

Meanwhile, Chinese media covered the Hamas assault and since then has been carrying reports containing images of Palestinians suffering, with some even citing Palestinian sources as saying Israel was responsible for the violence.

"None of the reality that shocked much of the world on October 7 is in Chinese news. Instead, the news features Israeli bombing of Gaza without explaining that the target is only Hamas infrastructure," Reuters quoted Carice Witte, director of the SIGNAL Group, a Sino-Israel relations think tank based in Tel Aviv as saying.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war. The counter-offensive by Israel has presented an opportunity for both Moscow and Beijing to come up as the champs of the developing world as Washington has fairly and squarely backed its ally Tel Aviv. Though China has repeatedly called for restraint and a ceasefire, it has also strongly denounced Israel over its bombardment of the besieged Palestinian enclave. "Israel's actions have gone beyond the scope of self-defence," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said earlier this week, calling on it to stop its "collective punishment" of Gaza residents, Chinese state media reported. Russia, amid the conflict, has expressed sympathy for the Palestinians while condemning the United States, stating that the upsurge of violence and tensions between Israel and Hamas showed the failure of the United States' Middle-East policy. Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Washington sought to monopolise the international efforts aimed at forging peace in the region, further condemning the US for not seeking compromises acceptable to both sides. "I think that many people will agree with me that this is a vivid example of the failure of United States policy in the Middle East," Putin had told Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani last week. "The US tried to monopolise the solution (of the crisis between Israel and Palestinians), but, unfortunately, was not concerned with finding compromises acceptable to both sides, but, on the contrary, promoted its own ideas about how it should be done and put both sides under pressure. That's both sides, at one or another," he said. Both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have strived to strengthen links to the global south, witnessing economic prospects and conceivably a way to negate the diplomatic influence of the United States and its allies. This strategy was on its full display earlier this week as China hosted a summit for Xi's Belt and Road Initiative, which has loaned hundreds of billions of dollars for infrastructure projects across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia. Putin attended and met Xi for three hours of talks that included "an in-depth exchange of views on the Palestinian-Israeli situation", China said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "China and Russia still see (the crisis) more in terms of the United States than in terms of either Palestine or Israel," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. "If the United States can effectively rally the world, it's bad for them. If the US and its allies grow increasingly isolated, they see that as good for them." China and Russia's support for Palestine The way both Moscow and Beijing operate in the Middle East has a lot in common. Russia has been a staunch critic of the United States, however, China has mainly opted to bypass denouncing the US. This year, China signalled its growing influence in the Middle East when it announced a deal on the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran. On the other hand, Russia too has been enhancing its relationship with Iran via its move to back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and supplies of Iranian drones. Both Moscow and Beijing have strongly voiced support for Palestinians and are critical of what they say is the stigmatisation of them by the United States. "There's clearly a shared interest in emphasising the negative role of the US in the conflict," news agency Reuters quoted Jean-Loup Samaan, senior research fellow at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore, as saying. "And that fits within their broader narrative on the need to build an alternative world order to the US." Earlier, Putin, accusing the West of not taking into consideration the fundamental interests of Palestinians, had stated that it was necessary to "implement the decisions of the UN Security Council on the creation of an independent sovereign Palestinian state." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also echoed the same sentiment saying that the creation of a Palestinian state was the "most reliable" solution for peace in Israel. "Creation of a Palestinian state that would live side by side with Israel.. is the most reliable path to solve (the conflict). We cannot agree with those who say that security can only be ensured through a fight with terrorism," he said. Meanwhile, Chinese media covered the Hamas assault and since then has been carrying reports containing images of Palestinians suffering, with some even citing Palestinian sources as saying Israel was responsible for the violence. "None of the reality that shocked much of the world on October 7 is in Chinese news. Instead, the news features Israeli bombing of Gaza without explaining that the target is only Hamas infrastructure," Reuters quoted Carice Witte, director of the SIGNAL Group, a Sino-Israel relations think tank based in Tel Aviv as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

"In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.

The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive.

"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said.

The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.

The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.

"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a>

"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."

<h2>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</h2>

Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;

He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".

Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;

(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.

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Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel. "In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released. Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said. The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza

The United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Oct 20), requested Congress for a whopping $105 billion security package including funds for Ukraine and Israel.

As per news agency AFP reports, Biden asked $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel.

"The world is watching and the American people rightly expect their leaders to come together and deliver on these priorities," White House Office of Management and Budget director Shalanda Young said in a letter to Congress.

"I urge Congress to address them as part of a comprehensive, bipartisan agreement in the weeks ahead."

Biden's request comes days after he visited Tel Aviv and vowed solidarity after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel and took the country and the world by surprise.

A day before, the US president also directly linked the Hamas attack on Israel and Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

While delivering his speech at the Oval Office, he argued that a total of $105.85 billion, including $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel, would secure US interests for generations to come.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-guterres-visits-rafah-border-crossing-pushes-for-aid-to-move-into-gaza-649345">UN Chief Guterres visits Rafah border crossing, pushes for aid to move into Gaza</a>

Biden's massive security package also includes $7 billion for resisting China and bolstering allies in the Asia-Pacific region, and over $9 billion for humanitarian assistance for Gaza, Ukraine and Israel.

However, the huge funding ask is an attempt to strengthen weakening aid for Ukraine by connecting it with funding for Israel, which has bipartisan support.

There is significant backing in Congress for Ukraine, including among major Republicans in the Senate, where the Democrats hold the majority.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer promised quick action in the upper house.

"Senate Democrats will move expeditiously on this request, and we hope that our Republican colleagues across the aisle will join us to pass this much-needed funding," he said in a statement.

"This legislation is too important to wait for the House to settle their chaos."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Oct 20), requested Congress for a whopping $105 billion security package including funds for Ukraine and Israel.

The United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Oct 20), requested Congress for a whopping $105 billion security package including funds for Ukraine and Israel. As per news agency AFP reports, Biden asked $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel. "The world is watching and the American people rightly expect their leaders to come together and deliver on these priorities," White House Office of Management and Budget director Shalanda Young said in a letter to Congress. "I urge Congress to address them as part of a comprehensive, bipartisan agreement in the weeks ahead." Biden's request comes days after he visited Tel Aviv and vowed solidarity after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel and took the country and the world by surprise. A day before, the US president also directly linked the Hamas attack on Israel and Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. While delivering his speech at the Oval Office, he argued that a total of $105.85 billion, including $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel, would secure US interests for generations to come. Also read: UN Chief Guterres visits Rafah border crossing, pushes for aid to move into Gaza Biden's massive security package also includes $7 billion for resisting China and bolstering allies in the Asia-Pacific region, and over $9 billion for humanitarian assistance for Gaza, Ukraine and Israel. However, the huge funding ask is an attempt to strengthen weakening aid for Ukraine by connecting it with funding for Israel, which has bipartisan support. There is significant backing in Congress for Ukraine, including among major Republicans in the Senate, where the Democrats hold the majority. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer promised quick action in the upper house. "Senate Democrats will move expeditiously on this request, and we hope that our Republican colleagues across the aisle will join us to pass this much-needed funding," he said in a statement. "This legislation is too important to wait for the House to settle their chaos." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden requests Congress for $105 bln security package, including funds for Ukraine and Israel

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres&nbsp;on Friday (Oct 20)&nbsp;visited the Rafah border crossing and said that the trucks loaded with aid for Gaza should move into the conflict-torn region as soon as possible from Egypt to alleviate a humanitarian crisis.

Guterres flew to Egypt to oversee preparations for the delivery of aid.

"These trucks are not just trucks - they are a lifeline, they are the difference between life and death to many people in Gaza," he said, speaking on the Egyptian side of the crossing.

"To see them stuck here makes me very clear - what we need is to make them move, to make them move to the other side of this wall to make them move as quickly as possible and as many as possible," he added.

He said it must be "a sustained effort" with not just one convoy crossing but for many "to be authorised in a meaningful number to have enough trucks to provide support to Gaza's people".

Guterres also called for a swift system of verification of the aid shipments.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-israelis-held-hostage-in-gaza-are-alive-says-israeli-military-649277">'Majority of Israelis held hostage in Gaza are alive', says Israeli military</a>

"We are now actively engaging with all the parties, actively engaging with Egypt, with Israel, with the US, in order to make sure that we are able to clarify those conditions...in order to have as soon as possible these trucks moving to where they are needed," he said.

<h2>EU says two flights of Gaza aid land in Egypt</h2>

The European Union, on Friday (Oct 20), said that two flights carrying 54 tonnes of aid for Gaza had landed in Egypt and were ready for delivery to Gaza once access was possible.

The aid included water, food, shelter and sanitary materials and would be distributed by the Egyptian Red Cross, an EU Commission spokesperson told a news briefing.

"Overall, we are talking about 54 tonnes of humanitarian supplies. This includes water, This includes food, shelter, hygiene items and sanitary materials. Now in terms of these 54 tonnes, we are going to work through the Egyptian Red Cross," said the EU Commission spokesperson.

On Thursday (Oct 19), truckloads of aid carrying food and medical supplies designated for Gaza remained on the Egyptian side of the border after United States President Joe Biden struck a deal with Israel to allow relief into the war-torn region.

Biden, during his visit to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Oct 19), said that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had agreed to "let up to 20 trucks through, to begin with," to the heavily bombarded Gaza Strip, starting Friday, giving authorities time to repair roads.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday (Oct 20) visited the Rafah border crossing and said that the trucks loaded with aid for Gaza should move into the conflict-torn region as soon as possible from Egypt to alleviate a humanitarian crisis.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday (Oct 20) visited the Rafah border crossing and said that the trucks loaded with aid for Gaza should move into the conflict-torn region as soon as possible from Egypt to alleviate a humanitarian crisis. Guterres flew to Egypt to oversee preparations for the delivery of aid. "These trucks are not just trucks - they are a lifeline, they are the difference between life and death to many people in Gaza," he said, speaking on the Egyptian side of the crossing. "To see them stuck here makes me very clear - what we need is to make them move, to make them move to the other side of this wall to make them move as quickly as possible and as many as possible," he added. He said it must be "a sustained effort" with not just one convoy crossing but for many "to be authorised in a meaningful number to have enough trucks to provide support to Gaza's people". Guterres also called for a swift system of verification of the aid shipments. Also read: 'Majority of Israelis held hostage in Gaza are alive', says Israeli military "We are now actively engaging with all the parties, actively engaging with Egypt, with Israel, with the US, in order to make sure that we are able to clarify those conditions...in order to have as soon as possible these trucks moving to where they are needed," he said. EU says two flights of Gaza aid land in Egypt The European Union, on Friday (Oct 20), said that two flights carrying 54 tonnes of aid for Gaza had landed in Egypt and were ready for delivery to Gaza once access was possible. The aid included water, food, shelter and sanitary materials and would be distributed by the Egyptian Red Cross, an EU Commission spokesperson told a news briefing. "Overall, we are talking about 54 tonnes of humanitarian supplies. This includes water, This includes food, shelter, hygiene items and sanitary materials. Now in terms of these 54 tonnes, we are going to work through the Egyptian Red Cross," said the EU Commission spokesperson. On Thursday (Oct 19), truckloads of aid carrying food and medical supplies designated for Gaza remained on the Egyptian side of the border after United States President Joe Biden struck a deal with Israel to allow relief into the war-torn region. Biden, during his visit to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Oct 19), said that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had agreed to "let up to 20 trucks through, to begin with," to the heavily bombarded Gaza Strip, starting Friday, giving authorities time to repair roads. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN Chief Guterres visits Rafah border crossing, pushes for aid to move into Gaza

The United States government has been urging Israel privately to not launch a military offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah, in an effort to prevent the war from spreading beyond Gaza, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday citing two officials.

As per the reports, the officials said that the United States recognises that Israel must retaliate against Hezbollah's increased targeting of its northern border since the surprise attack launched by the militant group Hamas on Oct 7 which claimed the lives of more than 1,400 Israelis.

However, the incessant attacks by Hezbollah and how Israeli intelligence failed to predict Hamas' assault have further led to discussions on whether Israel should initiate armed conflict against Hezbollah.

Such talks, as per the officials, have been a concern for the United States as Washington has been publicly and privately warning Hezbollah and Iran to not open a war on Israel's northern front.

The US has urged Israel to be cautious of its military responses to Hezbollah attacks as its response could result in a much larger war.

The officials said that the Biden administration has assured Tel Aviv that if Hezbollah initiates a war against Israel, the US military will join the Israeli Defense Forces in fighting the militant group.

However, following US President Joe Biden's brief solidarity visit to Israel, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stated that it “was never said” that the US would join in the event of a front with Hezbollah.

Kirby further added that there was “no intention to put US boots on the ground in combat” but that the US has its “national security interests” and “we’ll protect them if we need to.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/siege-from-every-side-iranian-state-tv-shows-how-multi-front-attack-against-israel-can-unfold-648937">‘Siege from every side’: Iranian state TV shows how multi-front attack against Israel can unfold</a>

<h2>Hezbollah warns Israel it is 'fully prepared' to join Hamas</h2>

Last week, Hezbollah group warned Israel that it is "fully prepared" to join militant group Hamas in the war when the time is right.

"We, as Hezbollah, are contributing to the confrontation and will (continue) to contribute to it within our vision and plan," Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem told a pro-Palestinian rally in Beirut's southern suburbs.

"We are fully prepared, and when the time comes for action, we will take it," he said.

The official's comments coincided with the Iranian foreign minister's visit to Beirut, rebuffing calls for Hezbollah to stay out of the war.

"The behind-the-scenes calls with us by great powers, Arab countries, envoys of the United Nations, directly and indirectly telling us not to interfere will have no effect," he said, adding, "Hezbollah knows its duties perfectly well."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States government has been urging Israel privately to not launch a military offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah, in an effort to prevent the war from spreading beyond Gaza, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday citing two officials.

The United States government has been urging Israel privately to not launch a military offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah, in an effort to prevent the war from spreading beyond Gaza, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday citing two officials. As per the reports, the officials said that the United States recognises that Israel must retaliate against Hezbollah's increased targeting of its northern border since the surprise attack launched by the militant group Hamas on Oct 7 which claimed the lives of more than 1,400 Israelis. However, the incessant attacks by Hezbollah and how Israeli intelligence failed to predict Hamas' assault have further led to discussions on whether Israel should initiate armed conflict against Hezbollah. Such talks, as per the officials, have been a concern for the United States as Washington has been publicly and privately warning Hezbollah and Iran to not open a war on Israel's northern front. The US has urged Israel to be cautious of its military responses to Hezbollah attacks as its response could result in a much larger war. The officials said that the Biden administration has assured Tel Aviv that if Hezbollah initiates a war against Israel, the US military will join the Israeli Defense Forces in fighting the militant group. However, following US President Joe Biden's brief solidarity visit to Israel, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stated that it “was never said” that the US would join in the event of a front with Hezbollah. Kirby further added that there was “no intention to put US boots on the ground in combat” but that the US has its “national security interests” and “we’ll protect them if we need to.” Also read: ‘Siege from every side’: Iranian state TV shows how multi-front attack against Israel can unfold Hezbollah warns Israel it is 'fully prepared' to join Hamas Last week, Hezbollah group warned Israel that it is "fully prepared" to join militant group Hamas in the war when the time is right. "We, as Hezbollah, are contributing to the confrontation and will (continue) to contribute to it within our vision and plan," Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem told a pro-Palestinian rally in Beirut's southern suburbs. "We are fully prepared, and when the time comes for action, we will take it," he said. The official's comments coincided with the Iranian foreign minister's visit to Beirut, rebuffing calls for Hezbollah to stay out of the war. "The behind-the-scenes calls with us by great powers, Arab countries, envoys of the United Nations, directly and indirectly telling us not to interfere will have no effect," he said, adding, "Hezbollah knows its duties perfectly well." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US privately urging Israel to not launch offensive against Hezbollah: Report

The European Union, on Thursday (Oct 19), announced probes into tech giants Meta and TikTok, seeking more details on measures they have taken to halt the dissemination of "illegal content and disinformation" following Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel.

The European Commission said it had sent formal requests for information to Meta and TikTok respectively.

Earlier, the EU had launched a similar probe into Elon Musk's social media platform X.

The commission said that the request to Meta was related "to the dissemination and amplification of illegal content and disinformation" around the Hamas-Israel conflict.

It released a separate statement saying that it wanted to know the measures taken by short-form video hosting service TikTok against "the spreading of terrorist and violent content and hate speech".

The EU's executive arm added that it wanted more information from Meta on its "mitigation measures to protect the integrity of elections".&nbsp;

Both Meta and TikTok have until October 25 to answer, with a deadline of Nov 8 for less critical factors of the ultimatum for information.

The commission further said that it also sought more details about how TikTok was conceding with rules on safeguarding minors online. Meta pressed that it was handling the issues inflated.

"Our teams are working around the clock to keep our platforms safe, take action on content that violates our policies or local law, and coordinate with third-party fact-checkers in the region to limit the spread of misinformation," a Meta spokesman said.

He added that Meta would be happy to provide further information to the commission.

TikTok said that it was reviewing Brussels' request and would publish a report next week with "more information about our ongoing work to keep our European community safe".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/siege-from-every-side-iranian-state-tv-shows-how-multi-front-attack-against-israel-can-unfold-648937">‘Siege from every side’: Iranian state TV shows how multi-front attack against Israel can unfold</a>

Last week, the company released a statement saying that it had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform."

The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region.

TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war".

"We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week."

"We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app.

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The European Union, on Thursday (Oct 19), announced probes into tech giants Meta and TikTok, seeking more details on measures they have taken to halt the dissemination of "illegal content and disinformation" following Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel.

The European Union, on Thursday (Oct 19), announced probes into tech giants Meta and TikTok, seeking more details on measures they have taken to halt the dissemination of "illegal content and disinformation" following Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel. The European Commission said it had sent formal requests for information to Meta and TikTok respectively. Earlier, the EU had launched a similar probe into Elon Musk's social media platform X. The commission said that the request to Meta was related "to the dissemination and amplification of illegal content and disinformation" around the Hamas-Israel conflict. It released a separate statement saying that it wanted to know the measures taken by short-form video hosting service TikTok against "the spreading of terrorist and violent content and hate speech". The EU's executive arm added that it wanted more information from Meta on its "mitigation measures to protect the integrity of elections". Both Meta and TikTok have until October 25 to answer, with a deadline of Nov 8 for less critical factors of the ultimatum for information. The commission further said that it also sought more details about how TikTok was conceding with rules on safeguarding minors online. Meta pressed that it was handling the issues inflated. "Our teams are working around the clock to keep our platforms safe, take action on content that violates our policies or local law, and coordinate with third-party fact-checkers in the region to limit the spread of misinformation," a Meta spokesman said. He added that Meta would be happy to provide further information to the commission. TikTok said that it was reviewing Brussels' request and would publish a report next week with "more information about our ongoing work to keep our European community safe". Also read: ‘Siege from every side’: Iranian state TV shows how multi-front attack against Israel can unfold Last week, the company released a statement saying that it had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform." The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region. TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war". "We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week." "We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU opens disinformation probes into Meta and TikTok amid Israel-Hamas conflict

Former United States President Donald Trump's ex-lawyer on Thursday (Oct 19) pleaded guilty to assisting Trump's efforts to rescind his election defeat in the state of Georgia.&nbsp;

The lawyer, Sidney Powell, pleaded guilty to six counts of conspiracy to commit intentional interference with performance of election duties, a misdemeanour charge. She also agreed to testify against Trump and the other 16 co-defendants in the case if prosecutors ask her to.

This is one of the four concurrent criminal cases that the former United States president is facing.&nbsp;

Powell's plea came days before she was scheduled to appear in the court for trial, beginning on Monday (Oct 23) on charges including racketeering and conspiracy to commit election fraud.

She admitted to conspiring to unlawfully gain access to secure election machines in January 2021, in rural Coffee County in southeastern Georgia. The plea agreement calls for her to be sentenced to six years of probation. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Following the 2020 presidential elections, Powell represented Trump and also helped disseminate false claims that the election had been tainted by an overall voter scam.&nbsp;

She also threatened to "release the Kraken," a mythological sea monster.&nbsp;

As per news agency Reuters reports, the prosecutor said that Powell and other co-defendants fiddled with electronic ballot markers and accessed data belonging to Dominion Voting Systems, the voting machine company that Powell and other Trump allies falsely claimed helped rig the election against Trump.

Powell was scheduled to be tried alongside Kenneth Chesebro, another lawyer who assisted Trump following the election.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former United States President Donald Trump's ex-lawyer on Thursday (Oct 19) pleaded guilty to assisting Trump's efforts to rescind his election defeat in the state of Georgia.

Former United States President Donald Trump's ex-lawyer on Thursday (Oct 19) pleaded guilty to assisting Trump's efforts to rescind his election defeat in the state of Georgia. The lawyer, Sidney Powell, pleaded guilty to six counts of conspiracy to commit intentional interference with performance of election duties, a misdemeanour charge. She also agreed to testify against Trump and the other 16 co-defendants in the case if prosecutors ask her to. This is one of the four concurrent criminal cases that the former United States president is facing. Powell's plea came days before she was scheduled to appear in the court for trial, beginning on Monday (Oct 23) on charges including racketeering and conspiracy to commit election fraud. She admitted to conspiring to unlawfully gain access to secure election machines in January 2021, in rural Coffee County in southeastern Georgia. The plea agreement calls for her to be sentenced to six years of probation. Following the 2020 presidential elections, Powell represented Trump and also helped disseminate false claims that the election had been tainted by an overall voter scam. She also threatened to "release the Kraken," a mythological sea monster. As per news agency Reuters reports, the prosecutor said that Powell and other co-defendants fiddled with electronic ballot markers and accessed data belonging to Dominion Voting Systems, the voting machine company that Powell and other Trump allies falsely claimed helped rig the election against Trump. Powell was scheduled to be tried alongside Kenneth Chesebro, another lawyer who assisted Trump following the election. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Trump's former lawyer Sidney Powell pleads guilty, agrees to testify in Georgia case

The Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza will open on Friday (Oct 20), according to state-linked television Al Qahera News.&nbsp;

Truckloads of aid carrying food and medical supplies designated for Gaza, on Thursday (Oct 19), remained on the Egyptian side of the border after United States President Joe Biden struck a deal with Israel to allow relief into the war-torn region.

Biden, during his visit to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Oct 19), said that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had agreed to "let up to 20 trucks through, to begin with," to the heavily bombarded Gaza Strip, starting Friday, giving authorities time to repair roads.

As per news agency AFP, 150 trucks were waiting at Rafah, the only passage in and out of Gaza which is not controlled by Israel.

This was in addition to the ones in the Egyptian city of El Arish, where planes loaded with relief supplies had been arriving.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-pledges-humanitarian-aid-to-palestinians-in-talks-with-palestinian-authority-president-abbas-648839">Modi pledges humanitarian aid to&nbsp;Palestinians in talks with President Abbas</a>

<h2>WHO says trucks 'loaded and ready to go'</h2>

Meanwhile, World Health Organization on Thursday (Oct 19) welcomed Israel's announcement and said that their five trucks were loaded and ready to go.

"Our trucks are loaded and ready to go," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a press conference. He said he hoped the supplies would be delivered as soon as the Rafah crossing opened, "hopefully tomorrow".

On Wednesday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that items like "food, water and medicine" would be permitted into the besieged Palestinian enclave.

"In light of (US) President (Joe) Biden's demand, Israel would not foil the supply of humanitarian aid via Egypt," the prime minister's office said.

"Israel will not allow any humanitarian aid from its territory to the Gaza Strip as long as our hostages are not returned," the statement read.

"Israel demands Red Cross visits with our captives and is working to mobilise broad international support for this demand," it added.&nbsp;

Israel had cut off supplies of water, electricity, fuel and food to Gaza after the militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7.

United Nations humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths has estimated that about 100 trucks per day were needed to meet the needs in Gaza.

Humanitarian workers at the border have warned that the relief must be allowed into the region as soon as possible as the perishable items, that were a part of the aid, had begun to spoil. They also cautioned that the basic supplies have run dangerously low in the conflict-torn region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza will open on Friday (Oct 20), according to state-linked television Al Qahera News. Truckloads of aid carrying food and medical supplies designated for Gaza, on Thursday (Oct 19), remained on the Egyptian side of the border after United States President Joe Biden struck a deal with Israel to allow relief into the war-torn region.

The Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza will open on Friday (Oct 20), according to state-linked television Al Qahera News. Truckloads of aid carrying food and medical supplies designated for Gaza, on Thursday (Oct 19), remained on the Egyptian side of the border after United States President Joe Biden struck a deal with Israel to allow relief into the war-torn region. Biden, during his visit to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Oct 19), said that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had agreed to "let up to 20 trucks through, to begin with," to the heavily bombarded Gaza Strip, starting Friday, giving authorities time to repair roads. As per news agency AFP, 150 trucks were waiting at Rafah, the only passage in and out of Gaza which is not controlled by Israel. This was in addition to the ones in the Egyptian city of El Arish, where planes loaded with relief supplies had been arriving. Also read: Modi pledges humanitarian aid to Palestinians in talks with President Abbas WHO says trucks 'loaded and ready to go' Meanwhile, World Health Organization on Thursday (Oct 19) welcomed Israel's announcement and said that their five trucks were loaded and ready to go. "Our trucks are loaded and ready to go," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a press conference. He said he hoped the supplies would be delivered as soon as the Rafah crossing opened, "hopefully tomorrow". On Wednesday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that items like "food, water and medicine" would be permitted into the besieged Palestinian enclave. "In light of (US) President (Joe) Biden's demand, Israel would not foil the supply of humanitarian aid via Egypt," the prime minister's office said. "Israel will not allow any humanitarian aid from its territory to the Gaza Strip as long as our hostages are not returned," the statement read. "Israel demands Red Cross visits with our captives and is working to mobilise broad international support for this demand," it added. Israel had cut off supplies of water, electricity, fuel and food to Gaza after the militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7. United Nations humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths has estimated that about 100 trucks per day were needed to meet the needs in Gaza. Humanitarian workers at the border have warned that the relief must be allowed into the region as soon as possible as the perishable items, that were a part of the aid, had begun to spoil. They also cautioned that the basic supplies have run dangerously low in the conflict-torn region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rafah border crossing to open on Friday as pressure for aid to reach besieged civilians mounts

The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday.

"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," the statement read.

The military further said that out of the hostages, more than 20 were children, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.

There are also between 100 and 200 people considered missing since the Hamas attacks, the army further added.

Last week, the Israeli military released a statement saying that they had found the bodies of some of the hostages abducted by the Hamas militant group during their operations inside Gaza.

"We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing.

Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7, the Israeli army has orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed more than 2000 people.

Lerner said the bodies of hostages were found on these "small, close-perimeter raids into the Gaza Strip".

The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.

"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-joe-bidens-wartime-address-hails-india-middle-east-europe-corridor-649015">Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor</a>

"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."

<h2>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</h2>

Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;

He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".

Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday.

The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," the statement read. The military further said that out of the hostages, more than 20 were children, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. There are also between 100 and 200 people considered missing since the Hamas attacks, the army further added. Last week, the Israeli military released a statement saying that they had found the bodies of some of the hostages abducted by the Hamas militant group during their operations inside Gaza. "We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing. Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7, the Israeli army has orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed more than 2000 people. Lerner said the bodies of hostages were found on these "small, close-perimeter raids into the Gaza Strip". The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Majority of Israelis held hostage in Gaza are alive', says Israeli military

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