Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 04) promised Israel would strike back at both Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi rebels and their Iranian backers after a missile landed near Tel Aviv&rsquo;s Ben Gurion Airport, injuring six people.
&ldquo;Israel will respond to the Huthi attack against our main airport AND, at a time and place of our choosing, to their Iranian terror masters,&rdquo; Netanyahu wrote on X, reposting a comment by President Donald Trump. &ldquo;It will not happen in one bang, but there will be many bangs,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-netanyahu-vows-action-against-yemen-houthis-after-missile-attack-at-tel-aviv-airport-9032485" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There will be bangs': Israel's Netanyahu vows action against Houthis after missile attack at Tel Aviv airport</a>
Earlier in March, US President Donald Trump also blamed Iran for Houthi Strikes saying, "Let nobody be fooled! The hundreds of attacks being made by Houthi, the sinister mobsters and thugs based in Yemen, who are hated by the Yemeni people, all emanate&nbsp;from,&nbsp;and are created&nbsp;by,&nbsp;IRAN."
<h2>Defence chief warns of sevenfold retaliation</h2>
Defence Minister Israel Katz said, &ldquo;Anyone who hits us, we will hit them seven times stronger.&rdquo; 
The Israeli military confirmed the missile was fired from Yemen and evaded &ldquo;several attempts&hellip; to intercept&rdquo; it before creating a large crater by the airport&rsquo;s Terminal 3 car park. Following Sunday&rsquo;s strike, airlines including Lufthansa and Air India suspended flights to Tel Aviv until at least 6 May.
Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-pm-netanyahu-says-qatar-must-stop-playing-both-sides-9030915" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli PM Netanyahu says, 'Qatar must stop playing both sides'</a>
<h2>Houthis claim solidarity with Gaza</h2>
Houthi spokesperson Yehya Saree said their fighters had &ldquo;successfully hit&rdquo; Ben Gurion with a hypersonic missile to show support for Palestinians in Gaza. 
Saree added that more attacks would follow, declaring they would continue supporting Palestinians "whatever the consequences" until the war in Gaza comes to an end.
The attack is the fourth Houthi strike on Israel in just three days. Although Israel has intercepted most of the missiles fired by the group since the war in Gaza began, Sunday&rsquo;s strike caused damage and injuries.
Following the explosion, Ben Gurion Airport temporarily suspended all departures and arrivals. Air India and several other airlines halted flights to and from Tel Aviv. Lufthansa also announced it would not resume flights until at least 6 May.

World: “Israel will respond to the Huthi attack against our main airport AND, at a time and place of our choosing, to their Iranian terror masters,” Netanyahu wrote on X.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 04) promised Israel would strike back at both Yemen’s Houthi rebels and their Iranian backers after a missile landed near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, injuring six people. “Israel will respond to the Huthi attack against our main airport AND, at a time and place of our choosing, to their Iranian terror masters,” Netanyahu wrote on X, reposting a comment by President Donald Trump. “It will not happen in one bang, but there will be many bangs,” he added. Also read: 'There will be bangs': Israel's Netanyahu vows action against Houthis after missile attack at Tel Aviv airport Earlier in March, US President Donald Trump also blamed Iran for Houthi Strikes saying, "Let nobody be fooled! The hundreds of attacks being made by Houthi, the sinister mobsters and thugs based in Yemen, who are hated by the Yemeni people, all emanate from, and are created by, IRAN." Defence chief warns of sevenfold retaliation Defence Minister Israel Katz said, “Anyone who hits us, we will hit them seven times stronger.” The Israeli military confirmed the missile was fired from Yemen and evaded “several attempts… to intercept” it before creating a large crater by the airport’s Terminal 3 car park. Following Sunday’s strike, airlines including Lufthansa and Air India suspended flights to Tel Aviv until at least 6 May. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli PM Netanyahu says, 'Qatar must stop playing both sides' Houthis claim solidarity with Gaza Houthi spokesperson Yehya Saree said their fighters had “successfully hit” Ben Gurion with a hypersonic missile to show support for Palestinians in Gaza. Saree added that more attacks would follow, declaring they would continue supporting Palestinians "whatever the consequences" until the war in Gaza comes to an end. The attack is the fourth Houthi strike on Israel in just three days. Although Israel has intercepted most of the missiles fired by the group since the war in Gaza began, Sunday’s strike caused damage and injuries. Following the explosion, Ben Gurion Airport temporarily suspended all departures and arrivals. Air India and several other airlines halted flights to and from Tel Aviv. Lufthansa also announced it would not resume flights until at least 6 May.

‘At a time and place of our choosing’: Netanyahu echoes Trump after Houthi attack, vows response against ‘Iranian terror masters’

Israel&rsquo;s Prime Minister Benjamin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/incomplete-independence-freed-hostages-call-for-release-of-those-still-held-by-hamas-9031940" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Netanyahu</a> has pledged further action against Yemen's Houthi rebels after a missile fired from Yemen landed near Tel Aviv&rsquo;s Ben Gurion airport on Sunday morning. According to Israeli authorities, four people were injured in the blast, with two more hurt while trying to reach a shelter.
The missile struck close to Terminal 3&rsquo;s parking area, causing disruption to air travel and sparking concerns over safety at one of the country's busiest transport hubs.
<h2>Netanyahu: &lsquo;There will be bangs&rsquo;</h2>
Speaking after the attack, Netanyahu confirmed Israel would continue its operations against the Houthis.
&ldquo;We operated against them in the past and we will operate in the future,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not &lsquo;bang &mdash; that&rsquo;s it,&rsquo; but there will be bangs.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-delhi-to-tel-aviv-flight-diverted-to-abu-dhabi-following-missile-attack-near-israeli-airport-9032104" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Air India&rsquo;s Delhi to Tel Aviv flight diverted to Abu Dhabi following missile attack near Israeli airport</a>
Israel&rsquo;s Defence Minister Israel Katz also issued a strong warning: &ldquo;Whoever harms us, we will harm them sevenfold.&rdquo;
<h2>Houthi group says missile 'hit its target'</h2>
The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for the strike. Their military spokesperson Yehya Saree stated the group had launched a ballistic missile at the airport and that it had "successfully hit its target."
Saree added that more attacks would follow, declaring they would continue supporting Palestinians "whatever the consequences" until the war in Gaza comes to an end.
Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemen-attacks-tel-aviv-with-projectile-confirms-israel-army-sirens-sound-over-tel-aviv-i-originals-8975957" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Yemen attacks Tel Aviv with projectile confirms Israel army | Sirens sound over Tel Aviv I Originals</a>
<h2>Flights suspended as missile sparks panic</h2>
Following the explosion, Ben Gurion airport temporarily suspended all departures and arrivals. Air India and several other airlines halted flights to and from Tel Aviv. Lufthansa also announced it would not resume flights until at least 6 May.
Unverified videos shared online appeared to show motorists pulling over and taking cover as a loud blast occurred, sending a column of black smoke into the air near the airport.
<h2>&lsquo;Tens of metres deep&rsquo;: Police show missile crater</h2>
Israeli military officials said air defences had attempted to intercept the missile, but it still landed near the airport. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said warning sirens had sounded in several areas and that &ldquo;several interception attempts were made against a missile launched from Yemen.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-defense-forces-probe-reveals-massive-failure-as-troops-abandoned-civilians-at-zikim-beach-on-oct-7-9032123" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel Defense Forces probe reveals &lsquo;massive failure&rsquo; as troops abandoned civilians at Zikim Beach on Oct 7</a>
Yair Hetzroni, a senior Israeli police commander, showed reporters the crater at the scene.
&ldquo;You can see the scene right behind us here, a hole that opened up with a diameter of tens of metres and also tens of metres deep,&rdquo; he said, noting that no major damage was caused.

World: Speaking after the attack, Netanyahu confirmed Israel would continue its operations against the Houthis. “We operated against them in the past and we will operate in the future,” he said. “It’s not ‘bang — that’s it,’ but there will be bangs.”

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged further action against Yemen's Houthi rebels after a missile fired from Yemen landed near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport on Sunday morning. According to Israeli authorities, four people were injured in the blast, with two more hurt while trying to reach a shelter. The missile struck close to Terminal 3’s parking area, causing disruption to air travel and sparking concerns over safety at one of the country's busiest transport hubs. Netanyahu: ‘There will be bangs’ Speaking after the attack, Netanyahu confirmed Israel would continue its operations against the Houthis. “We operated against them in the past and we will operate in the future,” he said. “It’s not ‘bang — that’s it,’ but there will be bangs.” Also read: Air India’s Delhi to Tel Aviv flight diverted to Abu Dhabi following missile attack near Israeli airport Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz also issued a strong warning: “Whoever harms us, we will harm them sevenfold.” Houthi group says missile 'hit its target' The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for the strike. Their military spokesperson Yehya Saree stated the group had launched a ballistic missile at the airport and that it had "successfully hit its target." Saree added that more attacks would follow, declaring they would continue supporting Palestinians "whatever the consequences" until the war in Gaza comes to an end. Watch: Yemen attacks Tel Aviv with projectile confirms Israel army | Sirens sound over Tel Aviv I Originals Flights suspended as missile sparks panic Following the explosion, Ben Gurion airport temporarily suspended all departures and arrivals. Air India and several other airlines halted flights to and from Tel Aviv. Lufthansa also announced it would not resume flights until at least 6 May. Unverified videos shared online appeared to show motorists pulling over and taking cover as a loud blast occurred, sending a column of black smoke into the air near the airport. ‘Tens of metres deep’: Police show missile crater Israeli military officials said air defences had attempted to intercept the missile, but it still landed near the airport. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said warning sirens had sounded in several areas and that “several interception attempts were made against a missile launched from Yemen.” Also read: Israel Defense Forces probe reveals ‘massive failure’ as troops abandoned civilians at Zikim Beach on Oct 7 Yair Hetzroni, a senior Israeli police commander, showed reporters the crater at the scene. “You can see the scene right behind us here, a hole that opened up with a diameter of tens of metres and also tens of metres deep,” he said, noting that no major damage was caused.

'There will be bangs': Israel's Netanyahu vows action against Houthis after missile attack at Tel Aviv airport

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months.&nbsp;
"Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12).&nbsp;
"Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added.&nbsp;
After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable".
"I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i6zgyv-ntonwprj-vcgiwrlh">
אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת&hellip;
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1911475839104921896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/screw-you-netanyahus-son-yair-slams-macron-on-palestinian-statehood-8956340">&lsquo;Screw you!&rsquo;: Netanyahu&rsquo;s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood</a>
But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Yair Netanyahu?&nbsp;</h2>
Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online.&nbsp;
Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.&nbsp;
<h2>The George Soros meme scandal - 2017&nbsp;</h2>
In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-war-with-iran-inevitable-if-nuclear-talks-stall-donald-trump-8940638">'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall</a>
The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. &nbsp;
Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it &ldquo;dangerous&rdquo; and &ldquo;anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post.&nbsp;
<h2>The strip club video - 2017</h2>
An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal.&nbsp;
He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/criminal-investigation-launches-against-sara-netanyahu-for-witness-tampering-8684712">Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering'</a>
After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses.&nbsp;
<h2>'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020&nbsp;</h2>
Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: &ldquo;all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.&rdquo;
The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fraud-trial-of-israel-pms-wife-sara-netanyahu-postponed-court-150254">Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court</a>
Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done.&nbsp;
<h2>Other controversies&nbsp;</h2>
Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well.&nbsp;He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors". &nbsp;

TRENDING | World | Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months. "Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12). "Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added. After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable". "I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post. אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת… — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 13, 2025 Also read: ‘Screw you!’: Netanyahu’s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy. Who is Yair Netanyahu? Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online. Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst. The George Soros meme scandal - 2017 In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel. Also read: 'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it “dangerous” and “anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post. The strip club video - 2017 An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal. He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery. Also read: Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering' After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses. 'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020 Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: “all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.” The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel. Also read: Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done. Other controversies Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well. He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors".

From 'Screw you' Macron to strip club scandal: 6 times Yair Netanyahu landed up in controversy

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-cancels-trump-netanyahu-press-conference-before-israeli-pms-arrival-8936890">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> has warned that military action against Iran could become unavoidable if ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran fail to produce results.
In a video statement released on Tuesday after meeting with US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu said, &ldquo;We agree that Iran will not have nuclear weapons. This can be done in an agreement, but only if... they go in, blow up (Iran's) facilities, dismantle all the equipment, under American supervision.&rdquo; He added, &ldquo;If talks drag on, then the military option becomes inevitable.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump confirms direct talks with Iran</h2>
Earlier on Monday, President Trump revealed that the US and Iran would hold direct negotiations on Saturday over a possible new nuclear agreement. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re having direct talks with Iran and they&rsquo;ve started, it'll go on Saturday. We have a very big meeting and we&rsquo;ll see what can happen,&rdquo; Trump said from the Oval Office.
Trump, during his first presidency, withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term, described the upcoming talks as being at a &ldquo;very high level&rdquo;. He added, &ldquo;Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and if the talks aren&rsquo;t successful, I actually think it'll be a very bad day for Iran.&rdquo;
<h2>Iran says talks will be indirect</h2>
Following Trump's announcement, Iran&rsquo;s foreign minister said that the negotiations set to take place in Oman would be &ldquo;indirect&rdquo;, but admitted that they could present &ldquo;as much an opportunity as... a test&rdquo;.
Iran has long claimed that its nuclear programme is peaceful. However, it has steadily increased its uranium enrichment since the US reinstated sanctions seven years ago. The country is now believed to have enough enriched uranium to build several nuclear weapons, according to recent assessments.
Netanyahu&rsquo;s comments follow his meeting with Trump at the White House, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to stopping Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu has previously threatened military strikes against Iranian nuclear sites.
Trump said, &ldquo;I think everybody agrees that doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious. And the obvious is not something that I want to be involved with, or frankly that Israel wants to be involved with, if they can avoid it.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;But it's getting to be very dangerous territory, and hopefully those talks will be successful.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Earlier on Monday, President Trump revealed that the US and Iran would hold direct negotiations on Saturday over a possible new nuclear agreement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that military action against Iran could become unavoidable if ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran fail to produce results. In a video statement released on Tuesday after meeting with US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu said, “We agree that Iran will not have nuclear weapons. This can be done in an agreement, but only if... they go in, blow up (Iran's) facilities, dismantle all the equipment, under American supervision.” He added, “If talks drag on, then the military option becomes inevitable.” Trump confirms direct talks with Iran Earlier on Monday, President Trump revealed that the US and Iran would hold direct negotiations on Saturday over a possible new nuclear agreement. “We’re having direct talks with Iran and they’ve started, it'll go on Saturday. We have a very big meeting and we’ll see what can happen,” Trump said from the Oval Office. Trump, during his first presidency, withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term, described the upcoming talks as being at a “very high level”. He added, “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and if the talks aren’t successful, I actually think it'll be a very bad day for Iran.” Iran says talks will be indirect Following Trump's announcement, Iran’s foreign minister said that the negotiations set to take place in Oman would be “indirect”, but admitted that they could present “as much an opportunity as... a test”. Iran has long claimed that its nuclear programme is peaceful. However, it has steadily increased its uranium enrichment since the US reinstated sanctions seven years ago. The country is now believed to have enough enriched uranium to build several nuclear weapons, according to recent assessments. Netanyahu’s comments follow his meeting with Trump at the White House, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to stopping Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu has previously threatened military strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. Trump said, “I think everybody agrees that doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious. And the obvious is not something that I want to be involved with, or frankly that Israel wants to be involved with, if they can avoid it.” He added, “But it's getting to be very dangerous territory, and hopefully those talks will be successful.” (With inputs from agencies)

'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-hits-beirut-for-first-time-in-months-lebanon-hunts-those-behind-rocket-attack-on-israel-8900732">Netanyahu</a> on Friday (March 28) issued a strong warning, saying Israel would "strike everywhere in Lebanon against any threat", following the first air strike on south Beirut since a ceasefire with Hezbollah began in November.
"The equation has changed... we will not allow any fire on our communities," Netanyahu said in a statement. 
"We will continue to enforce the ceasefire with force, strike everywhere in Lebanon against any threat to the State of Israel, and ensure that all our residents in the north return safely to their homes," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-hits-beirut-for-first-time-in-months-lebanon-hunts-those-behind-rocket-attack-on-israel-8900732">Israeli strike hits Beirut for first time since Hezbollah ceasefire; Lebanon hunts those behind rocket attack on Israel</a>
The air strike on Friday came after rockets were launched from Lebanon into Israel. Israel responded by targeting an area in southern Beirut, a known Hezbollah stronghold.
<h2>'Dangerous escalation'</h2>
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attack, calling it "a dangerous escalation" and criticising what he described as "Israeli attacks that target civilians and safe residential areas where schools and universities are located," according to a statement from his office.
The Lebanese army later reported it had located the rocket launch site, situated north of the Litani River, and said efforts were underway to identify those responsible.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-start-meeting-candidates-to-replace-internal-intelligence-agency-chief-ronen-bar-8890568">Netanyahu to start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar</a>
Meanwhile, Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a warning of his own. He said any future attacks on northern Israel would be met with strikes on Hezbollah&rsquo;s Dahieh stronghold in Beirut.
"Any attempt to harm the Galilee communities, the rooftops of the houses in the Dahieh neighbourhood in Beirut will tremble," Katz said in a video message. Addressing Lebanon&rsquo;s leadership directly, he added, "If you do not enforce the ceasefire agreement, we will enforce it."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-warns-of-new-war-after-israels-retaliatory-attacks-that-killed-two-8880073">Lebanon warns of &lsquo;new war&rsquo; after Israel&rsquo;s retaliatory attacks kill two</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday issued a strong warning, saying Israel would "strike everywhere in Lebanon against any threat." middle east

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (March 28) issued a strong warning, saying Israel would "strike everywhere in Lebanon against any threat", following the first air strike on south Beirut since a ceasefire with Hezbollah began in November. "The equation has changed... we will not allow any fire on our communities," Netanyahu said in a statement. "We will continue to enforce the ceasefire with force, strike everywhere in Lebanon against any threat to the State of Israel, and ensure that all our residents in the north return safely to their homes," he added. Also read: Israeli strike hits Beirut for first time since Hezbollah ceasefire; Lebanon hunts those behind rocket attack on Israel The air strike on Friday came after rockets were launched from Lebanon into Israel. Israel responded by targeting an area in southern Beirut, a known Hezbollah stronghold. 'Dangerous escalation' Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the attack, calling it "a dangerous escalation" and criticising what he described as "Israeli attacks that target civilians and safe residential areas where schools and universities are located," according to a statement from his office. The Lebanese army later reported it had located the rocket launch site, situated north of the Litani River, and said efforts were underway to identify those responsible. Also read: Netanyahu to start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar Meanwhile, Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a warning of his own. He said any future attacks on northern Israel would be met with strikes on Hezbollah’s Dahieh stronghold in Beirut. "Any attempt to harm the Galilee communities, the rooftops of the houses in the Dahieh neighbourhood in Beirut will tremble," Katz said in a video message. Addressing Lebanon’s leadership directly, he added, "If you do not enforce the ceasefire agreement, we will enforce it." Also read: Lebanon warns of ‘new war’ after Israel’s retaliatory attacks kill two (With inputs from agencies)

‘Won’t allow any fire’: Netanyahu warns of strikes ‘everywhere in Lebanon’ after hitting Beirut

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Tuesday that he would start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar, whose sacking brought thousands of Israelis out on the streets last week.
"After the Supreme Court rejected the government's legal advisor's attempt to prevent the start of the process to appoint a new Shin Bet chief, the Prime Minister will begin interviewing candidates for the position as early as tomorrow," Netanyahu spokesman Omer Dostri said in a statement.
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.

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Tuesday that he would start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar. Middle East

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Tuesday that he would start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar, whose sacking brought thousands of Israelis out on the streets last week. "After the Supreme Court rejected the government's legal advisor's attempt to prevent the start of the process to appoint a new Shin Bet chief, the Prime Minister will begin interviewing candidates for the position as early as tomorrow," Netanyahu spokesman Omer Dostri said in a statement. 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.

Netanyahu to start meeting candidates to replace internal intelligence agency chief Ronen Bar

Israel's cabinet passed a vote of no confidence on Sunday in the attorney general, the justice minister said, moving against a vocal critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court and which triggered anti-government demonstrations.
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.

World: The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court.

Israel's cabinet passed a vote of no confidence on Sunday in the attorney general, the justice minister said, moving against a vocal critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court and which triggered anti-government demonstrations. 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.

Israel’s cabinet turns on attorney general in no-confidence vote amid political turmoil

The United States and Israel are planning to move Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to Africa as they reportedly reached out to at least three East African governments to discuss if they can use African territories for the same.&nbsp;
A report by the Associate Press (AP) claimed that American and Israeli officials told about Donald Trump's postwar plan to resettle Gazans.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-respond-accordingly-white-house-accuses-hamas-of-making-very-bad-bet-on-gaza-talks-8854373">'Will respond accordingly': White House accuses Hamas of making 'very bad bet' on Gaza talks</a>
The two nations contacted Sudan, Somalia and Somaliland, AP claimed. As all the three regions are poor and somewhat wracked by violence, the reported move raises questions on the US President's statement that he is planning to resettle Gazans in a "beautiful area".&nbsp;
Sudan officials said they have rejected the discussion with Trump, but Somalia and Somaliland told AP that they were not contacted by either of the countries (US, Israel).&nbsp;
&ldquo;This suggestion was immediately rebuffed,&rdquo; said one Sudanese official. &ldquo;No one opened this matter again," they added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-israel-circus-known-as-un-human-rights-council-netanyahu-rejects-un-finding-on-gaza-genocidal-acts-8851221">'Anti-Israel circus known as UN Human Rights Council': Netanyahu rejects UN finding on Gaza 'genocidal acts'</a>
Somalia's Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi said his country would categorically reject "any proposal or initiative, from any party, that would undermine the Palestinian people&rsquo;s right to live peacefully on their ancestral land", Reuters reported.&nbsp;
<h2>A 'bold decision'&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-for-the-first-time-accepts-reasonable-suspicion-over-idfs-use-of-palestinians-as-human-shields-in-gaza-israeli-soldiers-gaza-war-israel-hamas-war-8848669">Israel, for the first time, 'accepts' use of Palestinians as human shields in Gaza, probe on: Report</a>
After Trump presented the idea of mass transfer of Palestinians in the White House last month, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed it a "bold decision". Since then, the decision has sparked outrage and criticism from various nations. Rights groups have said forcing or pressuring the Palestinians to leave could be a potential war crime.
Despite, the White House says Trump "stands by his vision".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-spit-on-held-in-one-sq-metre-cell-israeli-hostages-painful-ordeal-reveals-they-knew-when-gaza-truce-failed-8847768">'Beaten, spat on, held in a sq metre cell': Hostage's painful ordeal reveals 'he knew' when Gaza truce failed</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | A report by the Associate Press (AP) claimed that American and Israeli officials told about Donald Trump's postwar plan to resettle Gazans.

The United States and Israel are planning to move Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to Africa as they reportedly reached out to at least three East African governments to discuss if they can use African territories for the same. A report by the Associate Press (AP) claimed that American and Israeli officials told about Donald Trump's postwar plan to resettle Gazans. Also read: 'Will respond accordingly': White House accuses Hamas of making 'very bad bet' on Gaza talks The two nations contacted Sudan, Somalia and Somaliland, AP claimed. As all the three regions are poor and somewhat wracked by violence, the reported move raises questions on the US President's statement that he is planning to resettle Gazans in a "beautiful area". Sudan officials said they have rejected the discussion with Trump, but Somalia and Somaliland told AP that they were not contacted by either of the countries (US, Israel). “This suggestion was immediately rebuffed,” said one Sudanese official. “No one opened this matter again," they added. Also read: 'Anti-Israel circus known as UN Human Rights Council': Netanyahu rejects UN finding on Gaza 'genocidal acts' Somalia's Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi said his country would categorically reject "any proposal or initiative, from any party, that would undermine the Palestinian people’s right to live peacefully on their ancestral land", Reuters reported. A 'bold decision' Also read: Israel, for the first time, 'accepts' use of Palestinians as human shields in Gaza, probe on: Report After Trump presented the idea of mass transfer of Palestinians in the White House last month, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed it a "bold decision". Since then, the decision has sparked outrage and criticism from various nations. Rights groups have said forcing or pressuring the Palestinians to leave could be a potential war crime. Despite, the White House says Trump "stands by his vision". Also read: 'Beaten, spat on, held in a sq metre cell': Hostage's painful ordeal reveals 'he knew' when Gaza truce failed (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's 'beautiful area' for Gazans? US, Israel eyeing three 'poor' African nations to resettle Palestinians

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas on Monday (March 3) of severe consequences if the Palestinian militant group does not release the remaining hostages held in Gaza.
&ldquo;I tell Hamas: If you do not release our hostages, there will be consequences that you cannot imagine,&rdquo; Netanyahu said during a speech in the Israeli parliament.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-the-only-us-president-who-didnt-surrender-ukraines-land-to-putin-russia-zelensky-8775264" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump claims he&rsquo;s the only US prez who didn&rsquo;t &lsquo;surrender&rsquo; Ukraine&rsquo;s land to Putin, but history says otherwise</a>
As he delivered his speech, families of the hostages gathered outside the Knesset in protest, urging action to bring their loved ones home.
Netanyahu referred to an agreement from the previous US administration, backed by President Donald Trump, which grants Israel the right to withdraw from negotiations and resume military operations if talks become futile.
&ldquo;According to the side letter that accompanied the agreement from the previous [US] administration, backed by the Trump administration, we have the right at any moment from Day 42 to drop out of the negotiations and return to fighting if we are under the impression that the talks are pointless,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oscars-host-conan-obrien-mocks-us-president-trump-over-ugly-spat-with-zelensky-anora-8775068" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Stand up to a powerful Russian&rsquo;: Oscars host Conan O&rsquo;Brien mocks Trump over ugly spat with Zelensky | Watch</a>
Addressing concerns raised by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Netanyahu admitted that the gap between the negotiating sides is too big and poses a risk to the talks. &ldquo;There is a proposal in front of us. We are still in the agreement, we are not violating the agreement, but we are not returning immediately to war,&rdquo; he said.
However, he warned that military action might still be necessary. &ldquo;Who knows, we might need to. [Witkoff] offers a way to return all the hostages, in two releases,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-fully-coordinated-with-trump-to-extend-phase-one-of-gaza-ceasefire-for-50-days-says-netanyahu-8771452">Israel &lsquo;fully coordinated&rsquo; with Trump to extend phase one of Gaza ceasefire for 50 days, says Netanyahu</a>
Netanyahu also voiced support for former US President Trump&rsquo;s proposal to encourage emigration from Gaza, calling it a &ldquo;brave and innovative&rdquo; idea.
&ldquo;We must support it. We support it fully,&rdquo; he said, claiming that many wealthy Gazans had managed to bribe their way out of the territory. &ldquo;The time has come to give them the freedom to leave. The time has come to give them the freedom to choose,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Hamas has 'enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic': Israel</h2>
Meanwhile, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer accused Hamas of hoarding supplies while the civilian population suffered. His comments came a day after Israel blocked aid deliveries, citing a deadlock in ceasefire talks.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-suspension-of-aid-into-gaza-over-hamas-refusal-to-extend-ceasefires-1st-phase-threatens-consequences-8770552">Warnings of famine risk in Gaza &lsquo;a lie&rsquo;, says Israel as it suspends aid into Gaza over ceasefire extension</a>
Mencer told reporters that Hamas has stockpiled supplies for its operatives &ldquo;for months and months&rdquo; and has &ldquo;enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic.&rdquo;
&ldquo;No one is going hungry in Hamas,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;The supplies are there, but Hamas don&rsquo;t share.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “I tell Hamas: If you do not release our hostages, there will be consequences that you cannot imagine,” Netanyahu said during a speech in the Israeli parliament. Middle East

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas on Monday (March 3) of severe consequences if the Palestinian militant group does not release the remaining hostages held in Gaza. “I tell Hamas: If you do not release our hostages, there will be consequences that you cannot imagine,” Netanyahu said during a speech in the Israeli parliament. Also read: Trump claims he’s the only US prez who didn’t ‘surrender’ Ukraine’s land to Putin, but history says otherwise As he delivered his speech, families of the hostages gathered outside the Knesset in protest, urging action to bring their loved ones home. Netanyahu referred to an agreement from the previous US administration, backed by President Donald Trump, which grants Israel the right to withdraw from negotiations and resume military operations if talks become futile. “According to the side letter that accompanied the agreement from the previous [US] administration, backed by the Trump administration, we have the right at any moment from Day 42 to drop out of the negotiations and return to fighting if we are under the impression that the talks are pointless,” he said. Also read: ‘Stand up to a powerful Russian’: Oscars host Conan O’Brien mocks Trump over ugly spat with Zelensky | Watch Addressing concerns raised by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Netanyahu admitted that the gap between the negotiating sides is too big and poses a risk to the talks. “There is a proposal in front of us. We are still in the agreement, we are not violating the agreement, but we are not returning immediately to war,” he said. However, he warned that military action might still be necessary. “Who knows, we might need to. [Witkoff] offers a way to return all the hostages, in two releases,” he added. Also read: Israel ‘fully coordinated’ with Trump to extend phase one of Gaza ceasefire for 50 days, says Netanyahu Netanyahu also voiced support for former US President Trump’s proposal to encourage emigration from Gaza, calling it a “brave and innovative” idea. “We must support it. We support it fully,” he said, claiming that many wealthy Gazans had managed to bribe their way out of the territory. “The time has come to give them the freedom to leave. The time has come to give them the freedom to choose,” he added. Hamas has 'enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic': Israel Meanwhile, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer accused Hamas of hoarding supplies while the civilian population suffered. His comments came a day after Israel blocked aid deliveries, citing a deadlock in ceasefire talks. Also read: Warnings of famine risk in Gaza ‘a lie’, says Israel as it suspends aid into Gaza over ceasefire extension Mencer told reporters that Hamas has stockpiled supplies for its operatives “for months and months” and has “enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic.” “No one is going hungry in Hamas,” he said. “The supplies are there, but Hamas don’t share.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Might return to war’: Netanyahu warns Hamas of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if they don't return hostages

Israel has no plans to pull out from the Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza, despite the terms of the ceasefire agreement, an official told CNN on Thursday (Feb 27).
&ldquo;We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor. We will not allow Hamas murderers to roam again with trucks and rifles on our borders, and we will not let them strengthen themselves again through smuggling,&rdquo; the source told CNN.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-no-choice-but-to-start-ceasefire-2nd-phase-negotiations-8760350">Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations</a>
Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to work "relentlessly" to bring back all the hostages held in Gaza.
"To the dear families, we share in your pain. I pledge that we will continue to act relentlessly until we bring everyone back. Until we return all our sons and daughters home," Netanyahu said in a statement.
This announcement comes shortly after Hamas handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for over 600 Palestinian prisoners. That exchange marked the final planned swap in the first phase of the ceasefire, which is set to conclude this weekend.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
<h2>Negotiations for second phase under wraps</h2>
Negotiations for the second phase of the 42-day ceasefire were supposed to start more than three weeks ago, but it remains unclear whether they have.
After delivering the mortal remains of four deceased hostages overnight into Thursday, Hamas said that it is willing to engage in talks for the next stage.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
&ldquo;Any attempts by Netanyahu and his government to backtrack on the agreement and obstruct it will only lead to more suffering for the prisoners and their families,&rdquo; Hamas said, referring to the hostages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold security discussions on Thursday, after which, according to an Israeli source, a decision will be made on whether to send a delegation to continue negotiations and what terms they would follow.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibas-family-tells-netanyahu-to-shut-up-as-he-describes-murders-of-shiri-ariel-and-kfir-8759150">Bibas family tells Netanyahu to &lsquo;shut up&rsquo; as he describes murders of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir</a>
A separate Israeli source familiar with the matter told CNN on Tuesday that Netanyahu would prefer to extend the first phase of the ceasefire instead of withdrawing from Gaza, aiming to secure the release of more hostages without making further concessions. The government is trying to prolong this phase &ldquo;by as much as possible&rdquo; to achieve that goal, the source added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days. Middle East

Israel has no plans to pull out from the Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza, despite the terms of the ceasefire agreement, an official told CNN on Thursday (Feb 27). “We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor. We will not allow Hamas murderers to roam again with trucks and rifles on our borders, and we will not let them strengthen themselves again through smuggling,” the source told CNN. Also read: Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to work "relentlessly" to bring back all the hostages held in Gaza. "To the dear families, we share in your pain. I pledge that we will continue to act relentlessly until we bring everyone back. Until we return all our sons and daughters home," Netanyahu said in a statement. This announcement comes shortly after Hamas handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for over 600 Palestinian prisoners. That exchange marked the final planned swap in the first phase of the ceasefire, which is set to conclude this weekend. Also read: Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu Negotiations for second phase under wraps Negotiations for the second phase of the 42-day ceasefire were supposed to start more than three weeks ago, but it remains unclear whether they have. After delivering the mortal remains of four deceased hostages overnight into Thursday, Hamas said that it is willing to engage in talks for the next stage. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year “Any attempts by Netanyahu and his government to backtrack on the agreement and obstruct it will only lead to more suffering for the prisoners and their families,” Hamas said, referring to the hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold security discussions on Thursday, after which, according to an Israeli source, a decision will be made on whether to send a delegation to continue negotiations and what terms they would follow. Also read: Bibas family tells Netanyahu to ‘shut up’ as he describes murders of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir A separate Israeli source familiar with the matter told CNN on Tuesday that Netanyahu would prefer to extend the first phase of the ceasefire instead of withdrawing from Gaza, aiming to secure the release of more hostages without making further concessions. The government is trying to prolong this phase “by as much as possible” to achieve that goal, the source added. (With inputs from agencies)

Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won’t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza

Hamas handed over a body it claimed belonged to Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas late at&nbsp;night on Friday (Feb 21) after a misidentification nearly disrupted the fragile Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Red Cross says it has given the remains to Israel and medical authorities are now conducting forensic tests to confirm the identity.
As per Israel's army radio report, the body was identified overnight by forensic specialists as Shiri Bibas.
The Palestinian militant group had agreed to hand over the bodies of Shiri Bibas, her two sons, Kfir and Ariel, and another hostage, Oded Lifshitz, under the ongoing ceasefire deal. While the identity of the bodies of the Bibas boys and Lifshitz was confirmed, the fourth body was found to be an unidentified Gazan woman, not Shiri Bibas.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evil-violation-of-truce-amid-outrage-hamas-says-shiri-bibass-remains-mixed-in-rubble-of-israeli-strike-8743938" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Evil violation&nbsp;of&nbsp;truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble'&nbsp;of Israeli strike</a>
<h2>Hamas admits &lsquo;mistake&rsquo; in handover</h2>
Hamas official Basem Naim accepted the error, blaming the ongoing war for making proper identification difficult.
"Unfortunate mistakes can happen, especially with Israeli bombing mixing the bodies of hostages and Palestinians, thousands of whom remain buried in the rubble," he said. He added that Hamas had no interest in withholding bodies or violating agreements.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
<h2>Netanyahu condemns Hamas for &lsquo;cruel violation&rsquo;</h2>
The failure to hand over the correct body and the public display of four coffins by Hamas on Thursday sparked a backlash in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation.
&ldquo;We will act with determination to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement,&rdquo; he said in a video statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079">&lsquo;Death cult&rsquo;: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it &lsquo;parades dead bodies&rsquo; of Israeli hostages</a>
Netanyahu also denounced the group for its actions saying, &ldquo;Who kidnaps a little boy and a baby and murders them? Monsters. That&rsquo;s who. I vow that I will not rest until the savages who executed our hostages are brought to justice.&rdquo;
<h2>Dispute over how Bibas family died</h2>
Hamas has claimed since November 2023 that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Hamas-run Gaza government media director Ismail Al-Thawabta placed full blame on Netanyahu. However, the Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-over-bodies-of-four-israeli-hostages-including-mother-and-young-sons-8739430">'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages</a>
Despite tensions over the botched body transfer, Hamas is set to release six living hostages on Saturday in exchange for 602 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire are expected to begin in the coming days.
&ldquo;Hamas must return the hostages as agreed in the ceasefire, the living and the deceased. They have to bring Shiri back, and they have to release the six living hostages expected tomorrow,&rdquo; Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said on X. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas claims that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors. Middle East

Hamas handed over a body it claimed belonged to Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas late at night on Friday (Feb 21) after a misidentification nearly disrupted the fragile Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Red Cross says it has given the remains to Israel and medical authorities are now conducting forensic tests to confirm the identity. As per Israel's army radio report, the body was identified overnight by forensic specialists as Shiri Bibas. The Palestinian militant group had agreed to hand over the bodies of Shiri Bibas, her two sons, Kfir and Ariel, and another hostage, Oded Lifshitz, under the ongoing ceasefire deal. While the identity of the bodies of the Bibas boys and Lifshitz was confirmed, the fourth body was found to be an unidentified Gazan woman, not Shiri Bibas. Also read: 'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike Hamas admits ‘mistake’ in handover Hamas official Basem Naim accepted the error, blaming the ongoing war for making proper identification difficult. "Unfortunate mistakes can happen, especially with Israeli bombing mixing the bodies of hostages and Palestinians, thousands of whom remain buried in the rubble," he said. He added that Hamas had no interest in withholding bodies or violating agreements. Also read: Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing Netanyahu condemns Hamas for ‘cruel violation’ The failure to hand over the correct body and the public display of four coffins by Hamas on Thursday sparked a backlash in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation. “We will act with determination to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement,” he said in a video statement. Also read: ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages Netanyahu also denounced the group for its actions saying, “Who kidnaps a little boy and a baby and murders them? Monsters. That’s who. I vow that I will not rest until the savages who executed our hostages are brought to justice.” Dispute over how Bibas family died Hamas has claimed since November 2023 that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Hamas-run Gaza government media director Ismail Al-Thawabta placed full blame on Netanyahu. However, the Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors. Also read: 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages Despite tensions over the botched body transfer, Hamas is set to release six living hostages on Saturday in exchange for 602 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire are expected to begin in the coming days. “Hamas must return the hostages as agreed in the ceasefire, the living and the deceased. They have to bring Shiri back, and they have to release the six living hostages expected tomorrow,” Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel confirms receiving Shiri Bibas’ remains in overnight handover by Hamas

Palestinian group Hamas handed over three Israeli captives to the Red Cross in Gaza on Saturday (Feb 8). The three Israeli captives were released as part of the fifth hostage-prisoner swap under an ongoing ceasefire with Israel. In exchange, 183 Palestinian prisoners were freed. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the Hamas militants as "monsters" after the handover of the three hostages in extremely frail health.
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Three male Israelis, Eli Sharabi (52), Or Levy (34) and Ohad Ben Ami (56), were released. But their health appeared to be in a poor state. Their families celebrated but also raised major concerns over their health. They looked gaunt, weak, and pale. The difference in appearance was visible when Israel shared their before and after images.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-great-american-guessing-game-who-runs-the-country-trump-or-musk-8703842" rel="dofollow">The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk?</a>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6x9ge2p-wxtnsxk7-881ml9yd">
There are no words. <a href="https://t.co/y8Osk7jPp5">pic.twitter.com/y8Osk7jPp5</a>
&mdash; Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1888275121489469484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
The three Israeli hostages were kidnapped in the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. They were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) by Hamas in Deir al-Balah city of the Gaza Strip.
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As quoted by CNN, a group representing the families of hostages held in Gaza said it was &ldquo;horrified by the visible physical and mental condition&rdquo; of the three.&nbsp;
While speaking to Channel 13 News, Ohad Ben Ami's mother-in-law, Michal Cohen, said that "he looked like a skeleton, it was awful to see."&nbsp;
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The hostages were taken to the hospital for medical assessment. Gil Fire, who is the deputy director at Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv, said, "In the initial medical assessment conducted, it is evident that Ohad returned in a severe nutritional state and had lost a significant amount of his body weight."&nbsp;
Yael Frenkel Nir, the director of Sheba Hospital, told reporters, "The consequences of 491 long days in captivity are evident on the two returnees who arrived today, and their medical condition is poor. This is the fourth time in the current framework that we have received returnees, and the situation is more serious this time."&nbsp;
Amid concerns, the demand to release all the remaining hostages has gained momentum. US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, welcomed the release and added that US President Donald Trump "was clear&mdash;Hamasmiddle&nbsp; MUST release ALL hostages NOW!"&nbsp;
"After 490 harrowing days in captivity, Eli, Or, and Ohad are finally home in Israel," Rubio wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;
<h2>Netanyahu vows to destroy Hamas&nbsp;</h2>
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to destroy Hamas and bring home all captives held by the Palestinian militant group. "We will eliminate Hamas, and we will return our hostages," Netanyahu said in a video statement. He denounced the militants as "monsters" after the handover of three hostages.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World News Middle East: Explore the grave concerns raised by families and medical experts about the severe health condition of the released hostages, highlighting their alarming weight loss.

Palestinian group Hamas handed over three Israeli captives to the Red Cross in Gaza on Saturday (Feb 8). The three Israeli captives were released as part of the fifth hostage-prisoner swap under an ongoing ceasefire with Israel. In exchange, 183 Palestinian prisoners were freed. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the Hamas militants as "monsters" after the handover of the three hostages in extremely frail health. Also read: Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president ‘wants to see people stop dying’ in Ukraine war: Report Three male Israelis, Eli Sharabi (52), Or Levy (34) and Ohad Ben Ami (56), were released. But their health appeared to be in a poor state. Their families celebrated but also raised major concerns over their health. They looked gaunt, weak, and pale. The difference in appearance was visible when Israel shared their before and after images. Also read: The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk? There are no words. pic.twitter.com/y8Osk7jPp5 — Israel ישראל (@Israel) February 8, 2025 The three Israeli hostages were kidnapped in the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. They were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) by Hamas in Deir al-Balah city of the Gaza Strip. Also read: ‘I'll leave him alone’: Donald Trump on why he won’t deport Prince Harry As quoted by CNN, a group representing the families of hostages held in Gaza said it was “horrified by the visible physical and mental condition” of the three. While speaking to Channel 13 News, Ohad Ben Ami's mother-in-law, Michal Cohen, said that "he looked like a skeleton, it was awful to see." Also read: Bus collides with truck leaving 41 dead in southern Mexico The hostages were taken to the hospital for medical assessment. Gil Fire, who is the deputy director at Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv, said, "In the initial medical assessment conducted, it is evident that Ohad returned in a severe nutritional state and had lost a significant amount of his body weight." Yael Frenkel Nir, the director of Sheba Hospital, told reporters, "The consequences of 491 long days in captivity are evident on the two returnees who arrived today, and their medical condition is poor. This is the fourth time in the current framework that we have received returnees, and the situation is more serious this time." Amid concerns, the demand to release all the remaining hostages has gained momentum. US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, welcomed the release and added that US President Donald Trump "was clear—Hamasmiddle MUST release ALL hostages NOW!" "After 490 harrowing days in captivity, Eli, Or, and Ohad are finally home in Israel," Rubio wrote in a post on X. Netanyahu vows to destroy Hamas Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to destroy Hamas and bring home all captives held by the Palestinian militant group. "We will eliminate Hamas, and we will return our hostages," Netanyahu said in a video statement. He denounced the militants as "monsters" after the handover of three hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

‘There are no words’: Before and after pics of pale, gaunt Israeli hostages raise concerns

Israel's former defence minister Yoav Gallant in an interview aired on Thursday (Feb 6) slammed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being overly hesitant in using force against militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. The general-turned-lawmaker also claimed that Israel could've wiped Iran-backed Hezbollah from existence in October 2023, as the "beeper operation" that saw thousands of Hezbollah pagers explode was ready long before the militants launched their attack.
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<h2>'A missed opportunity' against Hezbollah</h2>
In his first televised interview since being dismissed in November, Gallant disclosed details of the "beeper operation," which he said was a long-prepared strategy designed to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities.&nbsp;
The operation, which involved detonating explosives in pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives, was carried out on September 16-17. However, as per Gallant, if executed earlier, it could have dealt a crippling blow to the group in October 2023. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
"Hezbollah as a military organization would have ceased to exist &mdash; no leadership, no missiles or rockets, most of its operatives killed in the field," he said, as quoted by Times of Israel.
Gallant claimed the plan was ready years prior, but was delayed due to Netanyahu's insistence on consulting the US.&nbsp;
"In accordance with his (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) request, I spoke with [US National Security Adviser] Jake Sullivan. After a few minutes, [Strategic Affairs Minister] Ron Dermer joined the conversation, and I received an absolute 'no,'" he recalled.
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Netanyahu, he said, feared the repercussions of launching a two-front war with Hezbollah while still reeling from Hamas's October 7 attacks.
"I went back to the prime minister, and I told him, 'We have to do this.' He (Netanyahu) pointed out the window at all the buildings, and told me: 'You see these buildings? All of this will be destroyed by Hezbollah's leftover capacity. After we hit them, they&rsquo;ll destroy everything you see'," claimed Gallant.
<h2>Netanyahu hits back</h2>
In conversation with Channel 14, Netanyahu defended his decision, arguing that it would have been a "horrible mistake" and that Hezbollah's residual firepower could have devastated Israeli cities. The prime minister also claimed that only 150 booby-trapped pagers were in Hezbollah's possession in October 2023, "as opposed to thousands that we accumulated" by the September 2024 operation.
Watch | Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0702_wion_YOAV_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0702_wion_YOAV_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=115&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ugsat8-8km4gu68-5ykfj4er"></iframe>
Gallant quickly refuted this, stating the pagers were widely distributed among Hezbollah operatives by October 2023. "The pager operation was prepared years before the war and was ready for activation on October 11," he wrote on X.
"Contrary to what was said, thousands of pagers were in the hands of the terrorists by the time I suggested attacking Hezbollah," he added, arguing that the delay allowed Hezbollah to reduce the eventual operation's impact
He said that by September 2024, "the vast majority of walkie-talkies were in warehouses, and their explosion caused no damage." This, he said, happened because by that time Hezbollah had become suspicious that something was wrong with the devices.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant criticizes Netanyahu for hesitating to strike Hezbollah, claiming a missed chance to dismantle the group in October 2023.

Israel's former defence minister Yoav Gallant in an interview aired on Thursday (Feb 6) slammed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being overly hesitant in using force against militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. The general-turned-lawmaker also claimed that Israel could've wiped Iran-backed Hezbollah from existence in October 2023, as the "beeper operation" that saw thousands of Hezbollah pagers explode was ready long before the militants launched their attack. Also read | Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza 'A missed opportunity' against Hezbollah In his first televised interview since being dismissed in November, Gallant disclosed details of the "beeper operation," which he said was a long-prepared strategy designed to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities. The operation, which involved detonating explosives in pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives, was carried out on September 16-17. However, as per Gallant, if executed earlier, it could have dealt a crippling blow to the group in October 2023. Also read | Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu "Hezbollah as a military organization would have ceased to exist — no leadership, no missiles or rockets, most of its operatives killed in the field," he said, as quoted by Times of Israel. Gallant claimed the plan was ready years prior, but was delayed due to Netanyahu's insistence on consulting the US. "In accordance with his (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) request, I spoke with [US National Security Adviser] Jake Sullivan. After a few minutes, [Strategic Affairs Minister] Ron Dermer joined the conversation, and I received an absolute 'no,'" he recalled. Also read | Donald Trump: Government payments made to Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats Netanyahu, he said, feared the repercussions of launching a two-front war with Hezbollah while still reeling from Hamas's October 7 attacks. "I went back to the prime minister, and I told him, 'We have to do this.' He (Netanyahu) pointed out the window at all the buildings, and told me: 'You see these buildings? All of this will be destroyed by Hezbollah's leftover capacity. After we hit them, they’ll destroy everything you see'," claimed Gallant. Netanyahu hits back In conversation with Channel 14, Netanyahu defended his decision, arguing that it would have been a "horrible mistake" and that Hezbollah's residual firepower could have devastated Israeli cities. The prime minister also claimed that only 150 booby-trapped pagers were in Hezbollah's possession in October 2023, "as opposed to thousands that we accumulated" by the September 2024 operation. Watch | Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant Gallant quickly refuted this, stating the pagers were widely distributed among Hezbollah operatives by October 2023. "The pager operation was prepared years before the war and was ready for activation on October 11," he wrote on X. "Contrary to what was said, thousands of pagers were in the hands of the terrorists by the time I suggested attacking Hezbollah," he added, arguing that the delay allowed Hezbollah to reduce the eventual operation's impact He said that by September 2024, "the vast majority of walkie-talkies were in warehouses, and their explosion caused no damage." This, he said, happened because by that time Hezbollah had become suspicious that something was wrong with the devices. (With inputs from agencies)

Fired Israeli ex-defence minister Gallant slams Netanyahu, claims Hezbollah could have been 'wiped out' in Oct 2023

US President Donald Trump hosted Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House - the first foreign leader to visit Trump since he was inaugurated. Watch this report for more details!

Trump-Netanyahu Meet: Rousing welcome for Israeli PM Netanyahu at the White House

Trump-Netanyahu Meet: Netanyahu becomes first foreign leader to meet Trump

Jared Kushner, former White House senior adviser and son-in-law of President Donald Trump, reportedly played a major role in shaping Trump&rsquo;s proposal for US control over Gaza.&nbsp;
According to Puck News, Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for redevelopment.
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<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s position on the plan</h2>
Sources cited by Puck News claim that Netanyahu had not requested Trump to pursue such a strategy in advance. The report suggests that the idea may have originated from Kushner, who has previously advocated for reshaping Gaza&rsquo;s future.
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<h2>Kushner&rsquo;s past remarks on Gaza</h2>
During a Harvard event last year, Kushner described Gaza&rsquo;s coastal land as &ldquo;valuable waterfront property&rdquo; and suggested moving out its residents to allow for redevelopment.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a little bit of an unfortunate situation there, but I think from Israel&rsquo;s perspective, I would do my best to move the people out and then clean it up,&rdquo; he further added. &ldquo;But I don&rsquo;t think that Israel has stated that they don&rsquo;t want the people to move back there afterward.&rdquo;
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<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s meetings with US officials</h2>
Netanyahu is set to meet US Vice President JD Vance today, as reported by The Times of Israel. He is also scheduled to hold discussions with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on key regional issues.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for its redevelopment.

Jared Kushner, former White House senior adviser and son-in-law of President Donald Trump, reportedly played a major role in shaping Trump’s proposal for US control over Gaza. According to Puck News, Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for redevelopment. Also Read | 'Exaggerated': Trump on reports of US blowing Iran into smithereens, calls for 'nuclear peace agreement' Netanyahu’s position on the plan Sources cited by Puck News claim that Netanyahu had not requested Trump to pursue such a strategy in advance. The report suggests that the idea may have originated from Kushner, who has previously advocated for reshaping Gaza’s future. Also Read | Who are the deported migrants? US military plane brings back 104 Indian nationals Kushner’s past remarks on Gaza During a Harvard event last year, Kushner described Gaza’s coastal land as “valuable waterfront property” and suggested moving out its residents to allow for redevelopment. Also Read | Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties “It’s a little bit of an unfortunate situation there, but I think from Israel’s perspective, I would do my best to move the people out and then clean it up,” he further added. “But I don’t think that Israel has stated that they don’t want the people to move back there afterward.” Also Read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting Netanyahu’s meetings with US officials Netanyahu is set to meet US Vice President JD Vance today, as reported by The Times of Israel. He is also scheduled to hold discussions with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on key regional issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Kushner played key role in Trump’s Gaza strategy: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet President Donald Trump on Tuesday, as Israel and Hamas say they are ready for negotiations on a new phase in their fragile Gaza ceasefire.
Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since Trump returned to power last month, will discuss the truce's future and efforts to end the Gaza war.
Hours before their meeting, Netanyahu's office said Israel would send a delegation to the Qatari capital Doha later this week for negotiations.
"Israel is preparing for the working-level delegation to leave for Doha at the end of this week in order to discuss technical details related to the continued implementation of the agreement," the office said in a statement following meetings in Washington between Netanyahu and Trump's advisors, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Hamas has said it is ready to negotiate the second stage of the ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
The next phase aims to secure the release of remaining hostages and lay out steps toward ending the war, which has devastated the Palestinian territory of 2.4 million people.
<h2>'No guarantees'&nbsp;</h2>
The war broke out after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023.
Trump has repeatedly touted a plan to "clean out" Gaza, calling for Palestinians to move to neighbouring countries such as Egypt or Jordan, despite all those parties strongly rejecting his proposal.
Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said Israel's wars with Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and its confrontations with Iran had "redrawn the map" in the Middle East.
"But I believe that working closely with President Trump we can redraw it even further, and for the better," he said.
The White House meeting promises to be a crucial one for a region shattered by war since the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas.
Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance."
The Israeli prime minister had tense relations with Trump's predecessor Joe Biden over the growing death toll in Gaza, despite Biden's steadfast maintenance of US military aid.
But Trump, who has claimed credit for sealing the ceasefire after 15 months of war and prides himself on his dealmaking ability, will be pushing Netanyahu to stick to the agreement.
He is also expected to lean on Netanyahu to accept a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, something he tried to do in his first term.
Trump said Sunday that talks with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries were "progressing" -- but then warned less than 24 hours later that there were "no guarantees that the peace is going to hold."
<h2>Unrest in West Bank&nbsp;</h2>
Witkoff, who met Netanyahu on Monday over terms for the second phase of the truce, said however that he was "certainly hopeful" the truce would stick.
Trump's sudden floating of a plan to move people out of Gaza&mdash;which he describes as a "demolition site"&mdash;has added uncertainty to an already tense and difficult situation.
Trump said the plan could be temporary or permanent, but the mass displacement of civilians from Gaza was strongly rejected by Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinians, and ceasefire mediator Qatar.
Under the Gaza ceasefire's ongoing 42-day first phase, Hamas is to free 33 hostages in staggered releases in exchange for around 1,900 Palestinians held in Israeli jails.
Four hostage-prisoner exchanges have already taken place, and militants have freed 18 hostages so far in exchange for some 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
The truce has also led to a surge of food, fuel, medical, and other aid into rubble-strewn Gaza, as well as allowing displaced Gazans to return to the territory's north.
Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.&nbsp;
Israel's retaliatory response has killed at least 47,518 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN considers these figures as reliable.
Israel has turned its focus to the occupied West Bank and an operation it says is aimed at rooting out extremism that has killed dozens.
On Tuesday, the military said its forces killed an assailant who fired on troops near the city of Jenin in the West Bank.
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.

World: Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet President Donald Trump on Tuesday, as Israel and Hamas say they are ready for negotiations on a new phase in their fragile Gaza ceasefire. Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since Trump returned to power last month, will discuss the truce's future and efforts to end the Gaza war. Hours before their meeting, Netanyahu's office said Israel would send a delegation to the Qatari capital Doha later this week for negotiations. "Israel is preparing for the working-level delegation to leave for Doha at the end of this week in order to discuss technical details related to the continued implementation of the agreement," the office said in a statement following meetings in Washington between Netanyahu and Trump's advisors, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Hamas has said it is ready to negotiate the second stage of the ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. The next phase aims to secure the release of remaining hostages and lay out steps toward ending the war, which has devastated the Palestinian territory of 2.4 million people. 'No guarantees' The war broke out after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. Trump has repeatedly touted a plan to "clean out" Gaza, calling for Palestinians to move to neighbouring countries such as Egypt or Jordan, despite all those parties strongly rejecting his proposal. Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said Israel's wars with Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and its confrontations with Iran had "redrawn the map" in the Middle East. "But I believe that working closely with President Trump we can redraw it even further, and for the better," he said. The White House meeting promises to be a crucial one for a region shattered by war since the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas. Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance." The Israeli prime minister had tense relations with Trump's predecessor Joe Biden over the growing death toll in Gaza, despite Biden's steadfast maintenance of US military aid. But Trump, who has claimed credit for sealing the ceasefire after 15 months of war and prides himself on his dealmaking ability, will be pushing Netanyahu to stick to the agreement. He is also expected to lean on Netanyahu to accept a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, something he tried to do in his first term. Trump said Sunday that talks with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries were "progressing" -- but then warned less than 24 hours later that there were "no guarantees that the peace is going to hold." Unrest in West Bank Witkoff, who met Netanyahu on Monday over terms for the second phase of the truce, said however that he was "certainly hopeful" the truce would stick. Trump's sudden floating of a plan to move people out of Gaza—which he describes as a "demolition site"—has added uncertainty to an already tense and difficult situation. Trump said the plan could be temporary or permanent, but the mass displacement of civilians from Gaza was strongly rejected by Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinians, and ceasefire mediator Qatar. Under the Gaza ceasefire's ongoing 42-day first phase, Hamas is to free 33 hostages in staggered releases in exchange for around 1,900 Palestinians held in Israeli jails. Four hostage-prisoner exchanges have already taken place, and militants have freed 18 hostages so far in exchange for some 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. The truce has also led to a surge of food, fuel, medical, and other aid into rubble-strewn Gaza, as well as allowing displaced Gazans to return to the territory's north. Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel's retaliatory response has killed at least 47,518 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN considers these figures as reliable. Israel has turned its focus to the occupied West Bank and an operation it says is aimed at rooting out extremism that has killed dozens. On Tuesday, the military said its forces killed an assailant who fired on troops near the city of Jenin in the West Bank. 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.

Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington for talks with the new Trump administration on Israel's fragile truce with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has not yet been finalised.

Netanyahu in U.S: Donald Trump to host Netanyahu for Gaza ceasefire talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a video message thanking US President Donald Trump for lifting the hold on certain munitions for Israel.
Netanyahu emphasised the importance of the move for Israel&rsquo;s defence, stating, &ldquo;Thank you, President Trump, for keeping your promise to give Israel the tools it needs to defend itself, to confront our common enemies, and to secure a future of peace and prosperity.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
תודה לך הנשיא טראמפ, על שקיימת את הבטחתך לתת לישראל את הכלים הדרושים לה כדי להגן על עצמה, להילחם באויבינו המשותפים, ולהבטיח עתיד של שלום ושגשוג <a href="https://t.co/ZL3UhFrbte">pic.twitter.com/ZL3UhFrbte</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1883525138769170731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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<h2>Trump lifts Biden-era hold on bomb shipment&nbsp;</h2>
On Saturday night, Trump announced that he had removed a hold placed by former president Joe Biden on shipment of 2,000-pound bombs for Israel. Trump took to his social media app, Truth Social, to share the news, writing, &ldquo;A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are on their way!&rdquo;
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Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed, &ldquo;We released them (the bombs). We released them today. And they&rsquo;ll have them. They paid for them, and they&rsquo;ve been waiting for them for a long time. They&rsquo;ve been in storage.&rdquo;
<h2>Israeli foreign minister thanks Trump</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you President Trump <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> for yet another display of leadership by releasing the crucial defense shipment to Israel. The region is safer when Israel has what it needs to defend itself. 🇮🇱🇺🇸
&mdash; Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) <a href="https://twitter.com/gidonsaar/status/1883444906741715092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 &nbsp; Israel&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar also expressed appreciation for Trump's action. He took to X to thank the president, stating, &ldquo;Thank you, President Trump, for yet another display of leadership by releasing the crucial defence shipment to Israel. The region is safer when Israel has what it needs to defend itself.&rdquo;
<h2>Ben Gvir supports Trump's Gaza relocation proposal</h2>
In a video message, Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir expressed his backing for US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s suggestion to move some of Gaza&rsquo;s population to Jordan and Egypt, either temporarily or permanently.
He siad, &ldquo;I congratulate the president of the United States of America, Donald Trump, on his initiative to transfer residents from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | PM Netanyahu issued a video message thanking Trump for lifting the hold on certain munitions for Israel. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also expressed appreciation for Trump's action

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a video message thanking US President Donald Trump for lifting the hold on certain munitions for Israel. Netanyahu emphasised the importance of the move for Israel’s defence, stating, “Thank you, President Trump, for keeping your promise to give Israel the tools it needs to defend itself, to confront our common enemies, and to secure a future of peace and prosperity.” תודה לך הנשיא טראמפ, על שקיימת את הבטחתך לתת לישראל את הכלים הדרושים לה כדי להגן על עצמה, להילחם באויבינו המשותפים, ולהבטיח עתיד של שלום ושגשוג pic.twitter.com/ZL3UhFrbte — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) January 26, 2025 Also Read |Lebanon ceasefire: 15 people killed by Israeli forces as troops stay beyond withdrawal deadline Trump lifts Biden-era hold on bomb shipment On Saturday night, Trump announced that he had removed a hold placed by former president Joe Biden on shipment of 2,000-pound bombs for Israel. Trump took to his social media app, Truth Social, to share the news, writing, “A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are on their way!” Also Read | Trump's deportation flights costing $852,000 for every 80 migrants: Report Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed, “We released them (the bombs). We released them today. And they’ll have them. They paid for them, and they’ve been waiting for them for a long time. They’ve been in storage.” Israeli foreign minister thanks Trump Thank you President Trump @realDonaldTrump for yet another display of leadership by releasing the crucial defense shipment to Israel. The region is safer when Israel has what it needs to defend itself. 🇮🇱🇺🇸 — Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) January 26, 2025 Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also expressed appreciation for Trump's action. He took to X to thank the president, stating, “Thank you, President Trump, for yet another display of leadership by releasing the crucial defence shipment to Israel. The region is safer when Israel has what it needs to defend itself.” Ben Gvir supports Trump's Gaza relocation proposal In a video message, Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir expressed his backing for US President Donald Trump’s suggestion to move some of Gaza’s population to Jordan and Egypt, either temporarily or permanently. He siad, “I congratulate the president of the United States of America, Donald Trump, on his initiative to transfer residents from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan.” (With inputs from agencies)

'Thank you for keeping your promise': Netanyahu expresses gratitude to Trump for ending hold on arms shipment

Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Jan 19) criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for saying one thing in private and something different in public to maintain his coalition government.
<h2>Is Netanyahu putting political survival over the Gaza ceasefire?</h2>
Speaking to the New Yorker, Blinken was asked whether Netanyahu had been truthful in his discussions with the United States. Blinken replied, &ldquo;In the moment of those conversations, yes,&rdquo; followed by laughter. He added, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m laughing because given the incredibly complicated coalition politics that exist in Israel, he proceeds in many ways on the basis of what gets [him] to tomorrow and keeps [his] coalition together.&rdquo; Blinken said, &ldquo;He might say one thing to me, and then depending on the audience he&rsquo;s before next, maybe that takes a little bit of a different turn.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hours-before-gaza-ceasefire-netanyahu-warns-hamas-wont-move-forward-until-israel-receives-hostage-list-8633764" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;list</a>
Netanyahu&rsquo;s handling of recent developments regarding a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas appears to validate Blinken&rsquo;s observation. 
<h2>Coalition pressure on the Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
Members of Netanyahu&rsquo;s far-right coalition have expressed open opposition to the ceasefire, threatening to leave the government if the deal proceeds. For instance, the Religious Zionism Party said they would only continue supporting Netanyahu if he agreed to resume full military action against Hamas following the first phase of the agreement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-5-prominent-names-among-737-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-by-israel-zakaria-zubeidi-ahmed-barghouti-8633004" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel</a>
Staying true to their warnings, the far-right Otzma Yehudit party announced their intention to resign from the coalition on Saturday (Jan 18) after the Israeli cabinet approved the agreement. In a statement, they declared their disapproval of the agreement, calling it &ldquo;reckless.&rdquo; The group&rsquo;s members, including ministers and committee chairs, said they would leave their posts, citing the government&rsquo;s approval of the ceasefire as the reason. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also condemned the deal, saying, &ldquo;I will not sit in a government that, God forbid, will stop the war and not continue until complete victory over Hamas.&rdquo;
<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s political balancing act</h2>
In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition&rsquo;s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a &ldquo;temporary ceasefire&rdquo; and assured that Israel could resume fighting if the terms were not met. He added that both US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump had agreed that military action could resume if necessary. He added that they assured him that Israel would receive necessary military support from the United States. Netanyahu said, &ldquo;Israel will not rest until all of its war goals are completed,&rdquo; which includes ensuring the safe return of all hostages.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-stalled-by-israels-netanyahu-hamas-denies-backtracking-claims-8627077" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops &lsquo;last-minute concessions&rsquo;; group denies backtracking</a>
However, this is not the first time Netanyahu&rsquo;s approach to the ceasefire has caused confusion. On 16 January, his office stated the cabinet would not approve the deal until Hamas conceded to &ldquo;last-minute conditions,&rdquo; a claim quickly refuted by Hamas. This contradiction came after key mediators, like Qatar and the US, confirmed the deal, and congratulations started pouring in from all over the world, with families of hostages celebrating the news of their return.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m62xq90o-w5p6a81x-tx1b1udu">
הצהרה מיוחדת ממני אליכם &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/8CU2TOeOYn">pic.twitter.com/8CU2TOeOYn</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1880679572288725326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Did global pressure force Netanyahu to finally approve the ceasefire?</h2>
Netanyahu also faced mounting pressure from international leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump and key mediators like Qatar. Trump has reportedly been firm in his approach to the hostage agreement. During a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday (Jan 18), he said that the agreement &ldquo;better hold.&rdquo; When asked how confident he was about the release of hostages, Trump said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to see very soon, and it better hold.&rdquo; He added that he had urged Netanyahu to do whatever was necessary to end the conflict while ensuring the agreement was upheld. &ldquo;Just keep doing what you have to do. This has to end,&rdquo; Trump said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-gaza-truce-better-be-done-before-his-inauguration-us-president-elect-joe-biden-israel-hamas-war-8629062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump says Gaza truce 'better be done' before his inauguration</a>
A Wall Street Journal report citing sources revealed that Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, delivered a strong message to Netanyahu, pressing him to finalise the deal. According to sources, Witkoff told Netanyahu, &ldquo;The president has been a great friend of Israel, and now it&rsquo;s time to be a friend back.&rdquo; As per the same report, Trump's &ldquo;all hell to pay&rdquo; message warning of severe consequences if hostages were not freed before his inauguration on 20 January was meant for both Hamas and Israel.
<h2>Cautious optimism </h2>
As the first phase of the ceasefire begins, global attention is focused on how this development might shape the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The war has already claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, with health officials in Gaza saying that most of the victims were women and children. The Israeli military, meanwhile, reports 405 soldiers killed since the start of its invasion of Gaza.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition’s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a “temporary ceasefire”

Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Jan 19) criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for saying one thing in private and something different in public to maintain his coalition government. Is Netanyahu putting political survival over the Gaza ceasefire? Speaking to the New Yorker, Blinken was asked whether Netanyahu had been truthful in his discussions with the United States. Blinken replied, “In the moment of those conversations, yes,” followed by laughter. He added, “I’m laughing because given the incredibly complicated coalition politics that exist in Israel, he proceeds in many ways on the basis of what gets [him] to tomorrow and keeps [his] coalition together.” Blinken said, “He might say one thing to me, and then depending on the audience he’s before next, maybe that takes a little bit of a different turn.” Also read: Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives hostage list Netanyahu’s handling of recent developments regarding a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas appears to validate Blinken’s observation. Coalition pressure on the Gaza ceasefire deal Members of Netanyahu’s far-right coalition have expressed open opposition to the ceasefire, threatening to leave the government if the deal proceeds. For instance, the Religious Zionism Party said they would only continue supporting Netanyahu if he agreed to resume full military action against Hamas following the first phase of the agreement. Also read: From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel Staying true to their warnings, the far-right Otzma Yehudit party announced their intention to resign from the coalition on Saturday (Jan 18) after the Israeli cabinet approved the agreement. In a statement, they declared their disapproval of the agreement, calling it “reckless.” The group’s members, including ministers and committee chairs, said they would leave their posts, citing the government’s approval of the ceasefire as the reason. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also condemned the deal, saying, “I will not sit in a government that, God forbid, will stop the war and not continue until complete victory over Hamas.” Netanyahu’s political balancing act In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition’s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a “temporary ceasefire” and assured that Israel could resume fighting if the terms were not met. He added that both US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump had agreed that military action could resume if necessary. He added that they assured him that Israel would receive necessary military support from the United States. Netanyahu said, “Israel will not rest until all of its war goals are completed,” which includes ensuring the safe return of all hostages. Also read: Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking However, this is not the first time Netanyahu’s approach to the ceasefire has caused confusion. On 16 January, his office stated the cabinet would not approve the deal until Hamas conceded to “last-minute conditions,” a claim quickly refuted by Hamas. This contradiction came after key mediators, like Qatar and the US, confirmed the deal, and congratulations started pouring in from all over the world, with families of hostages celebrating the news of their return. הצהרה מיוחדת ממני אליכם >> pic.twitter.com/8CU2TOeOYn — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) January 18, 2025 Did global pressure force Netanyahu to finally approve the ceasefire? Netanyahu also faced mounting pressure from international leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump and key mediators like Qatar. Trump has reportedly been firm in his approach to the hostage agreement. During a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday (Jan 18), he said that the agreement “better hold.” When asked how confident he was about the release of hostages, Trump said, “We’re going to see very soon, and it better hold.” He added that he had urged Netanyahu to do whatever was necessary to end the conflict while ensuring the agreement was upheld. “Just keep doing what you have to do. This has to end,” Trump said. Also read: Donald Trump says Gaza truce 'better be done' before his inauguration A Wall Street Journal report citing sources revealed that Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, delivered a strong message to Netanyahu, pressing him to finalise the deal. According to sources, Witkoff told Netanyahu, “The president has been a great friend of Israel, and now it’s time to be a friend back.” As per the same report, Trump's “all hell to pay” message warning of severe consequences if hostages were not freed before his inauguration on 20 January was meant for both Hamas and Israel. Cautious optimism As the first phase of the ceasefire begins, global attention is focused on how this development might shape the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The war has already claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, with health officials in Gaza saying that most of the victims were women and children. The Israeli military, meanwhile, reports 405 soldiers killed since the start of its invasion of Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza ceasefire deal

Israel's security cabinet approved the Gaza ceasefire agreement on Friday (Jan 17), which further involves the release of hostages held by both sides, as well as a ceasefire, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said.&nbsp;
Israeli PM Netanyahu said that subject to the approval of the Gaza ceasefire deal by Israel's security cabinet and government, the hostages will be released as early as Sunday according to the planned framework.&nbsp;
"...While understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework," PMO said in a post on X.&nbsp;
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Following an evaluation of all diplomatic, security and humanitarian aspects, and while understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework.
&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1880242715277033805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Several Haredi ministers left the ongoing meeting of the Israeli security cabinet ahead of Shabbat but left notes which said they backed the deal, Channel 12 reported.
Further, Israel began its full cabinet meeting to vote on the Gaza ceasefire and hostages release deal with Hamas, local media reported.&nbsp;
<h2>'No public display of joy'</h2>
The Israel Prison Service said in a statement on Friday that it is taking measures to block the "public display of joy" at the time when Palestinian prisoners are released as part of the truce deal.
&ldquo;The commissioner of the Israel Prison Service, Kobi Yakobi, instructed that&hellip; to prevent public displays of joy in Ashkelon and other areas of Israel, the escort from &lsquo;Shikma&rsquo; Prison will not be handled by civilian buses of the [International Committee of the] Red Cross,&rdquo; the statement read.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-iraq-yemen-forces-to-halt-attacks-on-israel-8627557" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;If they return, we will return&rsquo;: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire</a>
"Subject to the approval of the cabinet and the government, and the implementation of the agreement, the release of the hostages can proceed according to the planned framework, with the hostages expected to be released as early as Sunday," the office said in a statement, according to AFP.
The Israeli security cabinet is holding a meeting and the full government is expected to meet tomorrow evening to approve the Israel-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a> ceasefire deal.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-destroyed-top-secret-iranian-nuclear-research-site-in-october-attacks-report-8628077" rel="dofollow"> Israel destroyed top secret Iranian nuclear research site in October attacks: Report</a>
Prior to the meeting, the Israeli PM participated in a security assessment to discuss the implementation of the truce deal with the negotiating team, which came back overnight from Qatar after signing the final agreement.&nbsp;
Notably, the security cabinet needs to vote to accept the deal and then the wider Israeli government cabinet must formally approve it, before the ceasefire can come into force.
<h2>Aid awaits in Jordan to enter Gaza</h2>
As the cabinet meeting convenes, thousands of aid pallets in Jordan is waiting to enter Gaza.&nbsp;
UN's children&rsquo;s agency Unicef said that they have seen "thousands of aid pallets" held up in warehouses in Jordan waiting to go into Gaza.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-reneging-on-parts-of-gaza-deal-8626657" rel="dofollow"> Israel accuses Hamas of 'reneging' on parts of Gaza deal</a>
Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence agency said that more than 100 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip &nbsp;by Israeli strikes since the ceasefire deal was announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;
Spokesman Mahmoud Basal says 101 people, including 27 children and 31 women, have been killed and more than 264 wounded.
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)

World: The Israeli security cabinet is currently holding a meeting and the full government is expected to meet tomorrow evening to approve the deal. 

Israel's security cabinet approved the Gaza ceasefire agreement on Friday (Jan 17), which further involves the release of hostages held by both sides, as well as a ceasefire, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said. Israeli PM Netanyahu said that subject to the approval of the Gaza ceasefire deal by Israel's security cabinet and government, the hostages will be released as early as Sunday according to the planned framework. "...While understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework," PMO said in a post on X. Following an evaluation of all diplomatic, security and humanitarian aspects, and while understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework. — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 17, 2025 Several Haredi ministers left the ongoing meeting of the Israeli security cabinet ahead of Shabbat but left notes which said they backed the deal, Channel 12 reported. Further, Israel began its full cabinet meeting to vote on the Gaza ceasefire and hostages release deal with Hamas, local media reported. 'No public display of joy' The Israel Prison Service said in a statement on Friday that it is taking measures to block the "public display of joy" at the time when Palestinian prisoners are released as part of the truce deal. “The commissioner of the Israel Prison Service, Kobi Yakobi, instructed that… to prevent public displays of joy in Ashkelon and other areas of Israel, the escort from ‘Shikma’ Prison will not be handled by civilian buses of the [International Committee of the] Red Cross,” the statement read. Also read: ‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire "Subject to the approval of the cabinet and the government, and the implementation of the agreement, the release of the hostages can proceed according to the planned framework, with the hostages expected to be released as early as Sunday," the office said in a statement, according to AFP. The Israeli security cabinet is holding a meeting and the full government is expected to meet tomorrow evening to approve the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal. Also read: Israel destroyed top secret Iranian nuclear research site in October attacks: Report Prior to the meeting, the Israeli PM participated in a security assessment to discuss the implementation of the truce deal with the negotiating team, which came back overnight from Qatar after signing the final agreement. Notably, the security cabinet needs to vote to accept the deal and then the wider Israeli government cabinet must formally approve it, before the ceasefire can come into force. Aid awaits in Jordan to enter Gaza As the cabinet meeting convenes, thousands of aid pallets in Jordan is waiting to enter Gaza. UN's children’s agency Unicef said that they have seen "thousands of aid pallets" held up in warehouses in Jordan waiting to go into Gaza. Also read: Israel accuses Hamas of 'reneging' on parts of Gaza deal Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence agency said that more than 100 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip by Israeli strikes since the ceasefire deal was announced on Wednesday. Spokesman Mahmoud Basal says 101 people, including 27 children and 31 women, have been killed and more than 264 wounded. 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)

Gaza truce: Israel wants no 'public display of joy' during release of Palestinian prisoners

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied reports claiming Hamas has submitted its final response to the Gaza peace deal talks.
The denial comes after Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported, citing Israeli officials, that Hamas has "given a green light" to the ceasefire-for-hostage deal brokered in Qatar.
The report, however, said that the technical details of the deal are yet to be finalised.
News agency AFP also reported citing Palestinian sources close to negotiations that militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad have approved the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal.
"The resistance factions reached an agreement among themselves and informed the mediators of their approval of the (prisoner) exchange deal and ceasefire," one source was quoted as saying by AFP on condition of anonymity. Another Palestinian source confirmed their approval of the deal.
Arab officials involved in the talks have speculated that the deal might get final approval within 48 hours.
On the other hand, news agency Reuters quoted a Hamas official as saying that the group is yet to submit its written response to the proposal deal.&nbsp;
<h2>Israel-Hamas &lsquo;super close&rsquo; to ceasefire</h2>
Earlier, Arab officials told Times of Israel that Israel and Hamas were &ldquo;super close&rdquo; to reaching a ceasefire deal. As per reports, the negotiators may announce a final deal on Wednesday or Thursday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The denial comes after Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported that Hamas has "given a green light" to the ceasefire-for-hostage deal brokered in Qatar.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied reports claiming Hamas has submitted its final response to the Gaza peace deal talks. The denial comes after Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported, citing Israeli officials, that Hamas has "given a green light" to the ceasefire-for-hostage deal brokered in Qatar. The report, however, said that the technical details of the deal are yet to be finalised. News agency AFP also reported citing Palestinian sources close to negotiations that militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad have approved the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. "The resistance factions reached an agreement among themselves and informed the mediators of their approval of the (prisoner) exchange deal and ceasefire," one source was quoted as saying by AFP on condition of anonymity. Another Palestinian source confirmed their approval of the deal. Arab officials involved in the talks have speculated that the deal might get final approval within 48 hours. On the other hand, news agency Reuters quoted a Hamas official as saying that the group is yet to submit its written response to the proposal deal. Israel-Hamas ‘super close’ to ceasefire Earlier, Arab officials told Times of Israel that Israel and Hamas were “super close” to reaching a ceasefire deal. As per reports, the negotiators may announce a final deal on Wednesday or Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel PM office denies claims that Hamas approved Gaza peace deal: Report

US President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s envoy for Middle East Steve Witkoff had a tense meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the weekend, eventually leading to a breakthrough in negotiations. Times of Israel reported citing two Arab officials that the Trump envoy was able to sway Netanyahu more than the outgoing Joe Biden administration did in the past one year.
<h2>Witkoff&rsquo;s peace efforts</h2>
Steve Witkoff has been in the Qatari capital Doha for past one week, trying to get Palestinian militant organisation Hamas and Israel on one page and secure a peace deal before January 20 inauguration of the new administration.
The Trump envoy reportedly flew to Israel on Saturday (Jan 11) and met with Netanyahu. During the meeting, Bibi was asked to accept key compromises required to move forward with the peace process, reported the Times of Israel.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-foes-happiest-with-trumps-return-citizens-of-ally-nations-worried-poll-8623974">US foes 'happiest' with Trump's return, citizens of ally nations 'worried': Poll</a>
Then on Monday (Jan 13), negotiating teams from both sides told mediators that they had agreed to hostage deal proposal in principle. Both sides have been trying working out the details regarding the implementation of the agreement since then.
<h2>Contentious issue</h2>
According to officials cited by the Israeli news outlet, one of the contentious issues that remain unresolved is the exact parameters of the IDF&rsquo;s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Mediators are awaiting Israel&rsquo;s final map showcasing its withdraw plan.
The final peace deal may be announced Wednesday or Thursday (Jan 15-16) and the US, Qatar and Egypt are expected to issue a joint statement regarding the same, the two officials speculated.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-surrender-in-gaza-trumps-alleged-shooter-routh-wishes-to-become-hamas-hostage-in-shocking-letter-8591955">'Willing to surrender in Gaza': Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter</a>
On Tuesday (Jan 14), outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed that Israel had accepted the deal to free the remaining 98 hostages but Hamas had yet to do the same. However, the Arab officials rejected the narrative that only Hamas was trying to throw spanner in the works of finalising a peace deal.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | One of the contentious issues that remain unresolved between Israel and Hamas is the exact parameters of the IDF’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.

US President-elect Donald Trump’s envoy for Middle East Steve Witkoff had a tense meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the weekend, eventually leading to a breakthrough in negotiations. Times of Israel reported citing two Arab officials that the Trump envoy was able to sway Netanyahu more than the outgoing Joe Biden administration did in the past one year. Witkoff’s peace efforts Steve Witkoff has been in the Qatari capital Doha for past one week, trying to get Palestinian militant organisation Hamas and Israel on one page and secure a peace deal before January 20 inauguration of the new administration. The Trump envoy reportedly flew to Israel on Saturday (Jan 11) and met with Netanyahu. During the meeting, Bibi was asked to accept key compromises required to move forward with the peace process, reported the Times of Israel. Also read: US foes 'happiest' with Trump's return, citizens of ally nations 'worried': Poll Then on Monday (Jan 13), negotiating teams from both sides told mediators that they had agreed to hostage deal proposal in principle. Both sides have been trying working out the details regarding the implementation of the agreement since then. Contentious issue According to officials cited by the Israeli news outlet, one of the contentious issues that remain unresolved is the exact parameters of the IDF’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Mediators are awaiting Israel’s final map showcasing its withdraw plan. The final peace deal may be announced Wednesday or Thursday (Jan 15-16) and the US, Qatar and Egypt are expected to issue a joint statement regarding the same, the two officials speculated. Also read: 'Willing to surrender in Gaza': Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter On Tuesday (Jan 14), outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed that Israel had accepted the deal to free the remaining 98 hostages but Hamas had yet to do the same. However, the Arab officials rejected the narrative that only Hamas was trying to throw spanner in the works of finalising a peace deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Tense meet between Trump aide, Netanyahu did more for Gaza deal than Biden ever did: Report

Israeli far-right minister Ben-Gvir threatened that he would resign if Prime Minister Benjamin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-receiving-ceasefire-proposal-despite-qatar-says-it-shared-final-hostage-deal-draft-8618427">Netanyahu</a> accepts the Gaza ceasefire deal, likely to be accepted on Tuesday (Jan 14). Ben-Gvir believes that the acceptance would be equivalent to "surrendering" to Hamas. Instead, Ben-Gvir called on Netanyahu to "come to his senses" and take steps that would lead to the defeat of the Palestinian group.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-rednote-chinese-social-media-app-where-us-tiktokers-are-migrating-to-ahead-of-ban-8621640" aria-label="What is RedNote? Chinese social media app where US TikTokers are migrating to ahead of ban">What is RedNote? Chinese social media app where US TikTokers are migrating to ahead of ban</a>
Ben-Gvir took to the social media platform X and posted a video of himself calling out the Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him in speaking against the "terrible deal being set up."
Ben-Gvir added in his statement that there is a need to inform Netanyahu that "we will leave the government" if the Gaza ceasefire deal is concluded.&nbsp;
"I know the details of it well: it includes the release of hundreds of murderous terrorists from prisons, the return of Gazans, including thousands of terrorists, to the northern Gaza Strip, the withdrawal of the IDF from the Netzarim axis, and the return of the threat to the residents of the encirclement&mdash;thus effectively erasing the war achievements that have been achieved with much blood by our fighters, so far, in the Gaza Strip," Ben-Gvir wrote in his statement on X.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-inauguration-us-right-wing-livid-after-pro-hezbollah-muslim-cleric-invited-8621494" aria-label="US right-wing livid after &lsquo;pro-Hezbollah&rsquo; Muslim cleric invited to Trump inauguration">US right-wing livid after &lsquo;pro-Hezbollah&rsquo; Muslim cleric invited to Trump inauguration</a>
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העסקה המתגבשת היא נוראית. אני מכיר היטב את פרטיה: היא כוללת שחרור מאות מחבלים רוצחים מבתי הכלא, חזרת עזתים בהם אלפי מחבלים לצפון הרצועה, מסיגה את צה"ל מציר נצרים, ומחזירה את האיום על תושבי העוטף - ובכך למעשה מוחקת את הישגי המלחמה שהושגו בדם רב של לוחמינו, עד כה, ברצועת עזה. לא&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/8bwuxB8uuc">pic.twitter.com/8bwuxB8uuc</a>
&mdash; איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) <a href="https://twitter.com/itamarbengvir/status/1879075942015893956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
He further claimed that the deal "does not lead" to the release of all Israeli hostages. He said that "it seals the fate of the remaining hostages who are not included in the deal to death".
The Israeli minister said that over the past years, Israel has managed to prevent the ceasefire deal from being implemented using its "political power" and "time after time". But over the years, "additional elements" have been added to the Israeli government that now support the deal and "no longer constitute a balancing act".
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"This means that the Prime Minister will refrain from signing the deal only if the force opposing it is large enough to prevent him from doing so," Ben-Gvir added.&nbsp;
"Even if we are in opposition, we will not bring down Netanyahu, but this move is our only chance to prevent its implementation, and in fact to prevent the surrender of the State of Israel to Hamas, after more than a year of bloody war, in which over 400 IDF soldiers fell in the Gaza Strip, and to ensure that their deaths will not be in vain," the post added.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-what-is-pink-coloured-used-by-firefighters-to-battle-destruction-8621325" aria-label="LA wildfires: What is pink coloured powder used by firefighters to battle flames">LA wildfires: What is pink coloured powder used by firefighters to battle flames</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: Ben-Gvir took to the social media platform X and posted a video of himself calling out Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him in opposing the deal. 

Israeli far-right minister Ben-Gvir threatened that he would resign if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepts the Gaza ceasefire deal, likely to be accepted on Tuesday (Jan 14). Ben-Gvir believes that the acceptance would be equivalent to "surrendering" to Hamas. Instead, Ben-Gvir called on Netanyahu to "come to his senses" and take steps that would lead to the defeat of the Palestinian group. Also read | What is RedNote? Chinese social media app where US TikTokers are migrating to ahead of ban Ben-Gvir took to the social media platform X and posted a video of himself calling out the Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him in speaking against the "terrible deal being set up." Ben-Gvir added in his statement that there is a need to inform Netanyahu that "we will leave the government" if the Gaza ceasefire deal is concluded. "I know the details of it well: it includes the release of hundreds of murderous terrorists from prisons, the return of Gazans, including thousands of terrorists, to the northern Gaza Strip, the withdrawal of the IDF from the Netzarim axis, and the return of the threat to the residents of the encirclement—thus effectively erasing the war achievements that have been achieved with much blood by our fighters, so far, in the Gaza Strip," Ben-Gvir wrote in his statement on X. Also read | US right-wing livid after ‘pro-Hezbollah’ Muslim cleric invited to Trump inauguration העסקה המתגבשת היא נוראית. אני מכיר היטב את פרטיה: היא כוללת שחרור מאות מחבלים רוצחים מבתי הכלא, חזרת עזתים בהם אלפי מחבלים לצפון הרצועה, מסיגה את צה"ל מציר נצרים, ומחזירה את האיום על תושבי העוטף - ובכך למעשה מוחקת את הישגי המלחמה שהושגו בדם רב של לוחמינו, עד כה, ברצועת עזה. לא… pic.twitter.com/8bwuxB8uuc — איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) January 14, 2025 He further claimed that the deal "does not lead" to the release of all Israeli hostages. He said that "it seals the fate of the remaining hostages who are not included in the deal to death". The Israeli minister said that over the past years, Israel has managed to prevent the ceasefire deal from being implemented using its "political power" and "time after time". But over the years, "additional elements" have been added to the Israeli government that now support the deal and "no longer constitute a balancing act". Also read | India 'strongly' raises matter of national killed in Ukraine war with Russian authorities "This means that the Prime Minister will refrain from signing the deal only if the force opposing it is large enough to prevent him from doing so," Ben-Gvir added. "Even if we are in opposition, we will not bring down Netanyahu, but this move is our only chance to prevent its implementation, and in fact to prevent the surrender of the State of Israel to Hamas, after more than a year of bloody war, in which over 400 IDF soldiers fell in the Gaza Strip, and to ensure that their deaths will not be in vain," the post added. Also read | LA wildfires: What is pink coloured powder used by firefighters to battle flames (With inputs from agencies)

Ben-Gvir threatens to resign if Israel accepts ceasefire deal, calls Netanyahu to 'come to his senses'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested to postpone the testimony in his ongoing criminal trial for two more weeks after his surgery for prostate. Netanyahu's attorney Amid Hadad wrote a letter to the Jerusalem District Court saying the Israeli PM was discharged on Thursday (Jan 2) and is advised to stay on bed rest for two weeks.
Hadad confirmed that the required medical documents have been cleared by the court and the State Attorney&rsquo;s Office has agreed to the delay.&nbsp;
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On Sunday (Dec 29), the court agreed to cancel the hearings that were scheduled to take place in the early week of January 2025.&nbsp;
Netanyahu has been testifying for six days so far since his testimony began on December 10. The Times of Israel reported that Netanyahu's testimony is likely to sustain for many weeks if not months, due to the pace it has been conducted so far.&nbsp;
<h3>Netanyahu spent days in an underground ward amid fear of being bombed&nbsp;</h3>
Netanyahu was discharged from the hospital on Thursday after undergoing surgery to remove prostate on Sunday (Dec 29).&nbsp;
The surgery took place at the Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital after he was diagnosed with an infection in his urinary tract.&nbsp;
The Israeli PM spent a few days in an underground ward amid the fear that he would be targeted by rockets and missiles during the ongoing war.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-forge-a-new-relationship-with-syria-german-and-french-foreign-ministers-8588919" aria-label="Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader">Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader</a>
It was reported that on Tuesday (Dec 31), Netanyahu left the hospital against the will of his doctors to cast the vote on a critical budget-related bill in the Israeli parliament.&nbsp;
Times of Israel reported that he was "exhausted" after returning to the hospital at night.&nbsp;
Netanyahu's doctors released a statement on Jan 1 that his condition was stable and he is recovering from the surgery gradually.&nbsp;

Hadad confirmed that the required medical documents have been cleared by the court and the State Attorney’s Office has agreed to the delay. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested to postpone the testimony in his ongoing criminal trial for two more weeks after his surgery for prostate. Netanyahu's attorney Amid Hadad wrote a letter to the Jerusalem District Court saying the Israeli PM was discharged on Thursday (Jan 2) and is advised to stay on bed rest for two weeks. Hadad confirmed that the required medical documents have been cleared by the court and the State Attorney’s Office has agreed to the delay. Also read | Biden to visit New Orleans on Monday; to grieve with victims' families, meet officials On Sunday (Dec 29), the court agreed to cancel the hearings that were scheduled to take place in the early week of January 2025. Netanyahu has been testifying for six days so far since his testimony began on December 10. The Times of Israel reported that Netanyahu's testimony is likely to sustain for many weeks if not months, due to the pace it has been conducted so far. Netanyahu spent days in an underground ward amid fear of being bombed Netanyahu was discharged from the hospital on Thursday after undergoing surgery to remove prostate on Sunday (Dec 29). The surgery took place at the Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital after he was diagnosed with an infection in his urinary tract. The Israeli PM spent a few days in an underground ward amid the fear that he would be targeted by rockets and missiles during the ongoing war. Also read | Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader It was reported that on Tuesday (Dec 31), Netanyahu left the hospital against the will of his doctors to cast the vote on a critical budget-related bill in the Israeli parliament. Times of Israel reported that he was "exhausted" after returning to the hospital at night. Netanyahu's doctors released a statement on Jan 1 that his condition was stable and he is recovering from the surgery gradually.

Netanyahu demands to delay criminal trial testimony for 2 more weeks after surgery

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Benjamin+Netanyahu+" rel="dofollow">Benjamin Netanyahu </a>said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
"Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-hostage-deal-at-impasse-unlikely-to-be-completed-before-end-of-bidens-term-report-8583822" rel="dofollow"> Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).
Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations.&nbsp;
<h2>Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse</h2>
This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse.&nbsp;The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that&nbsp;the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration.&nbsp;
Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed.&nbsp;
However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-to-let-hostages-come-back-soon-8582598">Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon'</a>
Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings."&nbsp;
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)

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement.

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement. "Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations. Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse. The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration. Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed. However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement. Also read:Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon' Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings." 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)

Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas

Five Israeli protesters calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas on 7 October were detained outside Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-attorney-general-orders-cops-to-open-probe-into-netanyahus-wife-because-of-this-reason-8571748" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&rsquo;s residence in Jerusalem on Saturday (December 28).
According to the Israeli broadcaster Channel 12, around 20 demonstrators gathered early in the morning near the prime minister&rsquo;s home. Using loudspeakers, they accused Netanyahu of enjoying the comforts of home while the hostages endured suffering in tunnels, adding the hostages were &ldquo;cold, tortured and sick.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-rejects-hamas-accusation-of-setting-gaza-hospital-on-fire-8573248">IDF rejects Hamas accusation of setting Gaza hospital on fire</a>
&ldquo;Everything is closing in on you. We, the people, will not forget and will not forgive,&rdquo; they chanted while beating drums and blowing horns. Police said that the arrests were made due to breaches of noise regulations.
<h2>Chances of ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas before Trump's inauguration low: Report</h2>
Meanwhile, US and Israeli officials have said that chances of securing hostage-ceasefire agreement between Israel and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hospital-or-hamas-lair-who-says-israeli-raid-put-gazas-last-major-hospital-out-of-service-8571974">Hamas</a> before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office on 20 January are low. According to the US news site Axios, officials fear that if no deal is reached by then, the transition to the new administration could delay negotiations even further.
This comes after Israeli negotiators returned from eight days of talks in Doha, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, without reaching an agreement. CIA Director Bill Burns and White House Middle East adviser Brett McGurk, who had joined the discussions last week, have also returned to Washington.
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On Wednesday, Israel and Hamas exchanged blame over the stalled negotiations. Hamas accused Israel of making unacceptable new demands despite serious discussions, while Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Hamas was "reneging on understandings that have already been reached."
President-elect Trump warned that there would be &ldquo;hell to pay in the Middle East&rdquo; if Hamas fails to release the hostages by 20 January. A source close to him told Axios that no specific plan is in place if the deadline passes.
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)

World, Middle East: US officials have said that chances of securing hostage-ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas before Trump takes office on 20 January are low.

Five Israeli protesters calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas on 7 October were detained outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem on Saturday (December 28). According to the Israeli broadcaster Channel 12, around 20 demonstrators gathered early in the morning near the prime minister’s home. Using loudspeakers, they accused Netanyahu of enjoying the comforts of home while the hostages endured suffering in tunnels, adding the hostages were “cold, tortured and sick.” Also read: IDF rejects Hamas accusation of setting Gaza hospital on fire “Everything is closing in on you. We, the people, will not forget and will not forgive,” they chanted while beating drums and blowing horns. Police said that the arrests were made due to breaches of noise regulations. Chances of ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas before Trump's inauguration low: Report Meanwhile, US and Israeli officials have said that chances of securing hostage-ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office on 20 January are low. According to the US news site Axios, officials fear that if no deal is reached by then, the transition to the new administration could delay negotiations even further. This comes after Israeli negotiators returned from eight days of talks in Doha, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, without reaching an agreement. CIA Director Bill Burns and White House Middle East adviser Brett McGurk, who had joined the discussions last week, have also returned to Washington. Also read: Italian airports, foreign ministry targeted in cyberattack by pro-Russia group On Wednesday, Israel and Hamas exchanged blame over the stalled negotiations. Hamas accused Israel of making unacceptable new demands despite serious discussions, while Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Hamas was "reneging on understandings that have already been reached." President-elect Trump warned that there would be “hell to pay in the Middle East” if Hamas fails to release the hostages by 20 January. A source close to him told Axios that no specific plan is in place if the deadline passes. 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)

'Will not forgive...,' Five held for protesting outside Netanyahu’s home as ceasefire talks tank again

Tel Aviv, Israel 
As negotiations continue between Israel and the Hamas militant group to reach a deal, the group has still not given a list of living and dead hostages to be released in the first phase of a potential ceasefire-hostage deal, Israeli media, Kan public broadcaster reported. 
It added that the Hamas is resisting pressure from mediators. 
According to Israeli officials, Hamas is hoping for a "dramatic achievement" in the negotiations before providing the list, Channel 12 news reported. 
The Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post, "Hamas has yet to deliver the list of hostages who are alive – without it, it’s impossible to reach a deal." 
The official continued that although the mediators are pushing the militant group to deliver the list, Mohammed Sinwar, one of the key figures of Hamas in Gaza is refusing to share the list. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-israeli-hostage-held-in-gaza-dies-a-year-after-her-release-786651">Also read: Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release</a>
Sinwar succeeded his brother Yahya Sinwar, as leader of Hamas since Yahya was killed by the Israeli Defence Forces on October 16. 
“It’s still possible to continue talking and advancing some issues without the list, but it will be impossible to reach a breakthrough without it,” the official said.
The official added that it was a long negotiation and that there would be consultations. 
“There has been some progress in the talks, but it doesn’t seem a deal is going to be reached soon," the official said. 
Watch | Iran Condemns Israel's 'Brazen Admission' of Killing Hamas Ex-leader Ismail Haniyeh
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Earlier on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a Knesset session, expressed optimism about the chances for a hostage deal with Hamas.
He said, “I would like to tell you carefully that there is some progress." 
“I cannot tell you all the things we are doing, but we are taking significant actions on all levels,” Netanyahu continued.
“We will continue to act in every way, without respite, until we bring everyone home from enemy territory,” he added. 
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)

According to Israeli officials, Hamas is hoping for a "dramatic achievement" in the negotiations before providing the list, Channel 12 news reported. 



Tel Aviv, Israel As negotiations continue between Israel and the Hamas militant group to reach a deal, the group has still not given a list of living and dead hostages to be released in the first phase of a potential ceasefire-hostage deal, Israeli media, Kan public broadcaster reported. It added that the Hamas is resisting pressure from mediators. According to Israeli officials, Hamas is hoping for a "dramatic achievement" in the negotiations before providing the list, Channel 12 news reported. The Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post, "Hamas has yet to deliver the list of hostages who are alive – without it, it’s impossible to reach a deal." The official continued that although the mediators are pushing the militant group to deliver the list, Mohammed Sinwar, one of the key figures of Hamas in Gaza is refusing to share the list. Also read: Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release Sinwar succeeded his brother Yahya Sinwar, as leader of Hamas since Yahya was killed by the Israeli Defence Forces on October 16. “It’s still possible to continue talking and advancing some issues without the list, but it will be impossible to reach a breakthrough without it,” the official said. The official added that it was a long negotiation and that there would be consultations. “There has been some progress in the talks, but it doesn’t seem a deal is going to be reached soon," the official said. Watch | Iran Condemns Israel's 'Brazen Admission' of Killing Hamas Ex-leader Ismail Haniyeh × Earlier on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a Knesset session, expressed optimism about the chances for a hostage deal with Hamas. He said, “I would like to tell you carefully that there is some progress." “I cannot tell you all the things we are doing, but we are taking significant actions on all levels,” Netanyahu continued. “We will continue to act in every way, without respite, until we bring everyone home from enemy territory,” he added. 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)

'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report

Gaza
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has reported that a child is killed every hour in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict. Since the war began, UNICEF has recorded the deaths of 14,500 children.  
<h2>Loss of innocent lives</h2>
UNRWA condemned the killing of children, calling it something that cannot be justified. Survivors, the agency noted, are left physically and emotionally scarred, with many children deprived of education and left to search through rubble instead of learning in school.
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No place for children.
Since the beginning of the war 14,500 children have been reported killed in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> according to <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNICEF</a>. One child gets killed every hour. These are not numbers. These are lives cut short.
Killing children cannot be justified. Those who survive are scarred… <a href="https://t.co/7sXIQLRXQP">pic.twitter.com/7sXIQLRXQP</a>
— UNRWA (@UNRWA) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA/status/1871499736135422461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rising casualties amid escalating violence</h2>
The latest figures from Gaza's health authorities indicate that over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict intensified following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which killed around 1,200 people and took approximately 250 hostages.
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<h2>Efforts for ceasefire and hostage negotiations</h2>
In light of the ongoing violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged some progress in discussions about a ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages. However, he stated that the timeline for any agreement is uncertain. Netanyahu emphasised Israel’s commitment to continue working towards bringing the hostages home.
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.

The latest figures from Gaza's health authorities indicate that over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict intensified following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which killed around 1,200 people and took approximately 250 hostages.



Gaza The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has reported that a child is killed every hour in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict. Since the war began, UNICEF has recorded the deaths of 14,500 children. Loss of innocent lives UNRWA condemned the killing of children, calling it something that cannot be justified. Survivors, the agency noted, are left physically and emotionally scarred, with many children deprived of education and left to search through rubble instead of learning in school. No place for children. Since the beginning of the war 14,500 children have been reported killed in #Gaza according to @UNICEF. One child gets killed every hour. These are not numbers. These are lives cut short. Killing children cannot be justified. Those who survive are scarred… pic.twitter.com/7sXIQLRXQP — UNRWA (@UNRWA) December 24, 2024 × Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike Rising casualties amid escalating violence The latest figures from Gaza's health authorities indicate that over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict intensified following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which killed around 1,200 people and took approximately 250 hostages. Also read | Israeli army: Intercepted a ballistic missile from Yemen Efforts for ceasefire and hostage negotiations In light of the ongoing violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged some progress in discussions about a ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages. However, he stated that the timeline for any agreement is uncertain. Netanyahu emphasised Israel’s commitment to continue working towards bringing the hostages home. 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.

Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA

Jerusalem, Israel
A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier.
Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas.
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“Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.”
<h2>Who was Hanna Katzir?</h2>
Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November.
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Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon.
<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal</h2>
Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups.
The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died.
(With inputs from agencies)

Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023



Jerusalem, Israel A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier. Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' “Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.” Who was Hanna Katzir? Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November. Also read | Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon. Israel-Hamas hostage deal Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups. The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head".

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<h2>What did the Israeli investigation find?</h2>

An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them".

Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24).

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis?

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Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe.

"The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement.

<h2>Ceasefire negotiations in the works</h2>

Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States.

Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks.&nbsp;

On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions.

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Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire.&nbsp;

The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza.

Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased.

The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

(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.

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations.

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head". Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' What did the Israeli investigation find? An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them". Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24). Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis? × Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe. "The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement. Ceasefire negotiations in the works Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States. Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks. On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions. Also read | Walmart in hot soup as shirts featuring Hamas and Hezbollah leaders go up for sale Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire. The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza. Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased. The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations. (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.

Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops