US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario.&nbsp;

Speaking to the reporters as he was boarding his Air Force One for Washington, Biden reflected on the situation and said he will inform about his talk with Netanyahu.&nbsp;

"Yes, I will be talking to him. And I'll tell you what I say to him when I talk to him," the US president said.&nbsp;

Biden added that an "all-out war" scenario must be avoided at all costs.

“It has to be.&nbsp;We really have to avoid it.&nbsp;We have already taken precautions relative to our embassies and personnel who want to leave. But, we're not there yet, but we're working like hell with the French and many others to avoid [more] war," he added.&nbsp;

Even after Nasrallah's death, Israel has not eased on the strikes in Lebanon. Tens of thousands of Lebanese citizens have been forced to seek shelter in safer pastures.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel had&nbsp;"settled the account" with a "mass murderer".

"We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French," said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

Bibi&nbsp;revealed that he had personally&nbsp;issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-war-netanyahu-no-choice-but-to-target-nasrallah-762881" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War | Netanyahu: No Choice But To Target Nasrallah</a>

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<h2>Nasrallah's death&nbsp;</h2>

On Saturday (Sep 28), the Israeli military said that Nasrallah was eliminated during Friday's strikes, which targeted the suburbs of Beirut.

"Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorise the world," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-apparent-target-of-israeli-strikes-in-lebanons-beirut-who-is-he-762708" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed</a>

Hezbollah also confirmed the death of its leader later in the day with Iran, known for backing the militant outfit, issuing a statement and vowing to avenge the loss.&nbsp;

Notably, more than 80 bombs were dropped by Israel within a few minutes to kill Nasrallah and his aides. After Nasrallah's death, reports claim that his cousin Hashem Safieddine may take the reins of the group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario.

US President Joe Biden has said he would speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the Middle East sits on the cusp of an all-out war. After Israel took out Hezbollah's entire chain of command, including chief Hassan Nasrallah, the region has been extremely volatile, with Biden stating his administration was 'working like hell" to avoid the worst-case scenario. Speaking to the reporters as he was boarding his Air Force One for Washington, Biden reflected on the situation and said he will inform about his talk with Netanyahu. "Yes, I will be talking to him. And I'll tell you what I say to him when I talk to him," the US president said. Biden added that an "all-out war" scenario must be avoided at all costs. “It has to be. We really have to avoid it. We have already taken precautions relative to our embassies and personnel who want to leave. But, we're not there yet, but we're working like hell with the French and many others to avoid [more] war," he added. Even after Nasrallah's death, Israel has not eased on the strikes in Lebanon. Tens of thousands of Lebanese citizens have been forced to seek shelter in safer pastures. Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel had "settled the account" with a "mass murderer". "We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French," said Netanyahu. Bibi revealed that he had personally issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War | Netanyahu: No Choice But To Target Nasrallah Nasrallah's death On Saturday (Sep 28), the Israeli military said that Nasrallah was eliminated during Friday's strikes, which targeted the suburbs of Beirut. "Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorise the world," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Also read | Hassan Nasrallah: What you should know about the Hezbollah leader Israel says it has killed Hezbollah also confirmed the death of its leader later in the day with Iran, known for backing the militant outfit, issuing a statement and vowing to avenge the loss. Notably, more than 80 bombs were dropped by Israel within a few minutes to kill Nasrallah and his aides. After Nasrallah's death, reports claim that his cousin Hashem Safieddine may take the reins of the group. (With inputs from agencies)

'We're working like hell': Biden on avoiding all-out war in Middle East after Israeli strikes

In his first public statement since the killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had "settled the account" with a "mass murderer".&nbsp;

"We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French,"&nbsp;

Netanyahu revealed that he had personally&nbsp;issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live.&nbsp;

"He would have quickly rehabilitated Hezbollah’s capabilities.&nbsp;So I gave the order and Nasrallah is no longer with us," said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

In the weeks leading up to the attack, Israel had increased its intensity of strikes in Lebanon where Hezbollah operated from at the behest of Iran. Reports state that the Israeli security establishment had been tracking Nasrallah for months and recommended targeting him this week or the opportunity could pass.&nbsp;

“Nasrallah wasn’t just another terrorist. He was the terrorist. Eliminating Nasrallah was an essential condition for achieving the goals that we have set out — returning the residents of the north safely to their homes and changing the balance of power in the region for years,”&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, Lebanon's government has declared three days of mourning for the death of Nasrallah, starting Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-drops-85-tonnes-of-gbu-31-jdams-spice-2000-bombs-to-kill-hassan-nasrallah-762856/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Watch |&nbsp;Israel drops 85 tonnes of GBU-31 JDAMs &amp; Spice 2000 bombs to kill Hassan Nasrallah</a>

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<h2>Netanyahu warns Iran, Sinwar</h2>

The Israeli PM also appeared to issue a direct challenge to Tehran, which supplies&nbsp;funds, weapons to Hezbollah, and said,&nbsp;“Those who strike at us, we will strike at them. There is nowhere in Iran or the Middle East beyond the reach of the long arm of Israel, and today you know how true that is.”&nbsp;

Netanyahu also shot off a warning to Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar who appears to be the last big name remaining in the Gaza Strip after his predecessors were neutralised in the previous few months by Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

"The more [Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar sees that Hezbollah is no longer coming to save him, the greater the chances for the return of our hostages," Netanyahu said, referring to the ongoing efforts to secure the release of Israelis captured by Hamas during its October 7 attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-calls-hezbollah-chief-nasrallahs-death-measure-of-justice-assures-uss-support-to-israel-762849">Also read |&nbsp;Biden calls Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's death 'measure of justice', reiterates US support to Israel</a>

There have been reports of Israel being close to neutralising Sinwar on multiple occasions in the last few weeks. If Tel Aviv manages to eliminate Sinwar in the upcoming days, it could perhaps be the biggest military coup pulled off in the region where both Hamas and Hezbollah were going toe-to-toe with IDF just a few weeks ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In his first public statement since the killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had "settled the account" with a "mass murderer".

In his first public statement since the killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had "settled the account" with a "mass murderer". "We settled the score with the one responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other countries, including hundreds of Americans and dozens of French," Netanyahu revealed that he had personally issued the directive to neutralise Nasrallah as Hezbollah would have regenerated if he was allowed to live. "He would have quickly rehabilitated Hezbollah’s capabilities. So I gave the order and Nasrallah is no longer with us," said Netanyahu. In the weeks leading up to the attack, Israel had increased its intensity of strikes in Lebanon where Hezbollah operated from at the behest of Iran. Reports state that the Israeli security establishment had been tracking Nasrallah for months and recommended targeting him this week or the opportunity could pass. “Nasrallah wasn’t just another terrorist. He was the terrorist. Eliminating Nasrallah was an essential condition for achieving the goals that we have set out — returning the residents of the north safely to their homes and changing the balance of power in the region for years,” he said. Meanwhile, Lebanon's government has declared three days of mourning for the death of Nasrallah, starting Monday. Watch | Israel drops 85 tonnes of GBU-31 JDAMs & Spice 2000 bombs to kill Hassan Nasrallah × Netanyahu warns Iran, Sinwar The Israeli PM also appeared to issue a direct challenge to Tehran, which supplies funds, weapons to Hezbollah, and said, “Those who strike at us, we will strike at them. There is nowhere in Iran or the Middle East beyond the reach of the long arm of Israel, and today you know how true that is.” Netanyahu also shot off a warning to Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar who appears to be the last big name remaining in the Gaza Strip after his predecessors were neutralised in the previous few months by Tel Aviv. "The more [Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar sees that Hezbollah is no longer coming to save him, the greater the chances for the return of our hostages," Netanyahu said, referring to the ongoing efforts to secure the release of Israelis captured by Hamas during its October 7 attack. Also read | Biden calls Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's death 'measure of justice', reiterates US support to Israel There have been reports of Israel being close to neutralising Sinwar on multiple occasions in the last few weeks. If Tel Aviv manages to eliminate Sinwar in the upcoming days, it could perhaps be the biggest military coup pulled off in the region where both Hamas and Hezbollah were going toe-to-toe with IDF just a few weeks ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Nasrallah death: Netanyahu says he personally authorised operation to kill Hezbollah chief; warns Iran, Sinwar

A statement from the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office on Friday (September 27), said that Israel felt the need to "clarify a few points" due to widespread "misreporting around the US-led ceasefire" plan.

A statement from the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office on Friday (September 27), said that Israel felt the need to "clarify a few points" due to widespread "misreporting around the US-led ceasefire" plan. "Earlier this week, the US shared with Israel its intention to put forward, together with other international and regional partners, a ceasefire proposal in Lebanon," the statement read. "Israel shares the aims of the US-led initiative of enabling people along our northern border to return safely and securely to their homes. Israel appreciates the US efforts in this regard because the US role is indispensable in advancing stability and security in the region.," the statement added. Due to a lot of misreporting around the US-led ceasefire initiative, it is important to clarify a few points. Earlier this week, the US shared with Israel its intention to put forward, together with other international and regional partners, a ceasefire proposal in Lebanon. — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) September 27, 2024 × The statement from Netanyahu's office also said that the two sides (Israel and the US) had met on Thursday (September 26) and discussed "how we can advance the shared goal of returning people safely to their homes." US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken meets Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer in New York Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer in New York to discuss the ceasefire initiative. "The Secretary discussed the importance of reaching an agreement on the 21-day ceasefire across the Israel-Lebanon border proposed by the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar and a diplomatic settlement that will allow civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes," the State Department said in a press release. Also read: IDF kills Hezbollah drone commander; 700 dead as conflict escalates in Lebanon According to the State Department, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Israeli minister that any further escalation of the conflict with Lebanon would complicate the return of civilians to their homes on both sides of the border. "The Secretary also discussed ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that would secure the release of the hostages, alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people, and set the conditions for an end to the war, and underscored that all parties must make the difficult decisions necessary to reach an agreement," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu responds to 'misreporting' on US-led ceasefire plan; Blinken meets Israeli delegation in the US

Many delegates started leaving the&nbsp;United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp;as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu started addressing the world leaders&nbsp;on Friday (Sep 27). The audience started shouting 'shame shame', prompting&nbsp;the Jewish leader to start&nbsp;off&nbsp;by&nbsp;pledging to counter 'slander' at the world body.

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עשרות דיפלומטים יוצאים מהאולם לאות מחאה כשנתניהו מתחיל לדבר <a href="https://t.co/Jl7ahLZ0JW">pic.twitter.com/Jl7ahLZ0JW</a>
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"After I heard the lies and slanders leveled at my country by many of the speakers at this podium, I decided to come here and set the record straight," Netanyahu said.

The Israeli PM also warned Iran that if it dares to strike his country, "we will strike you back." He added that there was no place in Iran that Israeli agencies couldn't reach.

The leader slammed Gaza's Hamas and Lebanon-based Hezbollah, saying both militant groups had fired more than 8,000 rockets at Israel since the war began on October 7.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM&nbsp;said&nbsp;that "Hamas has got to go" and the militant group would have no role in the reconstruction of Gaza as he vowed to fight until "total victory."

"If Hamas stays in power, it will regroup... and attack Israel again and again and again... So Hamas has got to go," Netanyahu said to diplomats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi3o7fOseOIAxUl3TgGHYTiNacQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-is-a-non-stop-nightmare-un-chief-guterres-tells-world-leaders-at-general-assembly-761675" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-is-a-non-stop-nightmare-un-chief-guterres-tells-world-leaders-at-general-assembly-761675&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi3o7fOseOIAxUl3TgGHYTiNacQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">'Gaza is a non-stop nightmare,' UN chief Guterres tells world leaders at General Assembly</a>

He also slammed the United Nations for&nbsp;its unfair treatment of his country, saying it had become a "contemptuous farce".

"I say to you, until Israel – until the Jewish state – is treated like other nations, until this anti-Semitic swamp is drained, the UN will be viewed by fair-minded people everywhere as nothing more than a contemptuous farce," he said.

Since Monday, Israel has shifted its focus from Gaza to its northern front with Lebanon where heavy bombing has reportedly killed 700 people and sparked an exodus of around 118,000 people.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi3o7fOseOIAxUl3TgGHYTiNacQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-half-of-hostages-held-by-hamas-since-oct-7-have-died-pm-netanyahu-tells-mps-760976" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-half-of-hostages-held-by-hamas-since-oct-7-have-died-pm-netanyahu-tells-mps-760976&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi3o7fOseOIAxUl3TgGHYTiNacQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Gaza war: Half of hostages held by Hamas since Oct 7 have died, PM Netanyahu tells MPs</a>

Netanyahu said Israel would continue the strikes on Lebanon "until we meet our objectives."

The UN, on Friday, said that a "catastrophic" intensification of Israeli attacks targeting Hezbollah militants had left Lebanon facing its "deadliest period... in a generation."

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Many delegates started leaving the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu started addressing the world leaders on Friday (Sep 27).

Many delegates started leaving the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu started addressing the world leaders on Friday (Sep 27). The audience started shouting 'shame shame', prompting the Jewish leader to start off by pledging to counter 'slander' at the world body. עשרות דיפלומטים יוצאים מהאולם לאות מחאה כשנתניהו מתחיל לדבר pic.twitter.com/Jl7ahLZ0JW — Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) September 27, 2024 × "After I heard the lies and slanders leveled at my country by many of the speakers at this podium, I decided to come here and set the record straight," Netanyahu said. The Israeli PM also warned Iran that if it dares to strike his country, "we will strike you back." He added that there was no place in Iran that Israeli agencies couldn't reach. The leader slammed Gaza's Hamas and Lebanon-based Hezbollah, saying both militant groups had fired more than 8,000 rockets at Israel since the war began on October 7. The Israeli PM said that "Hamas has got to go" and the militant group would have no role in the reconstruction of Gaza as he vowed to fight until "total victory." "If Hamas stays in power, it will regroup... and attack Israel again and again and again... So Hamas has got to go," Netanyahu said to diplomats. Also read: 'Gaza is a non-stop nightmare,' UN chief Guterres tells world leaders at General Assembly He also slammed the United Nations for its unfair treatment of his country, saying it had become a "contemptuous farce". "I say to you, until Israel – until the Jewish state – is treated like other nations, until this anti-Semitic swamp is drained, the UN will be viewed by fair-minded people everywhere as nothing more than a contemptuous farce," he said. Since Monday, Israel has shifted its focus from Gaza to its northern front with Lebanon where heavy bombing has reportedly killed 700 people and sparked an exodus of around 118,000 people. Also read: Gaza war: Half of hostages held by Hamas since Oct 7 have died, PM Netanyahu tells MPs Netanyahu said Israel would continue the strikes on Lebanon "until we meet our objectives." The UN, on Friday, said that a "catastrophic" intensification of Israeli attacks targeting Hezbollah militants had left Lebanon facing its "deadliest period... in a generation." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Audience shouts 'shame', delegates walk out as Israel's Netanyahu addresses UNGA

Hours after the US, France, and other allies called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the country's military to keep fighting with "full force", his office said.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM also did not respond to the ceasefire call, Netanyahu's office added.&nbsp;

His office further called the news about the ceasefire "not true".&nbsp;

"The news about a ceasefire - not true. This is an American-French proposal, to which the prime minister did not even respond. The news about the supposed directive to moderate the fighting in the north is also the opposite of the truth," it stated.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: France, US Propose 21-Day Lebanon Ceasefire

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According to the office's statement, Netanyahu instructed the IDF to continue the fighting with full force, and according to the plans presented to him.&nbsp;

"Also, the fighting in Gaza will continue until all the goals of the war are achieved," it stressed.&nbsp;

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz&nbsp;said, "There will be no ceasefire in the north".

Israel "will continue to fight against the terrorist organisation Hezbollah with all our might until victory and the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes," Katz said in a statement on X.

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לא תהיה הפסקת אש בצפון. נמשיך להילחם נגד ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה בכל העוצמה עד לניצחון והשבת תושבי הצפון בביטחון לבתיהם.
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/1839229451692872019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>US, UK and European Union calls for 'temporary ceasefire'</h2>

This comes after the US, UK, and EU called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon after the rising ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.&nbsp;

The 12-strong bloc proposed an immediate 21-day pause in fighting "to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement" and a ceasefire in Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-tells-idf-to-tone-down-lebanon-strikes-claims-report-as-allies-demand-21-day-ceasefire-762166">Also read:&nbsp;Netanyahu tells IDF to tone down Lebanon strikes, claims report as allies demand 21-day ceasefire</a>

They issued a joint statement, stressing that the hostilities were "intolerable" and presented an "unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation".&nbsp;

<h2>Israel 'spreading terror and fear'</h2>

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, speaking at the emergency meeting at UN headquarters in New York, emphasised the need for "de-escalation"&nbsp;

He added that Israel’s aerial bombardment, attacks on electronic devices, and threatened ground invasion have spread “terror and fear among the Lebanese citizens in full view of the world”.

“I hope to come back to my country armed with your explicit stance calling for the cessation of this aggression and for the respect of the sovereignty and safety of my country,” Mikati told the 15 members of the UN’s most powerful body.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Hours after the US, France, and other allies called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the country's military to keep fighting with "full force", his office said.

Hours after the US, France, and other allies called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the country's military to keep fighting with "full force", his office said. The Israeli PM also did not respond to the ceasefire call, Netanyahu's office added. His office further called the news about the ceasefire "not true". "The news about a ceasefire - not true. This is an American-French proposal, to which the prime minister did not even respond. The news about the supposed directive to moderate the fighting in the north is also the opposite of the truth," it stated. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: France, US Propose 21-Day Lebanon Ceasefire × According to the office's statement, Netanyahu instructed the IDF to continue the fighting with full force, and according to the plans presented to him. "Also, the fighting in Gaza will continue until all the goals of the war are achieved," it stressed. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "There will be no ceasefire in the north". Israel "will continue to fight against the terrorist organisation Hezbollah with all our might until victory and the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes," Katz said in a statement on X. לא תהיה הפסקת אש בצפון. נמשיך להילחם נגד ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה בכל העוצמה עד לניצחון והשבת תושבי הצפון בביטחון לבתיהם. — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) September 26, 2024 × US, UK and European Union calls for 'temporary ceasefire' This comes after the US, UK, and EU called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon after the rising ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. The 12-strong bloc proposed an immediate 21-day pause in fighting "to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement" and a ceasefire in Gaza. Also read: Netanyahu tells IDF to tone down Lebanon strikes, claims report as allies demand 21-day ceasefire They issued a joint statement, stressing that the hostilities were "intolerable" and presented an "unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation". Israel 'spreading terror and fear' Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, speaking at the emergency meeting at UN headquarters in New York, emphasised the need for "de-escalation" He added that Israel’s aerial bombardment, attacks on electronic devices, and threatened ground invasion have spread “terror and fear among the Lebanese citizens in full view of the world”. “I hope to come back to my country armed with your explicit stance calling for the cessation of this aggression and for the respect of the sovereignty and safety of my country,” Mikati told the 15 members of the UN’s most powerful body. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel rules out US-France ceasefire plan; asks military to fight with ‘full force’

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to tone down their attacks in Lebanon in light of the US, France and other allies calling for an&nbsp;immediate 21-day ceasefire, a report in The Times of Israel claimed,&nbsp;citing Channel 12.&nbsp;

While Netanyahu's voter base is steadfastly against the move of relenting against Hezbollah, the Israeli PM appears to be conflicted.&nbsp;

Another Channel 12 report, quoting officials at Netanyahu's office stated that there is a "greenlight for ceasefire" with the militant outfit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-has-us-become-a-helpless-giant-762029">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Has U.S. Become a Helpless Giant?</a>

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<h2>What did the allies demand?</h2>

US, France and other allies demanded that Israel and Hezbollah cease hostilities immediately while also urging for a truce in Gaza.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023, is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation,” read the statement.&nbsp;

“This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon,” continued the statement. “It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-claims-it-hit-75-hezbollah-targets-in-lebanon-overnight-762162">Also read |&nbsp;Israeli military claims it hit 75 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon overnight</a>

US President Joe Biden has already warned that the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah threatens to become an "all-out war" that could have serious spillover effects.&nbsp;

“An all-out war is possible, but I think there’s also the opportunity – we’re still in play to have a settlement that can fundamentally change the whole region,” Biden said in a TV interview.&nbsp;

The hostilities between the two sides have increased after Israel allegedly planted explosives in pagers used by Hezbollah fighters and detonated them remotely.&nbsp;The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 558 people on Monday (Sep 23) -- the deadliest day of violence in the country since its 1975-90 civil war.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hezbollah on Wednesday claimed it had fired a ballistic missile targeting&nbsp;Israeli spy agency Mossad's headquarters near Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

It is the first time the group has claimed a ballistic missile strike since its nearly year-long battle with Israel began after Hamas carried out its October 7 attack.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to tone down their attacks in Lebanon in light of the US, France and other allies calling for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, a report in The Times of Israel claimed, citing Channel 12.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to tone down their attacks in Lebanon in light of the US, France and other allies calling for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, a report in The Times of Israel claimed, citing Channel 12. While Netanyahu's voter base is steadfastly against the move of relenting against Hezbollah, the Israeli PM appears to be conflicted. Another Channel 12 report, quoting officials at Netanyahu's office stated that there is a "greenlight for ceasefire" with the militant outfit. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Has U.S. Become a Helpless Giant? × What did the allies demand? US, France and other allies demanded that Israel and Hezbollah cease hostilities immediately while also urging for a truce in Gaza. “The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023, is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation,” read the statement. “This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon,” continued the statement. “It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.” Also read | Israeli military claims it hit 75 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon overnight US President Joe Biden has already warned that the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah threatens to become an "all-out war" that could have serious spillover effects. “An all-out war is possible, but I think there’s also the opportunity – we’re still in play to have a settlement that can fundamentally change the whole region,” Biden said in a TV interview. The hostilities between the two sides have increased after Israel allegedly planted explosives in pagers used by Hezbollah fighters and detonated them remotely. The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 558 people on Monday (Sep 23) -- the deadliest day of violence in the country since its 1975-90 civil war. Meanwhile, Hezbollah on Wednesday claimed it had fired a ballistic missile targeting Israeli spy agency Mossad's headquarters near Tel Aviv. It is the first time the group has claimed a ballistic missile strike since its nearly year-long battle with Israel began after Hamas carried out its October 7 attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu tells IDF to tone down Lebanon strikes, claims report as allies demand 21-day ceasefire

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday (Sept 23) that Israel wanted to drag the Middle East into a full-blown war by provoking Iran to join the nearly-old conflict between Israel and Tehran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday (Sept 23) that Israel wanted to drag the Middle East into a full-blown war by provoking Iran to join the nearly-old conflict between Israel and Tehran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. "We do not wish to be the cause of instability in the Middle East as its consequences would be irreversible," President Pezeshkian told the press after his arrival in New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the news agency Reuters reported. "We want to live in peace, we don't want war. It is Israel that seeks to create this all-out conflict," Pezeshkian added. 'Will defend any group that defends itself' On being asked by reporters whether Iran would enter the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Pezeshkian said, "We will defend any group that is defending its rights and itself." He did not elaborate. Also read | Iran's Guards ban communications devices after pager explosions in Lebanon against Hezbollah Pezeshkian's call to resolve the Middle East conflict through dialogue came after Israel unleashed an intense wave of air strikes against Hezbollah on Monday, making it the deadliest day in Lebanon in nearly a year of conflict between Israel and the Tehran-backed group. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced from towns and villages on both sides of the border by near-daily exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Israel said it preferred a diplomatic solution that would have Hezbollah moved farther back from the border. However, Hezbollah, which also says it wants to avoid all-out conflict, said that only an end to the war in Gaza would stop the fighting. Lebanon says Israeli airstrikes kill at least 492 In the latest news from the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, the Israeli military said that it launched airstrikes against the Lebanese militant group on Monday, which Beirut said killed 492 people and sent tens of thousands fleeing for safety. Also watch | World DNA: Israel says it struck about 1,600 Hezbollah targets × Israel warned people in Lebanon to evacuate areas where it said Hezbollah was storing weapons. "Israel's war is not with you, it's with Hezbollah. For too long Hezbollah has been using you as human shields," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel wants to drag Middle East into full-blown war by...': Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian

The&nbsp;mother of a hostage still held by Hamas in Gaza&nbsp;has contradicted Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement&nbsp;that some 50 hostages held by Hamas are still alive, and said that the number is actually 30-35 at most.

Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan is held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, said, "The prime minister is lying. We know, the families, that the number is far smaller than the number cited by the prime minister.”

She said that all the families receive information on the status of their loved ones, including signs of life. And, on the basis of that information, she said, "In my opinion, there are no more than 30 to 35 hostages still alive.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-half-of-hostages-held-by-hamas-since-oct-7-have-died-pm-netanyahu-tells-mps-760976">Also read:&nbsp;Gaza war: Half of hostages held by Hamas since Oct 7 have died, PM Netanyahu tells MPs</a>

What’s at stake, she says, “is not redeeming hostages; it is truly saving lives.”

<h2>50 hostages alive in Gaza: Netanyahu</h2>

Earlier, Netanyahu said that about half of the roughly 100 hostages held in the Gaza Strip since last year are still alive.&nbsp;

Further stressing that she does not anticipate a possible deal for the next three to four months, Zangauker said, "There are no [substantive] contacts between the Israeli [negotiating] team and the mediators,” and “Hamas is not involved in any stage” of the efforts at present. “That’s the reality.”&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Israelis protest demanding hostage release

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She added that the US mediators, who have been trying hard to finalise a deal, have largely “given up” on their efforts at present.

<h2>‘Netanyahu chose escalation’</h2>

She further accused Netanyahu, "who through his decisions is murdering my Matan” — of putting his political future ahead of the future of the hostages. There was a clear opportunity for a deal several months ago, she says, but “he chose escalation.”

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The mother of a hostage still held by Hamas in Gaza has contradicted Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that some 50 hostages held by Hamas are still alive, and said that the number is actually 30-35 at most.

The mother of a hostage still held by Hamas in Gaza has contradicted Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that some 50 hostages held by Hamas are still alive, and said that the number is actually 30-35 at most. Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan is held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, said, "The prime minister is lying. We know, the families, that the number is far smaller than the number cited by the prime minister.” She said that all the families receive information on the status of their loved ones, including signs of life. And, on the basis of that information, she said, "In my opinion, there are no more than 30 to 35 hostages still alive.” Also read: Gaza war: Half of hostages held by Hamas since Oct 7 have died, PM Netanyahu tells MPs What’s at stake, she says, “is not redeeming hostages; it is truly saving lives.” 50 hostages alive in Gaza: Netanyahu Earlier, Netanyahu said that about half of the roughly 100 hostages held in the Gaza Strip since last year are still alive. Further stressing that she does not anticipate a possible deal for the next three to four months, Zangauker said, "There are no [substantive] contacts between the Israeli [negotiating] team and the mediators,” and “Hamas is not involved in any stage” of the efforts at present. “That’s the reality.” Watch | Israel-Hezbollah tensions: Israelis protest demanding hostage release × She added that the US mediators, who have been trying hard to finalise a deal, have largely “given up” on their efforts at present. ‘Netanyahu chose escalation’ She further accused Netanyahu, "who through his decisions is murdering my Matan” — of putting his political future ahead of the future of the hostages. There was a clear opportunity for a deal several months ago, she says, but “he chose escalation.” Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Mother of hostage contradicts Netanyahu's claim of 50 hostages being alive, says its 'no more than 30 to 35'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will delay his departure to New York by a day due to the security situation in the country's north, an official in his office told AFP on Friday.

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed his visit to the US by one day in light of the security situation in the north of Israel," the official said, asking not to be named. He said that Netanyahu will now travel on September 25, instead of September 24 as previously planned.

During his visit to the United States, Netanyahu will address the annual UN General Assembly session. He is scheduled to return to Israel on September 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-to-return-to-us-to-address-unga-meet-officials-report-755641">Also read:&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu to address UNGA session, meet world leaders: Report</a>

Israel is engaged in a fierce cross-border clash in the country's north with the Lebanese Hezbollah group, with the situation deteriorating in recent days.

Watch |&nbsp;America snubs Netanyahu as Israeli PM expands war

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On Friday, the Israeli military carried out a "targeted strike" in Beirut, which a source close to Hezbollah said killed one of its top military leaders.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will delay his departure to New York by a day due to the security situation in the country's north, an official in his office told AFP on Friday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will delay his departure to New York by a day due to the security situation in the country's north, an official in his office told AFP on Friday. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed his visit to the US by one day in light of the security situation in the north of Israel," the official said, asking not to be named. He said that Netanyahu will now travel on September 25, instead of September 24 as previously planned. During his visit to the United States, Netanyahu will address the annual UN General Assembly session. He is scheduled to return to Israel on September 28. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu to address UNGA session, meet world leaders: Report Israel is engaged in a fierce cross-border clash in the country's north with the Lebanese Hezbollah group, with the situation deteriorating in recent days. Watch | America snubs Netanyahu as Israeli PM expands war × On Friday, the Israeli military carried out a "targeted strike" in Beirut, which a source close to Hezbollah said killed one of its top military leaders. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israeli PM Netanyahu to delay departure for US amid security situation in north

Authorities in Israel said on Thursday (Sep&nbsp;19) that the police arrested an Israeli citizen last month who was recruited by Iranian intelligence&nbsp;to plot the assassinations of top Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;

In a joint statement by the police and Shin Bet, the citizen was recruited by Iranian intelligence to promote the assassinations of Israeli figures.

"He was smuggled twice into Iran and received payment for carrying out missions," the statement said, adding that Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and other top officials were among the targets.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is the arrested Israeli citizen?</h2>

Citing a court document, a report by the news agency AFP said that the man was identified as&nbsp;Mordechai Maman of Ashkelon. The document said that Maman was born in 1952, adding&nbsp;he had been in custody since August 29.

The joint statement from the police and Shin Bet said he was "a businessman who lived in Turkey for an extended period" and maintained connections with Turks and Iranians who introduced him by phone to an Iranian businessman called Eddie.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-explosions-japanese-firm-says-devices-used-in-recent-blasts-discontinued-around-10-years-ago-759959">Lebanon explosions: Japanese firm says devices used in recent blasts discontinued around 10 years ago</a>

The man attended at least two meetings in Iran to discuss the possibility of top Israeli officials which also included head of the Shin Bet.&nbsp;

<h2>Another plot foiled by Shin Bet last week</h2>

Last week, Shin Bet uncovered what it said was a plot by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah to assassinate a former senior defence official, who was subsequently identified as the former army chief of staff and defence minister Moshe Ya'alon.

The above developments come as&nbsp;hand-held radios used by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah detonated across the country's south on Wednesday,&nbsp;after similar explosions of the militant group's pagers the day before.&nbsp;

Also watch | Will Israeli PM Netanyahu fire Yoav Gallant?

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According to Lebanon's health ministry,&nbsp;20 people were killed and more than 450 were&nbsp;injured on Wednesday, while the death toll from Tuesday's explosions rose to 12, including two children, with nearly 3,000 injured.

Citing sources, Reuters reported&nbsp;that&nbsp;Israel's spy agency Mossad was responsible for the explosions. However, Israeli officials have not commented on the blasts yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

Authorities in Israel said on Thursday (Sep 19) that the police arrested an Israeli citizen last month who was recruited by Iranian intelligence to plot the assassinations of top Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Authorities in Israel said on Thursday (Sep 19) that the police arrested an Israeli citizen last month who was recruited by Iranian intelligence to plot the assassinations of top Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a joint statement by the police and Shin Bet, the citizen was recruited by Iranian intelligence to promote the assassinations of Israeli figures. "He was smuggled twice into Iran and received payment for carrying out missions," the statement said, adding that Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and other top officials were among the targets. Who is the arrested Israeli citizen? Citing a court document, a report by the news agency AFP said that the man was identified as Mordechai Maman of Ashkelon. The document said that Maman was born in 1952, adding he had been in custody since August 29. The joint statement from the police and Shin Bet said he was "a businessman who lived in Turkey for an extended period" and maintained connections with Turks and Iranians who introduced him by phone to an Iranian businessman called Eddie. Also read | Lebanon explosions: Japanese firm says devices used in recent blasts discontinued around 10 years ago The man attended at least two meetings in Iran to discuss the possibility of top Israeli officials which also included head of the Shin Bet. Another plot foiled by Shin Bet last week Last week, Shin Bet uncovered what it said was a plot by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah to assassinate a former senior defence official, who was subsequently identified as the former army chief of staff and defence minister Moshe Ya'alon. The above developments come as hand-held radios used by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah detonated across the country's south on Wednesday, after similar explosions of the militant group's pagers the day before. Also watch | Will Israeli PM Netanyahu fire Yoav Gallant? × According to Lebanon's health ministry, 20 people were killed and more than 450 were injured on Wednesday, while the death toll from Tuesday's explosions rose to 12, including two children, with nearly 3,000 injured. Citing sources, Reuters reported that Israel's spy agency Mossad was responsible for the explosions. However, Israeli officials have not commented on the blasts yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli cops arrest citizen recruited by Iranian intelligence to plot Benjamin Netanyahu assassination

Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks,&nbsp;and the Israeli&nbsp;military later said that it struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility.&nbsp;

The air strikes hit Hezbollah targets in Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun and Kfarkela in southern Lebanon, as well as a Hezbollah weapons storage facility in the area of Khiam, the military said.

Israeli media reported that a number of Israeli civilians had been wounded by anti-tank missile fire from Lebanon, but there was no official confirmation.

Earlier, Israel&nbsp;said that it thwarted an Iran-backed assassination plot targeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior leaders. The bombing comes just a day after radio devices used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago, in parallel with Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:103,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1790}">Israel-Hezbollah tensions rise</h2>

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated dramatically, with the conflict between the two entities edging closer to a full-scale war following the sophisticated booby-trap attacks on Hezbollah's communication networks in southern Lebanon. Such a war, as per Reuters, was last fought 18 years ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:214,&quot;w&quot;:634,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1901}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-israels-unit-8200-secretive-cyber-warfare-arm-linked-to-hezbollah-pager-attacks-760034">What is Israel's Unit 8200? Secretive cyber warfare arm linked to Hezbollah pager attacks</a>

On Wednesday (Sep 18), Hezbollah's pagers, used to evade surveillance, detonated in a series of explosions, killing 12 people and injuring nearly 3,000.&nbsp;

While Israel hasn't commented directly on the attacks, reports suggest Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, was responsible.&nbsp;

Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon were bombarded by Israeli jets and artillery during the night. The army confirmed successful air strikes on Hezbollah targets in multiple locations in southern Lebanon, including Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun, and Kfarkela, as well as a weapons storage facility near Khiam.

Hezbollah, meanwhile, launched anti-tank missiles into Israel, most of which were intercepted. A number of civilians were wounded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-explosions-japanese-firm-says-devices-used-in-recent-blasts-discontinued-around-10-years-ago-759959">Lebanon explosions: Japanese firm says devices used in recent blasts discontinued around 10 years ago</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:484,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2171}">Netanyahu murder plot</h2>

This comes as on Thursday, Israeli security services announced the discovery of an Iranian-backed assassination attempt on PM Benjamin Netanyahu and the arrest of an Israeli businessman who had attended meetings in Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks, and the Israeli military later said that it struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility.

Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks, and the Israeli military later said that it struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility. The air strikes hit Hezbollah targets in Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun and Kfarkela in southern Lebanon, as well as a Hezbollah weapons storage facility in the area of Khiam, the military said. Israeli media reported that a number of Israeli civilians had been wounded by anti-tank missile fire from Lebanon, but there was no official confirmation. Earlier, Israel said that it thwarted an Iran-backed assassination plot targeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior leaders. The bombing comes just a day after radio devices used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago, in parallel with Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza. Israel-Hezbollah tensions rise Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated dramatically, with the conflict between the two entities edging closer to a full-scale war following the sophisticated booby-trap attacks on Hezbollah's communication networks in southern Lebanon. Such a war, as per Reuters, was last fought 18 years ago. Also read | What is Israel's Unit 8200? Secretive cyber warfare arm linked to Hezbollah pager attacks On Wednesday (Sep 18), Hezbollah's pagers, used to evade surveillance, detonated in a series of explosions, killing 12 people and injuring nearly 3,000. While Israel hasn't commented directly on the attacks, reports suggest Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, was responsible. Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon were bombarded by Israeli jets and artillery during the night. The army confirmed successful air strikes on Hezbollah targets in multiple locations in southern Lebanon, including Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun, and Kfarkela, as well as a weapons storage facility near Khiam. Hezbollah, meanwhile, launched anti-tank missiles into Israel, most of which were intercepted. A number of civilians were wounded. Also read | Lebanon explosions: Japanese firm says devices used in recent blasts discontinued around 10 years ago Netanyahu murder plot This comes as on Thursday, Israeli security services announced the discovery of an Iranian-backed assassination attempt on PM Benjamin Netanyahu and the arrest of an Israeli businessman who had attended meetings in Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel strikes seven Hezbollah sites in Lebanon after Iran-backed plot to assassinate Netanyahu revealed

Gaza health ministry has identified&nbsp;over 34,000 Palestinians that have been killed in the almost one-year-long, ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. It has published a 649-page exhaustive list of the victims.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:68,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1755}">Victims of Gaza war</h2>

The list released by the Gaza health ministry contains the names, ages, genders, and ID numbers of more than 80 per cent or 34,344 victims of the war.&nbsp;

It also mentions 7,613 other people that have perished in the war, and whose bodies were received by the hospitals and morgues in the territory but whose identities are yet to be confirmed. The total death toll on the Palestinian side has crossed 41,000 as per reports.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:689,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1916}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwanese-company-whose-pagers-exploded-in-lebanon-denies-manufacturing-them-759622">Hezbollah Pager Explosion: Taiwanese company whose pagers exploded in Lebanon denies manufacturing them</a>

Among the dead are 169 babies who were born after the Hamas militant group's Oct 7 attack, and an over one-hundred-year-old man — born in 1922 — a survivor of more than a century of war and upheaval who didn't survive this war.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:350,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2037}">Gone too soon: Children killed in Israel-Hamas war</h2>

The 649-page-long document lists the dead largely by age. It underlines the shockingly high toll of Israeli attacks on Palestinian children, with over a hundred pages of the list filled with victims under the age of 10.

Shockingly, the first adult name in the impossibly long list does not appear until page 215.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-shin-bet-thwarts-hezbollahs-remote-bombing-plot-targeting-former-security-chief-759582">Israel’s Shin Bet thwarts Hezbollah’s remote bombing plot targeting former security chief</a>

While the list contains names of both civilians and fighters, because of their age and gender, the majority of those dead can be identified as civilians. The list of dead Palestinians includes 11,355 children, 6,297 women and 2,955 people aged 60 or older. Among the men, surely many are civilians of fighting age who died in the ongoing war.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:564,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2251}">Israel refutes the high death toll</h2>

Israel officials have repeatedly questioned the death toll and argue that the Hamas-controlled government and its officials are not providing reliable figures.&nbsp;

However, according to the reports, the doctors and the civil servants in the territory have proven the credibility of their records in previous wars. During the many conflicts between 2009 and 2021, a tally by the United Nations closely matched the ones from Gaza.&nbsp;

In May, Farhan Haq, a spokesperson for the UN secretary-general when questioned about the numbers had said,&nbsp;"Unfortunately, we have the sad experience of coordinating with the Ministry of Health on casualty figures every few years for large mass casualty incidents in Gaza; and in past times, their figures have proven to be generally accurate."

(With inputs from agencies)

Gaza health ministry has identified over 34,000 Palestinians that have been killed in the almost one-year-long, ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. It has published a 649-page exhaustive list of the victims.

Gaza health ministry has identified over 34,000 Palestinians that have been killed in the almost one-year-long, ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. It has published a 649-page exhaustive list of the victims. Victims of Gaza war The list released by the Gaza health ministry contains the names, ages, genders, and ID numbers of more than 80 per cent or 34,344 victims of the war. It also mentions 7,613 other people that have perished in the war, and whose bodies were received by the hospitals and morgues in the territory but whose identities are yet to be confirmed. The total death toll on the Palestinian side has crossed 41,000 as per reports. Also read | Hezbollah Pager Explosion: Taiwanese company whose pagers exploded in Lebanon denies manufacturing them Among the dead are 169 babies who were born after the Hamas militant group's Oct 7 attack, and an over one-hundred-year-old man — born in 1922 — a survivor of more than a century of war and upheaval who didn't survive this war. Gone too soon: Children killed in Israel-Hamas war The 649-page-long document lists the dead largely by age. It underlines the shockingly high toll of Israeli attacks on Palestinian children, with over a hundred pages of the list filled with victims under the age of 10. Shockingly, the first adult name in the impossibly long list does not appear until page 215. Also read | Israel’s Shin Bet thwarts Hezbollah’s remote bombing plot targeting former security chief While the list contains names of both civilians and fighters, because of their age and gender, the majority of those dead can be identified as civilians. The list of dead Palestinians includes 11,355 children, 6,297 women and 2,955 people aged 60 or older. Among the men, surely many are civilians of fighting age who died in the ongoing war. Israel refutes the high death toll Israel officials have repeatedly questioned the death toll and argue that the Hamas-controlled government and its officials are not providing reliable figures. However, according to the reports, the doctors and the civil servants in the territory have proven the credibility of their records in previous wars. During the many conflicts between 2009 and 2021, a tally by the United Nations closely matched the ones from Gaza. In May, Farhan Haq, a spokesperson for the UN secretary-general when questioned about the numbers had said, "Unfortunately, we have the sad experience of coordinating with the Ministry of Health on casualty figures every few years for large mass casualty incidents in Gaza; and in past times, their figures have proven to be generally accurate." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: 215 of 649 pages are just children; Gaza health ministry releases names of victims

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday (Sep 17) a significant expansion of his country's war objectives. Israel's war goals now include the return of northern residents who fled because of clashes with Hezbollah.&nbsp;

This comes as, nearly a year into the Gaza war, Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar on Monday (Sep 16) said that the militant group has prepared itself to fight a "long war".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-threatening-to-fire-defence-minister-gallant-once-again-reports-758940">Israeli PM Netanyahu threatening to fire Defence Minister Gallant once again: Reports</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1822}">Israel's war goals</h2>

In a statement, PM Netanyahu's office said that the nation's political-security cabinet has "updated the goals of the war this evening so that they include the following section: the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes."

Previously, on Monday, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in conversation with a visiting US envoy, stressed that "military action" was the "only way left to ensure the return of Israel's northern communities to their homes".

Cross-border fire with Hezbollah, a key Hamas ally, has been intensifying since the conflict began on October 7. Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has been engaging in near-daily strikes with Israeli forces. Although the group has suggested it would stand down if a ceasefire in Gaza were reached, Israel insists that it cannot tolerate militants near its northern border.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:398,&quot;w&quot;:575,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2085}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-probably-killed-three-hostages-in-gaza-airstrikes-confirms-probe-758870">Israeli military ‘probably’ killed three hostages in Gaza airstrikes, confirms probe</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:434,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2121}">Hamas' long war</h2>

Meanwhile, on the Gaza front, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar declared that the group is prepared for a long fight, backed by Iran-backed regional allies.

In a letter to Yemeni allies - the Houthis, Sinwar, who took over as Hamas leader last month after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, said: "We have prepared ourselves to fight a long war of attrition".&nbsp;

Sinwar, as per AFP, also threatened that Iran-backed groups in Gaza and elsewhere in the region would "break the enemy's political will".

"Our combined efforts with you" and with groups in Lebanon and Iraq "will break this enemy and inflict defeat on it," said the Hamas leader.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday (Sep 17) a significant expansion of his country's war objectives. Israel's war goals now include the return of northern residents who fled because of clashes with Hezbollah.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday (Sep 17) a significant expansion of his country's war objectives. Israel's war goals now include the return of northern residents who fled because of clashes with Hezbollah. This comes as, nearly a year into the Gaza war, Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar on Monday (Sep 16) said that the militant group has prepared itself to fight a "long war". Also read | Israeli PM Netanyahu threatening to fire Defence Minister Gallant once again: Reports Israel's war goals In a statement, PM Netanyahu's office said that the nation's political-security cabinet has "updated the goals of the war this evening so that they include the following section: the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes." Previously, on Monday, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in conversation with a visiting US envoy, stressed that "military action" was the "only way left to ensure the return of Israel's northern communities to their homes". Cross-border fire with Hezbollah, a key Hamas ally, has been intensifying since the conflict began on October 7. Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has been engaging in near-daily strikes with Israeli forces. Although the group has suggested it would stand down if a ceasefire in Gaza were reached, Israel insists that it cannot tolerate militants near its northern border. Also read | Israeli military ‘probably’ killed three hostages in Gaza airstrikes, confirms probe Hamas' long war Meanwhile, on the Gaza front, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar declared that the group is prepared for a long fight, backed by Iran-backed regional allies. In a letter to Yemeni allies - the Houthis, Sinwar, who took over as Hamas leader last month after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, said: "We have prepared ourselves to fight a long war of attrition". Sinwar, as per AFP, also threatened that Iran-backed groups in Gaza and elsewhere in the region would "break the enemy's political will". "Our combined efforts with you" and with groups in Lebanon and Iraq "will break this enemy and inflict defeat on it," said the Hamas leader. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza conflict: Israel updates its 'goals of war' as Hamas chief says group prepared to fight 'long war'

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, as per reports, met with the head of the New Hope party Gideon Sa'ar to negotiate a possible political settlement under which both of them will jointly appoint a new Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1922}">Agreement between Netanyahu and Sa'ar</h2>

As per the Times of Israel, if rumours prove to be true and the prime minister decides to end the tenure of current Defence Minister Yoav Gallant,&nbsp;Sa'ar, a former ally turned rival, who is currently a member of the opposition,&nbsp;is expected to be appointed as his successor.

As part of this arrangement, Haaretz and Ynet reported that IDF chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi may find himself replaced. However, it is still uncertain whether Halevi will be forced out or asked to leave voluntarily from his IDF chief of staff post.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:264,&quot;w&quot;:695,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2101}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-initial-report-on-american-woman-aysenur-ezgi-eygis-death-doesnt-exonerate-troops-us-says-759287">Israel's initial report on American woman Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi's death doesn't exonerate troops, says US</a>

If not the defence minister, Sa'ar may be given the role of the foreign minister while Israel Katz takes over from Gallant, reported Channel 12. It also reported that New Hope MKs Ze'ev Elkin and Sharren Haskel may be offered ministerial portfolios.

The two have reportedly also decided that Sa'ar will have the power to veto and override any legislation pertaining to the judiciary before it is approved or promoted. However, Netanyahu won't need his consent for other actions pertaining to Netanyahu's judicial overhaul, like appointing or firing people.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:451,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2288}">Gallant's alleged dismissal</h2>

This comes as on Monday (Sep 16) it was reported that Netanyahu was contemplating the dismissal of defence minister Yoav Gallant. As per reports, Gallant's opposition to Israel's large-scale operation in Lebanon was being used as a convenient pretext to replace him.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-conflict-israel-updates-its-goals-of-war-as-hamas-chief-says-group-prepared-to-fight-long-war-759251">Gaza conflict: Israel updates its 'goals of war' as Hamas chief says group prepared to fight 'long war'</a>

This would not be the first time Netanyahu has tried to fire Gallant. The two leaders have been at odds over a number of government policies and, more recently, the handling of the war in Gaza and the terms of a possible hostage release and ceasefire deal with Islamist militant group Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, as per reports, met with the head of the New Hope party Gideon Sa'ar to negotiate a possible political settlement under which both of them will jointly appoint a new Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, as per reports, met with the head of the New Hope party Gideon Sa'ar to negotiate a possible political settlement under which both of them will jointly appoint a new Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff. Agreement between Netanyahu and Sa'ar As per the Times of Israel, if rumours prove to be true and the prime minister decides to end the tenure of current Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, Sa'ar, a former ally turned rival, who is currently a member of the opposition, is expected to be appointed as his successor. As part of this arrangement, Haaretz and Ynet reported that IDF chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi may find himself replaced. However, it is still uncertain whether Halevi will be forced out or asked to leave voluntarily from his IDF chief of staff post. Also read | Israel's initial report on American woman Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi's death doesn't exonerate troops, says US If not the defence minister, Sa'ar may be given the role of the foreign minister while Israel Katz takes over from Gallant, reported Channel 12. It also reported that New Hope MKs Ze'ev Elkin and Sharren Haskel may be offered ministerial portfolios. The two have reportedly also decided that Sa'ar will have the power to veto and override any legislation pertaining to the judiciary before it is approved or promoted. However, Netanyahu won't need his consent for other actions pertaining to Netanyahu's judicial overhaul, like appointing or firing people. Gallant's alleged dismissal This comes as on Monday (Sep 16) it was reported that Netanyahu was contemplating the dismissal of defence minister Yoav Gallant. As per reports, Gallant's opposition to Israel's large-scale operation in Lebanon was being used as a convenient pretext to replace him. Also read | Gaza conflict: Israel updates its 'goals of war' as Hamas chief says group prepared to fight 'long war' This would not be the first time Netanyahu has tried to fire Gallant. The two leaders have been at odds over a number of government policies and, more recently, the handling of the war in Gaza and the terms of a possible hostage release and ceasefire deal with Islamist militant group Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu and Gideon Sa'ar to appoint new IDF chief: Reports

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is threatening to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant once again as the latter opposed a military operation against Lebanon, Israeli media reports have claimed.&nbsp;

The Kan public broadcaster and Channel 13 news stated that&nbsp;Northern Command Chief Ori Gordin was pushing for a large-scale attack, with PM Netanyahu,&nbsp;at least outwardly, backing the operation. However, Gallant and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi were staunchly against the move.&nbsp;

“If Gallant tries to thwart an operation in the north, he will be replaced,"&nbsp;an unnamed Netanyahu associate was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Gallant is of the view that launching an attack against Lebanon at this time would jeopardise the efforts to reach a hostage-truce deal in Gaza.&nbsp;

There has been considerable friction between Netanyahu and Gallant for some time now. The two have vehemently disagreed over the terms of the hostage-truce deal with the PM in favour of&nbsp;maintaining Israeli troops in the Philadelphi Corridor (a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt)&nbsp;while Gallant wants to chalk out a deal that prioritises the safety of hostages.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-houthi-missile-hits-open-area-in-central-israel-758921">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Houthi missile hits open area in central Israel</a>

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<h2>Friction between Netanyahu and Gallant</h2>

The stance taken by Netanyahu during one of the cabinet meetings last month apparently 'horrified' Gallant who said Hamas would never agree to the proposal.

Gallant claimed Bibi imposed his position on the security establishment and that it was not in the best interests of the country.&nbsp;

“I imposed? I imposed?” Netanyahu responded to the claims,&nbsp;according to the transcript of the meeting leaked in the media.

“Of course you did. They had their own plan. You are running the negotiations by yourself ever since the war cabinet disbanded (in June). We learn of decisions only after the fact. The negotiators sketched the maps as you wanted, but they had a different position,” added Gallant, referring to a series of maps, drawn up by the IDF to keep troops in the Philadelphi Corridor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internal-war-in-israeli-cabinet-pm-netanyahu-and-defence-minister-gallant-exchange-fiery-words-749690" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Internal war in Israeli cabinet? PM Netanyahu and Defence Minister Gallant exchange fiery words</a>

Previously, Netanyahu had accused Gallant of&nbsp;adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks.

Notably, Gallant was fired by Netanyahu in March 2023 after he warned about the rifts in the national security apparatus. However, owing to public protests, Gallant was reinstated two weeks later.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is threatening to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant once again as the latter opposed a military operation against Lebanon, Israeli media reports have claimed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is threatening to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant once again as the latter opposed a military operation against Lebanon, Israeli media reports have claimed. The Kan public broadcaster and Channel 13 news stated that Northern Command Chief Ori Gordin was pushing for a large-scale attack, with PM Netanyahu, at least outwardly, backing the operation. However, Gallant and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi were staunchly against the move. “If Gallant tries to thwart an operation in the north, he will be replaced," an unnamed Netanyahu associate was quoted as saying. Gallant is of the view that launching an attack against Lebanon at this time would jeopardise the efforts to reach a hostage-truce deal in Gaza. There has been considerable friction between Netanyahu and Gallant for some time now. The two have vehemently disagreed over the terms of the hostage-truce deal with the PM in favour of maintaining Israeli troops in the Philadelphi Corridor (a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt) while Gallant wants to chalk out a deal that prioritises the safety of hostages. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Houthi missile hits open area in central Israel × Friction between Netanyahu and Gallant The stance taken by Netanyahu during one of the cabinet meetings last month apparently 'horrified' Gallant who said Hamas would never agree to the proposal. Gallant claimed Bibi imposed his position on the security establishment and that it was not in the best interests of the country. “I imposed? I imposed?” Netanyahu responded to the claims, according to the transcript of the meeting leaked in the media. “Of course you did. They had their own plan. You are running the negotiations by yourself ever since the war cabinet disbanded (in June). We learn of decisions only after the fact. The negotiators sketched the maps as you wanted, but they had a different position,” added Gallant, referring to a series of maps, drawn up by the IDF to keep troops in the Philadelphi Corridor. Also read | Internal war in Israeli cabinet? PM Netanyahu and Defence Minister Gallant exchange fiery words Previously, Netanyahu had accused Gallant of adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks. Notably, Gallant was fired by Netanyahu in March 2023 after he warned about the rifts in the national security apparatus. However, owing to public protests, Gallant was reinstated two weeks later. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu threatening to fire Defence Minister Gallant once again: Reports

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Sept 15) praised Yemen's Houthi rebels for their missile attack in central Israel earlier in the day. In a statement, Hamas said that Israel would not enjoy security unless it ended its offensive in the Gaza Strip.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Sept 15) praised Yemen's Houthi rebels for their missile attack in central Israel earlier in the day. In a statement, Hamas said that Israel would not enjoy security unless it ended its offensive in the Gaza Strip. Hamas considers the missile attack a "natural response to the Zionist entity's aggression against our Palestinian people ... We affirm that the Zionist enemy will not enjoy security unless it ceases its brutal aggression against our people in the Gaza Strip," the group said in a statement. Hamas' remarks came hours after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels after they launched the missile attack. "This morning, the Houthis launched a surface-to-surface missile from Yemen into our territory. They should have known by now that we charge a 'heavy price' for any attempt to harm us," Prime Minister Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting, according to a statement from his office. The missile strikes in central Israel Earlier on Sunday, Houthi rebels, who control northern Yemen, struck central Israel with a missile for the first time and warned of more strikes to come in solidarity with the Palestinians. Also read | Hamas chief lauds Hezbollah’s Nasrallah for support against Israel since Oct 7 Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the group struck with a new hypersonic ballistic missile that travelled 2,040 km (1270 miles) in just 11 1/2 minutes. Israel's military said the missile fell in an open area and nobody was hurt. A report by the news agency Reuters said that air raid sirens had sounded in Tel Aviv and across central Israel moments before the missile landed at around 6.35 am local time, sending residents running for shelter. Loud booms were heard, which the military said came from missile interceptors. "Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago in central Israel, a surface-to-surface missile was identified crossing into central Israel from the east and fell in an open area. No injuries were reported," the Israeli military said. Previous attacks on Israel The Houthis have fired missiles at Israel repeatedly in what they say is solidarity with the Palestinians since the Gaza war began with a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. Previously, Houthi missiles have not penetrated deep into Israeli air space, with the only one reported to have hit Israeli territory falling in an open area near the Red Sea port of Eilat in March. Also watch | World DNA: Israelis continue demand for return of hostages × Apart from missiles, the Houthis have also attacked Israel with drones, including one that hit Tel Aviv for the first time in July, killing a man and wounding four people. That attack prompted Israeli air strikes on Houthi military targets near the port of Hodeidah that killed six and wounded 80. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis' missile attack in Israel: Hamas praises strike, Netanyahu warns Iran-aligned rebels

The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA on Wednesday (Sep 11) revealed that six of its staffers were killed after two Israeli airstrikes hit a school in Gaza. This incident marks the highest death toll for UN Staff since the start of the war.

"Among those killed was the manager of the UNRWA shelter and other team members providing assistance to displaced people," said the UNRWA on X.

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Just Tragic.<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:404,&quot;y&quot;:181,&quot;w&quot;:38,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:437,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1938}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> 
Six <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:217,&quot;y&quot;:196,&quot;w&quot;:61,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:250,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1953}" href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a> colleagues killed today when two airstrikes hit a school and its surroundings in Nuseirat in the middle areas. 
This is the highest death toll among our staff in a single incident. 
Among those killed was the manager of the UNRWA shelter and other…
— UNRWA (@UNRWA) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:399,&quot;y&quot;:286,&quot;w&quot;:116,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:432,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2043}" href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA/status/1833967285171630128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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UN Chief António Guterres, in a statement, has called the lack of accountability on UN staff killings in Gaza "totally unacceptable".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:402,&quot;w&quot;:622,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2159}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-hamas-holds-key-talks-in-doha-with-qatar-and-egypt-over-hostage-and-prisoner-swap-757941">Gaza War: Hamas holds key hostage, prisoner swap talks in Doha with Qatar and Egypt</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:438,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2195}">Strikes on school</h2>

Israel in a statement said that its air force had "conducted a precise strike on terrorists who were operating inside a Hamas command-and-control centre," on the school grounds".

However, the UNRWA in a post on X said that the school is home to thousands of displaced people.

"This school has been hit five times since the war began. It is home to around 12,000 displaced people, mainly women and children," said the UNRWA.

UN Secretary-General Guterres, in an interview with Reuters, said that the past year has been "very tough, very difficult".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:664,&quot;w&quot;:585,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2421}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-hit-un-school-in-gaza-killing-at-least-34-people-757922">Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas militants hit UN school, homes in Gaza; 34 killed</a>

He said that Israel's retaliation against Hamas in Gaza — which has killed over 41,000 people since Oct 7 — are "very dramatic violations of the international humanitarian law and the total absence of an effective protection of civilians."

"What's happening in Gaza is totally unacceptable," he said, adding that nearly 300 humanitarian aid&nbsp;workers, most of them UN staff, have been killed during the conflict.&nbsp;

He said that there should be an effective investigation and accountability for their deaths.

"We have courts, but we see that the decisions of courts are not respected, and it is this kind of limbo of accountability that is totally unacceptable and that requires also a serious a serious reflection," he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA on Wednesday (Sep 11) revealed that six of its staffers were killed after two Israeli airstrikes hit a school in Gaza.

The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA on Wednesday (Sep 11) revealed that six of its staffers were killed after two Israeli airstrikes hit a school in Gaza. This incident marks the highest death toll for UN Staff since the start of the war. "Among those killed was the manager of the UNRWA shelter and other team members providing assistance to displaced people," said the UNRWA on X. Just Tragic.#Gaza Six @UNRWA colleagues killed today when two airstrikes hit a school and its surroundings in Nuseirat in the middle areas. This is the highest death toll among our staff in a single incident. Among those killed was the manager of the UNRWA shelter and other… — UNRWA (@UNRWA) September 11, 2024 × UN Chief António Guterres, in a statement, has called the lack of accountability on UN staff killings in Gaza "totally unacceptable". Also read | Gaza War: Hamas holds key hostage, prisoner swap talks in Doha with Qatar and Egypt Strikes on school Israel in a statement said that its air force had "conducted a precise strike on terrorists who were operating inside a Hamas command-and-control centre," on the school grounds". However, the UNRWA in a post on X said that the school is home to thousands of displaced people. "This school has been hit five times since the war began. It is home to around 12,000 displaced people, mainly women and children," said the UNRWA. UN Secretary-General Guterres, in an interview with Reuters, said that the past year has been "very tough, very difficult". Also read | Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas militants hit UN school, homes in Gaza; 34 killed He said that Israel's retaliation against Hamas in Gaza — which has killed over 41,000 people since Oct 7 — are "very dramatic violations of the international humanitarian law and the total absence of an effective protection of civilians." "What's happening in Gaza is totally unacceptable," he said, adding that nearly 300 humanitarian aid workers, most of them UN staff, have been killed during the conflict. He said that there should be an effective investigation and accountability for their deaths. "We have courts, but we see that the decisions of courts are not respected, and it is this kind of limbo of accountability that is totally unacceptable and that requires also a serious a serious reflection," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

'Totally unacceptable': Six UN staffers killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza school; UN chief condemns deaths

Israel-Hamas war: A delegation of the militant group Hamas met with Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Doha on Wednesday (Sep 11) to hold talks about a potential hostage and prisoner exchange.

The Palestinian group in a statement said that its lead negotiator Khalil al-Hayya met with Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egypt's intelligence chief Abbas Kamel.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:114,&quot;w&quot;:585,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1951}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-hit-un-school-in-gaza-killing-at-least-34-people-757922">Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas militants hit UN school, homes in Gaza; 34 killed</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1987}">What was discussed?</h2>

As per the Hamas, they had discussed "developments concerning the Palestinian cause and the aggression on the Gaza Strip". However, the Palestinian group did not reveal whether any headway was achieved because of the talks.

However, the statement reiterated the group's "readiness for the immediate implementation of the ceasefire agreement based on President Biden's declaration".

In the statement, Hamas also reiterated its demand for Israel's withdrawal from "all Gaza territories".

The Palestinian militant group also claimed it had not placed any further demands on negotiators and said that it was "rejecting any new conditions to this agreement from any party".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:397,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2234}">Negotiations ongoing</h2>

In May, US President Joe Biden, at mediations held in Cairo and Doha, laid out a framework to the parties involved in the negotiations. More recently, in August, the US President presented a "bridging proposal".

For months now, the US, Egypt, and Qatar have been engaged in behind-the-scenes negotiations. However, except for a one-week truce beginning in late November last year, they have failed to secure a halt to the war between Hamas and Israel that will on Oct 7 complete one year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:558,&quot;w&quot;:517,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2395}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-warns-israeli-occupied-west-bank-becoming-new-gaza-757587">European Union warns Israeli-occupied West Bank becoming 'new Gaza'</a>

Calls for a deal have intensified after Israeli authorities at the beginning of September announced the discovery of the bodies of six hostages, killed execution style, just before the IDF forces reached their location in Hamas tunnels in Gaza. 
&nbsp; 
However, as per AFP, even in the face of external pressure for an agreement, both Hamas and Israel continue to dig in their heels and are refusing to budge on their demands.

While Hamas is demanding Israel's exit from all of Gaza, Israel is seeking control of the so-called Philadelphi Corridor on the Gaza-Egypt border.

Doubling down on the demand, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims that the control was essential to stop the Hamas from rearming. This is despite both Egypt and Qatar last week rejected&nbsp;the charge that the border was used to arm the Hamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: A delegation of the militant group Hamas met with Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Doha on Wednesday (Sep 11) to hold talks about a potential hostage and prisoner exchange.

Israel-Hamas war: A delegation of the militant group Hamas met with Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Doha on Wednesday (Sep 11) to hold talks about a potential hostage and prisoner exchange. The Palestinian group in a statement said that its lead negotiator Khalil al-Hayya met with Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egypt's intelligence chief Abbas Kamel. Also read | Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas militants hit UN school, homes in Gaza; 34 killed What was discussed? As per the Hamas, they had discussed "developments concerning the Palestinian cause and the aggression on the Gaza Strip". However, the Palestinian group did not reveal whether any headway was achieved because of the talks. However, the statement reiterated the group's "readiness for the immediate implementation of the ceasefire agreement based on President Biden's declaration". In the statement, Hamas also reiterated its demand for Israel's withdrawal from "all Gaza territories". The Palestinian militant group also claimed it had not placed any further demands on negotiators and said that it was "rejecting any new conditions to this agreement from any party". Negotiations ongoing In May, US President Joe Biden, at mediations held in Cairo and Doha, laid out a framework to the parties involved in the negotiations. More recently, in August, the US President presented a "bridging proposal". For months now, the US, Egypt, and Qatar have been engaged in behind-the-scenes negotiations. However, except for a one-week truce beginning in late November last year, they have failed to secure a halt to the war between Hamas and Israel that will on Oct 7 complete one year. Also read | European Union warns Israeli-occupied West Bank becoming 'new Gaza' Calls for a deal have intensified after Israeli authorities at the beginning of September announced the discovery of the bodies of six hostages, killed execution style, just before the IDF forces reached their location in Hamas tunnels in Gaza. However, as per AFP, even in the face of external pressure for an agreement, both Hamas and Israel continue to dig in their heels and are refusing to budge on their demands. While Hamas is demanding Israel's exit from all of Gaza, Israel is seeking control of the so-called Philadelphi Corridor on the Gaza-Egypt border. Doubling down on the demand, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims that the control was essential to stop the Hamas from rearming. This is despite both Egypt and Qatar last week rejected the charge that the border was used to arm the Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza War: Hamas holds key hostage, prisoner swap talks in Doha with Qatar and Egypt

After almost a year of war, Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday said that Hamas's military capabilities have been severely damaged and that the group no longer exists as a military formation in Gaza.&nbsp;

“Hamas as a military formation no longer exists. Hamas is engaged in guerrilla warfare and we are still fighting Hamas terrorists and pursuing Hamas leadership,” Gallant told foreign journalists.

The Israeli defence minister also offered support for a hostage release agreement in the first phase of a Gaza truce deal, adding that it would give Israel a "strategic opportunity" to address other security challenges.&nbsp;

He stressed that bringing the hostages home is "the right thing to do".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Israeli strike tent encampment in Gaza

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Earlier also, Gallant has repeatedly clashed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and hardline religious nationalist ministers, pushing them to reach a deal to pause the war and bring the hostages back in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM has been pushed repeatedly to agree to a hostage-for-peace deal with Hamas, which has now been negotiated for months.&nbsp;

<h2>Half of Hamas' military wing leadership killed&nbsp;</h2>

In July, the Israeli ministry said that they had killed over half of the leadership of Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. They added that they have killed or apprehended over 14,000 Hamas fighters out of the estimated 30,000 to 40,000 fighters.&nbsp;

However, Hamas has not agreed on these figures.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-chances-of-hostage-truce-deal-close-to-zero-us-to-not-present-bridging-proposal-report-757146">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Chances of hostage-truce deal 'close to zero', US not to present bridging proposal - Report</a>

During the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, the group took about 250 hostages and killed about 1200 people.&nbsp;

<h2>'Unrealistic' to think UN could play role in Gaza's future&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier today, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need for a ceasefire and said that the UN had offered to monitor any truce, but that it was "unrealistic" to think that the UN could play a role in Gaza's future, as Israel is unlikely to accept a UN role.&nbsp;

"The level of suffering we are witnessing in Gaza is unprecedented in my mandate as secretary-general of the United Nations. I’ve never seen such a level of death and destruction as we are seeing in Gaza in the last few months," he said.

Guterres added, "Of course, we’ll be ready to do whatever the international community asked for us…The question is whether the parties would accept it, and in particular whether Israel would accept it."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After almost a year of war, Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday said that Hamas's military capabilities have been severely damaged and that the group no longer exists as a military formation in Gaza.

After almost a year of war, Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday said that Hamas's military capabilities have been severely damaged and that the group no longer exists as a military formation in Gaza. “Hamas as a military formation no longer exists. Hamas is engaged in guerrilla warfare and we are still fighting Hamas terrorists and pursuing Hamas leadership,” Gallant told foreign journalists. The Israeli defence minister also offered support for a hostage release agreement in the first phase of a Gaza truce deal, adding that it would give Israel a "strategic opportunity" to address other security challenges. He stressed that bringing the hostages home is "the right thing to do". Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli strike tent encampment in Gaza × Earlier also, Gallant has repeatedly clashed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and hardline religious nationalist ministers, pushing them to reach a deal to pause the war and bring the hostages back in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The Israeli PM has been pushed repeatedly to agree to a hostage-for-peace deal with Hamas, which has now been negotiated for months. Half of Hamas' military wing leadership killed In July, the Israeli ministry said that they had killed over half of the leadership of Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. They added that they have killed or apprehended over 14,000 Hamas fighters out of the estimated 30,000 to 40,000 fighters. However, Hamas has not agreed on these figures. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Chances of hostage-truce deal 'close to zero', US not to present bridging proposal - Report During the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, the group took about 250 hostages and killed about 1200 people. 'Unrealistic' to think UN could play role in Gaza's future Earlier today, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need for a ceasefire and said that the UN had offered to monitor any truce, but that it was "unrealistic" to think that the UN could play a role in Gaza's future, as Israel is unlikely to accept a UN role. "The level of suffering we are witnessing in Gaza is unprecedented in my mandate as secretary-general of the United Nations. I’ve never seen such a level of death and destruction as we are seeing in Gaza in the last few months," he said. Guterres added, "Of course, we’ll be ready to do whatever the international community asked for us…The question is whether the parties would accept it, and in particular whether Israel would accept it." (With inputs from agencies)

'Hamas no longer exists as military formation in Gaza': Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant

A strike on a humanitarian zone in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, resulted in the deaths of 40 people and injuries to 60 others, reported Gaza's civil defence agency early on Tuesday (Sep 10).&nbsp;

According to the civil defence agency, the attack took place in the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone. However, the Israeli army claims it had targeted a Hamas command and control centre in the area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:75,&quot;y&quot;:114,&quot;w&quot;:621,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:108,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1800}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-indias-jaishankar-calls-for-ceasefire-as-soon-as-possible-urges-two-state-solution-757215">Gaza war: India's Jaishankar calls for 'ceasefire as soon as possible', urges two-state solution</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1836}">Rescue underway</h2>

Mohammed Al-Mughair, a civil defence official, stated that recovery efforts are still ongoing, with 15 people reported missing following the strike on the tents of displaced individuals.

Speaking to AFP, he said, "40 martyrs and 60 injured were recovered and transferred" to nearby hospitals.

"Our crews are still working to recover 15 missing people as a result of targeting the tents of the displaced in Mawasi, Khan Yunis," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-chances-of-hostage-truce-deal-close-to-zero-us-to-not-present-bridging-proposal-report-757146">Israel-Hamas war: Chances of hostage-truce deal 'close to zero', US not to present bridging proposal - Report</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:277,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1963}">Hamas targets or 'blatant lies'?</h2>

The Israeli military, in a statement, confirmed the strike but said that its aircraft had "struck significant Hamas terrorists" at a command centre in the area.&nbsp;

It said that Hamas has been "operating within a command and control center embedded inside the Humanitarian Area in Khan Yunis".

"The terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip continue to systematically abuse civilian and humanitarian infrastructure, including the designated Humanitarian Area, to carry out terrorist activity against the State of Israel and IDF troops," it claimed.

Hamas has, however, denied the claim, calling it "a blatant lie" and stating that no fighters were present at the site.

The strike has left large craters, and civil defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal described the aftermath as "Entire families disappeared in the Mawasi Khan Yunis massacre, under the sand, in deep holes." Rescue efforts are still underway to locate missing persons in the devastated area. Videos circulating on social media platforms show civilians desperately searching for their missing family members even as the rescue attempts to free individuals trapped in sand craters continue.

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NOW: In Al-Mawasi area, Khan Younis, an alleged “safe zone”, Israeli forces bombed the highly populated area densely crowded with forcibly displaced Palestinians. Civil defense are searching through 30 meter deep craters for survivors. Many of the tents have simply evaporated. <a href="https://t.co/q389URC0RH">pic.twitter.com/q389URC0RH</a>
— Good Shepherd Collective (@Shepherds4Good) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shepherds4Good/status/1833293928121909599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

A strike on a humanitarian zone in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, resulted in the deaths of 40 people and injuries to 60 others, reported Gaza's civil defence agency early on Tuesday (Sep 10).

A strike on a humanitarian zone in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, resulted in the deaths of 40 people and injuries to 60 others, reported Gaza's civil defence agency early on Tuesday (Sep 10). According to the civil defence agency, the attack took place in the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone. However, the Israeli army claims it had targeted a Hamas command and control centre in the area. Also read | Gaza war: India's Jaishankar calls for 'ceasefire as soon as possible', urges two-state solution Rescue underway Mohammed Al-Mughair, a civil defence official, stated that recovery efforts are still ongoing, with 15 people reported missing following the strike on the tents of displaced individuals. Speaking to AFP, he said, "40 martyrs and 60 injured were recovered and transferred" to nearby hospitals. "Our crews are still working to recover 15 missing people as a result of targeting the tents of the displaced in Mawasi, Khan Yunis," he added. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Chances of hostage-truce deal 'close to zero', US not to present bridging proposal - Report Hamas targets or 'blatant lies'? The Israeli military, in a statement, confirmed the strike but said that its aircraft had "struck significant Hamas terrorists" at a command centre in the area. It said that Hamas has been "operating within a command and control center embedded inside the Humanitarian Area in Khan Yunis". "The terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip continue to systematically abuse civilian and humanitarian infrastructure, including the designated Humanitarian Area, to carry out terrorist activity against the State of Israel and IDF troops," it claimed. Hamas has, however, denied the claim, calling it "a blatant lie" and stating that no fighters were present at the site. The strike has left large craters, and civil defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal described the aftermath as "Entire families disappeared in the Mawasi Khan Yunis massacre, under the sand, in deep holes." Rescue efforts are still underway to locate missing persons in the devastated area. Videos circulating on social media platforms show civilians desperately searching for their missing family members even as the rescue attempts to free individuals trapped in sand craters continue. NOW: In Al-Mawasi area, Khan Younis, an alleged “safe zone”, Israeli forces bombed the highly populated area densely crowded with forcibly displaced Palestinians. Civil defense are searching through 30 meter deep craters for survivors. Many of the tents have simply evaporated. pic.twitter.com/q389URC0RH — Good Shepherd Collective (@Shepherds4Good) September 9, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli strike on 'Hamas command centre' in humanitarian zone in Gaza kills 40

The Bibi Files, a documentary featuring unseen footage of the criminal investigation conducted in advance of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trials, premiered at the Toronto Film Festival (TIFF) on Monday night.

Documentary based on Benjamin Netanyahu- 'The Bibi Files', premieres at TIFF 2024

The wait for a hostage-truce deal between Israel and Hamas drags on as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Sep 5) rubbished reports that stated a deal had been reached with the Palestinian terror outfit.

In other news, the ruling party in India, the BJP, has alleged that the ex-principal of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital ordered renovation of the crime scene immediately after the trainee doctor was raped and murdered last month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Sep 5) that there was “not a deal in the making” with Palestinian terror group Hamas.

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The West Bengal chapter of India’s national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday (Sep 5) alleged that the ex-principal of Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where the dead body of a junior doctor was found, had ordered an urgent renovation of the structure near the crime site.

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German police on Thursday (Sep 5) gunned down an armed man near the Israeli Consulate in Munich, following an exchange of fire. The attacker, carrying a “long gun”, had first opened fire on police officers in the Karolinenplatz area, near downtown Munich.&nbsp;

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The White House has urged Vladimir Putin to 'stop talking' about the US presidential election after the Russian president said he backs Kamala Harris over Donald Trump.

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The Indian National Congress (INC), the country's principal Opposition party, has levelled fresh allegations against Madhabi Puri Buch, claiming that the&nbsp;SEBI chairperson&nbsp;was employed at Greater Pacific Capital (GPC) during her tenure at ICICI Bank between 2011 and 2013.&nbsp;

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Ukrainian parliament has appointed Andrii Sybiha as Ukraine's new foreign minister on Thursday, replacing Dmytro Kuleba, amid cabinet's biggest reshuffling since Russia's 2022 invasion.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Sep 5) that India, China, and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks between his country and Ukraine.

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Tulsi Gabbard has claimed that the Biden administration has placed her on a "secret terror watchlist" after she criticised Vice President Kamala Harris.

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In a game that lasted only 65 balls, Singapore wrapped up Mongolia on just ten runs in ten overs – the joint-lowest total in T20I cricket ever, during the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A game in Bangi on Thursday (Sep 5).

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Nicole Kidman starrer The Perfect Couple saw a bug-filled premiere at Netflix’x Egyptian Theatre Hollywood. As stars from the much-talked-about show made their way to the red carpet premiere, they were attacked by a swarm of gnats.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/05/453098-horizons-2024-09-05t152837411.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The wait for a hostage-truce deal between Israel and Hamas drags on as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Sep 5) rubbished reports that stated a deal had been reached with the Palestinian terror outfit.

The wait for a hostage-truce deal between Israel and Hamas drags on as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Sep 5) rubbished reports that stated a deal had been reached with the Palestinian terror outfit. In other news, the ruling party in India, the BJP, has alleged that the ex-principal of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital ordered renovation of the crime scene immediately after the trainee doctor was raped and murdered last month. Click on headlines to read more: Gaza war: Israel PM Netanyahu declares ‘no deal in making’ with Hamas, rubbishes media reports Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Sep 5) that there was “not a deal in the making” with Palestinian terror group Hamas. Kolkata horror: RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh ‘ordered urgent renovation’ after incident The West Bengal chapter of India’s national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday (Sep 5) alleged that the ex-principal of Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where the dead body of a junior doctor was found, had ordered an urgent renovation of the structure near the crime site. Munich shooting: Police gun down man carrying ‘long gun’ near Israeli consulate German police on Thursday (Sep 5) gunned down an armed man near the Israeli Consulate in Munich, following an exchange of fire. The attacker, carrying a “long gun”, had first opened fire on police officers in the Karolinenplatz area, near downtown Munich. ‘Stop talking...’: Putin backs Kamala Harris, White House tells him not to interfere in US elections The White House has urged Vladimir Putin to 'stop talking' about the US presidential election after the Russian president said he backs Kamala Harris over Donald Trump. SEBI chair Madhabi Puri Buch was employed at another firm during ICICI Bank tenure, Congress claims The Indian National Congress (INC), the country's principal Opposition party, has levelled fresh allegations against Madhabi Puri Buch, claiming that the SEBI chairperson was employed at Greater Pacific Capital (GPC) during her tenure at ICICI Bank between 2011 and 2013. Ukraine appoints new foreign minister Andrii Sybiha amid major cabinet reshuffle Ukrainian parliament has appointed Andrii Sybiha as Ukraine's new foreign minister on Thursday, replacing Dmytro Kuleba, amid cabinet's biggest reshuffling since Russia's 2022 invasion. Russian President Putin says ‘friends’ India, China, Brazil could act as mediators in peace talks with Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Sep 5) that India, China, and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks between his country and Ukraine. Tulsi Gabbard alleges Biden administration placed her on 'terror watchlist' for criticising Kamala Harris Tulsi Gabbard has claimed that the Biden administration has placed her on a "secret terror watchlist" after she criticised Vice President Kamala Harris. Mongolia all-out for 10 against Singapore in T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A, register joint-lowest T20I total In a game that lasted only 65 balls, Singapore wrapped up Mongolia on just ten runs in ten overs – the joint-lowest total in T20I cricket ever, during the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A game in Bangi on Thursday (Sep 5). Perfect Couple LA premiere: Nicole Kidman and others get attacked by insects on red carpet Nicole Kidman starrer The Perfect Couple saw a bug-filled premiere at Netflix’x Egyptian Theatre Hollywood. As stars from the much-talked-about show made their way to the red carpet premiere, they were attacked by a swarm of gnats.

Top 10 world news: Netanyahu says no deal with Hamas; Kolkata rape-murder case updates, and more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Sep 5) that there was “not a deal in the making” with Palestinian militant group Hamas. Talking with US news broadcaster Fox News, he said, “Unfortunately, it’s not close.” He also dismissed American&nbsp;media reports that earlier claimed that a Gaza peace agreement was 90 per cent completed.

“It’s exactly inaccurate. There’s a story, a narrative out there, that there’s a deal out there,” he said.

Netanyahu blames&nbsp;Hamas for the collapse, saying it was not agreeing to “anything”. “Not to the Philadelphi Corridor, not to the keys of exchanging hostages for jailed terrorists, not to anything. So that’s just a false narrative,” he said.

The clarification from the Jewish leader comes amidst allegations that he obstructed a peace deal with Hamas for political gains.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiJkfu2iKyIAxVESWwGHZkHHJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-puts-forward-condition-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-until-that-happens-756069" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-puts-forward-condition-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-until-that-happens-756069&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJkfu2iKyIAxVESWwGHZkHHJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Netanyahu puts forward condition for permanent ceasefire in Gaza: 'Until that happens..'</a>

“The obstacle to the end of this war is Hamas. The obstacle to the release of hostages is Hamas. The ones who butchered in a sling, murdering six people in cold blood, riddling them with bullets and then firing bullets into their heads is Hamas. It’s not Israel. It’s not me,” the Israeli PM&nbsp;said.

Earlier, Hamas had accused Netanyahu of thwarting the peace agreement by insisting that the Israel Defense Forces&nbsp;(IDF)&nbsp;would not withdraw forces from the Philadelphi corridor.

“We warn against falling into Netanyahu’s trap and tricks, as he uses negotiations to prolong the aggression against our people,” the Hamas statement said. The group also claimed it had accepted a proposal put forward by the United States on July 2.

<h2>Israeli strike kills six in West Bank</h2>

Meanwhile, an Israeli strike in the West Bank killed at least six people on Thursday, Palestinian health officials claimed.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiJkfu2iKyIAxVESWwGHZkHHJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-us-uk-abandon-israel-to-punish-netanyahu-israeli-pm-defiant-over-ceasefire-deal-755659" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-us-uk-abandon-israel-to-punish-netanyahu-israeli-pm-defiant-over-ceasefire-deal-755659&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJkfu2iKyIAxVESWwGHZkHHJ4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Will U.S., UK Abandon Israel to Punish Netanyahu? Israeli PM defiant over ceasefire deal</a>

This comes in a series of attacks that the IDF has carried out over the past week, stating it was “dismantling militant groups and preventing attacks.”

The strike targeted the northern West Bank town of Tubas. Among those killed was the son of a well-known militant commander named Zakaria Zubeidi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Sep 5) that there was “not a deal in the making” with Palestinian militant group Hamas. Talking with US news broadcaster Fox News, he said, “Unfortunately, it’s not close.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday (Sep 5) that there was “not a deal in the making” with Palestinian militant group Hamas. Talking with US news broadcaster Fox News, he said, “Unfortunately, it’s not close.” He also dismissed American media reports that earlier claimed that a Gaza peace agreement was 90 per cent completed. “It’s exactly inaccurate. There’s a story, a narrative out there, that there’s a deal out there,” he said. Netanyahu blames Hamas for the collapse, saying it was not agreeing to “anything”. “Not to the Philadelphi Corridor, not to the keys of exchanging hostages for jailed terrorists, not to anything. So that’s just a false narrative,” he said. The clarification from the Jewish leader comes amidst allegations that he obstructed a peace deal with Hamas for political gains. Also read: Netanyahu puts forward condition for permanent ceasefire in Gaza: 'Until that happens..' “The obstacle to the end of this war is Hamas. The obstacle to the release of hostages is Hamas. The ones who butchered in a sling, murdering six people in cold blood, riddling them with bullets and then firing bullets into their heads is Hamas. It’s not Israel. It’s not me,” the Israeli PM said. Earlier, Hamas had accused Netanyahu of thwarting the peace agreement by insisting that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would not withdraw forces from the Philadelphi corridor. “We warn against falling into Netanyahu’s trap and tricks, as he uses negotiations to prolong the aggression against our people,” the Hamas statement said. The group also claimed it had accepted a proposal put forward by the United States on July 2. Israeli strike kills six in West Bank Meanwhile, an Israeli strike in the West Bank killed at least six people on Thursday, Palestinian health officials claimed. Also Watch: Will U.S., UK Abandon Israel to Punish Netanyahu? Israeli PM defiant over ceasefire deal This comes in a series of attacks that the IDF has carried out over the past week, stating it was “dismantling militant groups and preventing attacks.” The strike targeted the northern West Bank town of Tubas. Among those killed was the son of a well-known militant commander named Zakaria Zubeidi. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel PM Netanyahu declares ‘no deal in making’ with Hamas, rubbishes media reports

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Sep 4) put forward the conditions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. He said that his nation would agree to a permanent ceasefire only if it is agreed upon that&nbsp;the border area between southern Gaza and Egypt would never be used as a lifeline for the Hamas militant group.

"Until that happens, we're there," he said while addressing a news conference in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1821}">Who can prevent a recurrence of this</h2>

Netanyahu once again outrightly rejected the withdrawal from the so-called Philadelphi corridor in the first week of a deal and said that international pressure would make it effectively impossible to return.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:597,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1915}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-wants-a-forever-war-claims-opposition-leader-lapid-755809">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu wants a ‘forever war’, alleges Opposition leader Lapid</a>

He said that for a permanent ceasefire, Israel would need guarantees that whoever runs the postwar Gaza would be able to stop the potential use of the route for smuggling weapons and supplies for Hamas.

"Somebody has to be there," said Netanyahu.

"Bring me, anyone who will actually show - not on paper, not in words, not on a slide - but day after day, week after week, month after month, that they can actually prevent a recurrence of what happened there before," he added, referring to Hamas' Oct 7 attack on his nation.

"We're open to consider it, but I don't see that happening right now," he stressed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/character-issue-federal-judge-orders-trump-to-stop-using-isaac-hayes-music-for-campaigning-755674">'Character issue': Federal judge orders Trump to stop using Isaac Hayes' music for campaigning</a>

He also said that maintaining pressure on Hamas was the best way for the return of the 101 people still being held hostage by the Hamas.

"You need to squeeze them, to put pressure on them to release the remaining hostages. So if you want to release the hostages, you've got to control the Philadelphi corridor," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Sep 4) put forward the conditions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. He said that his nation would agree to a permanent ceasefire only if it is agreed upon that the border area between southern Gaza and Egypt would never be used as a lifeline for the Hamas militant group.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Sep 4) put forward the conditions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. He said that his nation would agree to a permanent ceasefire only if it is agreed upon that the border area between southern Gaza and Egypt would never be used as a lifeline for the Hamas militant group. "Until that happens, we're there," he said while addressing a news conference in Jerusalem. Who can prevent a recurrence of this Netanyahu once again outrightly rejected the withdrawal from the so-called Philadelphi corridor in the first week of a deal and said that international pressure would make it effectively impossible to return. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu wants a ‘forever war’, alleges Opposition leader Lapid He said that for a permanent ceasefire, Israel would need guarantees that whoever runs the postwar Gaza would be able to stop the potential use of the route for smuggling weapons and supplies for Hamas. "Somebody has to be there," said Netanyahu. "Bring me, anyone who will actually show - not on paper, not in words, not on a slide - but day after day, week after week, month after month, that they can actually prevent a recurrence of what happened there before," he added, referring to Hamas' Oct 7 attack on his nation. "We're open to consider it, but I don't see that happening right now," he stressed. Also read | 'Character issue': Federal judge orders Trump to stop using Isaac Hayes' music for campaigning He also said that maintaining pressure on Hamas was the best way for the return of the 101 people still being held hostage by the Hamas. "You need to squeeze them, to put pressure on them to release the remaining hostages. So if you want to release the hostages, you've got to control the Philadelphi corridor," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu puts forward condition for permanent ceasefire in Gaza: 'Until that happens..'

Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid has claimed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants a 'forever war' as the prime minister refused to budge on his position to reach a compromise on the hostage-truce deal with Hamas.&nbsp;

Speaking to his party members during a faction meeting in the Knesset,&nbsp;Lapid said Netanyahu spoke so much about the Philadelphi Corridor that everyone forgot what he said three times.&nbsp;

“He [Netanyahu] said: ‘The war must not end.’”

“What Netanyahu is saying, what his cabinet is telling us, is that we are in a new version of Lebanon. It took us 18 years to leave Lebanon [and] they are offering us the same thing: years of war, years of economic crisis, years of destruction and fear and violence. This is what the government is offering us. A war that will go on and on. A forever war that has and will never have an end date,” Lapid declared.&nbsp;

Lapid said the Netanyahu administration preferred war as they did not want to lose their power and that they did not know how to get the economy 'back on track'.&nbsp;

“We have big tasks ahead of us. Establish a regional coalition with the Saudis and the Americans against the Iranian threat. Get the economy back on track before it crashes. To rebuild the army in the face of the threats we face,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Prior to&nbsp;Lapid's attack,&nbsp;State Comptroller and Ombudsman of Israel, Matanyahu Englman, also blamed Netanyahu's office for impeding inquiries into the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blood-on-their-hands-donald-trump-blames-crooked-biden-comrade-harris-for-gaza-hostage-killings-755205" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings</a>

<h2>What did Netanyahu say?</h2>

Speaking for the first time on Monday after six Israeli hostages were found dead in the Gaza tunnel, Netanyahu sought forgiveness from the families but made it clear he would not alter his position on the deal.&nbsp;

"The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, public anger has steadily increased since the incident. Families of killed Israeli hostages protested outside the headquarters of the right-wing Likud Party on Wednesday (Sep 4) to mount pressure on Netanyahu and his cabinet to work towards freeing their loved ones.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid has claimed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants a 'forever war' as the prime minister refused to budge on his position to reach a compromise on the hostage-truce deal with Hamas.

Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid has claimed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants a 'forever war' as the prime minister refused to budge on his position to reach a compromise on the hostage-truce deal with Hamas. Speaking to his party members during a faction meeting in the Knesset, Lapid said Netanyahu spoke so much about the Philadelphi Corridor that everyone forgot what he said three times. “He [Netanyahu] said: ‘The war must not end.’” “What Netanyahu is saying, what his cabinet is telling us, is that we are in a new version of Lebanon. It took us 18 years to leave Lebanon [and] they are offering us the same thing: years of war, years of economic crisis, years of destruction and fear and violence. This is what the government is offering us. A war that will go on and on. A forever war that has and will never have an end date,” Lapid declared. Lapid said the Netanyahu administration preferred war as they did not want to lose their power and that they did not know how to get the economy 'back on track'. “We have big tasks ahead of us. Establish a regional coalition with the Saudis and the Americans against the Iranian threat. Get the economy back on track before it crashes. To rebuild the army in the face of the threats we face,” he added. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing Prior to Lapid's attack, State Comptroller and Ombudsman of Israel, Matanyahu Englman, also blamed Netanyahu's office for impeding inquiries into the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 last year. Also read | 'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings What did Netanyahu say? Speaking for the first time on Monday after six Israeli hostages were found dead in the Gaza tunnel, Netanyahu sought forgiveness from the families but made it clear he would not alter his position on the deal. "The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt. The Israeli PM claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran. Meanwhile, public anger has steadily increased since the incident. Families of killed Israeli hostages protested outside the headquarters of the right-wing Likud Party on Wednesday (Sep 4) to mount pressure on Netanyahu and his cabinet to work towards freeing their loved ones. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu wants a ‘forever war’, alleges Opposition leader Lapid

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Sep 2) sought forgiveness in a televised address after six hostages were killed in Hamas captivity in Gaza before the troops could reach them.&nbsp;

"I ask for your forgiveness for not bringing them back alive.&nbsp;We were close but we didn't succeed. Hamas will pay a very heavy price for this," said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23),&nbsp;Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) have been identified as the six hostages killed by Hamas.&nbsp;

While Netanyahu sought forgiveness, he refused to budge from his position that has stalled the ongoing hostage-truce deal. Bibi said&nbsp;Israel must retain control of key corridor on Egypt-Gaza border if the deal was to be signed.&nbsp;

"The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt.&nbsp;

Netanyahu claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>'Hamas' pipeline for oxygen'</h2>

Netanyahu said Israel had four war aims and three of them went through the corridor.&nbsp;

“To destroy Hamas, to bring back all of our hostages, to ensure that Gaza will no longer present a threat to Israel, and to return safely the residents of the northern border," said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

“Three of those war goals go through one place.&nbsp;The Philadelphi Corridor. That is Hamas’&nbsp;pipeline for oxygen and rearmament.”

The US, Qatar and Egypt, have&nbsp;been attempting to broker the deal but Netanyahu has stuck with his demands regarding the Philadelphi Corridor while Hamas demands a complete Israeli withdrawal from the area.&nbsp;

Netanyahu is in favour of&nbsp;maintaining Israeli troops in the corridor&nbsp;for the six-week first phase of the ceasefire deal to prevent weapons smuggling from Egypt into Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blood-on-their-hands-donald-trump-blames-crooked-biden-comrade-harris-for-gaza-hostage-killings-755205" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings</a>

However, the security establishment, led by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has opposed the move, arguing that the new demand could blow up the talks and leave hostages at the mercy of Hamas militants.

Netanyahu's stubbornness is perhaps one of the reasons why US President Joe Biden on Monday said that his Israeli counterpart was not doing enough to secure the deal.&nbsp;

Biden said the two sides were "very close" to securing a deal, however, upon being pressed by reporters to whether Netanyahu was doing enough to secure a deal, Biden responded: &nbsp;“No.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Sep 2) sought forgiveness in a televised address after six hostages were killed in Hamas captivity in Gaza before the troops could reach them.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Sep 2) sought forgiveness in a televised address after six hostages were killed in Hamas captivity in Gaza before the troops could reach them. "I ask for your forgiveness for not bringing them back alive. We were close but we didn't succeed. Hamas will pay a very heavy price for this," said Netanyahu. Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23), Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) have been identified as the six hostages killed by Hamas. While Netanyahu sought forgiveness, he refused to budge from his position that has stalled the ongoing hostage-truce deal. Bibi said Israel must retain control of key corridor on Egypt-Gaza border if the deal was to be signed. "The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt. Netanyahu claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing 'Hamas' pipeline for oxygen' Netanyahu said Israel had four war aims and three of them went through the corridor. “To destroy Hamas, to bring back all of our hostages, to ensure that Gaza will no longer present a threat to Israel, and to return safely the residents of the northern border," said Netanyahu. “Three of those war goals go through one place. The Philadelphi Corridor. That is Hamas’ pipeline for oxygen and rearmament.” The US, Qatar and Egypt, have been attempting to broker the deal but Netanyahu has stuck with his demands regarding the Philadelphi Corridor while Hamas demands a complete Israeli withdrawal from the area. Netanyahu is in favour of maintaining Israeli troops in the corridor for the six-week first phase of the ceasefire deal to prevent weapons smuggling from Egypt into Gaza. Also read | 'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings However, the security establishment, led by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has opposed the move, arguing that the new demand could blow up the talks and leave hostages at the mercy of Hamas militants. Netanyahu's stubbornness is perhaps one of the reasons why US President Joe Biden on Monday said that his Israeli counterpart was not doing enough to secure the deal. Biden said the two sides were "very close" to securing a deal, however, upon being pressed by reporters to whether Netanyahu was doing enough to secure a deal, Biden responded: “No.” (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu seeks forgiveness for not saving hostages, but refuses to change truce deal terms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be visiting the US later this month to deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a report in The Times of Israel has claimed, citing government officials.&nbsp;

The 79th session of the UNGA where world leaders will gather in New York will open on September 10 with Netanyahu expected to speak on September 26.

Netanyahu is expected to meet political bigwigs from across the globe on the sidelines of the session. Bibi last arrived in the US in late July for high-level meetings with US President Joe Biden and others.

Danny Danon, Israeli ambassador to the UN who replaced Gilad Erdan, hinted last month that plans were in motion for Netanyahu to address the gathering.&nbsp;

“We are preparing the ground for the visit of the prime minister.&nbsp;I believe he will arrive – we don’t know what will happen tomorrow in Israel – but the plans are that he will come and speak in front of the General Assembly," he said at the time.&nbsp;

The UNGA meeting is expected to be dominated by the "Palestinian issue" as the Israeli war against Hamas nears its first anniversary.&nbsp;

“The theme ‘Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations’ has been proposed for the general debate at the seventy-ninth session,” the United Nations stated.

Netanyahu's last UNGA speech came two weeks before the start of the Israel-Hamas war. In the address, he spoke at length about the peace treaties that Israel had formed under previous US president Donald Trump's tenure, with several Arab countries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-pursuing-personal-interests-amid-mounting-pressure-755475">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu 'pursuing personal interests' amid mounting pressure</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Biden scolds Netanyahu</h2>

The news of Netanyahu visiting the US comes in the backdrop of Biden stating that the Israeli PM was not doing enough to secure a&nbsp;hostage-truce deal with Hamas that has been in the works for months.

Netanyahu is in favour of maintaining Israeli troops in the Philadelphi&nbsp;Corridor for the six-week first phase of the ceasefire deal to prevent weapons smuggling from Egypt into Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-decision-to-suspend-some-arms-sales-to-israel-is-shameful-netanyahu-755547">Also read |&nbsp;UK's decision to suspend some arms sales to Israel is 'shameful': Netanyahu</a>

However, the US, Qatar, and Egypt - currently brokering the deal with Hamas - believe that Netanyahu's demand could 'torpedo' the chance of reaching an agreement with Hamas.&nbsp;

Even the Israeli security&nbsp;establishment, led by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has opposed the move, arguing that the new demand could blow up the talks and leave hostages at the mercy of Hamas militants.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be visiting the US later this month to deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a report in The Times of Israel has claimed, citing government officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be visiting the US later this month to deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a report in The Times of Israel has claimed, citing government officials. The 79th session of the UNGA where world leaders will gather in New York will open on September 10 with Netanyahu expected to speak on September 26. Netanyahu is expected to meet political bigwigs from across the globe on the sidelines of the session. Bibi last arrived in the US in late July for high-level meetings with US President Joe Biden and others. Danny Danon, Israeli ambassador to the UN who replaced Gilad Erdan, hinted last month that plans were in motion for Netanyahu to address the gathering. “We are preparing the ground for the visit of the prime minister. I believe he will arrive – we don’t know what will happen tomorrow in Israel – but the plans are that he will come and speak in front of the General Assembly," he said at the time. The UNGA meeting is expected to be dominated by the "Palestinian issue" as the Israeli war against Hamas nears its first anniversary. “The theme ‘Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations’ has been proposed for the general debate at the seventy-ninth session,” the United Nations stated. Netanyahu's last UNGA speech came two weeks before the start of the Israel-Hamas war. In the address, he spoke at length about the peace treaties that Israel had formed under previous US president Donald Trump's tenure, with several Arab countries. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu 'pursuing personal interests' amid mounting pressure × Biden scolds Netanyahu The news of Netanyahu visiting the US comes in the backdrop of Biden stating that the Israeli PM was not doing enough to secure a hostage-truce deal with Hamas that has been in the works for months. Netanyahu is in favour of maintaining Israeli troops in the Philadelphi Corridor for the six-week first phase of the ceasefire deal to prevent weapons smuggling from Egypt into Gaza. Also read | UK's decision to suspend some arms sales to Israel is 'shameful': Netanyahu However, the US, Qatar, and Egypt - currently brokering the deal with Hamas - believe that Netanyahu's demand could 'torpedo' the chance of reaching an agreement with Hamas. Even the Israeli security establishment, led by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has opposed the move, arguing that the new demand could blow up the talks and leave hostages at the mercy of Hamas militants. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu to address UNGA session, meet world leaders: Report

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Sept 2) said that Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not doing enough to secure a deal for the release of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. The United States, meanwhile, was close to presenting a "take it or leave it deal" on hostage release and subsequent ceasefire to put a conclusive end to the 11-month war in Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-finalising-take-it-or-leave-it-deal-for-israel-hamas-war-755114">US finalising 'take it or leave it' deal for Israel-Hamas war</a>

Biden was speaking to reporters at the White House after Israeli forces over the weekend recovered the bodies of six hostages, including 23-year-old American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin, from a tunnel in Gaza.

Israeli military claimed the hostages were recently killed by the Palestinian Hamas militants. This&nbsp;sparked criticism of the Biden administration's Gaza ceasefire strategy and put up pressure on Netanyahu from Israelis to bring the remaining hostages back home.

Asked whether he thought Netanyahu was doing enough to reach a hostage deal, Biden said "No." He, however, did not elaborate on his remarks.

<h2>Netanyahu's response to Biden's comment</h2>

Netanyahu appeared to push back when asked about Biden's comments, saying pressure should be applied to Hamas, not Israel, particularly after the hostages' deaths.

"And now after this we're asked to show seriousness? We're asked to make concessions? What message does this send Hamas? It says, kill more hostages," he told a news conference in Jerusalem.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu calls Philadelphi Hamas' oxygen, says 'control important'

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Netanyahu said he did not believe Biden or anyone serious about achieving peace would ask Israel to make more concessions and that instead it was Hamas that needed to do so.

Asked if he was planning to present a final hostage deal to both sides this week, Biden told reporters: "We're very close to that."

"Hope springs eternal," he added when asked whether a deal would be successful.

Biden said later in the evening that he plans to talk to Netanyahu "eventually" but did not specify a clear timeline when asked. Biden and Netanyahu have spoken several times amid Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war in Gaza.

Netanyahu, who has accused Hamas of obstructing any agreement, said over the weekend that "whoever murders hostages does not want a deal."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Sept 2) said that Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not doing enough to secure a deal for the release of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas.

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Sept 2) said that Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not doing enough to secure a deal for the release of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. The United States, meanwhile, was close to presenting a "take it or leave it deal" on hostage release and subsequent ceasefire to put a conclusive end to the 11-month war in Gaza. Also read | US finalising 'take it or leave it' deal for Israel-Hamas war Biden was speaking to reporters at the White House after Israeli forces over the weekend recovered the bodies of six hostages, including 23-year-old American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin, from a tunnel in Gaza. Israeli military claimed the hostages were recently killed by the Palestinian Hamas militants. This sparked criticism of the Biden administration's Gaza ceasefire strategy and put up pressure on Netanyahu from Israelis to bring the remaining hostages back home. Asked whether he thought Netanyahu was doing enough to reach a hostage deal, Biden said "No." He, however, did not elaborate on his remarks. Netanyahu's response to Biden's comment Netanyahu appeared to push back when asked about Biden's comments, saying pressure should be applied to Hamas, not Israel, particularly after the hostages' deaths. "And now after this we're asked to show seriousness? We're asked to make concessions? What message does this send Hamas? It says, kill more hostages," he told a news conference in Jerusalem. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu calls Philadelphi Hamas' oxygen, says 'control important' × Netanyahu said he did not believe Biden or anyone serious about achieving peace would ask Israel to make more concessions and that instead it was Hamas that needed to do so. Asked if he was planning to present a final hostage deal to both sides this week, Biden told reporters: "We're very close to that." "Hope springs eternal," he added when asked whether a deal would be successful. Biden said later in the evening that he plans to talk to Netanyahu "eventually" but did not specify a clear timeline when asked. Biden and Netanyahu have spoken several times amid Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Netanyahu, who has accused Hamas of obstructing any agreement, said over the weekend that "whoever murders hostages does not want a deal." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel responds to Biden's claim over Netanyahu's stance to secure hostage deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Sep 3) reacted to the United Kingdom's decision to suspend some arms sales to his country. In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that the UK's decision was shameful.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Sep 3) reacted to the United Kingdom's decision to suspend some arms sales to his country. In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that the UK's decision was shameful. "Instead of standing with Israel, a fellow democracy defending itself against barbarism, Britain’s misguided decision will only embolden Hamas," Netanyahu said. "This shameful decision will not change Israel's determination to defeat Hamas, a genocidal terrorist organization that savagely murdered 1200 people on October 7, including 14 British citizens," he added. Also read | UK's Labour government to pause some arms sales to Israel. Know why The Israeli PM pointed out that with or without British arms, Israel would win this war. UK suspends 30 of its 350 arms export licences to Israel A day earlier, British Foreign Minister David Lammy announced that London would immediately suspend 30 of its 350 arms export licences with Israel because there was a risk that such equipment might be used to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law. Lamy said that his government's decision did not amount to a blanket ban or an arms embargo, but only involved those that could be used in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. "We recognise, of course, Israel's need to defend itself against security threats, but we are deeply worried by the methods that Israel's employed, and by reports of civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, particularly," he told parliament. Also watch | Gaza war: Netanyahu 'pursuing personal interests' amid mounting pressure × "It is with regret that I inform the House (of Commons, lower house of parliament) today the assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that for certain UK arms exports to Israel, there does exist a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law," he added. 'Suspension won't have material impact on Israel's security' British exports amount to less than 1% of the total arms Israel receives, and Lammy told Parliament on Monday that the suspension would not have a material impact on Israel's security, and Britain continued to support its right to self-defence. He also pointed out that the decision was not a judgment on whether Israel had breached international law or not. Among the items included under the arms export suspension will be components for military aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters and drones. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's decision to suspend some arms sales to Israel is 'shameful': Netanyahu

State Comptroller and Ombudsman of Israel, Matanyahu Englman, has blamed Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu's&nbsp;Office (PMO) as well as military leaders for impeding inquiries into the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 last year.&nbsp;

Englman said not one leader had taken responsibility for the lapse in preparation that allowed Hamas to mount a deadly attack which has prompted a near year-long war.&nbsp;

“In Israel, as of September 2024, there is no one who has taken personal responsibility with action alongside it, not at the political level, not at the security and military level, and not at the civilian level,” the state comptroller said.&nbsp;

“There has not been a single person among the elected officials, bearers of public office, military leaders and the security establishment, who has met the proper standard and the expected time when it comes to upholding the value of bearing responsibility,” he added.

Englman was particularly severe on the defence establishment for attempting to stop his review of the military's actions before October 7. He said the defence officials were building "high and&nbsp;impassable walls which have led to the stymying of the review".&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister’s Office, for its part — even though it has provided material — is still putting up obstacles which are hindering and disrupting the required professional activities," he added, questioning the PMO.&nbsp;

“All of them, at different levels of severity, do not convey the public and principled resilience expected of them, which at its foundation is a readiness [to accept] real criticism, without limitation, even if the results are biting and tough.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-protests-in-israel-after-hostages-killing-755297/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Englman's statement comes a day after Netanyahu nearly 'torpedoed' the hostage-truce talks, according to a CNN report, after a public address where he refused to budge on his position on the stationing of the troops.&nbsp;

While Netanyahu sought forgiveness for the killing of six Israeli hostages in Hamas' captivity, he said Israel must retain control of the key corridor on the Egypt-Gaza border if the deal was to be signed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blood-on-their-hands-donald-trump-blames-crooked-biden-comrade-harris-for-gaza-hostage-killings-755205" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings</a>

"The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

State Comptroller and Ombudsman of Israel, Matanyahu Englman, has blamed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office (PMO) as well as military leaders for impeding inquiries into the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 last year.

State Comptroller and Ombudsman of Israel, Matanyahu Englman, has blamed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office (PMO) as well as military leaders for impeding inquiries into the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7 last year. Englman said not one leader had taken responsibility for the lapse in preparation that allowed Hamas to mount a deadly attack which has prompted a near year-long war. “In Israel, as of September 2024, there is no one who has taken personal responsibility with action alongside it, not at the political level, not at the security and military level, and not at the civilian level,” the state comptroller said. “There has not been a single person among the elected officials, bearers of public office, military leaders and the security establishment, who has met the proper standard and the expected time when it comes to upholding the value of bearing responsibility,” he added. Englman was particularly severe on the defence establishment for attempting to stop his review of the military's actions before October 7. He said the defence officials were building "high and impassable walls which have led to the stymying of the review". "The Prime Minister’s Office, for its part — even though it has provided material — is still putting up obstacles which are hindering and disrupting the required professional activities," he added, questioning the PMO. “All of them, at different levels of severity, do not convey the public and principled resilience expected of them, which at its foundation is a readiness [to accept] real criticism, without limitation, even if the results are biting and tough.” Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Protests in Israel after Hostages' Killing Englman's statement comes a day after Netanyahu nearly 'torpedoed' the hostage-truce talks, according to a CNN report, after a public address where he refused to budge on his position on the stationing of the troops. While Netanyahu sought forgiveness for the killing of six Israeli hostages in Hamas' captivity, he said Israel must retain control of the key corridor on the Egypt-Gaza border if the deal was to be signed. Also read | 'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings "The achievement of the war's objectives goes through the Philadelphi Corridor... Control of the Philadelphi axis guarantees that the hostages will not be smuggled out of Gaza," he said during a press conference, referring to a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt. The Israeli PM claims that leaving the Philadelphi Corridor would enable Hamas to spirit the hostages to Iran. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Netanyahu's office hindering October 7 probe? Israeli ombudsman makes shocking claim

The United States may soon put forward a "take it or leave it" deal in front of Hamas and Israel. This comes after Israel on Sunday (Sep 1) discovered the bodies of six, including Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin taken hostage by Hamas on Oct 7.

As per a Washington Post report citing a senior US administration official, the US, along with Egypt and Qatar, has been discussing a deal, the failure of which could see America exit the negotiations.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:345,&quot;w&quot;:741,&quot;h&quot;:49,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2035}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-discovers-bodies-in-gaza-possible-hostages-from-oct-7-the-country-will-tremble-warn-angry-families-754927">IDF discovers bodies of six Oct 7 hostages in Gaza : 'The country will tremble,' warn angry families</a>

The "take it or leave it" deal is set to be presented in the next few weeks.&nbsp;

"You can't keep negotiating this. This process has to be called at some point," said the official.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:232,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2069}">How will the discovery of&nbsp;hostage remains impact the negotiations?</h2>

According to the official, the discovery of the hostage remains adds "urgency" to the deal.

"Does it derail the deal? No. If anything, it should add additional urgency in this closing phase, which we were already in," said the US official.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-israeli-american-hersh-goldberg-polin-among-gaza-hostage-remains-biden-condemns-hamas-754942" target="_blank">US confirms Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin among Gaza hostage remains, Biden condemns Hamas</a>

Last week's negotiations, as per&nbsp;reports, were primarily focused on which hostages would be freed in exchange for specific Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. Three of the six hostages —&nbsp;Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Carmel Gat and Eden Yerushalmi — whose remains were found on Sunday were part of the list of people set to be released.

With this, as per the Washington Post, the negotiations have now taken on added complexity and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners would now need to be renegotiated.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces and the US alleged that&nbsp;the six hostages were killed "execution style"&nbsp;by their Hamas&nbsp;captors "shortly before" they were discovered. This execution, as per a senior US administration official, "calls into question" the militant group's seriousness in the talks. According to the official, Hamas has remained stubborn during various parts of the negotiations, despite Israeli officials making concessions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States may soon put forward a "take it or leave it" deal in front of Hamas and Israel. This comes after Israel on Sunday (Sep 1) discovered the bodies of six, including Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin taken hostage by Hamas on Oct 7.

The United States may soon put forward a "take it or leave it" deal in front of Hamas and Israel. This comes after Israel on Sunday (Sep 1) discovered the bodies of six, including Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin taken hostage by Hamas on Oct 7. As per a Washington Post report citing a senior US administration official, the US, along with Egypt and Qatar, has been discussing a deal, the failure of which could see America exit the negotiations. Also read | IDF discovers bodies of six Oct 7 hostages in Gaza : 'The country will tremble,' warn angry families The "take it or leave it" deal is set to be presented in the next few weeks. "You can't keep negotiating this. This process has to be called at some point," said the official. How will the discovery of hostage remains impact the negotiations? According to the official, the discovery of the hostage remains adds "urgency" to the deal. "Does it derail the deal? No. If anything, it should add additional urgency in this closing phase, which we were already in," said the US official. Also read | US confirms Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin among Gaza hostage remains, Biden condemns Hamas Last week's negotiations, as per reports, were primarily focused on which hostages would be freed in exchange for specific Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. Three of the six hostages — Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Carmel Gat and Eden Yerushalmi — whose remains were found on Sunday were part of the list of people set to be released. With this, as per the Washington Post, the negotiations have now taken on added complexity and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners would now need to be renegotiated. The Israel Defense Forces and the US alleged that the six hostages were killed "execution style" by their Hamas captors "shortly before" they were discovered. This execution, as per a senior US administration official, "calls into question" the militant group's seriousness in the talks. According to the official, Hamas has remained stubborn during various parts of the negotiations, despite Israeli officials making concessions. (With inputs from agencies)

US finalising 'take it or leave it' deal for Israel-Hamas war