Iran on Saturday (Oct 14) issued a fresh warning to Israel calling it to halt its offensives against Gaza before it is "too late".

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, during his visit to the Lebanese capital Beirut, said that there was still a political opportunity to avert a widespread crisis in the region but "in the next few hours, it will be too late".

"There is still a political opportunity to prevent a widespread crisis in the region," Amir-Abdollahian told a press conference in Beirut after stops in Baghdad and Damascus.&nbsp;

But "maybe, in the next few hours, it will be too late," he said, warning that pro-Iran militants "have designed all the scenarios and are prepared, and their finger is on the trigger to shoot."

Although Tehran has voiced support for Hamas, Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei denied his country's involvement in the unprecedented attacks launched by the militant group on Israel.

"The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," Khamenei said.

"This destructive earthquake (Hamas' attack) has destroyed some critical structures (in Israel) which will not be repaired easily ... The Zionist regime's own actions are to blame for this disaster," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-all-ready-israeli-pm-netanyahu-visits-areas-of-hamas-assault-for-first-time-646890">'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time</a>

"We defend Palestine, we defend the struggles."

“We kiss the foreheads and arms of the resourceful and intelligent designers [of the operation] and the Palestinian youth,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Hezbollah warns it is 'fully prepared' to join Hamas</h2>

Earlier on Friday (Oct 13), Hezbollah 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 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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Iran on Saturday (Oct 14) issued a fresh warning to Israel calling it to halt its offensives against Gaza before it is "too late". Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, during his visit to the Lebanese capital Beirut, said that there was still a political opportunity to avert a widespread crisis in the region but "in the next few hours, it will be too late".

Iran on Saturday (Oct 14) issued a fresh warning to Israel calling it to halt its offensives against Gaza before it is "too late". Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, during his visit to the Lebanese capital Beirut, said that there was still a political opportunity to avert a widespread crisis in the region but "in the next few hours, it will be too late". "There is still a political opportunity to prevent a widespread crisis in the region," Amir-Abdollahian told a press conference in Beirut after stops in Baghdad and Damascus. But "maybe, in the next few hours, it will be too late," he said, warning that pro-Iran militants "have designed all the scenarios and are prepared, and their finger is on the trigger to shoot." Although Tehran has voiced support for Hamas, Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei denied his country's involvement in the unprecedented attacks launched by the militant group on Israel. "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," Khamenei said. "This destructive earthquake (Hamas' attack) has destroyed some critical structures (in Israel) which will not be repaired easily ... The Zionist regime's own actions are to blame for this disaster," he said. Also read: 'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time "We defend Palestine, we defend the struggles." “We kiss the foreheads and arms of the resourceful and intelligent designers [of the operation] and the Palestinian youth,” he added. Hezbollah warns it is 'fully prepared' to join Hamas Earlier on Friday (Oct 13), Hezbollah 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 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.

Iran warns Israel to halt its offensives against Gaza before 'it is too late'

In Pics | Israel vs Hamas: Aerial images of Israeli air strikes in Gaza

The Israeli military, on Saturday (Oct 14), 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 this week.

"We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," a military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing.

Israel claimed that at least 120 people were taken hostage when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel last week on Oct 7 that claimed the lives of at least 1,300.

The Israeli military has since orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed at least 2,215.

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.

"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."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-all-ready-israeli-pm-netanyahu-visits-areas-of-hamas-assault-for-first-time-646890">'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time</a>

The officials further indicated that civilians would be given more time to leave the north of the territory ahead of an expected full-scale ground offensive.

Lerner did not say there is a deadline to leave north Gaza but told the briefing: "We have extended once again because we realised that there is a huge amount of people that need to get out. We are continuing to encourage the population in the north of the Gaza Strip and Gaza City to go south and get out of harm's way."

Foreign ministry spokesman Lior Haiat told the briefing that Israel is not demanding that Palestinians leave Gaza but just to get out of the north.

"We gave them (civilians) the time to do so and we will continue to give civilians time to leave the places that we think Hamas is using for its terrorist infrastructure," Haiat said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Israeli military, on Saturday (Oct 14), 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 this week.

The Israeli military, on Saturday (Oct 14), 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 this week. "We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," a military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing. Israel claimed that at least 120 people were taken hostage when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel last week on Oct 7 that claimed the lives of at least 1,300. The Israeli military has since orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed at least 2,215. 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. "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." Also read: 'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time The officials further indicated that civilians would be given more time to leave the north of the territory ahead of an expected full-scale ground offensive. Lerner did not say there is a deadline to leave north Gaza but told the briefing: "We have extended once again because we realised that there is a huge amount of people that need to get out. We are continuing to encourage the population in the north of the Gaza Strip and Gaza City to go south and get out of harm's way." Foreign ministry spokesman Lior Haiat told the briefing that Israel is not demanding that Palestinians leave Gaza but just to get out of the north. "We gave them (civilians) the time to do so and we will continue to give civilians time to leave the places that we think Hamas is using for its terrorist infrastructure," Haiat 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.

Israeli military says bodies of hostages abducted by Hamas found in Gaza

A senior Israeli official on Saturday admitted that the current situation in Israel reflected the "mistakes" made by him and the ones making intelligence assessments.

"It's my mistake, and it reflects the mistakes of all those making (intelligence) assessments," National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi told a press briefing on being asked about his recent remarks predicting no Hamas aggression.

"We really believed that Hamas learned the lesson from&nbsp;its last major war with Israel in 2021," Hanegbi said.

He further rebuffed queries on any negotiations towards any prisoner swap deal with Hamas.

"There's no way to negotiate with an enemy we have sworn to obliterate," he said.

Last week on Saturday (Oct 7), the militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel breaching the Gaza border barrier. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-all-ready-israeli-pm-netanyahu-visits-areas-of-hamas-assault-for-first-time-646890">'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time</a>

As per Israeli officials, more than 1,300 civilians and security forces have been killed since the assault, and at least 120 have been seized by militants and believed to be held captive in Gaza.

<h2>US intelligence warned of assault by Hamas, reveals report</h2>

The US intelligence community is believed to have briefed President Joe Biden about the assault by Hamas in the weeks ahead of the October 7 terrorist attacks, a CNN report has revealed.

As per reports, one update shared on September 28, which was backed by multiple intelligence inputs, indicated that Hamas was planning a massive rocket attack on Israel.&nbsp;

The second assessment was produced on October 5, when the country’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) warned of the increasing possibility of violence by Hamas.

On October 6, the day before Hamas’ assault, US officials reportedly circulated inputs that came directly from Israel. All of this indicated a massive Gazan attack on Israel.

It was unclear whether or not the US intelligence assessments were shared with the Israeli administration.

While the intelligence hinted at the possibility of violence, none of the inputs gave details or indicated the sheer scale and brutality of the attack.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A senior Israeli official on Saturday admitted that the current situation in Israel reflected the "mistakes" made by him and the ones making intelligence assessments.

A senior Israeli official on Saturday admitted that the current situation in Israel reflected the "mistakes" made by him and the ones making intelligence assessments. "It's my mistake, and it reflects the mistakes of all those making (intelligence) assessments," National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi told a press briefing on being asked about his recent remarks predicting no Hamas aggression. "We really believed that Hamas learned the lesson from its last major war with Israel in 2021," Hanegbi said. He further rebuffed queries on any negotiations towards any prisoner swap deal with Hamas. "There's no way to negotiate with an enemy we have sworn to obliterate," he said. Last week on Saturday (Oct 7), the militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel breaching the Gaza border barrier. Also read: 'We're all ready': Israeli PM visits areas of Hamas assault for first time As per Israeli officials, more than 1,300 civilians and security forces have been killed since the assault, and at least 120 have been seized by militants and believed to be held captive in Gaza. US intelligence warned of assault by Hamas, reveals report The US intelligence community is believed to have briefed President Joe Biden about the assault by Hamas in the weeks ahead of the October 7 terrorist attacks, a CNN report has revealed. As per reports, one update shared on September 28, which was backed by multiple intelligence inputs, indicated that Hamas was planning a massive rocket attack on Israel. The second assessment was produced on October 5, when the country’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) warned of the increasing possibility of violence by Hamas. On October 6, the day before Hamas’ assault, US officials reportedly circulated inputs that came directly from Israel. All of this indicated a massive Gazan attack on Israel. It was unclear whether or not the US intelligence assessments were shared with the Israeli administration. While the intelligence hinted at the possibility of violence, none of the inputs gave details or indicated the sheer scale and brutality of the attack. (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 admits intelligence failure in predicting Hamas attacks

New Zealanders, on Saturday (Oct 14), voted for a change placing conservative former businessman Christopher Luxon in the position to be the next prime minister of the country.

Incumbent Prime Minister and Labour leader Chris Hipkins conceded his defeat and said that his party's six years in power were over.

Hipkins, who replaced two-term leader Jacinda Ardern in January 2023, released a statement saying that he was "not in a position to form a government".

"The result tonight is not one that any of us wanted, but I want you to be proud of what we achieved over the last six years," Hipkins told Labour supporters in Wellington.

The National Party and its coalition partner ACT were projected to win 62 seats with 85 per cent of the vote tallied, which was sufficient to secure a majority in New Zealand's 120-seat parliament.

Luxon, a former airline executive, said New Zealanders had "reached for hope and voted for change".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-poised-to-reject-indigenous-voice-referendum-to-amend-122-year-old-constitution-646721">Australia rejects indigenous voice referendum seeking to amend 122-year-old constitution</a>

The election campaign was predominantly around New Zealand's soaring economic crisis and an increase in the cost of living.

"My pledge to you is that National will deliver for every New Zealander," Luxon said, promising to "build the economy and deliver tax relief".

"We will bring down the cost of living. We will restore law and order. We will deliver better health care and we will educate our children so that they can grow up to live the lives they dream of."

Luxon and Hipkins, during their election campaign, tried to woo voters by promising to reduce rising petrol prices, improve the issue of housing shortage and limit the growing prices of staple foods.

The Labour Party, which won under Ardern in 2020, was on its way to suffering one of its gravest election defeats with forecasts pointing to 34 seats.

"Following on from my good friend Jacinda, it was not going to be an easy task," Hipkins admitted.

"I did know when I took on this job that it was going to be an uphill battle."

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealanders, on Saturday (Oct 14), voted for a change placing conservative former businessman Christopher Luxon in the position to be the next prime minister of the country.

New Zealanders, on Saturday (Oct 14), voted for a change placing conservative former businessman Christopher Luxon in the position to be the next prime minister of the country. Incumbent Prime Minister and Labour leader Chris Hipkins conceded his defeat and said that his party's six years in power were over. Hipkins, who replaced two-term leader Jacinda Ardern in January 2023, released a statement saying that he was "not in a position to form a government". "The result tonight is not one that any of us wanted, but I want you to be proud of what we achieved over the last six years," Hipkins told Labour supporters in Wellington. The National Party and its coalition partner ACT were projected to win 62 seats with 85 per cent of the vote tallied, which was sufficient to secure a majority in New Zealand's 120-seat parliament. Luxon, a former airline executive, said New Zealanders had "reached for hope and voted for change". Also read: Australia rejects indigenous voice referendum seeking to amend 122-year-old constitution The election campaign was predominantly around New Zealand's soaring economic crisis and an increase in the cost of living. "My pledge to you is that National will deliver for every New Zealander," Luxon said, promising to "build the economy and deliver tax relief". "We will bring down the cost of living. We will restore law and order. We will deliver better health care and we will educate our children so that they can grow up to live the lives they dream of." Luxon and Hipkins, during their election campaign, tried to woo voters by promising to reduce rising petrol prices, improve the issue of housing shortage and limit the growing prices of staple foods. The Labour Party, which won under Ardern in 2020, was on its way to suffering one of its gravest election defeats with forecasts pointing to 34 seats. "Following on from my good friend Jacinda, it was not going to be an easy task," Hipkins admitted. "I did know when I took on this job that it was going to be an uphill battle." (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.

New Zealand: Christopher Luxon claims election victory after incumbent PM Chris Hipkins concedes defeat

Lebanon’s Hezbollah group, on Saturday (Oct 14), said that it attacked five Israeli outposts in the disputed Shebaa Farms area, situated on the Lebanese-Israeli border, with guided missiles and mortar shells.

The group released a statement saying that the aggression occurred at 3:15 p.m.

Earlier on Friday (Oct 13), the heavily armed Iranian-backed 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.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/wion-exclusive-israeli-survivor-recounts-terror-at-music-festival-646688">'There were THOUSANDS...': Israeli survivor recounts terror at music festival to WION</a>

<h2>Lebanon blames Israel for missile fire that hit journalists</h2>

Lebanon, on Saturday, blamed the Israeli army for the cross-border fire that claimed the life of one journalist and injured nearly six others near the border on Friday.

Israel's military released a statement saying it was looking into the circumstances of the fatal strike.

"We are very sorry for the journalist's death," military spokesman Richard Hecht told a briefing in reference to the Reuters video journalist killed, Issam Abdallah.

On being asked as to who launched the strike, Hecht said that "we are looking into it".

The Lebanese army said in a statement that "the Israeli enemy fired a rocket shell that hit a civilian car belonging to a media team, leading to the death of Issam Abdallah".

Lebanon's foreign ministry also condemned Israel and dubbed the strike a "deliberate killing" and a "crime against freedom of speech and journalism".

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Lebanon’s Hezbollah group, on Saturday (Oct 14), said that it attacked five Israeli outposts in the disputed Shebaa Farms area, situated on the Lebanese-Israeli border, with guided missiles and mortar shells.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah group, on Saturday (Oct 14), said that it attacked five Israeli outposts in the disputed Shebaa Farms area, situated on the Lebanese-Israeli border, with guided missiles and mortar shells. The group released a statement saying that the aggression occurred at 3:15 p.m. Earlier on Friday (Oct 13), the heavily armed Iranian-backed 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. Also read: 'There were THOUSANDS...': Israeli survivor recounts terror at music festival to WION Lebanon blames Israel for missile fire that hit journalists Lebanon, on Saturday, blamed the Israeli army for the cross-border fire that claimed the life of one journalist and injured nearly six others near the border on Friday. Israel's military released a statement saying it was looking into the circumstances of the fatal strike. "We are very sorry for the journalist's death," military spokesman Richard Hecht told a briefing in reference to the Reuters video journalist killed, Issam Abdallah. On being asked as to who launched the strike, Hecht said that "we are looking into it". The Lebanese army said in a statement that "the Israeli enemy fired a rocket shell that hit a civilian car belonging to a media team, leading to the death of Issam Abdallah". Lebanon's foreign ministry also condemned Israel and dubbed the strike a "deliberate killing" and a "crime against freedom of speech and journalism". (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.

Hezbollah says it targeted five Israeli outposts in disputed Shebaa Farms area

European Union industry chief Thierry Breton on Thursday (Oct 12)&nbsp;warned TikTok about a surge in disinformation on the video sharing platform and gave it an ultimatum of 24 hours to detail measures it will take to counter the spread after Hamas militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

Breton's warning in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, followed a similar one he sent to X owner Elon Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg earlier this week.&nbsp;

"Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," he said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTok?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTok</a> has a particular obligation to protect children &amp; teenagers from violent content &amp; terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges &amp; potentially life-threatening content.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DSA</a> sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. 
 
Letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/J1tpVzXaYR">pic.twitter.com/J1tpVzXaYR</a>
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryBreton/status/1712472108222329056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Breton told Chew his request was urgent and required a response "within the next 24 hours".

Tech mogul Zuckerberg was also asked to respond within 24 hours with the measures his organisation will take to counter the dissemination of disinformation.

"I would ask you to be very vigilant to ensure strict compliance with the DSA rules on terms of service, on the requirement of timely, diligent and objective action following notices of illegal content in the EU, and on the need for proportionate and effective mitigation measures," Breton told Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a letter.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DSA</a> is here to protect free speech against arbitrary decisions, and at the same time protect our citizens &amp; democracies. 
 
My requests to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meta</a>’s Mark Zuckerberg following the terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel — and on tackling disinformation in elections in the EU ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/RnetUriRJX">pic.twitter.com/RnetUriRJX</a>
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryBreton/status/1712126600873931150?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<h2>X removes hundreds of Hamas-affiliated accounts</h2>

X CEO Linda Yaccarino, on Thursday, said that the platform had removed hundreds of Hamas-affiliated accounts and also took action against “tens of thousands of pieces of content”.

The move came a day after EU's top tech regulator's warning to X sparked an online duel between him and Musk where the SpaceX founder publicly asked the EU commissioner to "please list the violations you allude to on X", and said the platform's policy was that "everything was open source and transparent, an approach that I know the EU supports".

To which Breton responded that it was up to Musk to "demonstrate that you walk the talk" and added that his team was standing by to "enforce rigorously" DSA compliance.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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European Union industry chief Thierry Breton on Thursday (Oct 12) warned TikTok about a surge in disinformation on the video sharing platform and gave it an ultimatum of 24 hours to detail measures it will take to counter the spread after Hamas militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

European Union industry chief Thierry Breton on Thursday (Oct 12) warned TikTok about a surge in disinformation on the video sharing platform and gave it an ultimatum of 24 hours to detail measures it will take to counter the spread after Hamas militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. Breton's warning in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, followed a similar one he sent to X owner Elon Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg earlier this week. "Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," he said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew. #TikTok has a particular obligation to protect children & teenagers from violent content & terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges & potentially life-threatening content.#DSA sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. Letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew⤵️ pic.twitter.com/J1tpVzXaYR — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) October 12, 2023 × Breton told Chew his request was urgent and required a response "within the next 24 hours". Tech mogul Zuckerberg was also asked to respond within 24 hours with the measures his organisation will take to counter the dissemination of disinformation. "I would ask you to be very vigilant to ensure strict compliance with the DSA rules on terms of service, on the requirement of timely, diligent and objective action following notices of illegal content in the EU, and on the need for proportionate and effective mitigation measures," Breton told Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a letter. The #DSA is here to protect free speech against arbitrary decisions, and at the same time protect our citizens & democracies. My requests to #Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg following the terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel — and on tackling disinformation in elections in the EU ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/RnetUriRJX — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) October 11, 2023 × Also read: Israel vs Hamas war | A look at firepower in Israeli arsenal X removes hundreds of Hamas-affiliated accounts X CEO Linda Yaccarino, on Thursday, said that the platform had removed hundreds of Hamas-affiliated accounts and also took action against “tens of thousands of pieces of content”. The move came a day after EU's top tech regulator's warning to X sparked an online duel between him and Musk where the SpaceX founder publicly asked the EU commissioner to "please list the violations you allude to on X", and said the platform's policy was that "everything was open source and transparent, an approach that I know the EU supports". To which Breton responded that it was up to Musk to "demonstrate that you walk the talk" and added that his team was standing by to "enforce rigorously" DSA compliance. (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 warns TikTok to tackle spread of disinformation amid Israel-Hamas conflict

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on Thursday (Oct 12), said that without Iran's solid backing, Palestinian militant group Hamas would not have been able to launch its "unprecedented" attacks on Israel.

"While we have no firm proof that Iran operationally supported this cowardly attack, it is clear to us all that without Iranian support, Hamas would never have been able to launch this unprecedented attack," he said.

"The jubilant statements from the top of the Iranian regime and some other government officials in the region are abhorrent. The leadership in Tehran shows its true colours without shame, and thereby confirms its role in Gaza." 
&nbsp; 
Scholz, during his special address to the German Parliament, said that his government would ban fundraising, activities, and organisations supporting the Hamas militant group in Germany.

He also announced a ban on the Samidoun association, which he said was celebrating the surprise attack by the militant group.

"The federal interior ministry will ban Hamas from operating in Germany. An association like Samidoun, whose members celebrate the most brutal acts of terror on the open street, will be banned in Germany," Scholz said in a speech to parliament.

<h2>Palestinian leader's silence on attacks 'shameful', says Scholz</h2>

Scholz condemned Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas for his silence on the attacks calling it "shameful".

"Where is the clear condemnation of the terrorist violence by the autonomous (Palestinian) Authority and by its president, Mahmoud Abbas?" he said. "Their silence is shameful."

Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Netanyahu, Gantz agree to establish emergency war government

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

The German Chancellor, voicing support for Israel, said that Germany's "only place" right now was at Israel's side.

"For Germany at the moment, the only place is at Israel's side," Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in a speech to parliament. "Our own history, our responsibility stemming from the Holocaust, make it an everlasting duty to stand up for the existence and security of the state of Israel."&nbsp;

<h2>Khamenei denies Tehran's involvement in Hamas assault</h2>

Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday (Oct 10), denied Tehran's involvement in the surprise assault launched by Hamas on Israel over the weekend, but echoed support for the militant group.

In his first televised speech since the attack, the leader said, "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong."

"This destructive earthquake (Hamas' attack) has destroyed some critical structures (in Israel) which will not be repaired easily ... The Zionist regime's own actions are to blame for this disaster," Khamenei said at a military academy.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on Thursday (Oct 12), said that without Iran's solid backing, Palestinian militant group Hamas would not have been able to launch its "unprecedented" attacks on Israel.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on Thursday (Oct 12), said that without Iran's solid backing, Palestinian militant group Hamas would not have been able to launch its "unprecedented" attacks on Israel. "While we have no firm proof that Iran operationally supported this cowardly attack, it is clear to us all that without Iranian support, Hamas would never have been able to launch this unprecedented attack," he said. "The jubilant statements from the top of the Iranian regime and some other government officials in the region are abhorrent. The leadership in Tehran shows its true colours without shame, and thereby confirms its role in Gaza." Scholz, during his special address to the German Parliament, said that his government would ban fundraising, activities, and organisations supporting the Hamas militant group in Germany. He also announced a ban on the Samidoun association, which he said was celebrating the surprise attack by the militant group. "The federal interior ministry will ban Hamas from operating in Germany. An association like Samidoun, whose members celebrate the most brutal acts of terror on the open street, will be banned in Germany," Scholz said in a speech to parliament. Palestinian leader's silence on attacks 'shameful', says Scholz Scholz condemned Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas for his silence on the attacks calling it "shameful". "Where is the clear condemnation of the terrorist violence by the autonomous (Palestinian) Authority and by its president, Mahmoud Abbas?" he said. "Their silence is shameful." Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Netanyahu, Gantz agree to establish emergency war government Also read: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas The German Chancellor, voicing support for Israel, said that Germany's "only place" right now was at Israel's side. "For Germany at the moment, the only place is at Israel's side," Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in a speech to parliament. "Our own history, our responsibility stemming from the Holocaust, make it an everlasting duty to stand up for the existence and security of the state of Israel." Khamenei denies Tehran's involvement in Hamas assault Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday (Oct 10), denied Tehran's involvement in the surprise assault launched by Hamas on Israel over the weekend, but echoed support for the militant group. In his first televised speech since the attack, the leader said, "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime (a reference to USA) have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong." "This destructive earthquake (Hamas' attack) has destroyed some critical structures (in Israel) which will not be repaired easily ... The Zionist regime's own actions are to blame for this disaster," Khamenei said at a military academy. (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.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Hamas attack not possible without Iran's support

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, on Thursday (Oct 12), called for "an immediate end to the comprehensive aggression against the Palestinian people", said his office after a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II.

In his first public response after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on Saturday, Abbas refuted "practices related to killing civilians or abusing them on both sides", as per a statement.&nbsp;

The two leaders met in Amman and discussed "ways to stop the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and deliver aid and relief" to Hamas-controlled Gaza, the statement said.

Abbas said that the targeting of civilians by both Israeli forces and Palestinian militants "contravenes morals, religion and international law".

He stressed Palestinians "renounce violence and adhere to international legitimacy, peaceful popular resistance, and political action as a path to achieving our national goals", as per the statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-bloodied-conflict-of-al-aqsa-mosque-that-stands-in-centre-of-israel-hamas-war-645984">Explained | Bloody story of Al Aqsa Mosque at heart of Israel-Hamas war</a>

Abbas further "warned of the danger of the only power plant in the Gaza Strip stopping working due to running out of fuel" and urged action to secure the supply of electricity and water as well as "opening urgent humanitarian corridors".

The Palestinian president also called "for the release of civilians, prisoners and detainees".

Abbas' comments came after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned him for his silence over the attack, calling it "shameful".

"Where is the clear condemnation of the terrorist violence by the autonomous (Palestinian) Authority and by its president, Mahmoud Abbas?" he said. "Their silence is shameful."

Meanwhile, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women during their attack on the state.

In a televised address Wednesday night, he detailed atrocities that took place during the attack, hours after he announced a war-time Cabinet to oversee the fight.

“We saw boys and girls bound, who were shot in the head. Men and women burned alive. Young women who were raped and slaughtered. Soldiers who were beheaded,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, on Thursday (Oct 12), called for "an immediate end to the comprehensive aggression against the Palestinian people", said his office after a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, on Thursday (Oct 12), called for "an immediate end to the comprehensive aggression against the Palestinian people", said his office after a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II. In his first public response after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on Saturday, Abbas refuted "practices related to killing civilians or abusing them on both sides", as per a statement. The two leaders met in Amman and discussed "ways to stop the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and deliver aid and relief" to Hamas-controlled Gaza, the statement said. Abbas said that the targeting of civilians by both Israeli forces and Palestinian militants "contravenes morals, religion and international law". He stressed Palestinians "renounce violence and adhere to international legitimacy, peaceful popular resistance, and political action as a path to achieving our national goals", as per the statement. Also read: Explained | Bloody story of Al Aqsa Mosque at heart of Israel-Hamas war Abbas further "warned of the danger of the only power plant in the Gaza Strip stopping working due to running out of fuel" and urged action to secure the supply of electricity and water as well as "opening urgent humanitarian corridors". The Palestinian president also called "for the release of civilians, prisoners and detainees". Abbas' comments came after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned him for his silence over the attack, calling it "shameful". "Where is the clear condemnation of the terrorist violence by the autonomous (Palestinian) Authority and by its president, Mahmoud Abbas?" he said. "Their silence is shameful." Meanwhile, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women during their attack on the state. In a televised address Wednesday night, he detailed atrocities that took place during the attack, hours after he announced a war-time Cabinet to oversee the fight. “We saw boys and girls bound, who were shot in the head. Men and women burned alive. Young women who were raped and slaughtered. Soldiers who were beheaded,” he 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.

Mahmud Abbas calls for 'immediate end to aggression' against Palestinians

Air Canada took action against a pilot who wore pro-Palestinian colours while in uniform, The Toronto Sun reported.

The pilot was grounded from a Montreal-based B787 after concerns were raised over his social media posts that contained offensive remarks about Israel.

"The pilot was taken out of service as of yesterday," reported The Toronto Sun quoting Air Canada spokesperson Peter Fitzpatrick.

"We did this because this individual's opinions and publications on social media do not represent Air Canada's views in any way," said Fitzpatrick. "This person has never been authorised to speak publicly while identifying themselves as an Air Canada employee."

The airline condemned the social media post by the pilot following the incident and said that they were probing the matter very seriously.

Taking to its official X account, Air Canada said, "We are aware of the unacceptable posts made by an Air Canada pilot. We are taking this matter very seriously, and he was taken out of service on Mon, Oct. 9. We firmly denounce violence in all forms."&nbsp;

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We are aware of the unacceptable posts made by an Air Canada pilot. We are taking this matter very seriously, and he was taken out of service on Mon, Oct. 9. We firmly denounce violence in all forms.
— Air Canada (@AirCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/AirCanada/status/1711851196409925909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-funds-hamas-how-does-the-organisation-amass-money-and-military-equipment-645976">Explained: Who funds Hamas? How terror group gets money and military equipment</a>

<h2>'Hamas is ISIS', says Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women during their attack on the state.

In a televised address Wednesday night, he detailed atrocities that took place during the attack, hours after he announced a war-time Cabinet to oversee the fight.

"We were attacked on Saturday with such barbarism that has not been seen since the Holocaust. Hundreds of people were slaughtered, entire families were murdered in their beds and homes, women were brutally raped and murdered; More than a hundred were kidnapped, including children" Netanyahu said.

"The scale of this evil has only grown. They forced dozens of children, burned them and executed them. They cut off the heads of soldiers, they murdered the young people who were celebrating at a festival in the wild, they surrounded them with jeeps and shot them into a hole in the ground. We have not seen such barbarism in the entire history of the State of Israel. They are even worse than Daesh (ISIS)- and that's how we should treat them" he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Air Canada took action against a pilot who wore pro-Palestinian colours while in uniform, The Toronto Sun reported. The pilot was grounded from a Montreal-based B787 after concerns were raised over his social media posts that contained offensive remarks about Israel.

Air Canada took action against a pilot who wore pro-Palestinian colours while in uniform, The Toronto Sun reported. The pilot was grounded from a Montreal-based B787 after concerns were raised over his social media posts that contained offensive remarks about Israel. "The pilot was taken out of service as of yesterday," reported The Toronto Sun quoting Air Canada spokesperson Peter Fitzpatrick. "We did this because this individual's opinions and publications on social media do not represent Air Canada's views in any way," said Fitzpatrick. "This person has never been authorised to speak publicly while identifying themselves as an Air Canada employee." The airline condemned the social media post by the pilot following the incident and said that they were probing the matter very seriously. Taking to its official X account, Air Canada said, "We are aware of the unacceptable posts made by an Air Canada pilot. We are taking this matter very seriously, and he was taken out of service on Mon, Oct. 9. We firmly denounce violence in all forms." We are aware of the unacceptable posts made by an Air Canada pilot. We are taking this matter very seriously, and he was taken out of service on Mon, Oct. 9. We firmly denounce violence in all forms. — Air Canada (@AirCanada) October 10, 2023 × Also read: Explained: Who funds Hamas? How terror group gets money and military equipment 'Hamas is ISIS', says Netanyahu Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women during their attack on the state. In a televised address Wednesday night, he detailed atrocities that took place during the attack, hours after he announced a war-time Cabinet to oversee the fight. "We were attacked on Saturday with such barbarism that has not been seen since the Holocaust. Hundreds of people were slaughtered, entire families were murdered in their beds and homes, women were brutally raped and murdered; More than a hundred were kidnapped, including children" Netanyahu said. "The scale of this evil has only grown. They forced dozens of children, burned them and executed them. They cut off the heads of soldiers, they murdered the young people who were celebrating at a festival in the wild, they surrounded them with jeeps and shot them into a hole in the ground. We have not seen such barbarism in the entire history of the State of Israel. They are even worse than Daesh (ISIS)- and that's how we should treat them" he 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.

Air Canada suspends pilot for sharing anti-Israel posts wearing pro-Palestinian colours in uniform

The Japanese government on Thursday (Oct 12)&nbsp;said it would ask a court to strip the legal status of the Unification Church, after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassination last year raised questions over the group's fundraising methods.

Education Minister Masahito Moriyama said that the government would file a request to the Tokyo District Court to revoke the status of the church as soon as Friday, once "preparations are complete".

"In view of the extensive damage caused, we find that it falls under the grounds for ordering dissolution as stated in the religious corporations law," Moriyama told a press briefing.

The church "forced a number of people to contribute donations and buy items."

"It has impinged on people's freedoms for a long time, prevented them from making sound decisions, severely hurt them, disrupted their lives and sabotaged their sound judgement," he said.

In a separate statement, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the government's plan was based on facts and a careful review of the matter.

"Based on the law and in accordance with the objective facts, careful work was done and the Minister of Education made the decision," he told reporters at his office.

The Unification Church said that it was "extremely regrettable that the government made such an important decision based on biased information from a left-wing group of lawyers established with the goal of destroying our corporation."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canadian-speaker-raymonde-gagne-skips-g20-parliamentary-speakers-summit-amid-india-canada-row-645929">Canadian Speaker Raymonde Gagne skips G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit amid India-Canada row&nbsp;</a>

The Unification Church would lose its status as a religious corporation and be deprived of tax benefits if it is dissolved. It could still operate as an entity.&nbsp;

Abe was shot dead in broad daylight in July 2022 while he was delivering a speech in the western Nara region.

Prime Minister Kishida last year ordered an investigation into the church after it appeared that Abe's alleged assassin was inspired by bitterness against the group.

The investigation into the former PM's death revealed links between the church and many conservative ruling lawmakers in Japan.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The Japanese government on Thursday (Oct 12) said it would ask a court to strip the legal status of the Unification Church, after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassination last year raised questions over the group's fundraising methods.

The Japanese government on Thursday (Oct 12) said it would ask a court to strip the legal status of the Unification Church, after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassination last year raised questions over the group's fundraising methods. Education Minister Masahito Moriyama said that the government would file a request to the Tokyo District Court to revoke the status of the church as soon as Friday, once "preparations are complete". "In view of the extensive damage caused, we find that it falls under the grounds for ordering dissolution as stated in the religious corporations law," Moriyama told a press briefing. The church "forced a number of people to contribute donations and buy items." "It has impinged on people's freedoms for a long time, prevented them from making sound decisions, severely hurt them, disrupted their lives and sabotaged their sound judgement," he said. In a separate statement, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the government's plan was based on facts and a careful review of the matter. "Based on the law and in accordance with the objective facts, careful work was done and the Minister of Education made the decision," he told reporters at his office. The Unification Church said that it was "extremely regrettable that the government made such an important decision based on biased information from a left-wing group of lawyers established with the goal of destroying our corporation." Also read: Canadian Speaker Raymonde Gagne skips G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit amid India-Canada row The Unification Church would lose its status as a religious corporation and be deprived of tax benefits if it is dissolved. It could still operate as an entity. Abe was shot dead in broad daylight in July 2022 while he was delivering a speech in the western Nara region. Prime Minister Kishida last year ordered an investigation into the church after it appeared that Abe's alleged assassin was inspired by bitterness against the group. The investigation into the former PM's death revealed links between the church and many conservative ruling lawmakers in Japan. (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.

Japan govt to ask court to revoke legal status of Unification Church linked to Abe assassination

Forbes List 2023: These are India's  Richest

Chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, Mukesh Ambani is at the top spot in the ranking with a net worth of $92 billion.

2) Gautam Adani, founder and chairman of the Adani Group:


Adani slipped to the second position this year with a net worth of $68 billion.


3) Shiv Nadar, founder and chairman of HCL Technologies:


The software mogul this year climbed up two positions and grabbed the third spot with a net worth of $29.3 billion.

4) Savitri Jindal, Chairperson Emeritus of O  Jindal Group:


Jindal is at number four with net worth of $24 billion.

5) Radhakishan Damani, owner of DMart chain of supermarkets:  


Damani is at the fifth spot with a net worth of $23 billion.

6) Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India:


Poonawalla is at the sixth position with a net worth of $20.7 billion.

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Zee News Rajasthan

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