<p>A US warship patrolling the Red Sea intercepted multiple drones&nbsp;launched from Yemen's Houthi-controlled areas on Thursday (Nov 23), the US Central Command stated.<br />
<br />
"On the morning (Yemen time) of November 23, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) shot down multiple one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen," stated CENTCOM, on social media platform X. "The ship and crew sustained no damage or injury," it added.<br />
<br />
The Houthis have stated that they are part of an "axis of resistance" of the allies and proxies of Iran retaliating against Israel's war with Hamas.<br />
<br />
The Israel-Hamas war has increased the spectre of a broader Middle East conflagration, as the frontier between Israel and Lebanon also witnessing near-daily exchanges of fire.<br />
<br />
A series of drones and missiles have been launched by the Houthis in Yemen towards Israel since the Israel-Hamas war started on October 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-in-israel-inadvertent-confirmation-of-its-nuclear-arsenal-661763">Hamas-Israel war: In Israel, inadvertent confirmation of its nuclear arsenal</a></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Israel stated that it had intercepted a "cruise missile" which was going towards the country's south, a shot which was claimed by the Huthi rebels.<br />
<br />
"Our forces launched missiles at various military targets" in southern Israel, stated Yahia Saree, spokesman for the armed wing of the Huthis, on X.<br />
<br />
"We will continue to carry out military operations until the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank stops," he further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Houthis threaten to target Israeli shipping</strong></h2>

<p>The Houthis have further threatened that they will be targeting Israeli shipping and on Sunday stated that the Galaxy Leader, which is an Israel-linked cargo vessel and its 25 international crew, was seized at the Red Sea's entrance.<br />
<br />
Israel's military stated that the seizure was a "very grave incident of global consequence", and a US military official said it was "a flagrant violation of international law".<br />
<br />
Israel and Hamas on Wednesday (Nov 22) stated that they have agreed on a four-day ceasefire during which a prisoner and hostage swap will be carried out.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel claims it captured Hamas base in Northern Gaza | IDF: No pause in fighting</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-claims-it-captured-hamas-base-in-northern-gaza-idf-no-pause-in-fighting-wion-speed-news-661919/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Nearly 240 hostages were taken by Hamas and other Palestinian gunmen after they stormed into Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 civilians were also killed, according to Israeli authorities.<br />
<br />
The attack followed an Israeli offensive into Hamas-run Gaza in which till now more than 14,000 people have been killed, thousands of them being children.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US warship patrolling the Red Sea intercepted multiple drones launched from Yemen's Houthi-controlled areas on Thursday (Nov 23), the US Central Command stated.

A US warship patrolling the Red Sea intercepted multiple drones launched from Yemen's Houthi-controlled areas on Thursday (Nov 23), the US Central Command stated. "On the morning (Yemen time) of November 23, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) shot down multiple one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen," stated CENTCOM, on social media platform X. "The ship and crew sustained no damage or injury," it added. The Houthis have stated that they are part of an "axis of resistance" of the allies and proxies of Iran retaliating against Israel's war with Hamas. The Israel-Hamas war has increased the spectre of a broader Middle East conflagration, as the frontier between Israel and Lebanon also witnessing near-daily exchanges of fire. A series of drones and missiles have been launched by the Houthis in Yemen towards Israel since the Israel-Hamas war started on October 7. Also read: Hamas-Israel war: In Israel, inadvertent confirmation of its nuclear arsenal On Wednesday, Israel stated that it had intercepted a "cruise missile" which was going towards the country's south, a shot which was claimed by the Huthi rebels. "Our forces launched missiles at various military targets" in southern Israel, stated Yahia Saree, spokesman for the armed wing of the Huthis, on X. "We will continue to carry out military operations until the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank stops," he further said. Houthis threaten to target Israeli shipping The Houthis have further threatened that they will be targeting Israeli shipping and on Sunday stated that the Galaxy Leader, which is an Israel-linked cargo vessel and its 25 international crew, was seized at the Red Sea's entrance. Israel's military stated that the seizure was a "very grave incident of global consequence", and a US military official said it was "a flagrant violation of international law". Israel and Hamas on Wednesday (Nov 22) stated that they have agreed on a four-day ceasefire during which a prisoner and hostage swap will be carried out. Watch: Israel claims it captured Hamas base in Northern Gaza | IDF: No pause in fighting Nearly 240 hostages were taken by Hamas and other Palestinian gunmen after they stormed into Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 civilians were also killed, according to Israeli authorities. The attack followed an Israeli offensive into Hamas-run Gaza in which till now more than 14,000 people have been killed, thousands of them being children. (With inputs from agencies)

US warship intercepts and shoots down multiple drones launched from Yemen

<p>Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation&nbsp;banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill".</p>

<p>"I was shocked as the decision came suddenly," said Manandhar, who earns about $1,500 a month by making content for restaurants, hotels and brands, and posting them on the&nbsp;app.</p>

<p>"Business has halved since the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;and the income from other social platforms like Instagram and YouTube is not enough to support this loss," she said. The 26-year-old splits her income with a videographer and a manager, who oversees communication with clients.</p>

<p>Nepal's&nbsp;centre-left coalition&nbsp;government&nbsp;is the latest to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;the&nbsp;app. TikTok is owned by China-based ByteDance, and several countries have raised concerns over its proximity to the Chinese&nbsp;government&nbsp;and hold over user data across the world.</p>

<p>Neighbour India&nbsp;banned TikTok along with dozens of other&nbsp;apps by Chinese developers in June 2020, saying that they could compromise national security and integrity.</p>

<p>Many Nepalis, however, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;has cut off a source of income and shut down a forum for free speech.</p>

<p>Dozens of people held&nbsp;protests&nbsp;in Kathmandu demanding the&nbsp;government&nbsp;revoke the&nbsp;ban, while others filed petitions against it at the Supreme&nbsp;Court. The&nbsp;court&nbsp;has asked the&nbsp;government&nbsp;to provide, in writing, its reasons for the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;before a Dec. 5 hearing.</p>

<p>Rajib Subba, an expert on cyber security, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;had affected many people for whom the&nbsp;app&nbsp;was "a social medium of livelihood, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship and advocacy". There are about 2.2 million TikTok users in Nepal, said Sudhir Parajuli, president of the Internet Service Providers' Association of Nepal (ISPAN).</p>

<p>In a letter to&nbsp;Nepal's&nbsp;telecom regulator, TikTok said it routinely addresses "content and behaviour" that violate its community guidelines. It did not provide any details.</p>

<p>More than 1,600 cyber crime cases, most of them related to TikTok, have been registered over the last four years in Nepal, according to local media reports.</p>

<p>Nepali housewife Sushila Pokharel, a regular user of the platform who posts videos of her dancing and singing, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;deprives people of a source of recreation.</p>

<p>"Stop anything bad in it, but it is wrong to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;the&nbsp;app&nbsp;completely," she said.</p>


Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill".

Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill". "I was shocked as the decision came suddenly," said Manandhar, who earns about $1,500 a month by making content for restaurants, hotels and brands, and posting them on the app. "Business has halved since the ban and the income from other social platforms like Instagram and YouTube is not enough to support this loss," she said. The 26-year-old splits her income with a videographer and a manager, who oversees communication with clients. Nepal's centre-left coalition government is the latest to ban the app. TikTok is owned by China-based ByteDance, and several countries have raised concerns over its proximity to the Chinese government and hold over user data across the world. Neighbour India banned TikTok along with dozens of other apps by Chinese developers in June 2020, saying that they could compromise national security and integrity. Many Nepalis, however, said the ban has cut off a source of income and shut down a forum for free speech. Dozens of people held protests in Kathmandu demanding the government revoke the ban, while others filed petitions against it at the Supreme Court. The court has asked the government to provide, in writing, its reasons for the ban before a Dec. 5 hearing. Rajib Subba, an expert on cyber security, said the ban had affected many people for whom the app was "a social medium of livelihood, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship and advocacy". There are about 2.2 million TikTok users in Nepal, said Sudhir Parajuli, president of the Internet Service Providers' Association of Nepal (ISPAN). In a letter to Nepal's telecom regulator, TikTok said it routinely addresses "content and behaviour" that violate its community guidelines. It did not provide any details. More than 1,600 cyber crime cases, most of them related to TikTok, have been registered over the last four years in Nepal, according to local media reports. Nepali housewife Sushila Pokharel, a regular user of the platform who posts videos of her dancing and singing, said the ban deprives people of a source of recreation. "Stop anything bad in it, but it is wrong to ban the app completely," she said.

Protests, court appeals as Nepal's TikTokers decry government ban on app

<p>British Foreign Secretary David&nbsp;Cameron&nbsp;is due to visit the Middle East on Thursday and meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, Britain's Foreign Office said in a statement.</p>

<p>Former prime minister&nbsp;Cameron, who was appointed to the foreign policy brief last week, met with counterparts from Arab and Islamic countries in London on Wednesday to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict.</p>

<p>He has welcomed the agreement between the Israeli government and Hamas to a four-day pause in fighting, calling it a "crucial step" and urging the parties to deliver the deal in full.</p>

<p>Both British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and&nbsp;Cameron's predecessor James Cleverly have visited Israel since the conflict began last month.</p>


British Foreign Secretary David Cameron is due to visit the Middle East on Thursday and meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, Britain's Foreign Office said in a statement.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron is due to visit the Middle East on Thursday and meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, Britain's Foreign Office said in a statement. Former prime minister Cameron, who was appointed to the foreign policy brief last week, met with counterparts from Arab and Islamic countries in London on Wednesday to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict. He has welcomed the agreement between the Israeli government and Hamas to a four-day pause in fighting, calling it a "crucial step" and urging the parties to deliver the deal in full. Both British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Cameron's predecessor James Cleverly have visited Israel since the conflict began last month.

UK Foreign Secretary Cameron to visit Middle East, meet Israeli and Palestinian leaders

<p>X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform.<br />
<br />
“Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension,” wrote the billionaire.</p>

<p>“Anyone calling for a genocide of any people will be suspended,” he said, while replying to a user who said, “So many influential accounts here support Hamas’ massacre. Will you suspend them?”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As I said earlier this week, “decolonization”, “from the river to the sea” and similar euphemisms necessarily imply genocide.<br />
<br />
Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension. <a href="https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb">https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb</a></p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1725645884409401435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 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>

<p>In his post shared on Friday (Nov 17), Musk re-shared a post which was uploaded two days ago and stated, “Yes, ‘decolonisation’ necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes, “decolonization” necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1724936047489167852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 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>

<p>This post was shared in response to a user who stated that “‘decolonisation’ is the woke version of jihad, and it should be viewed and treated that way.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At risk of stating the obvious, anyone advocating the genocide of *any* group will be suspended from this platform</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1725656810449772662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 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>

<p>The posts were shared two days after Musk was slammed for endorsement of an antisemitic post on X in which Jewish people were accused of spreading hatred against white people.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-condemns-elon-musk-for-abhorrent-promotion-of-anti-semitism-659879">White House condemns Elon Musk for 'abhorrent promotion' of antisemitism</a></p>

<p>“You have said the actual truth,” stated Musk, while posting from his personal account on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk argues over the 'actual truth'</strong></h2>

<p>The comment was made by Musk when a user shared a video which was part of a campaign against antisemitism, in which a father was seen reprimanding his son for his antisemitic remarks on the internet.<br />
<br />
“Jewish communities [sic] have been pushing the exact kind of dialectical hatred against whites that they claim to want people to stop using against them,” said another user, while responding to the post.<br />
<br />
“I’m deeply disinterested in giving the tiniest shit now about western Jewish populations coming to the disturbing realisation that those hordes of minorities that support flooding their country don’t exactly like them too much,” the user added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk faces backlash for endorsing antisemitic conspiracy</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-faces-backlash-for-endorsing-antisemitic-conspiracy-659947/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Responding to the whole conversation, Musk said that it was “the actual truth”.<br />
<br />
In the follow-up posts, the owner of X wrote that he doesn’t believe that “all Jewish communities” hate white people, however, added that the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) “unjustly attacks the majority of the West, despite the majority of the West supporting the Jewish people and Israel. This is because they cannot, by their own tenets, criticize the minority groups who are their primary threat.”<br />
<br />
“I am deeply offended by ADL’s messaging and any other groups who push de facto anti-white racism or anti-Asian racism or racism of any kind. I’m sick of it. Stop now,” he stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform.

X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform. “Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension,” wrote the billionaire. “Anyone calling for a genocide of any people will be suspended,” he said, while replying to a user who said, “So many influential accounts here support Hamas’ massacre. Will you suspend them?” As I said earlier this week, “decolonization”, “from the river to the sea” and similar euphemisms necessarily imply genocide. Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension. https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 17, 2023 × In his post shared on Friday (Nov 17), Musk re-shared a post which was uploaded two days ago and stated, “Yes, ‘decolonisation’ necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person.” Yes, “decolonization” necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 15, 2023 × This post was shared in response to a user who stated that “‘decolonisation’ is the woke version of jihad, and it should be viewed and treated that way.” At risk of stating the obvious, anyone advocating the genocide of *any* group will be suspended from this platform — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 17, 2023 × The posts were shared two days after Musk was slammed for endorsement of an antisemitic post on X in which Jewish people were accused of spreading hatred against white people. Also read: White House condemns Elon Musk for 'abhorrent promotion' of antisemitism “You have said the actual truth,” stated Musk, while posting from his personal account on X. Musk argues over the 'actual truth' The comment was made by Musk when a user shared a video which was part of a campaign against antisemitism, in which a father was seen reprimanding his son for his antisemitic remarks on the internet. “Jewish communities [sic] have been pushing the exact kind of dialectical hatred against whites that they claim to want people to stop using against them,” said another user, while responding to the post. “I’m deeply disinterested in giving the tiniest shit now about western Jewish populations coming to the disturbing realisation that those hordes of minorities that support flooding their country don’t exactly like them too much,” the user added. Watch: Elon Musk faces backlash for endorsing antisemitic conspiracy Responding to the whole conversation, Musk said that it was “the actual truth”. In the follow-up posts, the owner of X wrote that he doesn’t believe that “all Jewish communities” hate white people, however, added that the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) “unjustly attacks the majority of the West, despite the majority of the West supporting the Jewish people and Israel. This is because they cannot, by their own tenets, criticize the minority groups who are their primary threat.” “I am deeply offended by ADL’s messaging and any other groups who push de facto anti-white racism or anti-Asian racism or racism of any kind. I’m sick of it. Stop now,” he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

X users making genocide calls, even through euphemisms, will be suspended, warns Musk

5 Dry Fruits Which Help In Controlling High Uric Acid Levels  

Almonds are rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps in maintaining healthy uric acid levels.

Dates are not only a good natural sweetener but also a rich source of fibre. Their potassium content is likely to help in regulating the body’s uric acid levels.

Cashews are a rich source of important nutrients like vitamin K and C. Since, they are moderately low in purines, they become part of a well-balanced diet for those who are managing uric acid levels.

Walnuts are filled with omega-3 fatty acids which carry anti-inflammatory properties. Eating walnuts also helps in reducing inflammation which is related to high uric acid levels.

Pistachios are a good blend of healthy fats and fibre. Their lower purine content helps in balancing uric acid levels.


5 Dry Fruits Which Help In Controlling High Uric Acid Levels

5 Never-Hear Pizza Toppings Offered in Asia  

The snake pizza is a modern makeover of the traditional snake soup dish which was popular in Southern China, Hong Kong and across other parts of Southeast Asia like Thailand and Vietnam.  

This unusual creation included traditional Changsha stinky tofu, fermented to a deep black hue, and served with creamy yellow durian. Garlic and chilli are sprinkled as garnishing on this out-of-the-world pizza.  

3. Coriander, Intestine, Oyster and Vermicelli Pizza

Oyster vermicelli and pork intestines have been a traditional Taiwanese street food dish and are famous for their thick, soupy texture. A limited-edition pizza with toppings of local oysters, braised pork intestine, vermicelli and plenty of coriander was launched by Pizza Hut in Taiwan in May 2023.  

In 2022, rice pizzas were offered in Japan which swapped the traditional dough base for rice which was grilled till it formed a crisp crust.  

This limited-edition army stew pizza took inspiration from the classic Korean dish which had classic army stew ingredients like cheese, rice cakes, kimchi luncheon meat, and even instant noodles.  

5 Never-Hear Pizza Toppings Offered in Asia

<p>The war between Israel and Hamas since the sudden cross-border attack launched by the terrorists on October 7 has led to a large civilian death toll.<br />
<br />
The war and the humanitarian losses come under a complex international system of justice which has emerged since World War II. The system is mainly aimed at protecting civilians.<br />
<br />
Even if the states claim that they are taking steps in self-defence, international rules related to armed conflict remain applicable to all participating nations in a war.</p>

<h2><strong>What laws apply to armed conflict?</strong></h2>

<p>In the 1949 Geneva Conventions, the internationally accepted laws of armed conflict were laid down which were ratified by all member states of the United Nations and supplemented by rulings delivered by international war crimes&nbsp;tribunals.<br />
<br />
Treaties govern the treatment of soldiers, civilians and prisoners of war in a system which is known as the "Law of Armed Conflict" or "International Humanitarian Law". It is applicable to the government forces as well as organised, non-state armed groups, including Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a></p>

<h2><strong>Can a hospital be made a military target in a war?</strong></h2>

<p>The medical facilities in Gaza, especially the Al Shifa Hospital, have been a centre of the Israel-Hamas war. Isareli intelligence and IDF have accused Hamas of using medical facilities as covers to evade attacks as well as air strikes and establishing command and control centres beneath them, a charge Hamas denies.<br />
<br />
Canadian lawyer Carolyn Edgerton, who had dealt with several cases at the International Criminal Tribunal, stated that although they did not look into the hospital attacks specifically, the jurisprudence emphasised the need to balance the principles of humanity and military necessity.<br />
<br />
"Attacking hospitals and other medical units is prohibited under the first Geneva Convention, and that protection extends to the wounded and the sick, the staff of those establishments and ambulances. And that protection doesn't end unless those establishments are used by a party to the conflict to commit an act ... harmful to the enemy," she stated, reported Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>What kind of acts can violate war crimes law?</strong></h2>

<p>The deliberate targeting of civilians and taking of civilians as hostages by Hamas terrorists, indiscriminate firing of rockets and counter-strikes in Gaza have been cited by Human Rights Watch as possible war crimes.<br />
<br />
Under the Geneva Conventions, torture, murder and hostage-taking have been explicitly banned, while the response of Israel can also be investigated for war crimes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Blinken asks Israel for urgent action against settler violence in West Bank&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-blinken-asks-israel-for-urgent-action-against-settler-violence-in-west-bank-world-news-wion-659555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>What does the Geneva Conventions advocate?</strong></h2>

<p>The overarching goal of the Geneva Conventions is to protect civilians in wartime. Under the armed conflict's laws, combatants include military and volunteer forces, non-state armed groups and members of state armed forces.<br />
<br />
It is forbidden to directly target civilians or civilian objects. It is considered a separate war crime to intentionally attack material and personnel involved in humanitarian assistance as long as those carrying the humanitarian aid are civilians.<br />
<br />
A siege can also be seen as a war crime if the civilians are targeted. International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan stated that the Israeli army needs to show that "any attack that impacts innocent civilians or protected objects" such as schools, churches, hospitals or mosques must be carried out in accordance with the armed conflict's laws, reported Reuters.<br />
<br />
As per these laws, civilian objects can be considered legitimate military targets if they are effectively contributing to military action. "The burden of proving that the protective status is lost rests with those who fire the gun, the missile or the rocket in question," Khan stated.<br />
<br />
According to the laws, if a legitimate military target is attacked by a combatant, a proportional assault must be carried out and it must be ensured that there is no excessive loss of civilian life or that civilian objects do not suffer much damage.<br />
<br />
The Geneva Conventions as well as international tribunals' subsequent rulings have explained that proportionality is not a numbers game where one can compare one side's death toll with the other side, rather the death casualties need to be proportionate to the direct military advantage which is likely to be the outcome of that specific attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a></p>

<h2><strong>Which global institutions try war crimes?</strong></h2>

<p>The local jurisdictions are the first in line to try alleged war crimes. In the case of the Israel-Hamas war, it is the case courts in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.<br />
<br />
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague is the only legal organisation on the global level to bring charges.<br />
<br />
The ICC's founding Rome Statute has given it the legal authority to carry out an investigation of alleged crimes which take place on the territory of its member states or are carried out by their nationals if the domestic authorities are "unwilling or unable" to try.</p>

<h2><strong>What international law speaks about human shields?</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas has been blamed by Israel for civilian deaths in Gaza as Tel Aviv claims it is using Palestinians as human shields in Gaza and hiding arms and command centres in the residential areas and hospitals.<br />
<br />
International humanitarian law has forbidden the use of human shields in war and such cases are seen as a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions.<br />
<br />
The human shields' alleged presence does not mean automatically that the warring nation cannot consider the site as a legitimate military target.<br />
<br />
However, any attack which is launched on such a site needs to be weighed&nbsp;against the principle of proportionality, and the number of civilian casualties needs to be compared to the estimated military advantage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The war between Israel and Hamas since the sudden cross-border attack launched by the terrorists on October 7 has led to a large civilian death toll. The war and the humanitarian losses come under a complex international system of justice which has emerged since World War II.

The war between Israel and Hamas since the sudden cross-border attack launched by the terrorists on October 7 has led to a large civilian death toll. The war and the humanitarian losses come under a complex international system of justice which has emerged since World War II. The system is mainly aimed at protecting civilians. Even if the states claim that they are taking steps in self-defence, international rules related to armed conflict remain applicable to all participating nations in a war. What laws apply to armed conflict? In the 1949 Geneva Conventions, the internationally accepted laws of armed conflict were laid down which were ratified by all member states of the United Nations and supplemented by rulings delivered by international war crimes tribunals. Treaties govern the treatment of soldiers, civilians and prisoners of war in a system which is known as the "Law of Armed Conflict" or "International Humanitarian Law". It is applicable to the government forces as well as organised, non-state armed groups, including Hamas. Also read: Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas Can a hospital be made a military target in a war? The medical facilities in Gaza, especially the Al Shifa Hospital, have been a centre of the Israel-Hamas war. Isareli intelligence and IDF have accused Hamas of using medical facilities as covers to evade attacks as well as air strikes and establishing command and control centres beneath them, a charge Hamas denies. Canadian lawyer Carolyn Edgerton, who had dealt with several cases at the International Criminal Tribunal, stated that although they did not look into the hospital attacks specifically, the jurisprudence emphasised the need to balance the principles of humanity and military necessity. "Attacking hospitals and other medical units is prohibited under the first Geneva Convention, and that protection extends to the wounded and the sick, the staff of those establishments and ambulances. And that protection doesn't end unless those establishments are used by a party to the conflict to commit an act ... harmful to the enemy," she stated, reported Reuters. What kind of acts can violate war crimes law? The deliberate targeting of civilians and taking of civilians as hostages by Hamas terrorists, indiscriminate firing of rockets and counter-strikes in Gaza have been cited by Human Rights Watch as possible war crimes. Under the Geneva Conventions, torture, murder and hostage-taking have been explicitly banned, while the response of Israel can also be investigated for war crimes. Watch: US: Blinken asks Israel for urgent action against settler violence in West Bank What does the Geneva Conventions advocate? The overarching goal of the Geneva Conventions is to protect civilians in wartime. Under the armed conflict's laws, combatants include military and volunteer forces, non-state armed groups and members of state armed forces. It is forbidden to directly target civilians or civilian objects. It is considered a separate war crime to intentionally attack material and personnel involved in humanitarian assistance as long as those carrying the humanitarian aid are civilians. A siege can also be seen as a war crime if the civilians are targeted. International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan stated that the Israeli army needs to show that "any attack that impacts innocent civilians or protected objects" such as schools, churches, hospitals or mosques must be carried out in accordance with the armed conflict's laws, reported Reuters. As per these laws, civilian objects can be considered legitimate military targets if they are effectively contributing to military action. "The burden of proving that the protective status is lost rests with those who fire the gun, the missile or the rocket in question," Khan stated. According to the laws, if a legitimate military target is attacked by a combatant, a proportional assault must be carried out and it must be ensured that there is no excessive loss of civilian life or that civilian objects do not suffer much damage. The Geneva Conventions as well as international tribunals' subsequent rulings have explained that proportionality is not a numbers game where one can compare one side's death toll with the other side, rather the death casualties need to be proportionate to the direct military advantage which is likely to be the outcome of that specific attack. Also read: Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents Which global institutions try war crimes? The local jurisdictions are the first in line to try alleged war crimes. In the case of the Israel-Hamas war, it is the case courts in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague is the only legal organisation on the global level to bring charges. The ICC's founding Rome Statute has given it the legal authority to carry out an investigation of alleged crimes which take place on the territory of its member states or are carried out by their nationals if the domestic authorities are "unwilling or unable" to try. What international law speaks about human shields? Hamas has been blamed by Israel for civilian deaths in Gaza as Tel Aviv claims it is using Palestinians as human shields in Gaza and hiding arms and command centres in the residential areas and hospitals. International humanitarian law has forbidden the use of human shields in war and such cases are seen as a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions. The human shields' alleged presence does not mean automatically that the warring nation cannot consider the site as a legitimate military target. However, any attack which is launched on such a site needs to be weighed against the principle of proportionality, and the number of civilian casualties needs to be compared to the estimated military advantage. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | What kind of war crime laws apply to the Israel-Hamas conflict?

<p>An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away,&nbsp;orbiting around a small red dwarf star.</p>

<p>Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System.<br />
<br />
The exoplanet has been named LTT 1445 Ac and it is some 1.37 times the mass and around 1.07 times the Earth's radius.</p>

<p>The planet is too hot for the existence of life, however its similarity with our Earth makes it a good option to understand how planets evolve, and what factors make an Earth-like world different from another such planet.<br />
<br />
The scientists used data collected by the TESS exoplanet-hunting telescope in 2021 to first identify LTT 1445 Ac.</p>

<p>But they faced some difficulties in observing it, which meant the astronomers could not be certain of its properties.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/giant-devil-comet-continues-hurtling-towards-earth-after-experiencing-4th-explosion-in-space-659566">Devil Comet with horns, hurtling towards Earth, has exploded a fourth time</a></p>

<p>The exoplanet exists in a different system. The star this planet orbits is one of the three stars, which is gravitationally bound in a trinary system. The scientists observe the changes in the light of the host star to find and study exoplanets, however, in systems of stars, the stellar companions also leave an effect on the other stars' light.</p>

<h2><strong>How do scientists understand the properties of an exoplanet?</strong></h2>

<p>Two types of measurement are needed to understand an exoplanet's properties. The first is transit data which is the tiny dips in starlight which occur after an orbiting exoplanet passes between the star and the Earth.<br />
<br />
The second measurement is radial velocity data which measures the amount of gravity tugs of an exoplanet on the star by recording changes in the starlight's wavelength as it very minutely wobbles on the spot.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-space-agency-released-first-images-taken-by-euclids-telescope-656604/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The transit data informs the scientist of an exoplanet's radius which can be calculated from the amount the light of the star which dims during a transit. The radial velocity data informs the scientists about the mass of the exoplanet.<br />
<br />
The mass and radius combined together tell us the exoplanet's density and using that the scientists understand what the exoplanet is made of.<br />
<br />
If the planet is found to have low density it implies it has lost of atmosphere and is like a gas giant. A higher density means it has a rocky composition, like Earth, Venus, Mars, or Mercury.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away, orbiting around a small red dwarf star. Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System.

An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away, orbiting around a small red dwarf star. Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System. The exoplanet has been named LTT 1445 Ac and it is some 1.37 times the mass and around 1.07 times the Earth's radius. The planet is too hot for the existence of life, however its similarity with our Earth makes it a good option to understand how planets evolve, and what factors make an Earth-like world different from another such planet. The scientists used data collected by the TESS exoplanet-hunting telescope in 2021 to first identify LTT 1445 Ac. But they faced some difficulties in observing it, which meant the astronomers could not be certain of its properties. Also read: Devil Comet with horns, hurtling towards Earth, has exploded a fourth time The exoplanet exists in a different system. The star this planet orbits is one of the three stars, which is gravitationally bound in a trinary system. The scientists observe the changes in the light of the host star to find and study exoplanets, however, in systems of stars, the stellar companions also leave an effect on the other stars' light. How do scientists understand the properties of an exoplanet? Two types of measurement are needed to understand an exoplanet's properties. The first is transit data which is the tiny dips in starlight which occur after an orbiting exoplanet passes between the star and the Earth. The second measurement is radial velocity data which measures the amount of gravity tugs of an exoplanet on the star by recording changes in the starlight's wavelength as it very minutely wobbles on the spot. Watch: European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope The transit data informs the scientist of an exoplanet's radius which can be calculated from the amount the light of the star which dims during a transit. The radial velocity data informs the scientists about the mass of the exoplanet. The mass and radius combined together tell us the exoplanet's density and using that the scientists understand what the exoplanet is made of. If the planet is found to have low density it implies it has lost of atmosphere and is like a gas giant. A higher density means it has a rocky composition, like Earth, Venus, Mars, or Mercury. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover closest known Earth-sized world only 22 light-years away

Israeli Defense Forces began their ground operation in the Gaza Strip they asked the residents to flee southwards for safety but now Israel's offensive has extended to the south of Gaza. Israel says Hamas exists in the South and the troops will hit Hamas targets wherever they find them.

Israel-Hamas war | IDF: Israel will hit Hamas all over Gaza, including South

<p>With oxygen – the elixir of life - being omnipresent on Earth, it is impossible to imagine our world and life without it.<br />
<br />
The life-sustaining gas in today's time constitutes nearly 21 per cent of the atmosphere of Earth and plays an important role in the survival of many species. However, the oxygen was not always present on Earth from the beginning.<br />
<br />
When the planet came into existence nearly 4.5 billion years ago, the conditions on Earth were extremely different. Water vapour, methane and carbon dioxide were dominant in the atmosphere of the Earth.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-closest-known-earth-sized-world-only-22-light-years-away-659867">Scientists discover closest known Earth-sized world only 22 light-years away</a></p>

<p>And now scientists have predicted that the atmosphere of Earth in future will go back to the one that is low in oxygen.<br />
<br />
A study, which was published in Nature, described the scenario when it will take place. However, such a scenario is likely to occur billion years away, however, when the change occurs, it will occur fairly rapidly.</p>

<h2><strong>Earth to go back to its birth state</strong></h2>

<p>The study stated that the shift will take back Earth to the kind of state it was in before which was called as the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) nearly 2.4 billion years ago, stated the study.<br />
<br />
The research has been in discussion as scientists are trying to find habitable planets outside the Solar System. It stated that atmospheric oxygen is not likely to be a permanent feature of all habitable worlds.<br />
<br />
"The drop in oxygen is very, very extreme. We're talking around a million times less oxygen than there is today," stated Chris Reinhard, from the Georgia Institute of Technology, while speaking to New Scientist.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within earth</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/remains-of-an-ancient-planet-lie-deep-within-earth-654586/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Scientists, who gave predictions regarding the doomsday scenario, stated, "The model projects that a deoxygenation of the atmosphere, with atmospheric O2 dropping sharply to levels reminiscent of the Archaean Earth, will most probably be triggered before the inception of moist greenhouse conditions in Earth's climate system and before the extensive loss of surface water from the atmosphere."<br />
<br />
Detailed models of the atmosphere of the Earth were created by the researchers and changes in the Sun's brightness and the corresponding drop in the levels of carbon dioxide was analysed.<br />
<br />
Less carbon dioxide means there are fewer photosynthesising organisms such as plants, which eventually results in less oxygen.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


With oxygen – the elixir of life - being omnipresent on Earth, it is impossible to imagine our world and life without it. The life-sustaining gas in today's time constitutes nearly 21 per cent of the atmosphere of Earth and plays an important role in the survival of many species.

With oxygen – the elixir of life - being omnipresent on Earth, it is impossible to imagine our world and life without it. The life-sustaining gas in today's time constitutes nearly 21 per cent of the atmosphere of Earth and plays an important role in the survival of many species. However, the oxygen was not always present on Earth from the beginning. When the planet came into existence nearly 4.5 billion years ago, the conditions on Earth were extremely different. Water vapour, methane and carbon dioxide were dominant in the atmosphere of the Earth. Also read: Scientists discover closest known Earth-sized world only 22 light-years away And now scientists have predicted that the atmosphere of Earth in future will go back to the one that is low in oxygen. A study, which was published in Nature, described the scenario when it will take place. However, such a scenario is likely to occur billion years away, however, when the change occurs, it will occur fairly rapidly. Earth to go back to its birth state The study stated that the shift will take back Earth to the kind of state it was in before which was called as the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) nearly 2.4 billion years ago, stated the study. The research has been in discussion as scientists are trying to find habitable planets outside the Solar System. It stated that atmospheric oxygen is not likely to be a permanent feature of all habitable worlds. "The drop in oxygen is very, very extreme. We're talking around a million times less oxygen than there is today," stated Chris Reinhard, from the Georgia Institute of Technology, while speaking to New Scientist. Watch: Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within earth Scientists, who gave predictions regarding the doomsday scenario, stated, "The model projects that a deoxygenation of the atmosphere, with atmospheric O2 dropping sharply to levels reminiscent of the Archaean Earth, will most probably be triggered before the inception of moist greenhouse conditions in Earth's climate system and before the extensive loss of surface water from the atmosphere." Detailed models of the atmosphere of the Earth were created by the researchers and changes in the Sun's brightness and the corresponding drop in the levels of carbon dioxide was analysed. Less carbon dioxide means there are fewer photosynthesising organisms such as plants, which eventually results in less oxygen. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth without oxygen? This is when our planet will lose an oxygen-rich atmosphere

<p>In a bizarre and challenging step, the residents of mainland China were offered stinky tofu as a topping option on their pizza by Pizza Hut for just one week in July 2023.<br />
<br />
The unusual creation included traditional Changsha stinky tofu which was fermented to a deep black hue and served with creamy yellow durian. Garlic and chilli were sprinkled as garnishing on this out-of-the-world pizza.<br />
<br />
A lot of customers who were attracted by the weird combination stated that it “sounds outrageous but tastes great” on the Chinese social media.<br />
<br />
This is not the first time such a bizarre pizza has been offered by pizza outlets to its customers. Recently, snake pizza made headlines for being the most unusual fusion food.<br />
<br />
Pizza Hut had joined hands with Central Hong Kong's snake restaurant “Ser Wong Fun” to create this unusual recipe, which was said to date back more than a century.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fusion-food-gone-too-far-hong-kong-introduces-snake-meat-pizza-656817">Fusion food gone too far? Hong Kong introduces snake meat pizza</a></p>

<p>The snake pizza was a modern makeover of a traditional snake soup dish which was popular in Southern China, Hong Kong and across other parts of Southeast Asia like Thailand and Vietnam.<br />
<br />
Taiwanese show host and YouTuber, Chen Tzu-chien, also known as Retina, has been touring and taste-testing such weird pizza creations.<br />
<br />
In one video, he can be heard reading out a letter sent by the pizza conglomerate. “Pizza Hut dares to challenge the limits of pizza. It will definitely bring you a surprise in both taste and looks,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Weird pizza toppings around the world</strong></h2>

<p>Oyster vermicelli and pork intestines have been a traditional Taiwanese street food dish and are famous for their thick, soupy texture. A limited-edition pizza with toppings of local oysters, braised pork intestine, vermicelli and plenty of coriander was launched by Pizza Hut in Taiwan in May 2023.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Snakes on a plate: World's first snake pizza</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-snakes-on-a-plate-worlds-first-snake-pizza-657057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The pizza chain had earlier used other food combinations like preserved eggs and pig blood cake; crispy salted chicken and fried squid rings; and red vinasse.<br />
<br />
In 2022, it also launched rice pizzas which swapped the traditional dough base for rice which was grilled till it formed a crisp crust.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></div>


In a bizarre and challenging step, the residents of mainland China were offered stinky tofu as a topping option on their pizza by Pizza Hut for just one week in July 2023.

In a bizarre and challenging step, the residents of mainland China were offered stinky tofu as a topping option on their pizza by Pizza Hut for just one week in July 2023. The unusual creation included traditional Changsha stinky tofu which was fermented to a deep black hue and served with creamy yellow durian. Garlic and chilli were sprinkled as garnishing on this out-of-the-world pizza. A lot of customers who were attracted by the weird combination stated that it “sounds outrageous but tastes great” on the Chinese social media. This is not the first time such a bizarre pizza has been offered by pizza outlets to its customers. Recently, snake pizza made headlines for being the most unusual fusion food. Pizza Hut had joined hands with Central Hong Kong's snake restaurant “Ser Wong Fun” to create this unusual recipe, which was said to date back more than a century. Also read: Fusion food gone too far? Hong Kong introduces snake meat pizza The snake pizza was a modern makeover of a traditional snake soup dish which was popular in Southern China, Hong Kong and across other parts of Southeast Asia like Thailand and Vietnam. Taiwanese show host and YouTuber, Chen Tzu-chien, also known as Retina, has been touring and taste-testing such weird pizza creations. In one video, he can be heard reading out a letter sent by the pizza conglomerate. “Pizza Hut dares to challenge the limits of pizza. It will definitely bring you a surprise in both taste and looks,” he said. Weird pizza toppings around the world Oyster vermicelli and pork intestines have been a traditional Taiwanese street food dish and are famous for their thick, soupy texture. A limited-edition pizza with toppings of local oysters, braised pork intestine, vermicelli and plenty of coriander was launched by Pizza Hut in Taiwan in May 2023. Watch: Gravitas: Snakes on a plate: World's first snake pizza The pizza chain had earlier used other food combinations like preserved eggs and pig blood cake; crispy salted chicken and fried squid rings; and red vinasse. In 2022, it also launched rice pizzas which swapped the traditional dough base for rice which was grilled till it formed a crisp crust. (With inputs from agencies)

Outrageous but tasty! Stinking tofu pizza sells in mainland China for a week

<p>The International Criminal Court's (ICC) prosecutor on Friday (Nov 17) stated that a joint request was submitted to him by five countries to carry out an investigation of the current situation in the Palestinian territories.<br />
<br />
As international concern continues to swell over the increasing toll, the demand was made as a few families of the Israelis who were taken as hostage by Hamas on October 7, also sought the involvement of the ICC.<br />
<br />
Prosecutor Karim Khan stated that the request was submitted by South Africa, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Comoros and Djibouti. South Africa stated that the request was made "to ensure that the ICC pays urgent attention to the grave situation in Palestine".<br />
<br />
An investigation is already being carried out by the ICC into "the situation in the State of Palestine" for alleged war crimes which they have committed since June 13, 2014.<br />
<br />
In a statement, Khan said that an investigation into events in the occupied West Bank and in the Gaza Strip, which started in March 2021, now "extends to the escalation of hostilities and violence since the attacks that took place in October 2023."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-will-not-share-intel-on-hamas-using-al-shifa-as-command-centre-659884">Israel-Hamas war: US will not share intel on Hamas using Al-Shifa as command centre</a></p>

<p>Recently Khan, who went to the main crossing point between Egypt and Gaza, stated that his team had gathered a "significant volume " of evidence on "relevant incidents" in the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Khan calls for submission of more evidence</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, Khan stated that his office had jurisdiction both over the attack carried out by Hamas on Israel on October 7 and any kind of war crimes committed by Israel as part of its response which includes bombings in the Gaza Strip.<br />
<br />
Since an investigation over the war was already ongoing, the request made on Friday will have limited practical impact.<br />
<br />
The prosecutor's office in a statement stated that it had so far "collected a significant volume of information and evidence" on crimes which took place in the Palestinian territories and also those committed by Palestinians.<br />
<br />
He called for submission of more evidence to be submitted and, stated, "I will also continue my efforts to visit the state of Palestine and Israel in order to meet with survivors, hear from civil society organisations and engage with relevant national counterparts."</p>

<p>"I call upon all relevant actors to provide full co-operation with my office,” Khan added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How the war against Hamas is shaping Israel's economy?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-war-against-hamas-is-shaping-israels-economy-660017/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Israel is not the International Criminal Court's member and does not accept its jurisdiction.<br />
<br />
In certain circumstances, the ICC has the right to investigate nationals of non-member states which include when crimes are allegedly committed in the territories of member states. Palestine has been listed as a member of the ICC since 2015.<br />
<br />
The ICC, which is seen as a court of last resort, prosecutes individuals for allegedly committing crimes when its 124 member states are not able to prosecute themselves or are unwilling to take steps in that direction.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The International Criminal Court's (ICC) prosecutor on Friday (Nov 17) stated that a joint request was submitted to him by five countries to carry out an investigation of the current situation in the Palestinian territories.

The International Criminal Court's (ICC) prosecutor on Friday (Nov 17) stated that a joint request was submitted to him by five countries to carry out an investigation of the current situation in the Palestinian territories. As international concern continues to swell over the increasing toll, the demand was made as a few families of the Israelis who were taken as hostage by Hamas on October 7, also sought the involvement of the ICC. Prosecutor Karim Khan stated that the request was submitted by South Africa, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Comoros and Djibouti. South Africa stated that the request was made "to ensure that the ICC pays urgent attention to the grave situation in Palestine". An investigation is already being carried out by the ICC into "the situation in the State of Palestine" for alleged war crimes which they have committed since June 13, 2014. In a statement, Khan said that an investigation into events in the occupied West Bank and in the Gaza Strip, which started in March 2021, now "extends to the escalation of hostilities and violence since the attacks that took place in October 2023." Also read: Israel-Hamas war: US will not share intel on Hamas using Al-Shifa as command centre Recently Khan, who went to the main crossing point between Egypt and Gaza, stated that his team had gathered a "significant volume " of evidence on "relevant incidents" in the war. Khan calls for submission of more evidence Last month, Khan stated that his office had jurisdiction both over the attack carried out by Hamas on Israel on October 7 and any kind of war crimes committed by Israel as part of its response which includes bombings in the Gaza Strip. Since an investigation over the war was already ongoing, the request made on Friday will have limited practical impact. The prosecutor's office in a statement stated that it had so far "collected a significant volume of information and evidence" on crimes which took place in the Palestinian territories and also those committed by Palestinians. He called for submission of more evidence to be submitted and, stated, "I will also continue my efforts to visit the state of Palestine and Israel in order to meet with survivors, hear from civil society organisations and engage with relevant national counterparts." "I call upon all relevant actors to provide full co-operation with my office,” Khan added. Watch: How the war against Hamas is shaping Israel's economy? Israel is not the International Criminal Court's member and does not accept its jurisdiction. In certain circumstances, the ICC has the right to investigate nationals of non-member states which include when crimes are allegedly committed in the territories of member states. Palestine has been listed as a member of the ICC since 2015. The ICC, which is seen as a court of last resort, prosecutes individuals for allegedly committing crimes when its 124 member states are not able to prosecute themselves or are unwilling to take steps in that direction. (With inputs from agencies)

Five countries request for war crimes investigation in Palestinian territories

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