Israel on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area.

Earlier, reports suggested that while there were casualties due to the Israeli fighter jet attack, Faud Shukr had escaped. However, the Israeli military in a statement said,&nbsp;"Israeli air force fighter jets eliminated the Hezbollah terrorist organisation's most senior military commander and the head of its strategic unit, Fuad Shukr, in the area of Beirut."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1990}">Who is Faud Shukr?</h2>

Faud Shukr, as per an AFP report citing an anonymous source close to Hezbollah, was the successor of the group's top commander Imad Mughniyeh — killed in a 2008 car bombing in Damascus that the Iran-backed group blames Israel for.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:243,&quot;w&quot;:624,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2083}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-says-it-carried-out-targeted-strike-in-beirut-745704">Israel says it struck Beirut, targeted Hezbollah commander behind Golan Heights attack</a>

A shadowy figure, Shukr went by the nom de guerre Hajj Mohsen Shukr, and "commands military operations in southern Lebanon".

He is wanted in the US for playing "a central role" in the deadly 1983 bombing of the US Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.

In 2017, describing him as "a senior adviser" to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the US Treasury offered a $5 million bounty for information on Shukr's whereabouts.

<img alt="Faud Shukr" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:405,&quot;w&quot;:2047,&quot;h&quot;:1200,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2245}" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ad8ddeb-2ebc-4703-8f71-b56a843aa1cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/21-July-Fuad-Shukr-English.jpg" />

As per&nbsp;Israeli military spokesperson&nbsp;Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, he was a "senior terrorist who has the blood of Israelis and many others on his hands".

In a video statement, Hagari blamed Shukr for the "Majdal Shams massacre," the Saturday (July 27) attack on Golan Heights that claimed the lives of a dozen children.

"Fuad Shukr was the commander responsible for the Majdal Shams massacre, in which 12 children were murdered after Hezbollah fired an Iranian Falaq-1 rocket directly at a soccer field in northern Israel on Saturday evening," said Hagari.

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He also claimed that the slain Hezbollah commander was the "right-hand man to Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's leader, and his adviser in planning and directing attacks and operations."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1873,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3713}">Responsible for Hezbollah attacks on Israel</h2>

The Israeli military alleged that Faud Shukr was behind most of the militant group's advanced weaponry. This, it said, includes precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets and UAVs.

Allegedly, he was also "directly involved" in the abduction of the bodies of three Israeli soldiers — Benyamin Avraham, Adi Avitan and Omar Sawaid. In the 1990s, the&nbsp;Israeli soldiers were killed by Hezbollah while patrolling the security fence adjacent to Har Dov, it added.

"Since then, he has planned and directed numerous terror attacks against innocent civilians," it said, as quoted by AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Tuesday (Jul 30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area.

Israel on Tuesday (Jul 30) announced that it has "eliminated" Faud Shukr, an elusive Hezbollah military commander. Accusing Shukr of being behind the rocket strike on the annexed Golan strike, Israel said the military commander was killed using fighter jets in the Beirut area. Earlier, reports suggested that while there were casualties due to the Israeli fighter jet attack, Faud Shukr had escaped. However, the Israeli military in a statement said, "Israeli air force fighter jets eliminated the Hezbollah terrorist organisation's most senior military commander and the head of its strategic unit, Fuad Shukr, in the area of Beirut." Who is Faud Shukr? Faud Shukr, as per an AFP report citing an anonymous source close to Hezbollah, was the successor of the group's top commander Imad Mughniyeh — killed in a 2008 car bombing in Damascus that the Iran-backed group blames Israel for. Also read | Israel says it struck Beirut, targeted Hezbollah commander behind Golan Heights attack A shadowy figure, Shukr went by the nom de guerre Hajj Mohsen Shukr, and "commands military operations in southern Lebanon". He is wanted in the US for playing "a central role" in the deadly 1983 bombing of the US Marine Corps barracks in Beirut. In 2017, describing him as "a senior adviser" to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the US Treasury offered a $5 million bounty for information on Shukr's whereabouts. As per Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, he was a "senior terrorist who has the blood of Israelis and many others on his hands". In a video statement, Hagari blamed Shukr for the "Majdal Shams massacre," the Saturday (July 27) attack on Golan Heights that claimed the lives of a dozen children. "Fuad Shukr was the commander responsible for the Majdal Shams massacre, in which 12 children were murdered after Hezbollah fired an Iranian Falaq-1 rocket directly at a soccer field in northern Israel on Saturday evening," said Hagari. Also read | Facebook targeting Trump? Meta calls July 13 assassination attempt 'fictional event' and 'misinformation' He also claimed that the slain Hezbollah commander was the "right-hand man to Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's leader, and his adviser in planning and directing attacks and operations." Responsible for Hezbollah attacks on Israel The Israeli military alleged that Faud Shukr was behind most of the militant group's advanced weaponry. This, it said, includes precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets and UAVs. Allegedly, he was also "directly involved" in the abduction of the bodies of three Israeli soldiers — Benyamin Avraham, Adi Avitan and Omar Sawaid. In the 1990s, the Israeli soldiers were killed by Hezbollah while patrolling the security fence adjacent to Har Dov, it added. "Since then, he has planned and directed numerous terror attacks against innocent civilians," it said, as quoted by AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel.

<h2>How were the hostage bodies recovered?</h2>

The bodies were recovered during an operation in Khan Yunis, a key city in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday (Jul 24), said the Israeli military.

As per the news agency AFP, the four soldiers were killed during the attack by Hamas militants, which led to significant casualties and hostages being taken.

In December, the military had previously announced the death of Maya Goren, who had been abducted on October 7.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-tells-joint-session-of-us-congress-israel-will-win-gaza-war-743902">Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war</a>

The recovery of her body was confirmed by kibbutz Nir Oz, who said that her family had been informed.&nbsp;

In a separate statement, kibbutz Nir Yitzhak also confirmed the return of Oren Goldin's body.

"This evening, we were informed about the rescue operation for the late Oren Goldin, a member of the kibbutz emergency team, who fell on October 7".

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The attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, predominantly civilians, and the seizure of 251 hostages. Of those, 111 remain in Gaza, with the military reporting that 39 of these hostages are deceased.

Israel's military response in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting at least 39,145 deaths, mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul 25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel.

Israeli forces have retrieved the bodies of five individuals who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel. The military confirmed on Thursday (Jul 25) that the remains of Maya Goren and soldiers Ravid Aryeh Katz, Oren Goldin, Tomer Ahimas, and Kiril Brodski have been returned to Israel. How were the hostage bodies recovered? The bodies were recovered during an operation in Khan Yunis, a key city in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday (Jul 24), said the Israeli military. As per the news agency AFP, the four soldiers were killed during the attack by Hamas militants, which led to significant casualties and hostages being taken. In December, the military had previously announced the death of Maya Goren, who had been abducted on October 7. Also read | Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war The recovery of her body was confirmed by kibbutz Nir Oz, who said that her family had been informed. In a separate statement, kibbutz Nir Yitzhak also confirmed the return of Oren Goldin's body. "This evening, we were informed about the rescue operation for the late Oren Goldin, a member of the kibbutz emergency team, who fell on October 7". Also read | Joe Biden's Oval Office address: Endorses Kamala Harris, tells Americans 'Republic is in your hands' The attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, predominantly civilians, and the seizure of 251 hostages. Of those, 111 remain in Gaza, with the military reporting that 39 of these hostages are deceased. Israel's military response in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting at least 39,145 deaths, mostly civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel recovers bodies of five hostages taken by Hamas during Oct 7 attack

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.&nbsp;

As per the Israeli daily Haaretz, this procedure was used at three army facilities attacked by Hamas and potentially put civilians at risk.

<h2>What is the Hannibal Protocol?</h2>

This controversial directive as per reports was used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) until 2016. The protocol has just one goal: to prevent the capture of soldiers by enemy soldiers, even at the cost of hostages' lives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hundreds-of-israeli-protesters-push-for-truce-deal-block-roads-in-tel-aviv-738727">Gaza war: Hundreds of Israeli protesters push for truce deal, block roads in Tel Aviv</a>

According to "Forensic Architecture, Violence at the Threshold of Detectability" a book by Eyal Weizman, one version of the Hannibal Protocol says that "the kidnapping must be stopped by all means, even at the price of striking and harming our own forces."

Reportedly, at 11:22 am, about five hours after the attack began, a directive was issued to Israel’s Gaza division stating, "Not a single vehicle can return to Gaza."

This message, as per the Haaretz report quoting a source, meant preventing any vehicles from returning, regardless of potential casualties.

"Everyone knew by then that such vehicles could be carrying kidnapped civilians or soldiers … Everyone knew what it meant to not let any vehicles return to Gaza."

It is not known how many civilian or military casualties happened because of this order, however, documents and testimonies from soldiers and mid-senior level IDF officers suggest Hannibal protocol's use was "widespread".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-accepts-us-proposal-to-begin-talks-on-releasing-israeli-hostages-738441">Gaza war: Hamas accepts US proposal to begin talks on releasing Israeli hostages</a>

<h2>Israel Investigation and Reactions</h2>

An Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson reportedly told the publication that internal investigations into the events of 7 October are ongoing.&nbsp;

"The aim of these investigations is to learn and to draw lessons which could be used in continuing the battle. When these investigations are concluded, the results will be presented to the public with transparency," read the statement, as reported by The Guardian.

(With inputs from agencies)

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report.

On 7 October, during the initial chaos of the Hamas assault, Israel's armed forces reportedly employed a controversial battle tactic called the "Hannibal protocol," claims a report. As per the Israeli daily Haaretz, this procedure was used at three army facilities attacked by Hamas and potentially put civilians at risk. What is the Hannibal Protocol? This controversial directive as per reports was used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) until 2016. The protocol has just one goal: to prevent the capture of soldiers by enemy soldiers, even at the cost of hostages' lives. Also read | Gaza war: Hundreds of Israeli protesters push for truce deal, block roads in Tel Aviv According to "Forensic Architecture, Violence at the Threshold of Detectability" a book by Eyal Weizman, one version of the Hannibal Protocol says that "the kidnapping must be stopped by all means, even at the price of striking and harming our own forces." Reportedly, at 11:22 am, about five hours after the attack began, a directive was issued to Israel’s Gaza division stating, "Not a single vehicle can return to Gaza." This message, as per the Haaretz report quoting a source, meant preventing any vehicles from returning, regardless of potential casualties. "Everyone knew by then that such vehicles could be carrying kidnapped civilians or soldiers … Everyone knew what it meant to not let any vehicles return to Gaza." It is not known how many civilian or military casualties happened because of this order, however, documents and testimonies from soldiers and mid-senior level IDF officers suggest Hannibal protocol's use was "widespread". Also read | Gaza war: Hamas accepts US proposal to begin talks on releasing Israeli hostages Israel Investigation and Reactions An Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson reportedly told the publication that internal investigations into the events of 7 October are ongoing. "The aim of these investigations is to learn and to draw lessons which could be used in continuing the battle. When these investigations are concluded, the results will be presented to the public with transparency," read the statement, as reported by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF used controversial 'Hannibal protocol' endangering civilians on Oct 7: Report

Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes.&nbsp;

The serious security breach was condemned by lawmakers, who have called for an investigation.

<h2>"From the river to the sea"</h2>

According to AFP reports&nbsp;four people dressed in black climbed onto the parliament building roof. They stood there for about an hour, and unfurled banners, one of which read "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-approves-occupation-of-127-sq-km-of-palestinian-land-in-west-bank-737547">Israel approves occupation of 12.7 sqkm of Palestinian land in West Bank, largest since 1993 Oslo accords</a>

One of them used a megaphone to give a rallying speech that accused Israel of war crimes, a charge the warring nation continues to reject resolutely.

"We will not forget, we will not forgive and we will continue to resist," said the protester.&nbsp;

The protesters were led away by the police around 11:30 am local time (0130 GMT). Till then, people were advised by police and security to avoid walking directly under the protest at the building's main entrance. &nbsp;

<h2>"Serious breach of security"</h2>

Taking to social media platform X, opposition Home Affairs spokesperson James Paterson in a post called the protest a "serious breach of the Parliament's security."

"The building was modified at great expense to prevent incursions like this," he said, adding, "An investigation is required".

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This is serious breach of the Parliament’s security. The building was modified at great expense to prevent incursions like this. An investigation is required. <a href="https://t.co/AL8ARPeRtO">https://t.co/AL8ARPeRtO</a>
— James Paterson (@SenPaterson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenPaterson/status/1808664922848645549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the eight months of the Israel-Hamas war, Australia has been the site of many pro-Palestine protests. While the nation currently does not recognise Palestinian statehood, in May, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that the nation could do so before a formal peace process between Israel and Palestinian authorities was complete.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-launches-massive-attack-towards-israel-after-commander-killed-737580">Hezbollah launches massive rocket attack on Israel after its commander gets killed</a>

<h2>War crimes and Israel-Hamas war</h2>

A United Nations inquiry last month found that both Israel and Hamas were guilty of committing war crimes in the early stages of the war that started on Oct 7 of last year. The inquiry said that Tel Aviv's crimes also constituted crimes against humanity due to the immense civilian losses.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes.

Pro-Palestine protesters scaled the roof of the Australian Parliament House in the capital Canberra on Thursday (July 4). Carrying banners that said "Palestine will be free", the protesters accused Israel of war crimes. The serious security breach was condemned by lawmakers, who have called for an investigation. "From the river to the sea" According to AFP reports four people dressed in black climbed onto the parliament building roof. They stood there for about an hour, and unfurled banners, one of which read "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free". Also read | Israel approves occupation of 12.7 sqkm of Palestinian land in West Bank, largest since 1993 Oslo accords One of them used a megaphone to give a rallying speech that accused Israel of war crimes, a charge the warring nation continues to reject resolutely. "We will not forget, we will not forgive and we will continue to resist," said the protester. The protesters were led away by the police around 11:30 am local time (0130 GMT). Till then, people were advised by police and security to avoid walking directly under the protest at the building's main entrance. "Serious breach of security" Taking to social media platform X, opposition Home Affairs spokesperson James Paterson in a post called the protest a "serious breach of the Parliament's security." "The building was modified at great expense to prevent incursions like this," he said, adding, "An investigation is required". This is serious breach of the Parliament’s security. The building was modified at great expense to prevent incursions like this. An investigation is required. https://t.co/AL8ARPeRtO — James Paterson (@SenPaterson) July 4, 2024 × In the eight months of the Israel-Hamas war, Australia has been the site of many pro-Palestine protests. While the nation currently does not recognise Palestinian statehood, in May, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that the nation could do so before a formal peace process between Israel and Palestinian authorities was complete. Also read | Hezbollah launches massive rocket attack on Israel after its commander gets killed War crimes and Israel-Hamas war A United Nations inquiry last month found that both Israel and Hamas were guilty of committing war crimes in the early stages of the war that started on Oct 7 of last year. The inquiry said that Tel Aviv's crimes also constituted crimes against humanity due to the immense civilian losses. (With inputs from agencies)

'Palestine will be free': Pro-Palestine protestors climb Australia Parliament roof, blame Israel of war crimes

The cost of war is heavy, and for the innocent, it is back-breaking. In Gaza, the Israel-Hamas war that has already stretched to over eight months has&nbsp;given way to dangerous skin diseases among children.

<h2>Skin infections: A debilitating side effect of war</h2>

Many Gazans, adults, and children are suffering from skin infections ranging from scabies to chicken pox, lice, impetigo, and other debilitating rashes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 150,000 people in the Palestinian territory have contracted skin diseases in the squalid conditions into which displaced Gazans have been forced since the Israel-Hamas war erupted on October 7.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-8-in-10-palestinians-remain-displaced-amid-israels-offensive-says-un-737264">Gaza war: 8 in 10 Palestinians remain displaced amid Israel's offensive, says UN</a>

Talking to news agency AFP, Wafaa Elwan, a Gazan woman, said, "We sleep on the ground, on sand where worms come out underneath us." Her family is one of thousands living on a sandy patch near the sea, near the central Gaza City of Deir al-Balah.

The mother of seven believes infections are inevitable.&nbsp;

"We cannot bathe our children as before. There are no hygiene and sanitary products for us to wash and clean the place. There's nothing."

Earlier, parents used to tell their children to wash in the Mediterranean. But pollution that has built up as war has devastated basic facilities has increased disease risk.

"The sea is all sewage. They even throw garbage and baby napkins into the sea," she said.

<h2>Thousands of cases reported</h2>

The WHO has reported 96,417 cases of scabies and lice since the war started in Gaza. This includes 9,274 cases of chickenpox, 60,130 cases of skin rashes, and 10,038 impetigo cases.

According to Sami Hamid, a pharmacist who runs a makeshift clinic in the Deir al-Balah camp, scabies, and chickenpox are especially widespread in the coastal Palestinian territory.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-bombs-khan-younis-and-rafah-forcing-thousands-to-flee-737069">Gaza war: Israel bombs Khan Younis and Rafah forcing thousands to flee</a>

Children's skin suffers from "the hot weather and the lack of clean water," he said.

Mohammed Abu Mughaiseeb, the medical coordinator in Gaza for Doctors Without Borders (MSF), told AFP that children are vulnerable because, "they are children — they play outside, they'll touch anything, eat anything without washing it".

He explained that the hot weather increases sweating and accumulation of dirt that causes rashes and allergies, which, if scratched, lead to infections. Furthermore, he warned that Gaza's children are already highly vulnerable to disease because their immune systems are compromised by malnutrition.

MSF doctors fear that other skin conditions, such as leishmaniasis, which can be fatal in its most virulent form, can also make an appearance among the millions of displaced Gazans.

Not only this, as per the WHO, other diseases have also rampaged through camps for the displaced, feeding on poor hygiene.

As per the international agency, already 485,000 cases of diarrhoea have been reported.

The latest United Nations counts show that of the 2.4 million Gaza population, 1.9 million have been displaced.

(With inputs from agencies)

The cost of war is heavy, and for the innocent, it is back-breaking. In Gaza, the Israel-Hamas war that has already stretched to over eight months has given way to dangerous skin diseases among children.

The cost of war is heavy, and for the innocent, it is back-breaking. In Gaza, the Israel-Hamas war that has already stretched to over eight months has given way to dangerous skin diseases among children. Skin infections: A debilitating side effect of war Many Gazans, adults, and children are suffering from skin infections ranging from scabies to chicken pox, lice, impetigo, and other debilitating rashes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 150,000 people in the Palestinian territory have contracted skin diseases in the squalid conditions into which displaced Gazans have been forced since the Israel-Hamas war erupted on October 7. Also read | Gaza war: 8 in 10 Palestinians remain displaced amid Israel's offensive, says UN Talking to news agency AFP, Wafaa Elwan, a Gazan woman, said, "We sleep on the ground, on sand where worms come out underneath us." Her family is one of thousands living on a sandy patch near the sea, near the central Gaza City of Deir al-Balah. The mother of seven believes infections are inevitable. "We cannot bathe our children as before. There are no hygiene and sanitary products for us to wash and clean the place. There's nothing." Earlier, parents used to tell their children to wash in the Mediterranean. But pollution that has built up as war has devastated basic facilities has increased disease risk. "The sea is all sewage. They even throw garbage and baby napkins into the sea," she said. Thousands of cases reported The WHO has reported 96,417 cases of scabies and lice since the war started in Gaza. This includes 9,274 cases of chickenpox, 60,130 cases of skin rashes, and 10,038 impetigo cases. According to Sami Hamid, a pharmacist who runs a makeshift clinic in the Deir al-Balah camp, scabies, and chickenpox are especially widespread in the coastal Palestinian territory. Also read | Gaza war: Israel bombs Khan Younis and Rafah forcing thousands to flee Children's skin suffers from "the hot weather and the lack of clean water," he said. Mohammed Abu Mughaiseeb, the medical coordinator in Gaza for Doctors Without Borders (MSF), told AFP that children are vulnerable because, "they are children — they play outside, they'll touch anything, eat anything without washing it". He explained that the hot weather increases sweating and accumulation of dirt that causes rashes and allergies, which, if scratched, lead to infections. Furthermore, he warned that Gaza's children are already highly vulnerable to disease because their immune systems are compromised by malnutrition. MSF doctors fear that other skin conditions, such as leishmaniasis, which can be fatal in its most virulent form, can also make an appearance among the millions of displaced Gazans. Not only this, as per the WHO, other diseases have also rampaged through camps for the displaced, feeding on poor hygiene. As per the international agency, already 485,000 cases of diarrhoea have been reported. The latest United Nations counts show that of the 2.4 million Gaza population, 1.9 million have been displaced. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas conflict: Children in Gaza hit hard by dangerous skin diseases amid prolonged war

Mohammed Abu Salmiya, the head of the Gaza Strip's biggest hospital, Al-Shifa, was freed on Monday (Jul 1) from more than seven months of detention. Palestinian border officials said that the Israeli authorities released 54 Palestinians who were detained during the war, Salamiya was one of them. After being released, Salmiya alleged that he and other prisoners were put through "severe torture" in Israeli prisons.&nbsp;

Salamiya was arrested by IDF troops during one of the raids on Al-Shifa in November&nbsp;on the suspicion of having allowed Hamas to use the Gaza City hospital as a centre of operations. He was taken for questioning by the Shin Bet as he was attempting to evacuate to the south of the Gaza Strip via an IDF-operated humanitarian corridor.

Israel claimed that the Palestine-based Hamas had been using the hospital for military purposes, which the militant group denies.&nbsp;

The military even released the hospital's CCTV footage from October 7 showing gunmen and hostages on the premises. The military also took journalists into a tunnel found at the complex.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-targets-in-shejaiya-killing-at-least-40-militants-736515">IDF strikes Hamas targets in Shejaiya, killing at least 40 militants</a>

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Monday demanded the ouster of Shin Bet director Ronen Bar, after the release&nbsp;of Shifa Hospital director from jail. 
 
Ben Gvir took to X, claiming that the decision to free the hospital director “along with dozens of terrorists” was an act of “security recklessness.” 
 
After a furore over Salamiya’s release, ministers and senior security officials traded blame and sought to avoid responsibility.&nbsp; 
 
As translated by the news agency Reuters, Salmiya said, "We were subjected to severe torture, and my little finger was broken. I was repeatedly subjected to hitting on the head, causing bleeding multiple times."&nbsp;

"There was almost daily torture in the Israeli prisons. When prisoners' cells were raided daily, they were severely beaten every day. We say this with full certainty, and we lived through it with great bitterness," Salamiya said, further adding that no charge had ever been made against him.&nbsp;

He claimed that tens of thousands of prisoners have been left behind. They are living in hardship, experiencing "psychological and physical torture that&nbsp;no Palestinian prisoner has experienced since the Nakba in 1948". He said no prisoner ate more than a loaf of bread a day for two months.&nbsp;

He also claimed that many prisoners died while they were in interrogation and were deprived of medicine and food.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-revised-terms-to-unlock-israel-hamas-ceasefire-prisoner-swap-736502">US offers revised terms to unlock Israel-Hamas ceasefire, prisoner swap</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Is it a 'security abandonment'?&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir wrote on X that Salmiya's release "with dozens of other terrorists" is a "security abandonment".&nbsp;

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שחרור מנהל בית החולים שיפא בעזה יחד עם עוד עשרות מחבלים היא הפקרות ביטחונית. הגיע הזמן שראש הממשלה יעצור את גלנט ואת ראש השב"כ מלנהל מדיניות עצמאית מנוגדת לעמדת הקבינט והממשלה.
— איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) <a href="https://twitter.com/itamarbengvir/status/1807661065464852879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“It’s time the prime minister stops [Defence Minister Yoav] Gallant and the Shin Bet chief from carrying out independent policies contradicting the positions of the cabinet,” he added.

As quoted by the news agency AFP, Israel's Shin Bet intelligence agency said it had decided on the release with the Israeli military "to free up places in detention centres".

The agency said it "opposed the release of terrorists" who had taken part in attacks on Israeli civilians "so it was decided to free several Gaza detainees who represent a lesser danger".&nbsp;

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.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Abu Salmiya, the head of the Gaza Strip's biggest hospital, Al-Shifa, was freed on Monday (Jul 1) from more than seven months of detention. Palestinian border officials said that the Israeli authorities released 54 Palestinians who were detained during the war, Salamiya was one of them.

Mohammed Abu Salmiya, the head of the Gaza Strip's biggest hospital, Al-Shifa, was freed on Monday (Jul 1) from more than seven months of detention. Palestinian border officials said that the Israeli authorities released 54 Palestinians who were detained during the war, Salamiya was one of them. After being released, Salmiya alleged that he and other prisoners were put through "severe torture" in Israeli prisons. Salamiya was arrested by IDF troops during one of the raids on Al-Shifa in November on the suspicion of having allowed Hamas to use the Gaza City hospital as a centre of operations. He was taken for questioning by the Shin Bet as he was attempting to evacuate to the south of the Gaza Strip via an IDF-operated humanitarian corridor. Israel claimed that the Palestine-based Hamas had been using the hospital for military purposes, which the militant group denies. The military even released the hospital's CCTV footage from October 7 showing gunmen and hostages on the premises. The military also took journalists into a tunnel found at the complex. Also read: IDF strikes Hamas targets in Shejaiya, killing at least 40 militants Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Monday demanded the ouster of Shin Bet director Ronen Bar, after the release of Shifa Hospital director from jail. Ben Gvir took to X, claiming that the decision to free the hospital director “along with dozens of terrorists” was an act of “security recklessness.” After a furore over Salamiya’s release, ministers and senior security officials traded blame and sought to avoid responsibility. As translated by the news agency Reuters, Salmiya said, "We were subjected to severe torture, and my little finger was broken. I was repeatedly subjected to hitting on the head, causing bleeding multiple times." "There was almost daily torture in the Israeli prisons. When prisoners' cells were raided daily, they were severely beaten every day. We say this with full certainty, and we lived through it with great bitterness," Salamiya said, further adding that no charge had ever been made against him. He claimed that tens of thousands of prisoners have been left behind. They are living in hardship, experiencing "psychological and physical torture that no Palestinian prisoner has experienced since the Nakba in 1948". He said no prisoner ate more than a loaf of bread a day for two months. He also claimed that many prisoners died while they were in interrogation and were deprived of medicine and food. Also read: US offers revised terms to unlock Israel-Hamas ceasefire, prisoner swap × Is it a 'security abandonment'? Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir wrote on X that Salmiya's release "with dozens of other terrorists" is a "security abandonment". שחרור מנהל בית החולים שיפא בעזה יחד עם עוד עשרות מחבלים היא הפקרות ביטחונית. הגיע הזמן שראש הממשלה יעצור את גלנט ואת ראש השב"כ מלנהל מדיניות עצמאית מנוגדת לעמדת הקבינט והממשלה. — איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) July 1, 2024 × “It’s time the prime minister stops [Defence Minister Yoav] Gallant and the Shin Bet chief from carrying out independent policies contradicting the positions of the cabinet,” he added. As quoted by the news agency AFP, Israel's Shin Bet intelligence agency said it had decided on the release with the Israeli military "to free up places in detention centres". The agency said it "opposed the release of terrorists" who had taken part in attacks on Israeli civilians "so it was decided to free several Gaza detainees who represent a lesser danger". 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Al Shifa hospital chief released, Israel ministers trade blame with Shin Bet

Violent clashes broke out on Wednesday (May 1) at the University of California, Los Angeles campus between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protesters, reported a US-based broadcaster.

The clashes involved multiple acts of violence, with rival factions using sticks, hurling objects and even tearing down metal barricades. As per reports, to handle the violence, police were seen carrying zip ties and pepper spray.

<h2>Pro-Palestine vs pro-Israel protests</h2>

As per a UCLA student newspaper Daily Bruin report, pro-Israel supporters had tried to tear down a pro-Palestinian protest encampment on the campus.

To pacify the situation, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) had to step in. Police, as per Reuters, were responding to UCLA Chancellor Gene Block's request for support.

In a statement on X, LA police said, "At the request of UCLA, due to multiple acts of violence within the large encampment on their campus, the LAPD is responding to assist UCLA PD, and other law enforcement agencies, to restore order and maintain public safety."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-police-enter-columbia-building-barricaded-by-students-as-protests-716835">NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, dozens arrested</a>

Visuals from the clash show rival protesters clashing, brandishing sticks, as unidentified projectiles flew overhead.

This comes as in New York City, late on Tuesday (Apr 30) police arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian demonstrators holed up in an academic building on Columbia University campus in the city. The police also removed a protest encampment that the Ivy League school had sought to dismantle for nearly two weeks but had failed.

As per AFP, UCLA Chancellor Gene D. Block in a letter posted on the University website on Tuesday had warned ahead of clashes that protesters including "both members of the UCLA community and others unaffiliated with our campus" had last week set up a camp.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-rigging-allegations-trump-refuses-to-dismiss-possibility-of-violence-if-he-loses-in-2024-elections-716844">Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections</a>

"Many of the demonstrators, as well as counter-demonstrators who have come to the area, have been peaceful in their activism," Block wrote.

"But the tactics of others have frankly been shocking and shameful. We have seen instances of violence," he said, adding, "These incidents have put many on our campus, especially our Jewish students, in a state of anxiety and fear."

(With inputs from agencies)

Violent clashes broke out on Wednesday (May 1) at the University of California, Los Angeles campus between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protesters, reported a US-based broadcaster.

Violent clashes broke out on Wednesday (May 1) at the University of California, Los Angeles campus between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protesters, reported a US-based broadcaster. The clashes involved multiple acts of violence, with rival factions using sticks, hurling objects and even tearing down metal barricades. As per reports, to handle the violence, police were seen carrying zip ties and pepper spray. Pro-Palestine vs pro-Israel protests As per a UCLA student newspaper Daily Bruin report, pro-Israel supporters had tried to tear down a pro-Palestinian protest encampment on the campus. To pacify the situation, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) had to step in. Police, as per Reuters, were responding to UCLA Chancellor Gene Block's request for support. In a statement on X, LA police said, "At the request of UCLA, due to multiple acts of violence within the large encampment on their campus, the LAPD is responding to assist UCLA PD, and other law enforcement agencies, to restore order and maintain public safety." Also read | NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, dozens arrested Visuals from the clash show rival protesters clashing, brandishing sticks, as unidentified projectiles flew overhead. This comes as in New York City, late on Tuesday (Apr 30) police arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian demonstrators holed up in an academic building on Columbia University campus in the city. The police also removed a protest encampment that the Ivy League school had sought to dismantle for nearly two weeks but had failed. As per AFP, UCLA Chancellor Gene D. Block in a letter posted on the University website on Tuesday had warned ahead of clashes that protesters including "both members of the UCLA community and others unaffiliated with our campus" had last week set up a camp. Also read | Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections "Many of the demonstrators, as well as counter-demonstrators who have come to the area, have been peaceful in their activism," Block wrote. "But the tactics of others have frankly been shocking and shameful. We have seen instances of violence," he said, adding, "These incidents have put many on our campus, especially our Jewish students, in a state of anxiety and fear." (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestine and pro-Israel protesters clash at UCLA campus, police step in

A top Hamas official has stated that the militant group was ready to lay down arms for five years or more, if an independent Palestinian state is established along the pre-1967 borders.

This significant statement was made by Hamas political official Khalil al-Hayya during an interview with news agency Associated Press on Wednesday (Apr 24) in Istanbul. The top Hamas official also said that the group would convert into a political party.

<h2>A significant concession</h2>

As per the report, the suggestion that the Hamas would disarm appeared to be a "significant concession" by the militant group which is officially committed to Israel's destruction.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-go-ahead-with-rafah-invasion-even-as-egypt-warns-of-humanitarian-crisis-714721">Israel to go ahead with Rafah invasion even as Egypt warns of humanitarian crisis</a>

However, it is unlikely that Tel Aviv would even consider a truce. Israel, after the deadly Oct 7 attacks, had vowed to crush Hamas. Moreover, Israel's current leadership has been adamantly opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state on lands the nation captured during the 1967 Mideast war.

<h2>A 'fully sovereign Palestinian state'</h2>

Al-Hayya, who has previously represented the Palestinian militants in negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage exchange, said that Hamas would accept "a fully sovereign Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip and the return of Palestinian refugees in accordance with the international resolutions".

He stated that if the demand is met, Hamas's military wing would dissolve, turning into a political party.

"All the experiences of people who fought against occupiers, when they became independent and obtained their rights and their state, what have these forces done? They have turned into political parties and their defending fighting forces have turned into the national army?".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/from-sabres-to-spikes-this-prehistoric-fish-had-tusks-like-a-warthog-714775">THIS prehistoric fish was nearly 9 feet long and had giant sabres for teeth</a>

AP reports that even as Hamas at times softens its public position about the possibility of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, it officially continues to reject "any alternative to the full liberation of Palestine, from the river to the sea". Here 'river to the sea' refers to the area reaching from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea — including lands that now make up Israel.

The Hamas leader, however, failed to explicitly specify whether the two-state solution would mean an end to the Palestinian-Israel conflict or if it would merely be an interim step towards Hamas' goal of destroying Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

A top Hamas official has stated that the militant group was ready to lay down arms for five years or more, if an independent Palestinian state is established along the pre-1967 borders.

A top Hamas official has stated that the militant group was ready to lay down arms for five years or more, if an independent Palestinian state is established along the pre-1967 borders. This significant statement was made by Hamas political official Khalil al-Hayya during an interview with news agency Associated Press on Wednesday (Apr 24) in Istanbul. The top Hamas official also said that the group would convert into a political party. A significant concession As per the report, the suggestion that the Hamas would disarm appeared to be a "significant concession" by the militant group which is officially committed to Israel's destruction. Also read | Israel to go ahead with Rafah invasion even as Egypt warns of humanitarian crisis However, it is unlikely that Tel Aviv would even consider a truce. Israel, after the deadly Oct 7 attacks, had vowed to crush Hamas. Moreover, Israel's current leadership has been adamantly opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state on lands the nation captured during the 1967 Mideast war. A 'fully sovereign Palestinian state' Al-Hayya, who has previously represented the Palestinian militants in negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage exchange, said that Hamas would accept "a fully sovereign Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip and the return of Palestinian refugees in accordance with the international resolutions". He stated that if the demand is met, Hamas's military wing would dissolve, turning into a political party. "All the experiences of people who fought against occupiers, when they became independent and obtained their rights and their state, what have these forces done? They have turned into political parties and their defending fighting forces have turned into the national army?". Also read | THIS prehistoric fish was nearly 9 feet long and had giant sabres for teeth AP reports that even as Hamas at times softens its public position about the possibility of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, it officially continues to reject "any alternative to the full liberation of Palestine, from the river to the sea". Here 'river to the sea' refers to the area reaching from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea — including lands that now make up Israel. The Hamas leader, however, failed to explicitly specify whether the two-state solution would mean an end to the Palestinian-Israel conflict or if it would merely be an interim step towards Hamas' goal of destroying Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel war: Hamas top official says militant group ready to lay down arms on one condition

The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives.

The armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad stated that their fighters were gripped in battles with the Israeli military troops around the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

Israeli military personnel launched its attack on Al Shifa in the early hours of Monday morning and have been inspecting its complex, which, as per the troops, is connected to a tunnel network that the Palestinian militant group Hamas and other Palestinian fighters use as a base.

The Gaza Health Ministry said that the five injured Palestinians "besieged" inside Al Shifa lost their lives because they were denied proper care, water and food for the past six days.

It further added that the health condition of other wounded patients was also deteriorating.

<h2>Hamas denies armed presence</h2>

Hamas has denied any military presence in the area claiming that the ones announced dead by Israeli troops were not fighters but patients and displaced people.

Hamas media stated that elsewhere in Gaza City on Saturday seven Palestinians were killed and several others were injured at the Kuwait roundabout at the time they were waiting for aid trucks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-online-spat-erupts-between-uk-and-israel-as-eu-us-pile-pressure-for-ceasefire-702871">Also read:&nbsp;Gaza war: Online spat erupts between UK and Israel as EU, US pile pressure for ceasefire</a>

"We survived death, they shot at us, there are many martyrs, there are many injured, we almost died to get our children a bite to eat," said Alaa al-Khoudary, a resident of Gaza City who had just returned from Kuwait roundabout carrying a bag of aid.

<h2>China and Russia veto US-proposed UN Gaza 'ceasefire' resolution</h2>

Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council's recent session witnessed the rejection of a resolution spearheaded by the United States, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.&nbsp;

The resolution, proposed amid escalating tensions in the region, aimed to secure a six-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the conflict.&nbsp;

However, the measure faced significant opposition from two permanent members of the Security Council: Russia and China, who exercised their veto power to block its passage.

The US-led resolution backed support from 11 out of the 15 Security Council members, showing a broad consensus among the international community regarding the urgency of ending the violence in Gaza.

Despite this overwhelming support, the resolution was thwarted by the vetoes of Russia and China, leading to a deadlock in the Security Council's efforts to address the crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives.

The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives. The armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad stated that their fighters were gripped in battles with the Israeli military troops around the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Israeli military personnel launched its attack on Al Shifa in the early hours of Monday morning and have been inspecting its complex, which, as per the troops, is connected to a tunnel network that the Palestinian militant group Hamas and other Palestinian fighters use as a base. The Gaza Health Ministry said that the five injured Palestinians "besieged" inside Al Shifa lost their lives because they were denied proper care, water and food for the past six days. It further added that the health condition of other wounded patients was also deteriorating. Hamas denies armed presence Hamas has denied any military presence in the area claiming that the ones announced dead by Israeli troops were not fighters but patients and displaced people. Hamas media stated that elsewhere in Gaza City on Saturday seven Palestinians were killed and several others were injured at the Kuwait roundabout at the time they were waiting for aid trucks. Also read: Gaza war: Online spat erupts between UK and Israel as EU, US pile pressure for ceasefire "We survived death, they shot at us, there are many martyrs, there are many injured, we almost died to get our children a bite to eat," said Alaa al-Khoudary, a resident of Gaza City who had just returned from Kuwait roundabout carrying a bag of aid. China and Russia veto US-proposed UN Gaza 'ceasefire' resolution Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council's recent session witnessed the rejection of a resolution spearheaded by the United States, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, proposed amid escalating tensions in the region, aimed to secure a six-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the conflict. However, the measure faced significant opposition from two permanent members of the Security Council: Russia and China, who exercised their veto power to block its passage. The US-led resolution backed support from 11 out of the 15 Security Council members, showing a broad consensus among the international community regarding the urgency of ending the violence in Gaza. Despite this overwhelming support, the resolution was thwarted by the vetoes of Russia and China, leading to a deadlock in the Security Council's efforts to address the crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says 170 gunmen killed in Gaza hospital raid

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital&nbsp;that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.&nbsp;

"The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis.

Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control.&nbsp;

Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that&nbsp;"a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply."&nbsp;

The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-forces-are-storming-main-hospital-in-southern-gaza-says-hamas-690551">Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside</a>

A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for&nbsp;safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire.

On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex.

<h2>Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital</h2>

The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility.

But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza

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Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex.

The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far&nbsp;killed&nbsp;at least 28,775&nbsp;Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said. "The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control. Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that "a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply." The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital. Also read | Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire. On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex. Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility. But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex. Also watch | Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza × Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex. The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far killed at least 28,775 Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry

The Israeli military said on Friday (Nov 10) that its forces would kill Hamas militants if they were seen firing from hospitals in the Gaza Strip. Addressing a press conference, Israeli military spokesperson Richard Hecht said, "If we see Hamas terrorists firing from hospitals, we'll do what we need to do.

The Israeli military said on Friday (Nov 10) that its forces would kill Hamas militants if they were seen firing from hospitals in the Gaza Strip. Addressing a press conference, Israeli military spokesperson Richard Hecht said, "If we see Hamas terrorists firing from hospitals, we'll do what we need to do... If we see Hamas terrorists we'll kill them." Hect added that the militants were operating from within the hospitals. Also read: UN calls for probe into Israel's use of 'high impact weapons' in Gaza The Israeli military's remarks come as Palestinian officials said earlier in the day that deadly strikes hit hospitals and a school in Gaza where civilians have sought refuge from Israeli attacks. 'No safe place left' Speaking to the news agency AFP, a refugee at the war-torn region's biggest hospital Al-Shifa said, "There is no safe place left. The army hit Al-Shifa. I don't know what to do." "There is a shooting... at the hospital. We are afraid to go out," the refugee added. The hospital's director and the Hamas government claimed that Israeli forces were responsible for the strike at Al-Shifa which killed 13 people. On the other hand, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that Israeli snipers shot at the Al-Quds hospital, killing at least one person. Al-Shifa's director also said that around 50 people were killed in strikes at the Al-Buraq school. Israel has not commented on the strikes so far. UN calls for end to carnage in Gaza Meanwhile, the United Nations called for an end to the carnage in Gaza. In an opinion piece, Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA, said that razing entire neighbourhoods to the ground was not an answer for the "egregious crimes committed by Hamas." "To the contrary, it is creating a new generation of aggrieved Palestinians who are likely to continue the cycle of violence. The carnage simply must stop," Lazzarin added. In a separate post on social media, the top UNRWA official said that more than 100 agency personnel were confirmed killed since the October 7 conflict which included parents, teachers, nurses, doctors and support staff. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Will kill Hamas terrorists seen firing from hospitals in Gaza, says Israeli military

Over 500 Palestinians lost their lives in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, marking the deadliest mass casualty event in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which commenced on October 7 with an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians. In other news, during a Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit in Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This event, part of Putin's second visit outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, provided an opportunity for Putin to promote Russia's Northern Sea Route (NSR) and encourage global investments in the project, aiming to enhance trade ties between the East and West.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-israeli-airstrike-or-misfired-islamic-jihad-rocket-what-killed-hundreds-at-gaza-hospital-648159">Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/18/387198-untitled-design-2023-10-18t034745568.png?imwidth=1920" />

Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion&nbsp;at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-praises-dear-friend-xi-in-beijing-summit-invites-world-to-invest-in-northern-sea-route-648185">Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, invites world to invest in Northern Sea Route</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/18/387210-1440x810cmsv2246bd078-ba7d-56a5-8679-71568e7aa162-7974118.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praises on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing.

On his second visit&nbsp;outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR)&nbsp;and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-without-speaker-for-third-week-after-pro-trump-republican-jim-jordan-loses-first-vote-648148">US House without speaker for third week after pro-Trump Republican Jim Jordan loses first vote</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/18/387194-untitled-design-2023-10-18t003206592.png?imwidth=1920" />

In the initial House of Representatives Speaker vote, the assertive right-wing Republican, Jim Jordan&nbsp;— often deemed a Donald Trump ally&nbsp;—&nbsp;fell short of the 217 votes needed for victory.

Jordan secured 200 votes, while 20 of his fellow Republicans voted against him, with all 212 Democrats supporting Hakeem Jeffries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-releases-footage-of-incidents-of-chinese-jets-performing-coercive-and-risky-maneuvers-648201">US releases footage of incidents of Chinese jets performing 'coercive and risky' maneuvers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/18/387211-chinese-aircraft.png?imwidth=1920" />

The United States released videos of some of the interceptions between American warplanes with Chinese aircraft in the past two years. The Pentagon said that more than 180 intercepts have occurred, which is more than the total intercepts over the previous decade.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Netherlands stun South Africa by 38 runs in Dharamsala

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Over 500 Palestinians lost their lives in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, marking the deadliest mass casualty event in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which commenced on October 7 with an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

Over 500 Palestinians lost their lives in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, marking the deadliest mass casualty event in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which commenced on October 7 with an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians. In other news, during a Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit in Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This event, part of Putin's second visit outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, provided an opportunity for Putin to promote Russia's Northern Sea Route (NSR) and encourage global investments in the project, aiming to enhance trade ties between the East and West. Click on the headlines to read more. Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians. Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, invites world to invest in Northern Sea Route President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praises on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing. On his second visit outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR) and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West. US House without speaker for third week after pro-Trump Republican Jim Jordan loses first vote In the initial House of Representatives Speaker vote, the assertive right-wing Republican, Jim Jordan — often deemed a Donald Trump ally — fell short of the 217 votes needed for victory. Jordan secured 200 votes, while 20 of his fellow Republicans voted against him, with all 212 Democrats supporting Hakeem Jeffries. US releases footage of incidents of Chinese jets performing 'coercive and risky' maneuvers The United States released videos of some of the interceptions between American warplanes with Chinese aircraft in the past two years. The Pentagon said that more than 180 intercepts have occurred, which is more than the total intercepts over the previous decade. Watch | Netherlands stun South Africa by 38 runs in Dharamsala ]

Morning news brief: Gaza hospital blast kills over 500, Putin praises Xi in Beijing summit, and more

Protests broke out in cities across West Asia after a deadly strike at a hospital in Gaza <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-500-killed-after-israeli-airstrikes-target-hospital-claims-gaza-health-ministry-648141">claimed hundreds of Palestinian lives</a>. The Hamas-administered Gazan authorities claimed more than 500 people died in the hospital airstrike allegedly committed by the Israeli side. Israel was quick to refute the claim and said that the blast occurred due to a 'misfired' missile that was aimed at Israel.&nbsp;

A report in CNN cited sources to claim that Israel has provided the US with intelligence it has gathered related to the deadly Gaza hospital explosion, to establish its purported innocence in what has been the deadliest civilian casualty toll in a single incidence during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-israeli-airstrike-or-misfired-islamic-jihad-rocket-what-killed-hundreds-at-gaza-hospital-648159">Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed hundreds at Gaza hospital</a>

The hospital was reportedly sheltering thousands of displaced people who were evacuated from their homes, the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza said in a statement.&nbsp;

Here's a look at protests erupting across West Asia following the mass casualty event that occurred at the Gaza hospital:

In the Jordanian capital Amman, hundreds of protesters&nbsp;took to the streets&nbsp;as a group gathered near the Israeli embassy, a move deterred by the&nbsp;security forces stationed there.

Jordan's state-run Petra news agency also reported the protesters' attempts to reach the embassy and subsequent instances of arson in the area.

Videos on social media seen by WION showed security forces using tear gas to push protesters away from the embassy.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Israel to Hamas: Die or surrender

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In an announcement that coincided with raging protests in Amman, Jordan cancelled a planned summit of the leaders of Egypt and Palestine with US President Joe Biden.

Biden's West Asia itinerary now includes only a visit to Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>Gaza hospital strike: Protests break out in Lebanon, Iraq and Iran</h2>

In Lebanon, hundreds of protesters took to the streets near the US embassy in the capital Beirut while attempting to to break through the security barriers.

In the Iraqi capital Baghdad, hundreds of people took to the streets to chant anti-Israel slogans.

Dozens of protesters reportedly&nbsp;attempted to cross a bridge that leads to Green Zone, CNN reported.&nbsp;But security forces prevented them from crossing it, the publication reported further.

Baghdad's Green Zone houses Iraqi government offices and foreign&nbsp;embassies.&nbsp;

In the Iranian capital Tehran, protests also took place outside the French and British embassies. Anti-Israel protests also occurred&nbsp;in other cities such as Esfahan and Qom.

Israel's retaliation against Gaza Strip-based Hamas following the events of Oct 7-8&nbsp;— that&nbsp;killed over 1,400 Israeli citizens&nbsp;— has led to the death&nbsp;of nearly 3,000 Palestinian people in the thickly populated Gaza Strip.

(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.)

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Protests broke out in cities across West Asia after a deadly strike at a hospital in Gaza claimed hundreds of Palestinian lives. The Hamas-administered Gazan authorities claimed more than 500 people died in the hospital airstrike allegedly committed by the Israeli side.

Protests broke out in cities across West Asia after a deadly strike at a hospital in Gaza claimed hundreds of Palestinian lives. The Hamas-administered Gazan authorities claimed more than 500 people died in the hospital airstrike allegedly committed by the Israeli side. Israel was quick to refute the claim and said that the blast occurred due to a 'misfired' missile that was aimed at Israel. A report in CNN cited sources to claim that Israel has provided the US with intelligence it has gathered related to the deadly Gaza hospital explosion, to establish its purported innocence in what has been the deadliest civilian casualty toll in a single incidence during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Also read | Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed hundreds at Gaza hospital The hospital was reportedly sheltering thousands of displaced people who were evacuated from their homes, the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza said in a statement. Here's a look at protests erupting across West Asia following the mass casualty event that occurred at the Gaza hospital: In the Jordanian capital Amman, hundreds of protesters took to the streets as a group gathered near the Israeli embassy, a move deterred by the security forces stationed there. Jordan's state-run Petra news agency also reported the protesters' attempts to reach the embassy and subsequent instances of arson in the area. Videos on social media seen by WION showed security forces using tear gas to push protesters away from the embassy. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | Israel to Hamas: Die or surrender × In an announcement that coincided with raging protests in Amman, Jordan cancelled a planned summit of the leaders of Egypt and Palestine with US President Joe Biden. Biden's West Asia itinerary now includes only a visit to Israel. Gaza hospital strike: Protests break out in Lebanon, Iraq and Iran In Lebanon, hundreds of protesters took to the streets near the US embassy in the capital Beirut while attempting to to break through the security barriers. In the Iraqi capital Baghdad, hundreds of people took to the streets to chant anti-Israel slogans. Dozens of protesters reportedly attempted to cross a bridge that leads to Green Zone, CNN reported. But security forces prevented them from crossing it, the publication reported further. Baghdad's Green Zone houses Iraqi government offices and foreign embassies. In the Iranian capital Tehran, protests also took place outside the French and British embassies. Anti-Israel protests also occurred in other cities such as Esfahan and Qom. Israel's retaliation against Gaza Strip-based Hamas following the events of Oct 7-8 — that killed over 1,400 Israeli citizens — has led to the death of nearly 3,000 Palestinian people in the thickly populated Gaza Strip. (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pro-Palestine protests break out across West Asia after Gaza hospital strike

Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack.

The Palestinian envoy claimed that Israeli forces were behind the strike and said that they had proof, a deleted X (formerly Twitter) post made by Israel.

<h2>What proof does Palestine have?</h2>

Hitting out at the Israeli PM, Mansour said, "He is a liar."&nbsp;

The diplomat claimed that they have a copy of a now-deleted post made by Israel in which the nation allegedly admitted that they hit a Hamas base in the area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israel-vs-hamas-blast-at-gaza-hospital-sparks-protests-worldwide-648223">Israel vs Hamas | Blast at Gaza hospital sparks protests worldwide</a>

He said that Netanyahu's "digital spokesperson tweeted that Israel did the hit thinking that there was a base for Hamas around this hospital, and then he deleted that tweet. We have a copy of that tweet."

"Now they changed the story to try to blame the Palestinians," he alleged, adding, "The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals... Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it."

As per news agency ANI, Mansour in his statement also demanded for immediate ceasefire.

"We as an Arab Group demand immediately a ceasefire because the continuation of the war, it means killing more Palestinians every moment."

<h2>Exchanging blames</h2>

Earlier, in a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that intelligence from several sources revealed that "Islamic Jihad terrorists" were responsible for the strike, which was an unsuccessful rocket launch.

Taking to social media platform X, he said: "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-nyu-students-seen-tearing-down-posters-of-young-israeli-children-kidnapped-by-hamas-watch-648203">NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch!</a>

"Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," he added.

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An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit. 
 
Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is…
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1714371254617022641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In another post, he remarked that the "entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF."&nbsp;

"Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children," added the Israeli PM.

On Tuesday, Tal Heinrich, a spokesperson for Netanyahu, told CNN that IDF "does not target hospitals," adding "we only target Hamas strongholds, arms depots, and terror targets."

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The entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF. 
 
Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1714377902991528174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Israel Defense Forces, as per AFP, also attributed the blast to a misfired rocket by Hamas.

In a statement, IDF said: "The hospital was hit as a result of a failed rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation."&nbsp;Hamas has labelled these accusations "lies".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

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Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack.

Palestine, on Wednesday, called out Israel on its denial of involvement in the tragic Gaza hospital blast. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "liar" and countered his claims that Hamas was behind the attack. The Palestinian envoy claimed that Israeli forces were behind the strike and said that they had proof, a deleted X (formerly Twitter) post made by Israel. What proof does Palestine have? Hitting out at the Israeli PM, Mansour said, "He is a liar." The diplomat claimed that they have a copy of a now-deleted post made by Israel in which the nation allegedly admitted that they hit a Hamas base in the area. Also read | Israel vs Hamas | Blast at Gaza hospital sparks protests worldwide He said that Netanyahu's "digital spokesperson tweeted that Israel did the hit thinking that there was a base for Hamas around this hospital, and then he deleted that tweet. We have a copy of that tweet." "Now they changed the story to try to blame the Palestinians," he alleged, adding, "The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals... Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it." As per news agency ANI, Mansour in his statement also demanded for immediate ceasefire. "We as an Arab Group demand immediately a ceasefire because the continuation of the war, it means killing more Palestinians every moment." Exchanging blames Earlier, in a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that intelligence from several sources revealed that "Islamic Jihad terrorists" were responsible for the strike, which was an unsuccessful rocket launch. Taking to social media platform X, he said: "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit." Also read | NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch! "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," he added. An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit. Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is… — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 17, 2023 × In another post, he remarked that the "entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF." "Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children," added the Israeli PM. On Tuesday, Tal Heinrich, a spokesperson for Netanyahu, told CNN that IDF "does not target hospitals," adding "we only target Hamas strongholds, arms depots, and terror targets." The entire world should know: It was barbaric terrorists in Gaza that attacked the hospital in Gaza, and not the IDF. Those who brutally murdered our children also murder their own children. — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 17, 2023 × The Israel Defense Forces, as per AFP, also attributed the blast to a misfired rocket by Hamas. In a statement, IDF said: "The hospital was hit as a result of a failed rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation." Hamas has labelled these accusations "lies". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement

Hamas is an albatross around Netanyahu's neck. A monster he helped create in naivety to undermine the dominant Palestinian Authority is now a multi-headed hydra which Israel wants to crush. But blood for blood only leads to more bloodletting. Hamas is a devil on the shoulder of every Palestinian and every Israeli strike is only fuelling the hate &amp; fury of Palestinians on which the militant group thrives.&nbsp;

A crowded hospital was obliterated in the blink of an eye in Gaza, in the deadliest strike in the 12-day-old war between Israel and Hamas. The toll is staggering, with at least 500 souls perishing in a single blow.

Hamas categorically labels this a war crime, squarely pointing fingers at the Israeli Air Force for raining devastation upon the hospital. Israel counters, insisting that it was an errant rocket launched by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) armed group. The PIJ, for its part, denies these allegations.

The Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital, a place of healing, refuge, and hope, is now reduced to a pile of rubble. This single incident ranks as the deadliest in the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-israeli-airstrike-or-misfired-islamic-jihad-rocket-what-killed-hundreds-at-gaza-hospital-648159">Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital?</a>

While the world was previously aghast at the carnage inflicted by Hamas militants on Israeli soil, a new horror, one that curdles the blood, has emerged. Most of the images are too gruesome for television, and too distressing for publication, with lifeless bodies, blood-soaked scenes, and the macabre sight of human body parts scattered.

The immediate aftermath reveals a scene of devastation: ambulances racing to Gaza City's Al-Shifa Hospital, only 1.5 kilometres away from Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital. Reports indicate that among the casualties are women and children. Hamas asserts that the explosion primarily claimed the lives of displaced people.&nbsp;

The Palestinian Authority’s health minister, Mai Alkaila, points an accusatory finger at Israel, condemning it for carrying out "a massacre" on the hapless victims.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the other hand, lays blame on "barbaric terrorists" in Gaza, asserting that the hospital assault wasn't Israel's doing. Yet, hardly anyone is buying into the Israeli argument. The world is appalled at the horrors witnessed at the hospital.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-envoy-calls-netanyahu-a-liar-claims-to-have-proof-of-israels-involvement-in-hospital-attack-648272">Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a 'liar', claims to have proof of Israel's involvement in hospital attack</a>

Iran, known for its firm stance, bluntly holds the United States and other nations supporting Israel responsible for the hospital tragedy. The Saudi government joins the chorus, denouncing Israel for violating international laws and norms.

Russia and the United Arab Emirates call for a U.N. Security Council meeting. Meanwhile, the West Bank erupts in clashes as anger and sorrow reverberate through the region.

From Tripoli to Tehran there was a furious response across the Muslim world. Protestors in Jordan -- home to millions of Palestinian refugees tried to storm the Israeli embassy. In Lebanon, demonstrators clashed with security forces outside the US embassy. Stones were hurled and a building was set on fire.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Police use tear gas as protestors express outrage in&nbsp;Jordan

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<h2>Precision strike or rocket attack?</h2>

Experts point out a troubling puzzle in the midst of this tragedy. They argue that the rockets in the arsenal of the PIJ or Hamas, while destructive, can cause damage to buildings but typically can't bring them down. Israel, on the other hand, possesses formidable bombing capabilities and precision missiles.

This raises questions about the nature of the attack on the Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital. How did an errant rocket cause such catastrophic devastation, leaving the hospital in ruins?

In the midst of these accusations and counter-accusations, the Palestinian Ambassador said, “The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals...Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it.” Clearly, the finger-pointing continues and in the middle of a war independent verification of facts is extremely difficult.

For 11 days, Israel has launched withering strikes on Hamas-controlled Gaza in retaliation for the killing of 1,400 Israelis who were shot, mutilated and burned on October 7 cross-border raids.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Tear gas fired at protesters near US embassy in Lebanon

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The horror of events at the Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital and the swift backlash threatened to derail Biden's high-stakes visit to West Asia. A four-way summit in Amman with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, Jordanian King Abdullah II and Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was cancelled.&nbsp;

The suffering of the Gazans is immeasurable. The land that has witnessed so much death and destruction longs for respite. And now, with Joe Biden's visit hanging in the balance, the quest for a semblance of peace grows ever more elusive.

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Hamas is an albatross around Netanyahu's neck. A monster he helped create in naivety to undermine the dominant Palestinian Authority is now a multi-headed hydra which Israel wants to crush.

Hamas is an albatross around Netanyahu's neck. A monster he helped create in naivety to undermine the dominant Palestinian Authority is now a multi-headed hydra which Israel wants to crush. But blood for blood only leads to more bloodletting. Hamas is a devil on the shoulder of every Palestinian and every Israeli strike is only fuelling the hate & fury of Palestinians on which the militant group thrives. A crowded hospital was obliterated in the blink of an eye in Gaza, in the deadliest strike in the 12-day-old war between Israel and Hamas. The toll is staggering, with at least 500 souls perishing in a single blow. Hamas categorically labels this a war crime, squarely pointing fingers at the Israeli Air Force for raining devastation upon the hospital. Israel counters, insisting that it was an errant rocket launched by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) armed group. The PIJ, for its part, denies these allegations. The Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital, a place of healing, refuge, and hope, is now reduced to a pile of rubble. This single incident ranks as the deadliest in the ongoing West Asia conflict. Also read: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital? While the world was previously aghast at the carnage inflicted by Hamas militants on Israeli soil, a new horror, one that curdles the blood, has emerged. Most of the images are too gruesome for television, and too distressing for publication, with lifeless bodies, blood-soaked scenes, and the macabre sight of human body parts scattered. The immediate aftermath reveals a scene of devastation: ambulances racing to Gaza City's Al-Shifa Hospital, only 1.5 kilometres away from Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital. Reports indicate that among the casualties are women and children. Hamas asserts that the explosion primarily claimed the lives of displaced people. The Palestinian Authority’s health minister, Mai Alkaila, points an accusatory finger at Israel, condemning it for carrying out "a massacre" on the hapless victims. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the other hand, lays blame on "barbaric terrorists" in Gaza, asserting that the hospital assault wasn't Israel's doing. Yet, hardly anyone is buying into the Israeli argument. The world is appalled at the horrors witnessed at the hospital. Also read: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a 'liar', claims to have proof of Israel's involvement in hospital attack Iran, known for its firm stance, bluntly holds the United States and other nations supporting Israel responsible for the hospital tragedy. The Saudi government joins the chorus, denouncing Israel for violating international laws and norms. Russia and the United Arab Emirates call for a U.N. Security Council meeting. Meanwhile, the West Bank erupts in clashes as anger and sorrow reverberate through the region. From Tripoli to Tehran there was a furious response across the Muslim world. Protestors in Jordan -- home to millions of Palestinian refugees tried to storm the Israeli embassy. In Lebanon, demonstrators clashed with security forces outside the US embassy. Stones were hurled and a building was set on fire. Watch: Police use tear gas as protestors express outrage in Jordan × Precision strike or rocket attack? Experts point out a troubling puzzle in the midst of this tragedy. They argue that the rockets in the arsenal of the PIJ or Hamas, while destructive, can cause damage to buildings but typically can't bring them down. Israel, on the other hand, possesses formidable bombing capabilities and precision missiles. This raises questions about the nature of the attack on the Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital. How did an errant rocket cause such catastrophic devastation, leaving the hospital in ruins? In the midst of these accusations and counter-accusations, the Palestinian Ambassador said, “The Israeli spokesperson of the Army made a statement in which he said evacuate the hospitals...Their intention is to evacuate or hospitals will be hit and they are responsible for that crime and they cannot fabricate stories to deal with it.” Clearly, the finger-pointing continues and in the middle of a war independent verification of facts is extremely difficult. For 11 days, Israel has launched withering strikes on Hamas-controlled Gaza in retaliation for the killing of 1,400 Israelis who were shot, mutilated and burned on October 7 cross-border raids. Watch: Tear gas fired at protesters near US embassy in Lebanon × The horror of events at the Al-Ahri Arabi Hospital and the swift backlash threatened to derail Biden's high-stakes visit to West Asia. A four-way summit in Amman with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, Jordanian King Abdullah II and Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was cancelled. The suffering of the Gazans is immeasurable. The land that has witnessed so much death and destruction longs for respite. And now, with Joe Biden's visit hanging in the balance, the quest for a semblance of peace grows ever more elusive. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

It's a massacre: Gaza hospital horror unveiled

Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion&nbsp;at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist hospital in northern Gaza. World Health Organization, while reacting to the mass casualty event at the hospital, later said that the hospital was&nbsp;operational with patients, health and caregivers, and internally displaced people sheltering there.&nbsp;

"The hospital was one of 20 in the north of the Gaza Strip facing evacuation orders from the Israeli military," WHO statement added.&nbsp;

<h2>Gaza Ahli Baptist hospital explosion: Israel's response</h2>

The Israel Defense Forces claimed that the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group was responsible for the "failed rocket launch" that struck Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital.

The IDF said a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel passed near the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza when it was hit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-500-killed-after-israeli-airstrikes-target-hospital-claims-gaza-health-ministry-648141">Israel-Hamas war: Hundreds killed after deadly explosion at Gaza hospital, Israel denies role</a>

"An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit," IDF posted on its official&nbsp;Telegram account.

"Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," it added.

Later, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed&nbsp;the "barbaric terrorists in Gaza" for "attacking" the Ahli Baptist Hospital.&nbsp;

"So that the whole world knows: the barbaric terrorists in Gaza are the ones who attacked the hospital in Gaza, not the IDF,” Netanyahu said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Whoever brutally murdered our children is also murdering their children," he added.&nbsp; 
 
An Israel-affiliated account on X shared the footage of an explosion seen from inside the Israeli side of the fence, which it said showed the blast at Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital that killed hundreds.

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Another angle from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israeli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israeli</a> side, showing the failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch which killed hundreds in a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> hospital <a href="https://t.co/6M19Z7Hkp2">pic.twitter.com/6M19Z7Hkp2</a>
— StandWithUs (@StandWithUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/StandWithUs/status/1714387845949936078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Another video shared by Israel-affiliated official social media accounts&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Israel/status/1714378880713203844?s=20">showed a TV&nbsp;broadcast</a> of the purported launch of a rocket in Gaza, which they said hit the said hospital.

&nbsp;

Later, Israel Defense Forces released the raw footage of a rocket aimed at Israel that reportedly misfired and exploded at 18:59 (local time) -- "the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza."

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RAW FOOTAGE: A rocket aimed at Israel misfired and exploded at 18:59—the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza. <a href="https://t.co/Kf5xJazSap">pic.twitter.com/Kf5xJazSap</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1714403025136017784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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(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.)

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Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians. The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist hospital in northern Gaza. World Health Organization, while reacting to the mass casualty event at the hospital, later said that the hospital was operational with patients, health and caregivers, and internally displaced people sheltering there. "The hospital was one of 20 in the north of the Gaza Strip facing evacuation orders from the Israeli military," WHO statement added. Gaza Ahli Baptist hospital explosion: Israel's response The Israel Defense Forces claimed that the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group was responsible for the "failed rocket launch" that struck Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital. The IDF said a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel passed near the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza when it was hit. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Hundreds killed after deadly explosion at Gaza hospital, Israel denies role "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit," IDF posted on its official Telegram account. "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," it added. Later, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed the "barbaric terrorists in Gaza" for "attacking" the Ahli Baptist Hospital. "So that the whole world knows: the barbaric terrorists in Gaza are the ones who attacked the hospital in Gaza, not the IDF,” Netanyahu said in a statement. "Whoever brutally murdered our children is also murdering their children," he added. An Israel-affiliated account on X shared the footage of an explosion seen from inside the Israeli side of the fence, which it said showed the blast at Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital that killed hundreds. Another angle from the #Israeli side, showing the failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch which killed hundreds in a #Gaza hospital pic.twitter.com/6M19Z7Hkp2 — StandWithUs (@StandWithUs) October 17, 2023 × Another video shared by Israel-affiliated official social media accounts showed a TV broadcast of the purported launch of a rocket in Gaza, which they said hit the said hospital. Later, Israel Defense Forces released the raw footage of a rocket aimed at Israel that reportedly misfired and exploded at 18:59 (local time) -- "the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza." RAW FOOTAGE: A rocket aimed at Israel misfired and exploded at 18:59—the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza. pic.twitter.com/Kf5xJazSap — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 17, 2023 × (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital?

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