US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit India next week, becoming the second Biden administration official to visit Delhi this year.&nbsp;United States Secretary of Defense, General (Retd.) Lloyd J. Austin visited New Delhi earlier this year and held talks with his counterpart and called on top Indian leadership including PM Modi.&nbsp;

Blinken will hold talks with India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. Both Blinken, Jaishankar have met each other three&nbsp;times previously - first on the sidelines of the G7 foreign minister meet in London, then during EAM's bilateral visit to the US, and then&nbsp;on the sidelines of the G20 FMs meet in Italy.&nbsp;

The visit is expected to&nbsp;focus&nbsp;on the current situation in Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific, Quad. Biden administration is keen to host Quad (the grouping of&nbsp;India, US, Australia, and Japan) in-person leadership meet later this year. Indian PM Modi, depending on the current Covid situation will visit Washington.&nbsp;

But undoubtedly, the situation in Afghanistan remains a worry as&nbsp;Taliban makes territorial gains. Both sides have been in touch on the issue. In fact, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had met Dy NSA Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall and US Spl Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the connectivity summit.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit India next week, becoming the second Biden administration official to visit Delhi this year. United States Secretary of Defense, General (Retd.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit India next week, becoming the second Biden administration official to visit Delhi this year. United States Secretary of Defense, General (Retd.) Lloyd J. Austin visited New Delhi earlier this year and held talks with his counterpart and called on top Indian leadership including PM Modi. Blinken will hold talks with India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. Both Blinken, Jaishankar have met each other three times previously - first on the sidelines of the G7 foreign minister meet in London, then during EAM's bilateral visit to the US, and then on the sidelines of the G20 FMs meet in Italy. The visit is expected to focus on the current situation in Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific, Quad. Biden administration is keen to host Quad (the grouping of India, US, Australia, and Japan) in-person leadership meet later this year. Indian PM Modi, depending on the current Covid situation will visit Washington. But undoubtedly, the situation in Afghanistan remains a worry as Taliban makes territorial gains. Both sides have been in touch on the issue. In fact, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had met Dy NSA Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall and US Spl Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the connectivity summit.

US Secretary of State Blinken to visit India next week

Pope Francis on Monday held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The discussion came in the wake of a decision by American Catholic bishops that could lead them to deny communion to President Joe Biden.

It was not clear if the topic came up during the talks.

Blinken held 40 minutes of private talks with the Pope at the Vatican. Earlier Blinken also had a separate meeting with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican`s foreign minister.

The visit follows a conference at which US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on Communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden, who support a woman`s right to abortion despite opposing the practice personally.

The bishops decided to move forward with the document, mostly disregarding a Vatican warning that it would be highly divisive.

The topic did not appear in statements by State Department spokesperson Ned Price and the Vatican and, when asked specifically at a news conference afterwards, Blinken would not be drawn.

He said the meeting with the pope was "extremely warm and very wide ranging" but he did not answer directly, saying that domestic politics was not part of his job.

Price said that Blinken in his talks with Parolin and Gallagher discussed various topics including human rights and religious freedom in China.

Price said Blinken also discussed China with the pope, as well as refugees, climate change, Lebanon, Syria and Ethiopia.

Since the Vatican and Beijing signed an agreement in 2018 on the naming of bishops in China, critics of the deal have appealed to the Vatican to speak out more about religious freedom in Hong Kong and mainland China.

NATO took a tough line on China at Biden`s debut summit earlier this month.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that the atmosphere was cordial and that it gave the pope a chance "to express his affection for and attention to, the people of the United States of America".

The Vatican and the Biden administration agree on the dangers of climate change, which was a main point of contention with the White House while Donald Trump was president.

Trump was dismissive of the problem as he dismantled climate policies and regulations on fossil fuels.

The pope criticised Trump`s withdrawal of the United States from the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming. The Vatican welcomed Biden`s return to the accord.

Blinken gave the pope a gold and silver sculpture of a dove holding an olive branch and pope gave him copies of several of his writings, including the landmark 2015 encyclical "Laudado Si" on the protection of the environment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Monday held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The discussion came in the wake of a decision by American Catholic bishops that could lead them to deny communion to President Joe Biden.

Pope Francis on Monday held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The discussion came in the wake of a decision by American Catholic bishops that could lead them to deny communion to President Joe Biden. It was not clear if the topic came up during the talks. Blinken held 40 minutes of private talks with the Pope at the Vatican. Earlier Blinken also had a separate meeting with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican`s foreign minister. The visit follows a conference at which US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on Communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden, who support a woman`s right to abortion despite opposing the practice personally. The bishops decided to move forward with the document, mostly disregarding a Vatican warning that it would be highly divisive. The topic did not appear in statements by State Department spokesperson Ned Price and the Vatican and, when asked specifically at a news conference afterwards, Blinken would not be drawn. He said the meeting with the pope was "extremely warm and very wide ranging" but he did not answer directly, saying that domestic politics was not part of his job. Price said that Blinken in his talks with Parolin and Gallagher discussed various topics including human rights and religious freedom in China. Price said Blinken also discussed China with the pope, as well as refugees, climate change, Lebanon, Syria and Ethiopia. Since the Vatican and Beijing signed an agreement in 2018 on the naming of bishops in China, critics of the deal have appealed to the Vatican to speak out more about religious freedom in Hong Kong and mainland China. NATO took a tough line on China at Biden`s debut summit earlier this month. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that the atmosphere was cordial and that it gave the pope a chance "to express his affection for and attention to, the people of the United States of America". The Vatican and the Biden administration agree on the dangers of climate change, which was a main point of contention with the White House while Donald Trump was president. Trump was dismissive of the problem as he dismantled climate policies and regulations on fossil fuels. The pope criticised Trump`s withdrawal of the United States from the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming. The Vatican welcomed Biden`s return to the accord. Blinken gave the pope a gold and silver sculpture of a dove holding an olive branch and pope gave him copies of several of his writings, including the landmark 2015 encyclical "Laudado Si" on the protection of the environment. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken meets Pope, speculations on discussion over US bishops' vote

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israel's new Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met in Rome on Sunday. Yair Lipid opened the meeting with a reference to past mistakes made by Israel and an aim to fix them together.

Antony Blinken meets Yair Lipid in Rome to fix 'mistakes' made in past

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Though he raised concerns, he pledged a more co-operative approach.

"Israel has some serious reservations about the Iran nuclear deal that is being put together in Vienna. We believe the way to discuss those disagreements is though direct and professional conversations, not in press conferences," Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said as he opened a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Rome.

World powers are currently in talks with Iran to revive the nuclear deal it struck in 2015

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-drones-with-7000-km-range-says-irans-top-commander-394311">We have drones with 7,000 km range, says Iran's top commander</a>

In 2015, the deal was struck but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran.

The talks to revive the deal were on but have now been adjourned for respective delegations to hold consultation in respective capitals.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Though he raised concerns, he pledged a more co-operative approach. "Israel has some serious reservations about the Iran nuclear deal that is being put together in Vienna. We believe the way to discuss those disagreements is though direct and professional conversations, not in press conferences," Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said as he opened a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Rome. World powers are currently in talks with Iran to revive the nuclear deal it struck in 2015 Also Read | We have drones with 7,000 km range, says Iran's top commander In 2015, the deal was struck but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The talks to revive the deal were on but have now been adjourned for respective delegations to hold consultation in respective capitals. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel voices 'serious reservations' on Iran deal to Blinken

On Sunday, in the first face to face meeting of the United States with the new Israeli government, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Israel's new top diplomat Yair Lapid in Rome.

Yair, a centrist is the mastermind behind the coalition that unseated veteran Benjamin Netanyahu.

Blinken is in Rome as a part of his three-nation tour of Europe, and Lapid will be flying to the Italian capital to see the US secretary of state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-hard-to-rejoin-iran-nuclear-deal-if-talks-drag-on-blinken-393936">'Very hard' to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks drag on: Blinken</a>

This meeting comes as President Joe Biden’s administration moves ahead with nuclear deal talks with Israeli arch-enemy Iran, a move strongly opposed by the country.

Bien and Blinken are also eager to preserve a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, that after weeks of the fighting took effect on May 21.

Considered to be the worst fighting since 2014, the resulting bloodshed triggered a very strong criticism in the memory of the US congress. Some members of the Democratic party were also seen accusing Netanyahu of using excessive force and of backing far-right Jewish groups looking to change the delicate status quo in the holy city of Jerusalem.

The freshly installed Israeli government seeks a combative approach with its main ally Washington. Lapid, who took office less than three weeks ago under nationalist Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, accuses Netanyahu of jeopardizing Israel's once rock-solid support in the United States by openly rallying behind former president Donald Trump's Republican Party.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-benefitting-from-forced-labour-blinken-warns-countries-against-taking-advantage-of-uighurs-393444">'Stop benefitting from forced labour': Blinken warns countries against taking advantage of Uighurs</a>

Although the new government still considers Iran a major threat to Israel, it has pledged to put the alliance with Washington first and to try to keep differences private. Reportedly the new coalition government has also launched its own strikes on the Gaza Strip

Given that the tensions are still high after recent fighting, and with a new government uncertainties are still nigh, Washington has made clear that it is not rushing in to make any grand Middle East peace initiatives.

The Biden administration hopes to be less involved in Middle East hotspots and focus more on repairing rifts with its European allies, rifts that were created under Trump, all as part of its strategy to focus long-term attention on managing the rise of China.

Blinken started his tour by meeting Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. In the coming days, he’ll be meeting with the Pope, and taking part in the upcoming meetings in Italy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On Sunday, in the first face to face meeting of the United States with the new Israeli government, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Israel's new top diplomat Yair Lapid in Rome.

On Sunday, in the first face to face meeting of the United States with the new Israeli government, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Israel's new top diplomat Yair Lapid in Rome. Yair, a centrist is the mastermind behind the coalition that unseated veteran Benjamin Netanyahu. Blinken is in Rome as a part of his three-nation tour of Europe, and Lapid will be flying to the Italian capital to see the US secretary of state. Also read | 'Very hard' to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks drag on: Blinken This meeting comes as President Joe Biden’s administration moves ahead with nuclear deal talks with Israeli arch-enemy Iran, a move strongly opposed by the country. Bien and Blinken are also eager to preserve a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, that after weeks of the fighting took effect on May 21. Considered to be the worst fighting since 2014, the resulting bloodshed triggered a very strong criticism in the memory of the US congress. Some members of the Democratic party were also seen accusing Netanyahu of using excessive force and of backing far-right Jewish groups looking to change the delicate status quo in the holy city of Jerusalem. The freshly installed Israeli government seeks a combative approach with its main ally Washington. Lapid, who took office less than three weeks ago under nationalist Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, accuses Netanyahu of jeopardizing Israel's once rock-solid support in the United States by openly rallying behind former president Donald Trump's Republican Party. Also read | 'Stop benefitting from forced labour': Blinken warns countries against taking advantage of Uighurs Although the new government still considers Iran a major threat to Israel, it has pledged to put the alliance with Washington first and to try to keep differences private. Reportedly the new coalition government has also launched its own strikes on the Gaza Strip Given that the tensions are still high after recent fighting, and with a new government uncertainties are still nigh, Washington has made clear that it is not rushing in to make any grand Middle East peace initiatives. The Biden administration hopes to be less involved in Middle East hotspots and focus more on repairing rifts with its European allies, rifts that were created under Trump, all as part of its strategy to focus long-term attention on managing the rise of China. Blinken started his tour by meeting Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. In the coming days, he’ll be meeting with the Pope, and taking part in the upcoming meetings in Italy. (With inputs from agencies)

US Blinken to meet Israel's top diplomat Lapid amid Iran moves

The last time a US secretary of state visited the Vatican, the diplomatic sparks flew and Pope Francis declined to receive Mike Pompeo.

When Antony Blinken meets the pope and top Vatican officials on Monday, the new secretary of state's visit will put relations between Washington and Holy See on a new footing.

It will also set the scene for a visit to the pope by Joe Biden, only the second Catholic US president, expected for October.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blinken-to-meet-israels-top-diplomat-lapid-amid-iran-moves-394294" hreflang="en">US Blinken to meet Israel's top diplomat Lapid, amid Iran moves</a>

The visit follows a conference at which US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on Communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden, who support abortion rights despite opposing the practice personally.

Pompeo's visit last September was widely seen as a diplomatic blunder.

He irked the Vatican before arriving, saying on Twitter and in an editorial that it was "endangering its moral authority" by continuing a bilateral deal with China over the appointment of bishops there.

Pompeo published the editorial in a conservative Catholic journal that has been highly critical of Pope Francis and whose editor in 2019 wrote a long critique titled "A Failing Papacy".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-endangers-its-moral-authority-pompeo-on-deal-with-china-331174">'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China</a>

One Vatican official rebuked Pompeo for violating "one of the rules of diplomacy" by making public demands. Another said his request for an audience with the pope was denied because it was too close to the US presidential election and the Vatican did not want it used for domestic political purposes.

"Pompeo did an own goal on China. The way he broached it in such a brusque, arrogant way made it easier for the Vatican to justify the renewal of the deal," said Massimo Franco, a columnist for Italy's Corriere della Sera who has written extensively on US-Vatican relations.

"The Biden administration will be much more subtle in reminding the Vatican about freedom of religion in China," Franco told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-accuses-pompeo-of-playing-politics-pope-francies-refuses-to-meet-him-331608">Vatican accuses Pompeo of playing politics, Pope Francies refuses to meet him</a>

After NATO took a tough line on China at Biden's debut summit, Washington could press the Vatican to be more outspoken on human rights in China and Hong Kong, said Alberto Melloni, an Italian Church historian and advisor to the European Commission.

"The question is 'will the US let the Vatican be exempt from criticising China just because of its deal on the bishops'?" he told Reuters.

Climate Change

One of the main points of contention between the Vatican and the White House, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> was US president, was climate change. Trump was dismissive of the problem as he dismantled climate policies and regulations on fossil fuels.

The pope criticised Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming. The Vatican welcomed Biden's return to the accord.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-kerry-calls-pope-powerful-voice-on-climate-385271">US envoy Kerry calls pope 'powerful voice' on climate</a>

Francis, who in May received Biden's climate envoy, Roman Catholic John Kerry, has urged nations to work together to save the planet.

"We see working together (with the Vatican) as an opportunity to raise countries' collective ambition and to address the climate crisis by raising and implementing national emissions reduction targets, for instance," said Philip Reeker, acting assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs.

The Vatican will host world religious leaders and scientists before the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Britain, which many expect the pope to attend.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-criticizes-those-who-build-walls-sow-fear-about-strangers-192644">Pope Francis criticises those who 'build walls', 'sow fear'</a>

In another scratchy moment, the pope criticised Trump's pledge to build a wall along the US-Mexican border as "not Christian". Trump said it was "disgraceful" for the pope to question his faith but later called him "a wonderful guy". They met at the Vatican in 2017.

Blinken and Vatican officials are also expected to discuss ways to combat human trafficking and encouraging debt relief for poor countries.&nbsp;

The last time a US secretary of state visited the Vatican, the diplomatic sparks flew and Pope Francis declined to receive Mike Pompeo. When Antony Blinken meets the pope and top Vatican officials on Monday, the new secretary of state's visit will put relations between Washington and Holy See on a new footing.

The last time a US secretary of state visited the Vatican, the diplomatic sparks flew and Pope Francis declined to receive Mike Pompeo. When Antony Blinken meets the pope and top Vatican officials on Monday, the new secretary of state's visit will put relations between Washington and Holy See on a new footing. It will also set the scene for a visit to the pope by Joe Biden, only the second Catholic US president, expected for October. Also read | US Blinken to meet Israel's top diplomat Lapid, amid Iran moves The visit follows a conference at which US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on Communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden, who support abortion rights despite opposing the practice personally. Pompeo's visit last September was widely seen as a diplomatic blunder. He irked the Vatican before arriving, saying on Twitter and in an editorial that it was "endangering its moral authority" by continuing a bilateral deal with China over the appointment of bishops there. Pompeo published the editorial in a conservative Catholic journal that has been highly critical of Pope Francis and whose editor in 2019 wrote a long critique titled "A Failing Papacy". Also read | 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China One Vatican official rebuked Pompeo for violating "one of the rules of diplomacy" by making public demands. Another said his request for an audience with the pope was denied because it was too close to the US presidential election and the Vatican did not want it used for domestic political purposes. "Pompeo did an own goal on China. The way he broached it in such a brusque, arrogant way made it easier for the Vatican to justify the renewal of the deal," said Massimo Franco, a columnist for Italy's Corriere della Sera who has written extensively on US-Vatican relations. "The Biden administration will be much more subtle in reminding the Vatican about freedom of religion in China," Franco told Reuters. Also read | Vatican accuses Pompeo of playing politics, Pope Francies refuses to meet him After NATO took a tough line on China at Biden's debut summit, Washington could press the Vatican to be more outspoken on human rights in China and Hong Kong, said Alberto Melloni, an Italian Church historian and advisor to the European Commission. "The question is 'will the US let the Vatican be exempt from criticising China just because of its deal on the bishops'?" he told Reuters. Climate Change One of the main points of contention between the Vatican and the White House, while Donald Trump was US president, was climate change. Trump was dismissive of the problem as he dismantled climate policies and regulations on fossil fuels. The pope criticised Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming. The Vatican welcomed Biden's return to the accord. Also read | US envoy Kerry calls pope 'powerful voice' on climate Francis, who in May received Biden's climate envoy, Roman Catholic John Kerry, has urged nations to work together to save the planet. "We see working together (with the Vatican) as an opportunity to raise countries' collective ambition and to address the climate crisis by raising and implementing national emissions reduction targets, for instance," said Philip Reeker, acting assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs. The Vatican will host world religious leaders and scientists before the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Britain, which many expect the pope to attend. Also read | Pope Francis criticises those who 'build walls', 'sow fear' In another scratchy moment, the pope criticised Trump's pledge to build a wall along the US-Mexican border as "not Christian". Trump said it was "disgraceful" for the pope to question his faith but later called him "a wonderful guy". They met at the Vatican in 2017. Blinken and Vatican officials are also expected to discuss ways to combat human trafficking and encouraging debt relief for poor countries.

Blinken visit to pope will reset US-Vatican ties after Trump years

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on.

The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015. But the deal faced uncertainties as former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew US from the agreement.

"There will come a point, yes, where it will be very hard to return back to the standards set by the JCPOA," Blinken told reporters in Paris,&nbsp;

Talks were on in Vienna till just a few days ago to revive the deal but they have now been adjourned. Another factor that has been added to the mix is election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as President of Iran. Though he hasn't put out a definitive statement making clear his position on reviving the nuclear deal, he categorically said that he would not be meeting US President Joe Biden.

No date has been decided for resumption of Vienna talks.

Ebrahim Raisi said earlier this week that he would not allow negotiations for negotiation's sake.

"Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference on Monday (June 25).

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015. But the deal faced uncertainties as former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew US from the agreement. "There will come a point, yes, where it will be very hard to return back to the standards set by the JCPOA," Blinken told reporters in Paris, Talks were on in Vienna till just a few days ago to revive the deal but they have now been adjourned. Another factor that has been added to the mix is election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as President of Iran. Though he hasn't put out a definitive statement making clear his position on reviving the nuclear deal, he categorically said that he would not be meeting US President Joe Biden. No date has been decided for resumption of Vienna talks. Ebrahim Raisi said earlier this week that he would not allow negotiations for negotiation's sake. "Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference on Monday (June 25). (With inputs from agencies)

'Very hard' to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks drag on: Blinken

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

"We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart.

"Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added.

The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country.

Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country. "We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart. "Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added. The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country. Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's actions 'inconsistent' with establishing peace in Afghanistan: Blinken

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned against benefitting from forced labour in Xinjiang, speaking Wednesday on a visit to Germany, whose iconic automaker Volkswagen operates in the Chinese region.

"It's incumbent upon all of us to do whatever we can to make sure that products that may be result of forced labour are not coming into our countries," he said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-forced-uighur-labour-making-your-favourite-apple-products-384385/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Human rights organisations have accused China of&nbsp;detaining and torturing Uighurs in camps, where some former inmates have said they were subject to ideological indoctrination.

The US&nbsp;government has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials after accusing China of committing what amounts to genocide in&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;in recent years, citing the internment programme, forced sterilisations and mass labour transfers.

Recently, the G7 committed to removing forced labour from global supply chains,&nbsp;naming China’s Xinjiang region as the main source of concern.

Beijing denies accusations of genocide, and says its policies in&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;were necessary to stamp out separatists and religious extremists who plotted attacks and stirred up tensions between Uyghurs and Han, China's largest ethnic group.

However, some academics and politicians say there is insufficient evidence of intent by Beijing to destroy an ethnic population in part or full to meet the threshold for a genocide determination.

No such formal criminal charges have been laid against Chinese or&nbsp;Xinjiang&nbsp;officials because of a lack of available evidence on and insight into the policies in the region. Prosecuting officials would also be complex and require a high bar of proof.

Additionally, China is not party to the International Criminal Court (ICC), the top international court that prosecutes genocide and other serious crimes, and which can only bring action against states within its jurisdiction.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned against benefitting from forced labour in Xinjiang, speaking Wednesday on a visit to Germany, whose iconic automaker Volkswagen operates in the Chinese region.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned against benefitting from forced labour in Xinjiang, speaking Wednesday on a visit to Germany, whose iconic automaker Volkswagen operates in the Chinese region. "It's incumbent upon all of us to do whatever we can to make sure that products that may be result of forced labour are not coming into our countries," he said. Human rights organisations have accused China of detaining and torturing Uighurs in camps, where some former inmates have said they were subject to ideological indoctrination. The US government has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials after accusing China of committing what amounts to genocide in Xinjiang in recent years, citing the internment programme, forced sterilisations and mass labour transfers. Recently, the G7 committed to removing forced labour from global supply chains, naming China’s Xinjiang region as the main source of concern. Beijing denies accusations of genocide, and says its policies in Xinjiang were necessary to stamp out separatists and religious extremists who plotted attacks and stirred up tensions between Uyghurs and Han, China's largest ethnic group. However, some academics and politicians say there is insufficient evidence of intent by Beijing to destroy an ethnic population in part or full to meet the threshold for a genocide determination. No such formal criminal charges have been laid against Chinese or Xinjiang officials because of a lack of available evidence on and insight into the policies in the region. Prosecuting officials would also be complex and require a high bar of proof. Additionally, China is not party to the International Criminal Court (ICC), the top international court that prosecutes genocide and other serious crimes, and which can only bring action against states within its jurisdiction. (With inputs from agencies)

'Stop benefitting from forced labour': Blinken warns countries against taking advantage of Uighurs

The United States and&nbsp;China&nbsp;are discussing a possible meeting of US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a G20 meet in Italy next week, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday citing people briefed on the talks.

The administration of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">US&nbsp;President Joe Biden</a> has also informed counterparts in Beijing that it would like Wendy Sherman, deputy secretary of state, to visit&nbsp;China&nbsp;over the summer, the newspaper said.

According to the British newspaper's report, the White House has also held preliminary internal discussions about sending Blinken or Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, to&nbsp;China&nbsp;later this year. A move that could set the stage for Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping to hold a bilateral summit on the margins of the G20 leaders meeting in Rome in October.

Relations between the two nations have recently been particularly turbulent with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">US President Joe Biden</a> ordering an enquiry into the Coronavirus origins.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-rally-around-the-need-to-counter-and-compete-with-china-white-house-391244">G7 rally around the need to 'counter and compete' with China: White House</a>

US's&nbsp;decision to significantly step up engagement with China comes after months of talks between the country and its allies on Beijing, and how to better address various concerns these nations share over China. Many of these&nbsp;talks produced some tough joint statements.&nbsp;

In the recently held G7 summit in the UK, The Group of Seven rich nations pledged to tackle China's growing influence, singling out China in their communique over human rights in Xinjiang and demanding freedoms and a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong.

The nations also agreed to launch the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-adopts-global-infrastructure-plan-an-answer-to-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-391026">Build Back Better World" (B3W) project</a>,&nbsp;a plan that counter’s Chinese Belt and Road initiative, and is an attempt to build infrastructure in poorer nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-condemns-latest-us-warship-transit-of-taiwan-strait-393222">China condemns latest US warship transit of Taiwan Strait</a>

Recently, Beijing also accused the United States of threatening peace and stability, after a US&nbsp;warship again sailed through the sensitive waterway that separates Taiwan from China. This was the second such sailing, which according to the US was a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" done as per international law.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and China are discussing a possible meeting of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a G20 meet in Italy next week, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday citing people briefed on the talks.

The United States and China are discussing a possible meeting of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a G20 meet in Italy next week, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday citing people briefed on the talks. The administration of US President Joe Biden has also informed counterparts in Beijing that it would like Wendy Sherman, deputy secretary of state, to visit China over the summer, the newspaper said. According to the British newspaper's report, the White House has also held preliminary internal discussions about sending Blinken or Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, to China later this year. A move that could set the stage for Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping to hold a bilateral summit on the margins of the G20 leaders meeting in Rome in October. Relations between the two nations have recently been particularly turbulent with US President Joe Biden ordering an enquiry into the Coronavirus origins. Also read | G7 rally around the need to 'counter and compete' with China: White House US's decision to significantly step up engagement with China comes after months of talks between the country and its allies on Beijing, and how to better address various concerns these nations share over China. Many of these talks produced some tough joint statements. In the recently held G7 summit in the UK, The Group of Seven rich nations pledged to tackle China's growing influence, singling out China in their communique over human rights in Xinjiang and demanding freedoms and a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong. The nations also agreed to launch the Build Back Better World" (B3W) project, a plan that counter’s Chinese Belt and Road initiative, and is an attempt to build infrastructure in poorer nations. Also read | China condemns latest US warship transit of Taiwan Strait Recently, Beijing also accused the United States of threatening peace and stability, after a US warship again sailed through the sensitive waterway that separates Taiwan from China. This was the second such sailing, which according to the US was a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" done as per international law. (With inputs from agencies)

US, China discuss possible meeting of secretary of state, Chinese foreign minister: Report

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stressed the need of cooperation and transparency from China on the origins of deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the report to know more.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken seeks cooperation and transparency from China

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that hundreds of US sanctions will remain on Iran even if the United States rejoins the 2015 nuclear accord. Blinken said the sanctions will remain in place until Iran's behaviour changes.

Antony Blinken says hundreds of sanctions to remain on Iran even if US rejoins nuclear deal

Why is Dr. S Jaishankar in America? Who all is the foreign minister meeting? What is being discussed? Palki Sharma tells you about the significance of the visit.

Gravitas: Why is Dr. Jaishankar in America?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrapped up a two-day Middle East mission on Wednesday, winning valuable diplomatic support and pledges of millions of dollars from Arab allies as he proceeded to end the ceasefire that ended the 11-day war Israel and militant Hamas ruler of the Gaza Strip.

US Secy of State wraps up his West Asia visit followed Egypt-brokered ceasefire

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that his country and Egypt are&nbsp;working together to reinforce a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants.

Egypt has longstanding relations with both sides in the conflict and played a key role in brokering the ceasefire after 11 days of violence, in coordination with the United States.

"We've had in Egypt a real and effective partner in dealing with the violence, bringing it to a close, relatively quickly," Blinken said, following a meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and intelligence head Abbas Kamel.

The two countries were now "working closely together build something positive", he said, adding that Egypt was vital to shared aspirations for Palestinians and Israelis to "live in safety and security to enjoy equal measures of freedom, opportunity and dignity".

Sisi told Blinken recent events reaffirmed the need for direct talks between the two sides with Washington's involvement, according to an Egyptian presidency statement. Sisi also discussed the issue in a video call with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Blinken arrived in Egypt after stops in Jerusalem and Ramallah before flying on to Jordan, where he landed in the late afternoon. On Tuesday, he pledged that the United States would provide new aid to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, including $5.5 million in disaster relief and nearly $33 million for the UN&nbsp;Palestinian aid agency there.

He also said the United States intended to ensure that Hamas, which controls Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from humanitarian aid.

Yehya Al-Sinwar, the Hamas chief in Gaza, said the group welcomed Arab and international efforts to rebuild the enclave.

"We will ease and facilitate the task for everyone and we will make sure that the process will be transparent and fair and we will make sure that no penny goes to Hamas or Qassam (the Hamas armed wing)," Sinwar told a news conference.

"We have satisfactory sources of money for Hamas and Qassam. A major part of it from Iran and part in donations from Arabs, Muslims and liberals of the world who are sympathetic to our people and their rights," he added.

Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh has been invited to visit Cairo for talks over rebuilding Gaza, Hamas sources said.

Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza and has security contacts with Hamas, is likely to have a role in channeling aid, a senior US&nbsp;State Department official said earlier.

During the fighting, Egypt opened the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and its Sinai Peninsula in order to provide medical aid and evacuate the wounded.

It also sent a security delegation to Israel and Gaza to reinforce the ceasefire after it came into effect on Friday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that his country and Egypt are working together to reinforce a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants. Egypt has longstanding relations with both sides in the conflict and played a key role in brokering the ceasefire after 11 days of violence, in coordination with the United States.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that his country and Egypt are working together to reinforce a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants. Egypt has longstanding relations with both sides in the conflict and played a key role in brokering the ceasefire after 11 days of violence, in coordination with the United States. "We've had in Egypt a real and effective partner in dealing with the violence, bringing it to a close, relatively quickly," Blinken said, following a meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and intelligence head Abbas Kamel. The two countries were now "working closely together build something positive", he said, adding that Egypt was vital to shared aspirations for Palestinians and Israelis to "live in safety and security to enjoy equal measures of freedom, opportunity and dignity". Sisi told Blinken recent events reaffirmed the need for direct talks between the two sides with Washington's involvement, according to an Egyptian presidency statement. Sisi also discussed the issue in a video call with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Blinken arrived in Egypt after stops in Jerusalem and Ramallah before flying on to Jordan, where he landed in the late afternoon. On Tuesday, he pledged that the United States would provide new aid to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, including $5.5 million in disaster relief and nearly $33 million for the UN Palestinian aid agency there. He also said the United States intended to ensure that Hamas, which controls Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from humanitarian aid. Yehya Al-Sinwar, the Hamas chief in Gaza, said the group welcomed Arab and international efforts to rebuild the enclave. "We will ease and facilitate the task for everyone and we will make sure that the process will be transparent and fair and we will make sure that no penny goes to Hamas or Qassam (the Hamas armed wing)," Sinwar told a news conference. "We have satisfactory sources of money for Hamas and Qassam. A major part of it from Iran and part in donations from Arabs, Muslims and liberals of the world who are sympathetic to our people and their rights," he added. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh has been invited to visit Cairo for talks over rebuilding Gaza, Hamas sources said. Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza and has security contacts with Hamas, is likely to have a role in channeling aid, a senior US State Department official said earlier. During the fighting, Egypt opened the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and its Sinai Peninsula in order to provide medical aid and evacuate the wounded. It also sent a security delegation to Israel and Gaza to reinforce the ceasefire after it came into effect on Friday.

Blinken says US and Egypt are working closely to reinforce Gaza ceasefire

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reached Jerusalem after 11 days of rocket-fire & killings. The visit is aimed at 'cementing' the ceasefire. Palki Sharma asks: Can America really claim credit for peace?

Gravitas: Why is Antony Blinken in Israel?

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken met top officials in Cairo on Wednesday during a Middle East tour aimed at shoring up a ceasefire that ended the worst fighting in years between Israel and Palestinian militants. 
 
Egypt has longstanding relations with both sides in the conflict and played a key role in brokering the ceasefire after 11 days of violence, in coordination with the United States. 
 
In a brief visit, Blinken met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and general intelligence head Abbas Kamel at the presidential palace in Cairo. He made no comments to media ahead of the meeting. 
 
Blinken arrived in Egypt after stops in Jerusalem and Ramallah and is also due to visit Jordan. On Tuesday, he pledged that the United States would provide new aid to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, including $5.5 million in immediate disaster relief and nearly $33 million for the UN&nbsp;Palestinian aid agency based there. 
 
He also said the United States intended to ensure that Hamas, which controls Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from the humanitarian aid. 
 
Yehya Al-Sinwar, the Hamas chief in Gaza, said on Wednesday that the group welcomed Arab and international efforts to rebuild the enclave. 
 
"We will ease and facilitate the task for everyone and we will make sure that the process will be transparent and fair and we will make sure that no penny goes to Hamas or Qassam (Hamas armed wing)," Sinwar told a press conference. 
 
"We have satisfactory sources of money for Hamas and Qassam. A major part of it from Iran and part in donations from Arab, Muslims and liberals of the world who are sympathetic to our people and their rights," he added. 
 
Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza and has security contacts with Hamas, is likely to have a role in channeling aid, a senior US&nbsp;State Department official said ahead of Blinken`s regional tour. 
 
During the fighting, Egypt opened the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and its Sinai Peninsula in order to provide medical aid and evacuate wounded people. 
 
It also deployed a security delegation that shuttled between Israel and Gaza to reinforce the ceasefire after it came into effect early on Friday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met top officials in Cairo on Wednesday during a Middle East tour aimed at shoring up a ceasefire that ended the worst fighting in years between Israel and Palestinian militants.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met top officials in Cairo on Wednesday during a Middle East tour aimed at shoring up a ceasefire that ended the worst fighting in years between Israel and Palestinian militants. Egypt has longstanding relations with both sides in the conflict and played a key role in brokering the ceasefire after 11 days of violence, in coordination with the United States. In a brief visit, Blinken met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and general intelligence head Abbas Kamel at the presidential palace in Cairo. He made no comments to media ahead of the meeting. Blinken arrived in Egypt after stops in Jerusalem and Ramallah and is also due to visit Jordan. On Tuesday, he pledged that the United States would provide new aid to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, including $5.5 million in immediate disaster relief and nearly $33 million for the UN Palestinian aid agency based there. He also said the United States intended to ensure that Hamas, which controls Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from the humanitarian aid. Yehya Al-Sinwar, the Hamas chief in Gaza, said on Wednesday that the group welcomed Arab and international efforts to rebuild the enclave. "We will ease and facilitate the task for everyone and we will make sure that the process will be transparent and fair and we will make sure that no penny goes to Hamas or Qassam (Hamas armed wing)," Sinwar told a press conference. "We have satisfactory sources of money for Hamas and Qassam. A major part of it from Iran and part in donations from Arab, Muslims and liberals of the world who are sympathetic to our people and their rights," he added. Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza and has security contacts with Hamas, is likely to have a role in channeling aid, a senior US State Department official said ahead of Blinken`s regional tour. During the fighting, Egypt opened the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and its Sinai Peninsula in order to provide medical aid and evacuate wounded people. It also deployed a security delegation that shuttled between Israel and Gaza to reinforce the ceasefire after it came into effect early on Friday.

Blinken meets Egypt's Sisi as US seeks to secure Gaza ceasefire

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said that the US would reopen the consulate in Jerusalem for Palestinians. Blinken&nbsp;also added that a two-state solution to resolve the conflict was the way forward under&nbsp;right circumstances

"Ultimately, there's a possibility of resuming the effort to achieve a two-state solution, which we continue to believe is the only way to truly assure Israel's future as a Jewish and democratic state, and of course to give the Palestinians the state they're entitled to," he said in Jerusalem.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blinken-pledges-us-support-to-rebuilt-gaza-without-helping-hamas-387346/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In addition, Blinken vowed to provide aid to millions who have been hurt by the devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. The consulate was closed by former US President Donald Trump in 2019 who had also limited aid to the Palestinian Authority.&nbsp;

"The United States will be moving forward with the process of reopening our consulate in Jerusalem," Blinken announced&nbsp;after meeting Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/thousands-march-in-britain-to-show-support-for-palestine-386775" hreflang="en">Thousands march in Britain to show support for Palestine</a>

"That's an important way for our countries to engage with and provide support to the Palestinian people”, AFP quoted Blinken as saying.

Blinken is currently visiting the region as part of his wider West Asia tour. On Friday, a truce between Israel and Gaza ended 11 days of heavy fighting which included Israel bombing Gaza. Blinken reiterated US support to Israel, saying the country had the right to defend itself against rocket attacks by the Islamist terror outfit Hamas. Blinked added that Hamas mustn’t receive any benefits from the aid.

The US official&nbsp;stressed "the commitment of the United States to rebuilding the relationship with the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people, a relationship built on mutual respect and also a shared conviction that Palestinians and Israelis alike deserve equal measures of security, freedom opportunity and dignity".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch-12-year-old-gaza-rapper-sings-emotionally-on-palestines-plight-386539" hreflang="en">Watch: 12-year-old Gaza rapper sings emotionally on Palestine's plight</a>

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said that the US would reopen the consulate in Jerusalem for Palestinians. Blinken also added that a two-state solution to resolve the conflict was the way forward under right circumstances "Ultimately, there's a possibility of resuming the effort to achieve a two-state solution, which we continue to believe is the only way to truly assure Israel's future as a Jewish and democratic state, and of course to give the Palestinians the state they're entitled to," he said in Jerusalem.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said that the US would reopen the consulate in Jerusalem for Palestinians. Blinken also added that a two-state solution to resolve the conflict was the way forward under right circumstances "Ultimately, there's a possibility of resuming the effort to achieve a two-state solution, which we continue to believe is the only way to truly assure Israel's future as a Jewish and democratic state, and of course to give the Palestinians the state they're entitled to," he said in Jerusalem. In addition, Blinken vowed to provide aid to millions who have been hurt by the devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. The consulate was closed by former US President Donald Trump in 2019 who had also limited aid to the Palestinian Authority. "The United States will be moving forward with the process of reopening our consulate in Jerusalem," Blinken announced after meeting Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah. Also read: Thousands march in Britain to show support for Palestine "That's an important way for our countries to engage with and provide support to the Palestinian people”, AFP quoted Blinken as saying. Blinken is currently visiting the region as part of his wider West Asia tour. On Friday, a truce between Israel and Gaza ended 11 days of heavy fighting which included Israel bombing Gaza. Blinken reiterated US support to Israel, saying the country had the right to defend itself against rocket attacks by the Islamist terror outfit Hamas. Blinked added that Hamas mustn’t receive any benefits from the aid. The US official stressed "the commitment of the United States to rebuilding the relationship with the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people, a relationship built on mutual respect and also a shared conviction that Palestinians and Israelis alike deserve equal measures of security, freedom opportunity and dignity". Also read: Watch: 12-year-old Gaza rapper sings emotionally on Palestine's plight

US to reopen consulate in Jerusalem for Palestinians, says Antony Blinken

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel, four days after Gaza ceasefire was announced. Blinken and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks and pledged to rebuilt Gaza together. Humanitarian aid and a long term peace deal are on their priority list.

Blinken pledges US support to rebuilt Gaza without helping Hamas

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar his on a five day trip to the United States, where he will hold the key bilateral meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He is also scheduled to meet the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to pitch for vaccine equity in meeting with UN chief

Blinken says US will tackle humanitarian crisis in Gaza without helping Hamas

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has started his week long trip to the United States, where he has been scheduled to meet the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and also hold a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to meet Blinken, UN Chief Guterres during US visit

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine.

"If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week."

“Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-official-demands-access-to-education-jobs-for-gaza-children-386941">UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children</a>

However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal.

The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction.

The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts.

Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides.

'Something more positive'

Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives.

He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel.

"We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said.&nbsp;

"The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too."&nbsp;

Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress."

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine. "If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week." “Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians. Also Read | UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal. The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction. The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts. Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides. 'Something more positive' Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza. "Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives. He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel. "We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said. "The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too." Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state. Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress." (With inputs from agencies)

Antony Blinken reaffirms support for 'two-state solution' ahead of West Asia visit

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas discussed measures to ensure that the recently established ceasefire with Israel holds. This comes after Israel and Hamas agreed to an Egypt-brokered ceasefire, after 11 days of rocket attacks and airstrikes that left hundreds dead.

Blinken, Palestinian Prez Abbas discuss ceasefire measures

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Arctic Council summit in Iceland’s Reykjavik on Wednesd

Lavrov and Blinken meet in Reykjavik on Arctic Council summit sidelines

The United States is waiving sanctions on the company that is behind Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipelines and its chief executive. The decision comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a high level face to face meeting and agreed to work on differences between the two countries.

United States waiving sanctions on company behind Nord Stream 2

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says that The United States wants to avoid any militarisation of the arctic region. Antony Blinken arrives in Iceland to attend Artic Council meet on 19th May. 'The Arctic region is prone to climate change, what we need to avoid is any military build-up in that reigion', says Blinken. Arctic region is rich in natural resources like crude oil; the race has started to extract resoruces from the region and Russia wants to lead the race.

U.S. wants to ‘avoid a militarisation’ of the Arctic: Antony Blinken

&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday reassured full support to Australia in the face of economic coercion by China, as Washington and Canberra mark the 70th anniversary of their alliance.

Washington has repeatedly criticised what it says are Beijing's attempts to bully neighbours with competing interests, and US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has sought to bolster ties with allies in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's growing power.

"I reiterated that the United States will not leave Australia alone on the field, or maybe I should say alone on the pitch, in the face of economic coercion by China," Blinken said at a press briefing with visiting Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne.

"And we've made clear to the PRC how such actions targeting our closest partners and allies will hinder improvements in our own relationship with China," Blinken said, using the acronym for the country's official name.

China has imposed a series of trade sanctions on Australian exports ranging from wine to coal as the two countries tensions have worsened in recent years.

Successive Australian trade ministers have been unable to secure a phone call with Chinese counterparts since diplomatic tensions worsened in 2020, and last week Beijing suspended all activity under a bilateral economic dialogue with Australia.

Australia was one of the first countries to publicly ban Chinese tech giant Huawei from its 5G network over security concerns, and last year angered Beijing with its calls for an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

Payne told journalists Australia had been clear that it wanted constructive ties with China.

"But we won't compromise on our national security or our sovereignty and we'll continue to act to protect that," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday reassured full support to Australia in the face of economic coercion by China, as Washington and Canberra mark the 70th anniversary of their alliance.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday reassured full support to Australia in the face of economic coercion by China, as Washington and Canberra mark the 70th anniversary of their alliance. Washington has repeatedly criticised what it says are Beijing's attempts to bully neighbours with competing interests, and US President Joe Biden has sought to bolster ties with allies in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's growing power. "I reiterated that the United States will not leave Australia alone on the field, or maybe I should say alone on the pitch, in the face of economic coercion by China," Blinken said at a press briefing with visiting Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne. "And we've made clear to the PRC how such actions targeting our closest partners and allies will hinder improvements in our own relationship with China," Blinken said, using the acronym for the country's official name. China has imposed a series of trade sanctions on Australian exports ranging from wine to coal as the two countries tensions have worsened in recent years. Successive Australian trade ministers have been unable to secure a phone call with Chinese counterparts since diplomatic tensions worsened in 2020, and last week Beijing suspended all activity under a bilateral economic dialogue with Australia. Australia was one of the first countries to publicly ban Chinese tech giant Huawei from its 5G network over security concerns, and last year angered Beijing with its calls for an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19. Payne told journalists Australia had been clear that it wanted constructive ties with China. "But we won't compromise on our national security or our sovereignty and we'll continue to act to protect that," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken says US will not leave Australia alone to face China coercion

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Israel-Palestine conflict and said he hopes that the hostilities will come to a conclusion.

"My expectation and hope are that this will be closing down sooner than later. But Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying into your territory. But I had a conversation for a while with the -- with the Prime Minister of Israel. And I think that -- my hope is that we will see this coming to a conclusion sooner than later," Biden told reporters at the White House.

The US President spoke on the issue for the first time since the violence erupted at the start of the week.

According to a White House readout, Biden in a phone call to Netanyahu condemned the rocket attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups, including against Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. He conveyed his unwavering support for Israel`s security and for Israel`s legitimate right to defend itself and its people while protecting civilians. He also conveyed the US encouragement of a pathway toward restoring a sustainable calm and shared his conviction that Jerusalem, a city of such importance to people of faith from around the world, must be a place of peace.

Biden also updated Netanyahu on the United States` diplomatic engagement with regional countries, including Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar, as well as with Palestinian officials.

The two leaders agreed to maintain the close consultation between their teams, which has included consistent engagement by their respective foreign ministers, defence ministers, chiefs of defence, and national security advisors, and to stay in touch personally in the days ahead, according to White House.

Earlier on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to Netanyahu and expressed his concerns over the ongoing violence.

According to US State Department spokesperson Ned Price, Blinken and Netanyahu discussed the ongoing violence in Jerusalem and the Secretary reiterated his call on all parties to de-escalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence.

The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity.

With ramping up of rocket attacks and airstrikes from both sides, concerns have emerged that the conflict is likely to evolve into a full-blown war. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women.&nbsp;

On the other hand, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. The death toll in Israel has reached 7.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Israel-Palestine conflict and said he hopes that the hostilities will come to a conclusion.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Israel-Palestine conflict and said he hopes that the hostilities will come to a conclusion. "My expectation and hope are that this will be closing down sooner than later. But Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying into your territory. But I had a conversation for a while with the -- with the Prime Minister of Israel. And I think that -- my hope is that we will see this coming to a conclusion sooner than later," Biden told reporters at the White House. The US President spoke on the issue for the first time since the violence erupted at the start of the week. According to a White House readout, Biden in a phone call to Netanyahu condemned the rocket attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups, including against Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. He conveyed his unwavering support for Israel`s security and for Israel`s legitimate right to defend itself and its people while protecting civilians. He also conveyed the US encouragement of a pathway toward restoring a sustainable calm and shared his conviction that Jerusalem, a city of such importance to people of faith from around the world, must be a place of peace. Biden also updated Netanyahu on the United States` diplomatic engagement with regional countries, including Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar, as well as with Palestinian officials. The two leaders agreed to maintain the close consultation between their teams, which has included consistent engagement by their respective foreign ministers, defence ministers, chiefs of defence, and national security advisors, and to stay in touch personally in the days ahead, according to White House. Earlier on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to Netanyahu and expressed his concerns over the ongoing violence. According to US State Department spokesperson Ned Price, Blinken and Netanyahu discussed the ongoing violence in Jerusalem and the Secretary reiterated his call on all parties to de-escalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence. The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. With ramping up of rocket attacks and airstrikes from both sides, concerns have emerged that the conflict is likely to evolve into a full-blown war. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women. On the other hand, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. The death toll in Israel has reached 7.

Biden discusses Israel-Palestine conflict with Netanyahu; hopes hostilities to end soon

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel.

World leaders have called for an end to violence. Some have emphasized Israel's right to defend itself, while others warn of full-scale war if the two sides fail to de-escalate.

Hamas Gaza City commander, Bassem Issa, has been killed in one of the Israeli airstrikes along with our senior members, the Hamas group confirmed. 
 
The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women.&nbsp; 
 
Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza

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In a statement issued late on Wednesday, Blinken also “expressed his condolences for the lives lost” as a result of the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory of Gaza, while also condemning the deadly rocket attacks into Israel.

“The Secretary also expressed his belief that Palestinians and Israelis deserve equal measures of freedom, dignity, security and prosperity,” said Ned Price, the state department spokesman.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by telephone with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> Joe Biden. The Prime Minister thanked President Biden for the American backing of Israel's right to self-defense.
— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1392608255671771143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. In a rare incident, rocket shrapnel punctured the shelter`s window, critically injuring the minor and also wounding his mother.&nbsp;

He was pronounced dead several hours later, reported local mediaWith the boy`s death, the number of fatalities has reached seven, including five Israeli civilians, an Indian national and an IDF soldier killed by anti-tank missile fire on the Gaza border. According to the Israeli army, 180 rockets were fired at Israel since 6 a.m. on Wednesday, of which 40 fell in Gaza.

In response to the rocket fire, the IDF launched strikes on upwards of 500 targets in the Gaza Strip, aimed at Hamas personnel, weaponry and infrastructure throughout the enclave Israeli police have said that 374 people have been arrested so far tonight in rioting throughout the country, with 36 cops hurt during events, reported The Times of Israel.

The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity.

A senior Hamas official on Wednesday said the terror organisation is ready to end the current intensive fighting with Israel, the Times of Israel reported citing the Russian foreign ministry`s statement. Deputy Chairman of the Hamas political bureau conditioned it on Israel halting strikes and on the international community pressuring the Jewish state to end "military actions" at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount.

Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before.

"Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel.

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel. World leaders have called for an end to violence. Some have emphasized Israel's right to defend itself, while others warn of full-scale war if the two sides fail to de-escalate. Hamas Gaza City commander, Bassem Issa, has been killed in one of the Israeli airstrikes along with our senior members, the Hamas group confirmed. The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women. Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza In a statement issued late on Wednesday, Blinken also “expressed his condolences for the lives lost” as a result of the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory of Gaza, while also condemning the deadly rocket attacks into Israel. “The Secretary also expressed his belief that Palestinians and Israelis deserve equal measures of freedom, dignity, security and prosperity,” said Ned Price, the state department spokesman. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by telephone with @POTUS Joe Biden. The Prime Minister thanked President Biden for the American backing of Israel's right to self-defense. — PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) May 12, 2021 × Meanwhile, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. In a rare incident, rocket shrapnel punctured the shelter`s window, critically injuring the minor and also wounding his mother. He was pronounced dead several hours later, reported local mediaWith the boy`s death, the number of fatalities has reached seven, including five Israeli civilians, an Indian national and an IDF soldier killed by anti-tank missile fire on the Gaza border. According to the Israeli army, 180 rockets were fired at Israel since 6 a.m. on Wednesday, of which 40 fell in Gaza. In response to the rocket fire, the IDF launched strikes on upwards of 500 targets in the Gaza Strip, aimed at Hamas personnel, weaponry and infrastructure throughout the enclave Israeli police have said that 374 people have been arrested so far tonight in rioting throughout the country, with 36 cops hurt during events, reported The Times of Israel. The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. A senior Hamas official on Wednesday said the terror organisation is ready to end the current intensive fighting with Israel, the Times of Israel reported citing the Russian foreign ministry`s statement. Deputy Chairman of the Hamas political bureau conditioned it on Israel halting strikes and on the international community pressuring the Jewish state to end "military actions" at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount. Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before. "Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas violence: At least 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza more than 600 times since Monday evening while Hamas has fired more than 1,600 rockets towards Israel.&nbsp;

"Dozens of those killed were terrorists and that additionally, some Palestinian fatalities were caused by misfired rockets from Gaza that failed to reach Israel and fell short in the Strip," The Times of Israel reported quoting Israel Defense Forces.

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The Israeli-Palestine conflict 
 
"The situation on the ground is simply tragic, you have two and a half million Palestinians in Gaza who are under siege, who have no shelter to seek safety in": <a href="https://twitter.com/nour_odeh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nour_odeh</a>, senior journalist and Palestinian Legislative Council candidate<a href="https://twitter.com/SaroyaHem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaroyaHem</a> <a href="https://t.co/V7RBv9xv1k">pic.twitter.com/V7RBv9xv1k</a>
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The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. 
 
Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza

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Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.

United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before.

"Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted.

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Stop the fire immediately. We’re escalating towards a full scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of deescalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating &amp; is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now
— Tor Wennesland (@TWennesland) <a href="https://twitter.com/TWennesland/status/1392218044433420291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded.

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza more than 600 times since Monday evening while Hamas has fired more than 1,600 rockets towards Israel. "Dozens of those killed were terrorists and that additionally, some Palestinian fatalities were caused by misfired rockets from Gaza that failed to reach Israel and fell short in the Strip," The Times of Israel reported quoting Israel Defense Forces. The Israeli-Palestine conflict "The situation on the ground is simply tragic, you have two and a half million Palestinians in Gaza who are under siege, who have no shelter to seek safety in": @nour_odeh, senior journalist and Palestinian Legislative Council candidate@SaroyaHem pic.twitter.com/V7RBv9xv1k — WION (@WIONews) May 13, 2021 × The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`. United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before. "Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted. Stop the fire immediately. We’re escalating towards a full scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of deescalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating & is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now — Tor Wennesland (@TWennesland) May 11, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas health ministry says 83 killed in Gaza since the start of violence

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