The world leaders have adopted a wait and watch approach to the new peace deal between Israel and UAE. While most countries have welcomed the effort. Watch report.

World reactions to Israel-UAE peace deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday&nbsp;praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates by calling it&nbsp;start of a ''new era''.

Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said.

The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-peace-agreement-between-israel-uae-320287" hreflang="en">Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE</a>

The agreement was sealed in a phone call on Thursday between Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, crown prince of Abu Dhabi.

The officials described the agreement, to be known as the Abraham Accords, as the first of its kind since Israel and Jordan signed a peace treaty in 1994. It also gives Trump a foreign policy success as he seeks re-election on November&nbsp;3.

White House officials said Trump senior adviser Jared Kushner, US&nbsp;Ambassador to Israel David Friedman and Middle East envoy Avi Berkowitz were deeply involved in negotiating the deal, as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien.

A joint statement issued by the three nations said the three leaders had "agreed to the full normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates."

Delegations from Israel and the United Arab Emirates will meet in the coming weeks to sign bilateral agreements regarding investment, tourism, direct flights, security, telecommunications and other issues, the statement said.

The two countries are expected soon to exchange ambassadors and embassies.

The agreement envisions giving Muslims greater access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of Jerusalem by allowing them to fly from Abu Dhabi to Tel Aviv, White House officials said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates by calling it start of a ''new era''.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates by calling it start of a ''new era''. Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said. The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said. Also read: Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE The agreement was sealed in a phone call on Thursday between Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, crown prince of Abu Dhabi. The officials described the agreement, to be known as the Abraham Accords, as the first of its kind since Israel and Jordan signed a peace treaty in 1994. It also gives Trump a foreign policy success as he seeks re-election on November 3. White House officials said Trump senior adviser Jared Kushner, US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman and Middle East envoy Avi Berkowitz were deeply involved in negotiating the deal, as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien. A joint statement issued by the three nations said the three leaders had "agreed to the full normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates." Delegations from Israel and the United Arab Emirates will meet in the coming weeks to sign bilateral agreements regarding investment, tourism, direct flights, security, telecommunications and other issues, the statement said. The two countries are expected soon to exchange ambassadors and embassies. The agreement envisions giving Muslims greater access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of Jerusalem by allowing them to fly from Abu Dhabi to Tel Aviv, White House officials said.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails peace deal with UAE

World leaders on Thursday&nbsp;praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US&nbsp;President Donald Trump helped broker.

Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-peace-agreement-between-israel-uae-320287" hreflang="en">Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE</a>

The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said.

The normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel is a "HUGE breakthrough" Trump tweeted, calling it a "Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends."

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HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1293922936609546240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-hails-peace-deal-with-uae-320298">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails peace deal with UAE</a>

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;hailed "a historic day"&nbsp;after the announcement of the agreement.

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יום היסטורי 🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE">https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1293924443086114819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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UAE's&nbsp;Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said ''Most countries will see this as a bold step to secure a two-state solution, allowing time for negotiations.''

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Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi took to Twitter to praise&nbsp;the&nbsp;US-brokered deal&nbsp;that would halt Israeli annexation of Palestinian land.

"I read with interest and great appreciation the joint statement between the United States, the brotherly United Arab Emirates and Israel concerning the halt of Israel's annexation of Palestinian land," Sisi said in a tweet, adding that this would help bring "peace" to the Middle East.

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تابعت بإهتمام و تقدير بالغ البيان المشترك الثلاثي بين الولايات المتحدة الامريكية و دولة الامارات العربية الشقيقة وإسرائيل حول الاتفاق علي ايقاف ضم إسرائيل للاراضي الفلسطينية ..١/٢
— Abdelfattah Elsisi (@AlsisiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlsisiOfficial/status/1293935489569914882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Congratulations to Israel and UAE for reaching a historic agreement that establishes full diplomatic relations between the two nations. Israel deserves diplomatic recognition from its neighbors and this is a critical step to contain Iranian aggression against both nations.
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1293938598451064834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, the Gaza Strip's Islamist leaders Hamas&nbsp;rejected the agreement saying, it ''does not serve Palestinian cause.''

World leaders on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US President Donald Trump helped broker. Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said.

World leaders on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US President Donald Trump helped broker. Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said. Also read: Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said. The normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel is a "HUGE breakthrough" Trump tweeted, calling it a "Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends." HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 13, 2020 × Also read: Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails peace deal with UAE Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed "a historic day" after the announcement of the agreement. יום היסטורי 🇮🇱 https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE — Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) August 13, 2020 × UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said ''Most countries will see this as a bold step to secure a two-state solution, allowing time for negotiations.'' Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi took to Twitter to praise the US-brokered deal that would halt Israeli annexation of Palestinian land. "I read with interest and great appreciation the joint statement between the United States, the brotherly United Arab Emirates and Israel concerning the halt of Israel's annexation of Palestinian land," Sisi said in a tweet, adding that this would help bring "peace" to the Middle East. تابعت بإهتمام و تقدير بالغ البيان المشترك الثلاثي بين الولايات المتحدة الامريكية و دولة الامارات العربية الشقيقة وإسرائيل حول الاتفاق علي ايقاف ضم إسرائيل للاراضي الفلسطينية ..١/٢ — Abdelfattah Elsisi (@AlsisiOfficial) August 13, 2020 × Congratulations to Israel and UAE for reaching a historic agreement that establishes full diplomatic relations between the two nations. Israel deserves diplomatic recognition from its neighbors and this is a critical step to contain Iranian aggression against both nations. — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) August 13, 2020 × However, the Gaza Strip's Islamist leaders Hamas rejected the agreement saying, it ''does not serve Palestinian cause.''

World leaders welcome UAE-Israel peace deal and halt to annexation

Israeli police were deployed to protect protesters demonstrating against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Saturday after the convicted killer of a 1983 peace marcher called present-day demonstrators "germs" and hinted they could meet violent opposition.

Right-wing extremist Yona Avrushmi served 27 years in prison for hurling the hand grenade that killed activist and teacher Emil Grunzweig and wounded nine others during a Jerusalem protest against Israel's war in Lebanon.

On Friday night, he told private Israeli Channel 12 TV that he would not be going to Saturday's rally but there would be others who shared his love for Netanyahu and hatred of his opponents.

"There are young guys who can go there, they know what to do," he said.

Protest organisers took the comments seriously and said they had filed a police complaint against Avrushmi for incitement to violence.

"Germs, they're just germs," Avrushmi told Channel 12.

"I still hate them today and they hate me," he said. "They're bad people."

Shlomi Bachar, head of operations for Jerusalem police, said he had deployed uniformed and plainclothes officers along with "technological means" to secure Saturday's demonstration near Netanyahu's official residence in the city.

"Our main aim is to ensure the safe arrival and departure of the protesters," he told state-owned KAN 11 TV.

"We shall show zero tolerance for violence."

Speaking from the protest site Saturday evening as participants were still arriving, he estimated the crowd at "a few thousand" people.

In previous weeks, protester numbers have climbed sharply as the evening progressed.

Demonstrators in the upscale seaside community of Caesarea, where Netanyahu has a private home, reported a heavy police presence there too.

Protests demanding that Netanyahu resign over several corruption indictments and his handling of the novel coronavirus crisis have been mounting in recent weeks and the premier has been scathing in his counter-attack.

Last week, he accused Channel 12 and another private station, Channel 13, of "delivering propaganda for the anarchist left-wing demonstrations" by giving extensive coverage of the rallies.

On Sunday, a Jerusalem court slapped an order on his son Yair, restraining him from harassing individual protest leaders, after he tweeted their private addresses.

Israel won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April. Netanyahu has himself acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly.

The country of some nine million people has so far recorded over 82,000 confirmed cases, including nearly 600 deaths.

Israeli police were deployed to protect protesters demonstrating against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Saturday after the convicted killer of a 1983 peace marcher called present-day demonstrators "germs" and hinted they could meet violent opposition.

Israeli police were deployed to protect protesters demonstrating against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Saturday after the convicted killer of a 1983 peace marcher called present-day demonstrators "germs" and hinted they could meet violent opposition. Right-wing extremist Yona Avrushmi served 27 years in prison for hurling the hand grenade that killed activist and teacher Emil Grunzweig and wounded nine others during a Jerusalem protest against Israel's war in Lebanon. On Friday night, he told private Israeli Channel 12 TV that he would not be going to Saturday's rally but there would be others who shared his love for Netanyahu and hatred of his opponents. "There are young guys who can go there, they know what to do," he said. Protest organisers took the comments seriously and said they had filed a police complaint against Avrushmi for incitement to violence. "Germs, they're just germs," Avrushmi told Channel 12. "I still hate them today and they hate me," he said. "They're bad people." Shlomi Bachar, head of operations for Jerusalem police, said he had deployed uniformed and plainclothes officers along with "technological means" to secure Saturday's demonstration near Netanyahu's official residence in the city. "Our main aim is to ensure the safe arrival and departure of the protesters," he told state-owned KAN 11 TV. "We shall show zero tolerance for violence." Speaking from the protest site Saturday evening as participants were still arriving, he estimated the crowd at "a few thousand" people. In previous weeks, protester numbers have climbed sharply as the evening progressed. Demonstrators in the upscale seaside community of Caesarea, where Netanyahu has a private home, reported a heavy police presence there too. Protests demanding that Netanyahu resign over several corruption indictments and his handling of the novel coronavirus crisis have been mounting in recent weeks and the premier has been scathing in his counter-attack. Last week, he accused Channel 12 and another private station, Channel 13, of "delivering propaganda for the anarchist left-wing demonstrations" by giving extensive coverage of the rallies. On Sunday, a Jerusalem court slapped an order on his son Yair, restraining him from harassing individual protest leaders, after he tweeted their private addresses. Israel won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April. Netanyahu has himself acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly. The country of some nine million people has so far recorded over 82,000 confirmed cases, including nearly 600 deaths.

Police guard anti-Netanyahu protesters after veiled threat

Israeli aircraft struck Syrian military targets on Monday, the Israeli army confirmed in a rare statement.

Israel strikes Syrian army bases after Golan heights attack

Israel-Syria tensions: IDF strikes military bases in Syria after Golan Heights attack

Israeli aircraft attacked targets in Syria on Monday, the military said, describing the strikes as retaliation for an attempted bombing of the border fence by an enemy squad.

In Damascus, the state-run news agency Sana said Israeli helicopters rocketed Syrian army positions near Quneitra in the south but caused only material damage. It also said air defences had gone into action near the Syrian capital.

Tensions have risen along&nbsp;Israel's northern front since a fighter with the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah was killed in an apparent&nbsp;Israeli air strike in Syria two weeks ago.

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Monday's strikes hit Syrian observation posts, intelligence collection systems, anti-aircraft batteries and command-and-control bases, an&nbsp;Israeli military statement said.

Syrian state media said&nbsp;Israeli helicopters fired at Syrian checkpoints in al-Qunaitra, on the Golan Heights, causing material losses. There was no immediate word of any casualties.

The&nbsp;Israeli military said it was responding to an attempt by a group of four people to plant explosives on a patrolled fence along the Golan armistice line between&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and Syria.

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In that incident, reported by&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;early on Monday, the military fired on the squad. Surveillance video showed the group engulfed in an explosion. An&nbsp;Israeli military spokesman referred to them as "former terrorists," suggesting they had been killed.

The military spokesman, Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Conricus, said it was too soon to say if the squad belonged to any organization, but that&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;held "the Syrian regime accountable".

There was no comment from Syria on the fence incident.

The overnight encounter occurred at the same spot where until two years ago,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;had operated a field hospital to treat Syrians who had been wounded in the Syrian civil war, Conricus told reporters.

Israel&nbsp;had noticed "irregular activity" in that area for about a week and had a commando team waiting there in ambush, Conricus said.

Last month, Israeli army helicopters struck military targets in southern Syria in retaliation for earlier "munitions" fire towards Israel.

Israel did not directly blame Syrian forces for the munitions fire, but said it held the Damascus government responsible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israeli aircraft attacked targets in Syria on Monday, the military said, describing the strikes as retaliation for an attempted bombing of the border fence by an enemy squad.

Israeli aircraft attacked targets in Syria on Monday, the military said, describing the strikes as retaliation for an attempted bombing of the border fence by an enemy squad. In Damascus, the state-run news agency Sana said Israeli helicopters rocketed Syrian army positions near Quneitra in the south but caused only material damage. It also said air defences had gone into action near the Syrian capital. Tensions have risen along Israel's northern front since a fighter with the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah was killed in an apparent Israeli air strike in Syria two weeks ago. Monday's strikes hit Syrian observation posts, intelligence collection systems, anti-aircraft batteries and command-and-control bases, an Israeli military statement said. Syrian state media said Israeli helicopters fired at Syrian checkpoints in al-Qunaitra, on the Golan Heights, causing material losses. There was no immediate word of any casualties. The Israeli military said it was responding to an attempt by a group of four people to plant explosives on a patrolled fence along the Golan armistice line between Israel and Syria. In that incident, reported by Israel early on Monday, the military fired on the squad. Surveillance video showed the group engulfed in an explosion. An Israeli military spokesman referred to them as "former terrorists," suggesting they had been killed. The military spokesman, Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Conricus, said it was too soon to say if the squad belonged to any organization, but that Israel held "the Syrian regime accountable". There was no comment from Syria on the fence incident. The overnight encounter occurred at the same spot where until two years ago, Israel had operated a field hospital to treat Syrians who had been wounded in the Syrian civil war, Conricus told reporters. Israel had noticed "irregular activity" in that area for about a week and had a commando team waiting there in ambush, Conricus said. Last month, Israeli army helicopters struck military targets in southern Syria in retaliation for earlier "munitions" fire towards Israel. Israel did not directly blame Syrian forces for the munitions fire, but said it held the Damascus government responsible.

Israel launches air strikes on Syria after thwarted border attack

Thousands of demonstrators have gathered outside the official residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and thronged the streets of central Jerusalem

Israel: Angry protesters gather outside Netanyahu's residence; Demands PM's resignation

A court ordered Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's son on Sunday to refrain from harassing several individuals helping lead protests against his father, after he tweeted their personal addresses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-irked-by-last-supper-sculpture-calls-it-equivalent-to-death-threat-316961">Also read:&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu irked by Last Supper sculpture; calls it 'equivalent to death threat'</a>

Yair Netanyahu, who has caused controversy for past social media posts, was also ordered to delete the tweet and to "refrain from harassing" the individuals concerned for six months, according to a ruling from Jerusalem Magistrates' Court judge Dorit Feinstein.

Reacting to the ruling, Yair Netanyahu, 29, said Feinstein had "totally ignored" evidence presented by his defence, including of threats against him by protest leaders.&nbsp;

A bombastic defender of his father, Yair Netanyahu caused controversy in 2018 when he was recorded seemingly drunk outside a strip club talking about a natural gas deal reached by the Israeli government.

He has also previously posted on Facebook about alleged conspiracies against his family. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ruling came a day after what Israeli media described as the largest protest in a decade against Netanyahu's tenure, estimating the crowd at roughly 10,000 strong.&nbsp;

Thousands of demonstrators, mainly in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, have in recent weeks rallied against the premier's handling of the coronavirus crisis. Some have called for his resignation.&nbsp;

Speaking before a weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, the right-wing prime minister lashed out the media, accusing it of "fuelling" rather than covering "violent demonstrations."

He said&nbsp;Israel's media was behaving in "North Korean terms" with a lack of balance and unwavering support for "left-wing demonstrators."

Some of the protesters have voiced frustration over the government's pandemic response, while others have expressed broader objections to Netanyahu's stewardship, in particular noting corruption charges against the premier, which he denies.&nbsp;

Israel&nbsp;won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April.&nbsp;

Netanyahu has acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A court ordered Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's son on Sunday to refrain from harassing several individuals helping lead protests against his father, after he tweeted their personal addresses.

A court ordered Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's son on Sunday to refrain from harassing several individuals helping lead protests against his father, after he tweeted their personal addresses. Also read: Benjamin Netanyahu irked by Last Supper sculpture; calls it 'equivalent to death threat' Yair Netanyahu, who has caused controversy for past social media posts, was also ordered to delete the tweet and to "refrain from harassing" the individuals concerned for six months, according to a ruling from Jerusalem Magistrates' Court judge Dorit Feinstein. Reacting to the ruling, Yair Netanyahu, 29, said Feinstein had "totally ignored" evidence presented by his defence, including of threats against him by protest leaders. A bombastic defender of his father, Yair Netanyahu caused controversy in 2018 when he was recorded seemingly drunk outside a strip club talking about a natural gas deal reached by the Israeli government. He has also previously posted on Facebook about alleged conspiracies against his family. The ruling came a day after what Israeli media described as the largest protest in a decade against Netanyahu's tenure, estimating the crowd at roughly 10,000 strong. Thousands of demonstrators, mainly in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, have in recent weeks rallied against the premier's handling of the coronavirus crisis. Some have called for his resignation. Speaking before a weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, the right-wing prime minister lashed out the media, accusing it of "fuelling" rather than covering "violent demonstrations." He said Israel's media was behaving in "North Korean terms" with a lack of balance and unwavering support for "left-wing demonstrators." Some of the protesters have voiced frustration over the government's pandemic response, while others have expressed broader objections to Netanyahu's stewardship, in particular noting corruption charges against the premier, which he denies. Israel won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April. Netanyahu has acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly.

Court orders Netanyahu's son to stop 'harassing' protest leaders

A sculpture of Benjamin Netanyahu on a giant cake depicting him in the Last Supper has irked the Israeli Prime Minister. He said that the artwork was equivalent to a death threat.&nbsp;

The cake was made after series of protests have rocked the country for weeks urging Netanyahu to resign. These protests took place due to Netanyahu's botched up coronavirus response, ongoing corruption trial and allegations of an undemocratic power grab to remain in high office.

Coronavirus has triggered the country's unemployment to 21 per cent.&nbsp;

The life-sized artwork includes pink champagne and cigars in connection to one of the three corruption allegations where the Prime Minister allegedly received luxury gifts from two wealthy businessmen.&nbsp;

The artwork inspired by 15th-century Leonardo da Vinci mural, depicts Netanyahu alone at a 10-metre long table, surrounded by candles and a medieval feast of fruits and pastries.

On Wednesday, Benjamin Netanyahu criticised the art-work and called the mural, that depicts Jesus' final meal before he was killed, an equivalent of a death threat.&nbsp;

“There is no room for incitement and threats of murder – explicit and implicit – against me and my family, including the shameful threat of crucifixion today in Tel Aviv,” he said on Twitter.

But artwork creator, Itay Zalait, said that the fake banquet was instead meant to symbolise the last supper for democratic freedoms for Israelis.

A sculpture of Benjamin Netanyahu on a giant cake depicting him in the Last Supper has irked the Israeli Prime Minister. He said that the artwork was equivalent to a death threat.

A sculpture of Benjamin Netanyahu on a giant cake depicting him in the Last Supper has irked the Israeli Prime Minister. He said that the artwork was equivalent to a death threat. The cake was made after series of protests have rocked the country for weeks urging Netanyahu to resign. These protests took place due to Netanyahu's botched up coronavirus response, ongoing corruption trial and allegations of an undemocratic power grab to remain in high office. Coronavirus has triggered the country's unemployment to 21 per cent. The life-sized artwork includes pink champagne and cigars in connection to one of the three corruption allegations where the Prime Minister allegedly received luxury gifts from two wealthy businessmen. The artwork inspired by 15th-century Leonardo da Vinci mural, depicts Netanyahu alone at a 10-metre long table, surrounded by candles and a medieval feast of fruits and pastries. On Wednesday, Benjamin Netanyahu criticised the art-work and called the mural, that depicts Jesus' final meal before he was killed, an equivalent of a death threat. “There is no room for incitement and threats of murder – explicit and implicit – against me and my family, including the shameful threat of crucifixion today in Tel Aviv,” he said on Twitter. But artwork creator, Itay Zalait, said that the fake banquet was instead meant to symbolise the last supper for democratic freedoms for Israelis.

Benjamin Netanyahu irked by Last Supper sculpture; calls it 'equivalent to death threat'

After being slammed by netizens for an offensive tweet, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's son Yair Netanyahu writes to WION saying he loves India. Meanwhile, All is not well in Israel's northern border.

Gravitas: After offensive tweet, Netanyahu's son responds to WION's story

The Israel Defense Forces said a terrorist cell was forced back into Lebanese territory, from Israel, across Israel’s northern border

Hezbollah denies attack at Israel’s Northern Border

Tensions have escalated at borders at the border between Israel and Lebanon. The Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hezbollah of sending its fighters into Israeli territory.

Israel-Lebanon border tensions: Israel claimed to have rebelled fighters

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's eldest son Yair has apologised to Hindus after he faced flak from some Indians who found one of his tweets to be "quite offensive".

On Sunday, the 29-year-old Yair, who is very active on social media and often defends his father's policies, posted a picture of the Hindu goddess Durga, with the face of Liat Ben Ari, the prosecutor in his father's corruption cases, superimposed over the goddess' face. Her many arms were also raised giving the middle finger.

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הצייצן הבטלן עשה עכשיו שריפה גם עם ההודים, ומתנצל. <a href="https://t.co/tUeuMv5sCc">pic.twitter.com/tUeuMv5sCc</a>
— Ben Caspit בן כספית (@BenCaspit) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenCaspit/status/1287764290699755522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I've tweeted a meme from a satirical page, criticising political figures in Israel. I didn't realise the meme also portrayed an image connected to the majestic Hindu faith. As soon as I realised it from comments of our Indian friends, I have removed the tweet. I apologise," Yair said in a tweet.

Attorney General Avichai Mandelbit's face was superimposed over that of a tiger accompanying the goddess under a caption that said, "know your place you despicable people".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-israel-to-jointly-develop-rapid-covid-19-testing-kits-315481">India, Israel to jointly develop rapid COVID-19 testing kits</a>

The Twitter users were split in their reaction over the post with some Indians harshly criticising him for the offensive tweet while others giving him the benefit of doubt and attributing it to general ignorance about the Hindu faith in the West.

Yair, who has been at the centre of several controversies, was appreciated by some Israelis for "showing courage in apologising for his mistake", but was also condemned in equal measure by others for "being irresponsible".

Earlier this month, Yair issued an apology to journalist Dana Weiss for appearing to suggest the top news anchor had attained her position through sexual favours, according to a local media report.

Prime Minister Netanyahu's trial on charges of fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes opened in May in a Jerusalem court. 
He has said that the allegations are baseless and that he is a victim of a wide-ranging conspiracy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's eldest son Yair has apologised to Hindus after he faced flak from some Indians who found one of his tweets to be "quite offensive".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's eldest son Yair has apologised to Hindus after he faced flak from some Indians who found one of his tweets to be "quite offensive". On Sunday, the 29-year-old Yair, who is very active on social media and often defends his father's policies, posted a picture of the Hindu goddess Durga, with the face of Liat Ben Ari, the prosecutor in his father's corruption cases, superimposed over the goddess' face. Her many arms were also raised giving the middle finger. הצייצן הבטלן עשה עכשיו שריפה גם עם ההודים, ומתנצל. pic.twitter.com/tUeuMv5sCc — Ben Caspit בן כספית (@BenCaspit) July 27, 2020 × "I've tweeted a meme from a satirical page, criticising political figures in Israel. I didn't realise the meme also portrayed an image connected to the majestic Hindu faith. As soon as I realised it from comments of our Indian friends, I have removed the tweet. I apologise," Yair said in a tweet. Attorney General Avichai Mandelbit's face was superimposed over that of a tiger accompanying the goddess under a caption that said, "know your place you despicable people". Also read: India, Israel to jointly develop rapid COVID-19 testing kits The Twitter users were split in their reaction over the post with some Indians harshly criticising him for the offensive tweet while others giving him the benefit of doubt and attributing it to general ignorance about the Hindu faith in the West. Yair, who has been at the centre of several controversies, was appreciated by some Israelis for "showing courage in apologising for his mistake", but was also condemned in equal measure by others for "being irresponsible". Earlier this month, Yair issued an apology to journalist Dana Weiss for appearing to suggest the top news anchor had attained her position through sexual favours, according to a local media report. Prime Minister Netanyahu's trial on charges of fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes opened in May in a Jerusalem court. He has said that the allegations are baseless and that he is a victim of a wide-ranging conspiracy.

Netanyahu's son apologises after his tweet offends Indians

By Gilad Cohen (Courtesy: The Times of Israel)

A special flight equipped with medical equipment and advanced technological treatments for coronavirus flew to India from Tel Aviv yesterday. Also on board were defense and security experts, as well as Israeli diplomats returning to their embassies and consulates in the region. Dozens of sophisticated ventilators, which were loaded onto the special flight before take-off, made the name of the mission 26,that much more meaningful: “Breathing Space.”

Israel went out of its way to approve the export and transfer of these ventilators to India, while both countries continue to fight against the spread of the virus. Israel’s exceptional gesture today was a welcome “thank you” to India, which, just a few months ago, sent medicine and other essential diagnostic equipment in severe global shortage at the time to Israel.

In this way, Israel and India successfully transformed this unprecedented global pandemic into an opportunity to assist one another and further enhance their relations.

The Israel-India relationship has improved dramatically over the past several years. It’s hard to believe that just three decades ago, Indian passports were valid “for every country except Israel”. Today, India has become one of our most significant friendships in the Asia region. The scope of mutual trade between the two countries has grown from approximately 200 million USD in 1992 to some 4 billion USD in 2018. Since Ariel Sharon’s first historic visit to India in 2003, Israeli and Indian presidents, prime ministers and foreign ministers have enjoyed a host of bilateral visits and discussions. One of the first discussions Foreign Minister Ashkenazi held upon entering his new role was with his Indian counterpart, Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. These are just some of the indicators of the surge that has occurred in relations between the two countries since diplomatic ties were fully established in 1992.

This upward trend has yielded success in other fields as well. Although it’s difficult to imagine direct flights while living under the cloud of COVID-19, Air India’s direct flight between New Delhi and Tel Aviv, inaugurated two years ago, minimizes flight duration by flying over Saudi Arabia. This contributes towards the normalization of Israel’s ties with the Arab world, and as such, assists Israel in achieving its strategic goal of improving its relations with the region.

Other flights – El Al to Mumbai, Arkia flights to Goa and Cochin – are an important bridge between Israel and India. &nbsp;This bridge is further strengthened by a visa relief policy for Indian citizens which saw the number of Indian tourists visiting Israel grow from 16,000 in 2000 to over 70,000 in 2018.

One of India’s most critical national security challenges is the provision of food security to its immense population. Israel’s Foreign Ministry has consistently invested a tenth of the Agency for International Development’s (MASHAV) budget into India for several years now. This has financed the establishment of more than 28 “Excellency Centers” across the many states that make up India. These centers serve as agricultural ‘demonstration’ farms, introducing Israeli experts and innovative Israeli technologies to Indian farmers.

In his last visit to India in January 2018, Prime Minister Netanyahu escorted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his home state of Gujarat. In an exceptionally moving moment, hundreds of farmers rushed to meet them and share their personal stories. One after another, they told of how their fields’ crop yields had improved by hundreds of percent following their training at Israel’s Excellence Centers.

Relations between Israel and India clearly don’t just exist between governments, but also between societies. The Israel-India relationship has permeated all elements of Indian society, including that of the 650-million Indian citizens who make a living from agriculture, and who represent half of the workforce in India.

Israel’s contributions have also risen to prominence in fields ranging from health, security, industry, and more. Most critical on our shared agenda, however, is water, and Israel is uniquely placed to provide solutions to the critical water shortage issue that India faces. Both countries share a deep and mutual appreciation for the benefits that their joint collaboration brings them.

Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India is assuming its role as a regional and world power, and our diplomacy has succeeded in showing India the many advantages that can come from strengthening its ties with Israel. The Foreign Ministry is determined to continue cultivating its ties with the second largest country in the world, to ensure that our relations with India continue to thrive into the future.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

By Gilad Cohen (Courtesy: The Times of Israel) A special flight equipped with medical equipment and advanced technological treatments for coronavirus flew to India from Tel Aviv yesterday.

By Gilad Cohen (Courtesy: The Times of Israel) A special flight equipped with medical equipment and advanced technological treatments for coronavirus flew to India from Tel Aviv yesterday. Also on board were defense and security experts, as well as Israeli diplomats returning to their embassies and consulates in the region. Dozens of sophisticated ventilators, which were loaded onto the special flight before take-off, made the name of the mission 26,that much more meaningful: “Breathing Space.” Israel went out of its way to approve the export and transfer of these ventilators to India, while both countries continue to fight against the spread of the virus. Israel’s exceptional gesture today was a welcome “thank you” to India, which, just a few months ago, sent medicine and other essential diagnostic equipment in severe global shortage at the time to Israel. In this way, Israel and India successfully transformed this unprecedented global pandemic into an opportunity to assist one another and further enhance their relations. The Israel-India relationship has improved dramatically over the past several years. It’s hard to believe that just three decades ago, Indian passports were valid “for every country except Israel”. Today, India has become one of our most significant friendships in the Asia region. The scope of mutual trade between the two countries has grown from approximately 200 million USD in 1992 to some 4 billion USD in 2018. Since Ariel Sharon’s first historic visit to India in 2003, Israeli and Indian presidents, prime ministers and foreign ministers have enjoyed a host of bilateral visits and discussions. One of the first discussions Foreign Minister Ashkenazi held upon entering his new role was with his Indian counterpart, Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. These are just some of the indicators of the surge that has occurred in relations between the two countries since diplomatic ties were fully established in 1992. This upward trend has yielded success in other fields as well. Although it’s difficult to imagine direct flights while living under the cloud of COVID-19, Air India’s direct flight between New Delhi and Tel Aviv, inaugurated two years ago, minimizes flight duration by flying over Saudi Arabia. This contributes towards the normalization of Israel’s ties with the Arab world, and as such, assists Israel in achieving its strategic goal of improving its relations with the region. Other flights – El Al to Mumbai, Arkia flights to Goa and Cochin – are an important bridge between Israel and India. This bridge is further strengthened by a visa relief policy for Indian citizens which saw the number of Indian tourists visiting Israel grow from 16,000 in 2000 to over 70,000 in 2018. One of India’s most critical national security challenges is the provision of food security to its immense population. Israel’s Foreign Ministry has consistently invested a tenth of the Agency for International Development’s (MASHAV) budget into India for several years now. This has financed the establishment of more than 28 “Excellency Centers” across the many states that make up India. These centers serve as agricultural ‘demonstration’ farms, introducing Israeli experts and innovative Israeli technologies to Indian farmers. In his last visit to India in January 2018, Prime Minister Netanyahu escorted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his home state of Gujarat. In an exceptionally moving moment, hundreds of farmers rushed to meet them and share their personal stories. One after another, they told of how their fields’ crop yields had improved by hundreds of percent following their training at Israel’s Excellence Centers. Relations between Israel and India clearly don’t just exist between governments, but also between societies. The Israel-India relationship has permeated all elements of Indian society, including that of the 650-million Indian citizens who make a living from agriculture, and who represent half of the workforce in India. Israel’s contributions have also risen to prominence in fields ranging from health, security, industry, and more. Most critical on our shared agenda, however, is water, and Israel is uniquely placed to provide solutions to the critical water shortage issue that India faces. Both countries share a deep and mutual appreciation for the benefits that their joint collaboration brings them. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India is assuming its role as a regional and world power, and our diplomacy has succeeded in showing India the many advantages that can come from strengthening its ties with Israel. The Foreign Ministry is determined to continue cultivating its ties with the second largest country in the world, to ensure that our relations with India continue to thrive into the future. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

From Israel to India with friendship in the face of pandemic

Demonstrations continue to rage in Israel after thousands more gather to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Saturday. These demonstrators gathered outside Israeli PM's residence.

Israel: Another night of violent protests in Jerusalem

Israeli's are out on the streets amid the pandemic and are demanding the resignation of Benjamin Netanyahu. They are accusing the prime minister of mishandling the coronavirus pandemic. Watch report.

Israeli's demanding Netanyahu's resignation: Protestors accuse PM of mishandling the virus

Israel: Protests soar over government's inadequate coronavirus response and corruption

Israeli police used water cannons to disperse demonstrators around Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence on Saturday as protests mounted against him over alleged corruption and his handling of the coronavirus crisis.

Israeli police fire water cannons to disperse anti-government protesters

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's graft trial resumed on Sunday (July 19) after a two-month break amid mounting protests over his alleged corruption and handling of the coronavirus crisis.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial resumes

Israelis protest against Netanyahu's handling of COVID-19 crisis

Israeli police fired water cannons to disperse anti-government protests attended by thousands on Saturday, as public anger mounts over the handling of the coronavirus crisis.

Demonstrators gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem and at a park in Tel Aviv, voicing frustration over the government's response to a growing epidemic that has taken a devastating economic toll.&nbsp;

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said officers had allowed demonstrations to take place but took action against unauthorised "disturbances," including road blockages.&nbsp;

Rosenfeld said protesters in Tel Aviv sprayed pepper spray at police, leading to multiple arrests

With Israel recording more than 1,000 new coronavirus infections a day in recent weeks, the government on Friday announced a broad range of new restrictions.&nbsp;

Shops, markets and other public venues have closed on weekends, while restaurants have been restricted to take away and delivery.&nbsp;

Netanyahu has admitted he reopened the economy too soon through late April and early May, when Israel, a country of about 9 million people, had reduced its daily caseload to a trickle.

In an apparent bid to quell public anger, Netanyahu this week announced plans to send cash to all Israelis -- a measure criticised by some experts who said the economy needed targeted assistance, not a nationwide payout. &nbsp;

While some protesters voiced frustration over the reimposed restrictions, others have blasted the government for failing to improve testing capacity ahead of the second transmission wave.

According to a July 12 poll by the Israel Democracy Institute think tank, only 29.5 percent of the public supported Netanyahu's coronavirus management.

That figure was 57.5 percent at the beginning of April.&nbsp;

Beyond the pandemic, some protesters demanded Netanyahu's resignation over corruption charges filed against the veteran right-wing premier.&nbsp;

Netanyahu denies wrongdoing, but has been indicted for accepting improper gifts and seeking to trade favours with media moguls in exchange for positive coverage.&nbsp;

The trial continues in Jerusalem on Sunday, although Netanyahu is not expected to appear in court.&nbsp;

Israeli police fired water cannons to disperse anti-government protests attended by thousands on Saturday, as public anger mounts over the handling of the coronavirus crisis.

Israeli police fired water cannons to disperse anti-government protests attended by thousands on Saturday, as public anger mounts over the handling of the coronavirus crisis. Demonstrators gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem and at a park in Tel Aviv, voicing frustration over the government's response to a growing epidemic that has taken a devastating economic toll. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said officers had allowed demonstrations to take place but took action against unauthorised "disturbances," including road blockages. Rosenfeld said protesters in Tel Aviv sprayed pepper spray at police, leading to multiple arrests With Israel recording more than 1,000 new coronavirus infections a day in recent weeks, the government on Friday announced a broad range of new restrictions. Shops, markets and other public venues have closed on weekends, while restaurants have been restricted to take away and delivery. Netanyahu has admitted he reopened the economy too soon through late April and early May, when Israel, a country of about 9 million people, had reduced its daily caseload to a trickle. In an apparent bid to quell public anger, Netanyahu this week announced plans to send cash to all Israelis -- a measure criticised by some experts who said the economy needed targeted assistance, not a nationwide payout. While some protesters voiced frustration over the reimposed restrictions, others have blasted the government for failing to improve testing capacity ahead of the second transmission wave. According to a July 12 poll by the Israel Democracy Institute think tank, only 29.5 percent of the public supported Netanyahu's coronavirus management. That figure was 57.5 percent at the beginning of April. Beyond the pandemic, some protesters demanded Netanyahu's resignation over corruption charges filed against the veteran right-wing premier. Netanyahu denies wrongdoing, but has been indicted for accepting improper gifts and seeking to trade favours with media moguls in exchange for positive coverage. The trial continues in Jerusalem on Sunday, although Netanyahu is not expected to appear in court.

Israeli police fire water cannons to disperse anti-govt protests

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu`s corruption trial resumed on Sunday.

The second hearing of the trial, which Netanyahu and other defendants in the case were not obliged to attend, is focusing on an additional time given to his lawyers to study the investigation material, reported Xinhua.

Netanyahu`s trial over bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three different cases began on May 24.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-police-fire-water-cannons-to-disperse-anti-govt-protests-314356">Also read:&nbsp;Israeli police fire water cannons to disperse anti-govt protests</a>

Hundreds of protesters calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign over his corruption charges gathered outside his official residence in Jerusalem on Saturday evening (local time), for the fourth time this week.

A law enforcement spokesman was quoted by Sputnik as saying that Israeli police have detained 28 people for disrupting public order during protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu is charged in three separate cases of corruption, fraud and influence peddling.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu`s corruption trial resumed on Sunday. The second hearing of the trial, which Netanyahu and other defendants in the case were not obliged to attend, is focusing on an additional time given to his lawyers to study the investigation material, reported Xinhua.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu`s corruption trial resumed on Sunday. The second hearing of the trial, which Netanyahu and other defendants in the case were not obliged to attend, is focusing on an additional time given to his lawyers to study the investigation material, reported Xinhua. Netanyahu`s trial over bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three different cases began on May 24. Also read: Israeli police fire water cannons to disperse anti-govt protests Hundreds of protesters calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign over his corruption charges gathered outside his official residence in Jerusalem on Saturday evening (local time), for the fourth time this week. A law enforcement spokesman was quoted by Sputnik as saying that Israeli police have detained 28 people for disrupting public order during protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu is charged in three separate cases of corruption, fraud and influence peddling.

Israeli Prime Minister's corruption trial resumes

Around 50 protesters were arrested Tuesday night following clashes with police at a thousands-strong rally in Jerusalem (Israel) demanding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resign

Israel Protests: Demonstrators unhappy with Netanyahu's economic policies

Israel on Friday reported its highest coronavirus infections in the 24-hour period, with around 1,500 new cases, the health ministry said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late on Thursday admitted the decision to re-open businesses, bars and event spaces may have been taken "too soon".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-reimposes-restrictions-amid-rising-coronavirus-cases-311158">Israel reimposes restrictions amid rising coronavirus cases</a>

"I take responsibility for it," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-not-necessarily-behind-every-iran-incident-israels-defence-minister-310856">Israel 'not necessarily' behind every Iran incident: Israel's Defence Minister</a>

In the 24 hours period ended midnight on Thursday, there were 1,464 new cases in Israel, the most in a single day since the country saw its first infection on February 21.&nbsp;

Earlier, Israel's efforts to contain the pandemic were praised widely, but the cases rose as the economy opened up broadly in May.&nbsp;

Israel has re-introduced stringent restrictions to curb the spread, including shutting down clubs, bars, and gyms among others.&nbsp;

Limits on the number of people entering restaurants and religious institutions were also put in place.&nbsp;

A stricter lockdown has been imposed on various areas and cities that are witnessing a surge in coronavirus infections.&nbsp;

This week, Israel's director of public health services, Siegal Sadetzki, resigned, slamming her seniors for ignoring her suggestions.&nbsp;

"Despite repeated warnings in different forums, we are watching with frustration as our window of opportunity (to contain the virus) is running out," Sadetzki in a Facebook post, said.&nbsp;

There are more than 35,500 COVID-19 cases, including 350 deaths in Israel.&nbsp;

Israel on Friday reported its highest coronavirus infections in the 24-hour period, with around 1,500 new cases, the health ministry said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late on Thursday admitted the decision to re-open businesses, bars and event spaces may have been taken "too soon".

Israel on Friday reported its highest coronavirus infections in the 24-hour period, with around 1,500 new cases, the health ministry said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late on Thursday admitted the decision to re-open businesses, bars and event spaces may have been taken "too soon". Also read | Israel reimposes restrictions amid rising coronavirus cases "I take responsibility for it," Netanyahu said. Also read | Israel 'not necessarily' behind every Iran incident: Israel's Defence Minister In the 24 hours period ended midnight on Thursday, there were 1,464 new cases in Israel, the most in a single day since the country saw its first infection on February 21. Earlier, Israel's efforts to contain the pandemic were praised widely, but the cases rose as the economy opened up broadly in May. Israel has re-introduced stringent restrictions to curb the spread, including shutting down clubs, bars, and gyms among others. Limits on the number of people entering restaurants and religious institutions were also put in place. A stricter lockdown has been imposed on various areas and cities that are witnessing a surge in coronavirus infections. This week, Israel's director of public health services, Siegal Sadetzki, resigned, slamming her seniors for ignoring her suggestions. "Despite repeated warnings in different forums, we are watching with frustration as our window of opportunity (to contain the virus) is running out," Sadetzki in a Facebook post, said. There are more than 35,500 COVID-19 cases, including 350 deaths in Israel.

Israel reports its highest daily coronavirus infections

Cracks are now emerging Israel's unity government. Benny Gantz has opposed PM Netanyahu's plan to annex the west bank. Watch report.

Cracks emerge in Israel's unity government: Gantz doesn't agree with Netanyahu's plan

Plans by Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to begin annexing parts of the occupied&nbsp;Palestinian territories&nbsp;from as early as Wednesday appeared in disarray as the country’s alternate prime minister, Benny Gantz, suggested annexation would have to wait while the country dealt with its coronavirus crisis.

The comments by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense minister, Benny Gantz, exposed a growing rift just weeks after their coalition government was sworn into office. It also raised questions about the viability of Netanyahu’s annexation plan.

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Netanyahu has said he wants to begin annexing occupied land as soon as this week in line with President Donald Trump’s Mideast plan. Trump’s envoy, Avi Berkowitz, is in Jerusalem this week working with Israeli officials on the contours of which land Israel can annex.

But in a meeting with his Blue and White party, Gantz said his top priority is helping the country cope with the health and economic crisis stemming from the coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-cabinet-meets-to-finalise-annexation-plans-for-occupied-west-bank-309153">Israel's cabinet meets to finalise annexation plans for occupied West Bank</a>

“Anything unrelated to the battle against the coronavirus will wait,” he said.

Netanyahu appeared to dismiss Gantz’s concerns Monday, telling Likud members that he was working “discretely” with the Americans. “The issue does not depend on Blue and White,” he said.

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On Sunday, Netanyahu had asked evangelical supporters to lobby in favor of Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank as he expects evangelical leaders to put pressure on the White House to give Israel the green light.

Netanyahu has said he intends to extend Israeli sovereignty to Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley, as envisaged by a blueprint announced by US President Donald Trump in January under which Israel would control of 30 per cent&nbsp;of the West Bank.

International opposition has mounted in the past few weeks, with Palestinian leaders, the United Nations, European powers, and Arab countries allied with Israel all denouncing any annexation of land that Israeli forces captured in a&nbsp;1967 war.

&nbsp;

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Plans by Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to begin annexing parts of the occupied Palestinian territories from as early as Wednesday appeared in disarray as the country’s alternate prime minister, Benny Gantz, suggested annexation would have to wait while the country dealt with its coronavirus crisis.

Plans by Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to begin annexing parts of the occupied Palestinian territories from as early as Wednesday appeared in disarray as the country’s alternate prime minister, Benny Gantz, suggested annexation would have to wait while the country dealt with its coronavirus crisis. The comments by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense minister, Benny Gantz, exposed a growing rift just weeks after their coalition government was sworn into office. It also raised questions about the viability of Netanyahu’s annexation plan. Netanyahu has said he wants to begin annexing occupied land as soon as this week in line with President Donald Trump’s Mideast plan. Trump’s envoy, Avi Berkowitz, is in Jerusalem this week working with Israeli officials on the contours of which land Israel can annex. But in a meeting with his Blue and White party, Gantz said his top priority is helping the country cope with the health and economic crisis stemming from the coronavirus. Also read: Israel's cabinet meets to finalise annexation plans for occupied West Bank “Anything unrelated to the battle against the coronavirus will wait,” he said. Netanyahu appeared to dismiss Gantz’s concerns Monday, telling Likud members that he was working “discretely” with the Americans. “The issue does not depend on Blue and White,” he said. On Sunday, Netanyahu had asked evangelical supporters to lobby in favor of Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank as he expects evangelical leaders to put pressure on the White House to give Israel the green light. Netanyahu has said he intends to extend Israeli sovereignty to Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley, as envisaged by a blueprint announced by US President Donald Trump in January under which Israel would control of 30 per cent of the West Bank. International opposition has mounted in the past few weeks, with Palestinian leaders, the United Nations, European powers, and Arab countries allied with Israel all denouncing any annexation of land that Israeli forces captured in a 1967 war.

Israel leaders Netanyahu and Gantz at odds over West Bank annexation plan

Israel's west bank annexation plan: Netanyahu and Gantz at odds over plan

Netanyahu and Gantz at odds over West Bank annexation plan

Palestinian Islamist militant group and ruler of the Gaza Strip Hamas call for the necessity of a "comprehensive resistance" and "armed struggle" to confront Israel's plans to annex large parts of the occupied West Bank, during a press conference of Palestinian factions and "national forces"

Hamas calls for 'armed struggle' to confront Israeli annexation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said his country would be cooperating with the United Arab Emirates to fight against the coronavirus pandemic, despite a lack of diplomatic ties.

"This collaboration will be in the areas of research and development and technology, in areas that will improve health security throughout the region," Netanyahu said in a statement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-arab-league-urge-israel-to-abandon-annexation-plans-308319">UN, Arab League urge Israel to abandon annexation plans</a>

He did not give further details, but said that the planned cooperation, to be announced formally by health ministers for Israel and the UAE" is the result of prolonged and intense contacts in recent months".

Jordan and Egypt aside, Arab countries have no official relations with Israel.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-kill-palestinian-who-tried-car-ramming-in-west-bank-police-308080">Israeli troops kill Palestinian who tried car-ramming in West Bank: Police</a>

But Arab states in the Gulf, including the UAE, have increasingly built informal ties with Israel in recent years amid shared concerns over Iran, which the Jewish state considers its arch-enemy.

"The stronger we are, the more powerful we are at deterring our enemies and bringing our friends closer," Netanyahu said in his statement.

His remarks come just days before Israel intends to kick-start US-backed plans to annex &nbsp;settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Jordan Valley.

The plan has sparked the fury of the Palestinians and drawn international condemnation.

And earlier this month, the Emirati ambassador to Washington warned that annexation of parts of the West Bank would jeopardise any warming of Arab-Israeli relations.

"Annexation will certainly and immediately upend Israeli aspirations for improved security, economic and cultural ties with the Arab world and with the UAE," Yousef al-Otaiba wrote in a rare op-ed by an Emirati official in Israel's top-selling daily Yediot Aharonot.

On Wednesday the United Nations, European and Arab powers warned Israel that the plan would deal a major blow to peace.

Arab countries have repeatedly called for a settlement to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as a condition for normalising ties with the Jewish state.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said his country would be cooperating with the United Arab Emirates to fight against the coronavirus pandemic, despite a lack of diplomatic ties.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said his country would be cooperating with the United Arab Emirates to fight against the coronavirus pandemic, despite a lack of diplomatic ties. "This collaboration will be in the areas of research and development and technology, in areas that will improve health security throughout the region," Netanyahu said in a statement. Also read| UN, Arab League urge Israel to abandon annexation plans He did not give further details, but said that the planned cooperation, to be announced formally by health ministers for Israel and the UAE" is the result of prolonged and intense contacts in recent months". Jordan and Egypt aside, Arab countries have no official relations with Israel. Also read| Israeli troops kill Palestinian who tried car-ramming in West Bank: Police But Arab states in the Gulf, including the UAE, have increasingly built informal ties with Israel in recent years amid shared concerns over Iran, which the Jewish state considers its arch-enemy. "The stronger we are, the more powerful we are at deterring our enemies and bringing our friends closer," Netanyahu said in his statement. His remarks come just days before Israel intends to kick-start US-backed plans to annex settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Jordan Valley. The plan has sparked the fury of the Palestinians and drawn international condemnation. And earlier this month, the Emirati ambassador to Washington warned that annexation of parts of the West Bank would jeopardise any warming of Arab-Israeli relations. "Annexation will certainly and immediately upend Israeli aspirations for improved security, economic and cultural ties with the Arab world and with the UAE," Yousef al-Otaiba wrote in a rare op-ed by an Emirati official in Israel's top-selling daily Yediot Aharonot. On Wednesday the United Nations, European and Arab powers warned Israel that the plan would deal a major blow to peace. Arab countries have repeatedly called for a settlement to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as a condition for normalising ties with the Jewish state.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announces 'cooperation' with UAE to combat coronavirus

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