The Israel-Hamas war is intensifying. Both sides are preparing for the worst. Israel is on the verge of launching ground offensive. But the situation at the Lebanon-Israel border is tense. How is Israel preparing for a two-front war? Watch this video for all details.

Israel-Palestine war: How is Israel preparing for a two-front war?

The Pakistani government announced on Monday (Oct 14) that it would dispatch humanitarian aid to Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war rages on. "In view of the human tragedy unfolding in Gaza, the Government of Pakistan has decided to immediately dispatch humanitarian relief assistance to Gaza," an official statement said. "Government is coordinating with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, relevant UN agencies, and the Government of Egypt," the statement added.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani said that he spoke to his counterparts in Iran, Turkey and Egypt to discuss the ongoing conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-israel-hamas-war-biden-says-israeli-occupation-of-gaza-would-be-big-mistake-647308">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war</a>

Two days back, Foreign Minister Jilani spoke to the foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where they discussed the "urgent need for cessation of hostilities and protection of civilians. A coordinated response was emphasised."

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🔊: PR NO. 1️⃣9️⃣6️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣3️⃣ 
 
Dispatch of Humanitarian Assistance to Gaza <a href="https://t.co/O2OB0BOAEL">pic.twitter.com/O2OB0BOAEL</a>
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A day back, the Pakistani foreign minister termed Israel's ongoing actions against Palestinians as genocide. Speaking to reporters, Jilani said, "Certainly, Palestine is a very, very, important issue for us. We will certainly discuss the ongoing situation. There is absolutely no doubt that Israel has committed aggression."

Jilani added Pakistan's position was that Israel must respect UN resolutions which recognised the right of self-determination.&nbsp;

In Pakistan, thousands of people have taken to the streets to show support for the Palestinian people. Rallies are being held under the "Palestine Solidarity Week" from Oct&nbsp;9 to 15 organized by Jamat-e-Islami, Pakistan's prominent religious political party.

So far, protests have erupted across the country under the week-long activity, all in response to the Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip after the conflict erupted one week ago.&nbsp;Demonstrators prominently featured images of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Hamas leaders on banners and placards.

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The Pakistani government announced on Monday (Oct 14) that it would dispatch humanitarian aid to Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war rages on. "In view of the human tragedy unfolding in Gaza, the Government of Pakistan has decided to immediately dispatch humanitarian relief assistance to Gaza," an official statement said.

The Pakistani government announced on Monday (Oct 14) that it would dispatch humanitarian aid to Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war rages on. "In view of the human tragedy unfolding in Gaza, the Government of Pakistan has decided to immediately dispatch humanitarian relief assistance to Gaza," an official statement said. "Government is coordinating with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, relevant UN agencies, and the Government of Egypt," the statement added. Earlier in the day, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani said that he spoke to his counterparts in Iran, Turkey and Egypt to discuss the ongoing conflict. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war Two days back, Foreign Minister Jilani spoke to the foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where they discussed the "urgent need for cessation of hostilities and protection of civilians. A coordinated response was emphasised." 🔊: PR NO. 1️⃣9️⃣6️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣3️⃣ Dispatch of Humanitarian Assistance to Gaza pic.twitter.com/O2OB0BOAEL — Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) October 16, 2023 × A day back, the Pakistani foreign minister termed Israel's ongoing actions against Palestinians as genocide. Speaking to reporters, Jilani said, "Certainly, Palestine is a very, very, important issue for us. We will certainly discuss the ongoing situation. There is absolutely no doubt that Israel has committed aggression." Jilani added Pakistan's position was that Israel must respect UN resolutions which recognised the right of self-determination. In Pakistan, thousands of people have taken to the streets to show support for the Palestinian people. Rallies are being held under the "Palestine Solidarity Week" from Oct 9 to 15 organized by Jamat-e-Islami, Pakistan's prominent religious political party. So far, protests have erupted across the country under the week-long activity, all in response to the Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip after the conflict erupted one week ago. Demonstrators prominently featured images of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Hamas leaders on banners and placards. 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.

Israel-Hamas war: Pakistan to dispatch humanitarian aid to Gaza

Israel is now gearing up for a potential multi-front War days after a devastating onslaught from Gaza's Hamas regime. Over 1,200 Israelis have been killed in the Hamas attacks so far on the other hand 900 have been reported killed in Gaza which has come under intense bombardment from Israel's retaliatory strikes.

Israel-Palestine war: Over one million displaced in Gaza strip

On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone. 
 
These passageways have been a mystery forever with nothing to very little known about it in the outside world. Israel has raised the issue of Hamas operating these labyrinth of tunnels under Gaza repeatedly using it either to smuggle weapons, fighters or other contraband. 
 
"Think of the Gaza Strip as one layer for civilians and then another layer for Hamas. We are trying to get to that second layer that Hamas has built," said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson in a video, released on Thursday (Oct 12). 
 
"These aren't bunkers for Gazan civilians. It's only for Hamas and other terrorists so that they can continue to fire rockets at Israel, to plan operations, to launch terrorists into Israel," they added. 
 
As Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza, the experts hint that an extensive network of tunnels under Gaza may pose as one of the biggest challenges to the Israeli army in the densely populated region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>History of the 'Gaza Metro' tunnel system</h2>

Since the 1980s, the tunnels have been a part of the life of Gazans, however, its importance increased after Hamas removed Fatah from the seat of power and subsequently severe restrictions were placed on the movement of goods and people by Israel and Egypt on the territory. 
 
Before the Gaza Strip came under the control of the Hamas, the tunnel labyrinth was being used for smuggling. A few tunnels, which were located across their border with Gaza, were destroyed by Egypt. 
 
However, the tunnels towards Israel were slowly expanded and started being used by Hamas for more sinister goals. Israel dubbed these tunnels as the "Gaza Metro" because they believed it stretched under a territory which was only 41km (25 miles) long and 10km wide. 
 
After a conflict in 2021, the IDF claimed to have launched air strikes on more than 100km of tunnels and destroyed them. However, Hamas in its counterclaims stated that the tunnels stretched only 500km, which meant only 5 per cent of it was hit. 
 
At one time, nearly 2,500 tunnels which were underneath the Egyptian border were being used for smuggling fuels, weapons and commercial goods by other militant groups. 
 
Through time, smuggling did not remain the primary purpose of the tunnel, especially after 2010, when Israel started allowing the import of more goods through its crossings. Later, smuggling was stopped by Egypt by flooding or destroying the tunnels.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>Role played by tunnels in terror attacks of Hamas</h2>

In 2006, Hamas captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalid and killed his two colleagues in a cross-border raid, through tunnels. The soldier remained captured by Hamas for two years before he was released under a prisoner exchange deal. 
 
In some years, the Israelis started calling these tunnels as "terror tunnels" and further restricted the entry of construction materials into the Gaza Strip. 
 
A 1.6km-long, 18m-deep tunnel, which had a concrete roof and walls, was discovered by the IDF in 2013. The tunnel, which was found after strange sounds were heard by the residents, ran from the Gaza Strip to land near an Israeli kibbutz. 
 
The year after, Israel emphasised the need to curb the threat of attacks which were being carried out by Hamas militants using such "terror tunnels".

WATCH |&nbsp;A humanitarian crisis unfolds in Gaza | The West Asia Post

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<h2>Key role of ‘terror tunnels’ in October 7 attacks</h2>

The shocking attacks of Hamas which shook Israel last weekend were a combination of simultaneous attacks via water and land and a barrage of rocket strikes. 
 
The border of Israel with Gaza remains fenced and has sensors installed which can detect movement. However, no early warning was issued before a surprise attack was launched by Hamas on civilians. 
 
The experts believe that tunnels may have played an important role in the undetected crossing of Hamas operatives into Israel. 
 
The fence built by Israel on the Gaza border is 30 feet high and has an underground concrete barrier. So, the only way Hamas operatives were able to enter Israel undetected would have been by digging tunnels under the barrier and the fence. 
 
Speaking to the BBC, Reichman University faculty member Dr Daphne Richemond-Barak said that the Gaza Strip has sophisticated tunnels, unlike the rudimentary tunnels over the borders. 
 
"The cross-border tunnels tend to be rudimentary, meaning they have barely any fortification. They are dug for a one-time purpose - invading Israeli territory," she said. 
 
The tunnels inside, Richemond-Barak said are, "equipped for a longer, sustained presence". "The leaders are hiding there, they have command-and-control centres, they use them for transport and lines of communication," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone.

On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone. These passageways have been a mystery forever with nothing to very little known about it in the outside world. Israel has raised the issue of Hamas operating these labyrinth of tunnels under Gaza repeatedly using it either to smuggle weapons, fighters or other contraband. "Think of the Gaza Strip as one layer for civilians and then another layer for Hamas. We are trying to get to that second layer that Hamas has built," said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson in a video, released on Thursday (Oct 12). "These aren't bunkers for Gazan civilians. It's only for Hamas and other terrorists so that they can continue to fire rockets at Israel, to plan operations, to launch terrorists into Israel," they added. As Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza, the experts hint that an extensive network of tunnels under Gaza may pose as one of the biggest challenges to the Israeli army in the densely populated region. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents History of the 'Gaza Metro' tunnel system Since the 1980s, the tunnels have been a part of the life of Gazans, however, its importance increased after Hamas removed Fatah from the seat of power and subsequently severe restrictions were placed on the movement of goods and people by Israel and Egypt on the territory. Before the Gaza Strip came under the control of the Hamas, the tunnel labyrinth was being used for smuggling. A few tunnels, which were located across their border with Gaza, were destroyed by Egypt. However, the tunnels towards Israel were slowly expanded and started being used by Hamas for more sinister goals. Israel dubbed these tunnels as the "Gaza Metro" because they believed it stretched under a territory which was only 41km (25 miles) long and 10km wide. After a conflict in 2021, the IDF claimed to have launched air strikes on more than 100km of tunnels and destroyed them. However, Hamas in its counterclaims stated that the tunnels stretched only 500km, which meant only 5 per cent of it was hit. At one time, nearly 2,500 tunnels which were underneath the Egyptian border were being used for smuggling fuels, weapons and commercial goods by other militant groups. Through time, smuggling did not remain the primary purpose of the tunnel, especially after 2010, when Israel started allowing the import of more goods through its crossings. Later, smuggling was stopped by Egypt by flooding or destroying the tunnels. ALSO READ | Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents Role played by tunnels in terror attacks of Hamas In 2006, Hamas captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalid and killed his two colleagues in a cross-border raid, through tunnels. The soldier remained captured by Hamas for two years before he was released under a prisoner exchange deal. In some years, the Israelis started calling these tunnels as "terror tunnels" and further restricted the entry of construction materials into the Gaza Strip. A 1.6km-long, 18m-deep tunnel, which had a concrete roof and walls, was discovered by the IDF in 2013. The tunnel, which was found after strange sounds were heard by the residents, ran from the Gaza Strip to land near an Israeli kibbutz. The year after, Israel emphasised the need to curb the threat of attacks which were being carried out by Hamas militants using such "terror tunnels". WATCH | A humanitarian crisis unfolds in Gaza | The West Asia Post Key role of ‘terror tunnels’ in October 7 attacks The shocking attacks of Hamas which shook Israel last weekend were a combination of simultaneous attacks via water and land and a barrage of rocket strikes. The border of Israel with Gaza remains fenced and has sensors installed which can detect movement. However, no early warning was issued before a surprise attack was launched by Hamas on civilians. The experts believe that tunnels may have played an important role in the undetected crossing of Hamas operatives into Israel. The fence built by Israel on the Gaza border is 30 feet high and has an underground concrete barrier. So, the only way Hamas operatives were able to enter Israel undetected would have been by digging tunnels under the barrier and the fence. Speaking to the BBC, Reichman University faculty member Dr Daphne Richemond-Barak said that the Gaza Strip has sophisticated tunnels, unlike the rudimentary tunnels over the borders. "The cross-border tunnels tend to be rudimentary, meaning they have barely any fortification. They are dug for a one-time purpose - invading Israeli territory," she said. The tunnels inside, Richemond-Barak said are, "equipped for a longer, sustained presence". "The leaders are hiding there, they have command-and-control centres, they use them for transport and lines of communication," she added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Hamas' mysterious tunnels in Gaza that pose challenge for Israel

In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.” 
 
However, this was not the first time such harsh conditions were imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip. There has been imposition of similar conditions by Israel on the strip of land since the Palestinian enclave was placed under air, land and sea blockade after Hamas came to power in 2007. 
 
Gaza, which stands wedged between Israel to the north and east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west and Egypt to the south, has been home to approximately 2.3 million Palestinians. More than 65 per cent of its population live below the poverty line, and experts have previously stated that the children are living in “hell on earth”. 
 
Today, amid the raging Israel-Hamas war, electricity, food and water remain blocked in the embattled Gaza in the wake of the latest “complete siege” and the populace is stranded with no routes to escape. 
 
Now that Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have asked around 1.2 million residents to evacuate northern Gaza, the question arises how citizens are supposed to flee from what rights groups, intellectuals, UN experts and even former British Prime Minister David Cameron have called an “open air prison”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

<h2>Beginning of the blockade over Gaza Strip</h2>

Israel took over Gaza from Egypt in the Six-Day War of 1967 and began the territory's military occupation. Israel constructed 21 settlements in Gaza between 1967 and 2005 and pushed Palestinian residents to leave the territory by adopting coercive measures as well as offering them financial and other incentives. 
 
However, during that time there was an increased violent and non-violent Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation. In 2005, Israel withdrew its army from the Gaza Strip. 
 
In the next two years, temporary blockades were imposed by Israel on the movement of people and goods inside and outside Gaza on different occasions. 
 
After Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007, a permanent blockade was imposed on the territory by Israel. Egypt, which shares a border crossing with Gaza, also took part in the blockade. The blockade meant that most of the citizens could not go into or out of Gaza and also highly restricted the movement of goods and aid. 
 
This land, air and sea blockade imposed by Israel crippled the economy of Gaza and had devastating effects on Palestinians. It drew condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, however, Israel justified that the blockade was necessary for its security.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>Geographical barriers around Gaza Strip</h2>

Gaza Strip, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea on one side and has walls on the other three sides, stands completely surrounded by physical barriers. 
 
Israel established a 60-km-long fence on its Gaza border in 1994 which was upgraded many times and finally became a sophisticated border security system, which included walls which are 7 metres tall and have sensors and remote-controlled machine guns installed in areas which are close to the Israeli settlements. 
 
Israel has also constructed underground walls to stop any kind of movement through Gaza's famous underground tunnels. With the northern and eastern sides of Gaza walled off by Israel, its southern border was also walled when Egypt constructed a 14-km steel border barrier with the help of the United States. 
 
Underground barriers were also built by Egypt to block smuggling tunnels. The sea route into Gaza in the west was controlled by Israel, which did not allow it to be used for the movement of goods or people. 
 
As of now, Gaza has only three functional border crossings: Karem Abu Salem Crossing, Erez Crossing controlled by Israel, and Rafah Crossing controlled by Egypt. However, since the Israel-Hamas war started, all three crossings were effectively sealed.

Watch |&nbsp;Hamas attack: Israel's big security lapse

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<h2>Is there any escape from this 'open-air prison'?</h2>

The blockade placed by Israel and Egypt clearly stops people and goods from freely moving in and out of the Gaza Strip. 
 
The Israeli government has clearly stated that Palestinians will not be able to enter or leave Gaza “except in extremely rare cases, which include urgent, life-threatening medical conditions and a very short list of merchants”, as per B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights group, The Independent reported. 
 
The restrictions have not been imposed on Israelis, Jewish settlers as well as tourists and they are free to move in and out of Gaza. Quite often, Egypt also closes its land-border crossing located at Rafah, which is generally the only way for Palestinians, living in Gaza, to access the rest of the world. 
 
Israel is free to enter Gaza with its military at will and maintain a no-go buffer zone in the Gaza territory. The conditions of people living in this “open-air prison”, which remains bordered by walls and fences, have been difficult for long with 95 per cent of Gazans living without access to clean water.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.

In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.” However, this was not the first time such harsh conditions were imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip. There has been imposition of similar conditions by Israel on the strip of land since the Palestinian enclave was placed under air, land and sea blockade after Hamas came to power in 2007. Gaza, which stands wedged between Israel to the north and east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west and Egypt to the south, has been home to approximately 2.3 million Palestinians. More than 65 per cent of its population live below the poverty line, and experts have previously stated that the children are living in “hell on earth”. Today, amid the raging Israel-Hamas war, electricity, food and water remain blocked in the embattled Gaza in the wake of the latest “complete siege” and the populace is stranded with no routes to escape. Now that Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have asked around 1.2 million residents to evacuate northern Gaza, the question arises how citizens are supposed to flee from what rights groups, intellectuals, UN experts and even former British Prime Minister David Cameron have called an “open air prison”. Also read: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas Beginning of the blockade over Gaza Strip Israel took over Gaza from Egypt in the Six-Day War of 1967 and began the territory's military occupation. Israel constructed 21 settlements in Gaza between 1967 and 2005 and pushed Palestinian residents to leave the territory by adopting coercive measures as well as offering them financial and other incentives. However, during that time there was an increased violent and non-violent Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation. In 2005, Israel withdrew its army from the Gaza Strip. In the next two years, temporary blockades were imposed by Israel on the movement of people and goods inside and outside Gaza on different occasions. After Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007, a permanent blockade was imposed on the territory by Israel. Egypt, which shares a border crossing with Gaza, also took part in the blockade. The blockade meant that most of the citizens could not go into or out of Gaza and also highly restricted the movement of goods and aid. This land, air and sea blockade imposed by Israel crippled the economy of Gaza and had devastating effects on Palestinians. It drew condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, however, Israel justified that the blockade was necessary for its security. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents Geographical barriers around Gaza Strip Gaza Strip, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea on one side and has walls on the other three sides, stands completely surrounded by physical barriers. Israel established a 60-km-long fence on its Gaza border in 1994 which was upgraded many times and finally became a sophisticated border security system, which included walls which are 7 metres tall and have sensors and remote-controlled machine guns installed in areas which are close to the Israeli settlements. Israel has also constructed underground walls to stop any kind of movement through Gaza's famous underground tunnels. With the northern and eastern sides of Gaza walled off by Israel, its southern border was also walled when Egypt constructed a 14-km steel border barrier with the help of the United States. Underground barriers were also built by Egypt to block smuggling tunnels. The sea route into Gaza in the west was controlled by Israel, which did not allow it to be used for the movement of goods or people. As of now, Gaza has only three functional border crossings: Karem Abu Salem Crossing, Erez Crossing controlled by Israel, and Rafah Crossing controlled by Egypt. However, since the Israel-Hamas war started, all three crossings were effectively sealed. Watch | Hamas attack: Israel's big security lapse Is there any escape from this 'open-air prison'? The blockade placed by Israel and Egypt clearly stops people and goods from freely moving in and out of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government has clearly stated that Palestinians will not be able to enter or leave Gaza “except in extremely rare cases, which include urgent, life-threatening medical conditions and a very short list of merchants”, as per B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights group, The Independent reported. The restrictions have not been imposed on Israelis, Jewish settlers as well as tourists and they are free to move in and out of Gaza. Quite often, Egypt also closes its land-border crossing located at Rafah, which is generally the only way for Palestinians, living in Gaza, to access the rest of the world. Israel is free to enter Gaza with its military at will and maintain a no-go buffer zone in the Gaza territory. The conditions of people living in this “open-air prison”, which remains bordered by walls and fences, have been difficult for long with 95 per cent of Gazans living without access to clean water. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | How Gaza Strip became the ‘world’s largest open-air prison’

As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.&nbsp;

Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments.&nbsp;

As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated.&nbsp;

<h2>Operation Ajay:&nbsp;First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel&nbsp;</h2>

On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape

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The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks.

In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.

As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities. Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments. As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas. State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated. Operation Ajay: First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi. Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks. In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid raging Israel-Hamas war, India’s capital Delhi placed on security alert

On October 9, two days after a sudden and barbaric attack by Hamas on Israel which killed more than 1,200 Israeli civilians, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant took a stern stance and ordered the "complete seige" of Hamas-governed Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

"I have given an order - Gaza will be under complete siege. There will be no electricity, food or fuel (delivered to Gaza). We are fighting barbaric (terrorists) and will respond accordingly," Gallant had said in a statement, as Israel prepared for its most violent offensive against Gaza, a narrow strip of land on the Mediterranean coast.

As Israel continues to pound the Gaza strip and reduce buildings to rubble&nbsp;in retaliation, the estimated two million people living in its neighbourhood scramble to find shelter amid their dying hope of survival.&nbsp;

<h2>History of the embattled Gaza Strip</h2>

The Gaza Strip is a narrow strip of land which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and shares its borders with Egypt and Israel. It covers a total area of about 365 sq km, which is roughly as big as Washington DC.&nbsp;

An area with thousands of years of history, the evidence of the first human settlements in Gaza dates back as far as 3,500 BC. Through the centuries, various empires – Romans, Byzantines, Persians and Egyptians – ruled this strip of land, after which it was conquered by Muslim forces in the 7th century AD. Later, it became a part of the Ottoman Empire and was captured by the British Empire in World War I&nbsp;after the fall of the Ottomans in 1918.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

After the 1948 Arab-Israeli War marked the end of the British Mandate for Palestine, Gaza went into the hands of Egypt. An All-Palestine government was established in Gaza which worked as a puppet regime for Egypt.&nbsp;However, it was dissolved in 1959 by Gamal Abdel Nasser and the military rulers of Cairo seized control of the Strip.

The coalition of Arab states threatened Israel because of which it launched preemptive airstrikes against Egyptian military facilities and airfields in June 1967. The Israeli troops seized the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza Strip from the Egyptians and also captured the Golan Heights from Syrians and the West Bank as well as East Jerusalem from the Jordanians. The Six-Day War came to an end with the victory of Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Gaza Strip remained under Israel's control for the next 38 years, during which the region saw the establishment of 21 Jewish settlements. In the Camp David Accords of 1978, Israel agreed to remove its military occupation from Sinai in exchange for the establishment of diplomatic ties with Egypt. &nbsp;

As per the accords, it was also agreed that the rights of the Palestinian people would be recognised and an autonomous governing body would be formed in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

<h2>Oslo Accords and the birth of Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

The historic Oslo Peace Accords was signed between Israel and Palestine in 1993 which led to the creation of the Palestinian National Authority. As per the Accords, Palestinians were granted limited control in Gaza, and Jericho in the West Bank.&nbsp;

Hamas – a militant Palestinian organisation which was founded with the aim of fighting against the Israeli occupation and restoring Islamic rule in Palestine – turned into a rival of Yasser Arafat's Fatah party, which was leading the Palestine Liberation Organisation.

Bombings were carried out by Islamic Jihad and Hamas with the aim to derail the peace process, which led to the imposition of more restrictions by Israel on the movement of Palestinians out of Gaza creating a dire humanitarian situation.&nbsp;

The second Palestinian intifada in 2000 saw suicide bombings, Israeli air strikes, shooting attacks by Palestinians and the destruction of Gaza International Airport, which was the only direct link of the Palestinians to the outside world.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel's withdrawal and Hamas' 'complete control' of Gaza</h2>

In 2005, Israel withdrew its military forces and around 9,000 Israeli settlers from Gaza and the enclave was left to be governed by the Palestinian Authority. In 2006, Hamas took complete control of Gaza after winning the elections.&nbsp;

Speaking about the influence of Hamas on Palestinians to WION, International Crisis Group's Programme Director, Middle East &amp; North Africa Joost R. Hiltermann said, "Palestinians in Gaza support an end to Israel's military occupation everywhere in Palestine and of the Israeli siege on Gaza. For better or worse, Hamas represents those aspirations, and this is why it has popular support."

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War: Israeli bombing rocks Gaza through the night

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Since 2007, Israel has imposed land, air and sea blockade on Gaza which had a devastating effect on Palestinians. However, Israel has defended its action by saying that this allows it to control the borders of Gaza and protect Israeli citizens from Hamas.&nbsp;

Gaza Strip has also been under surveillance for years. It is the blockade and surveillance that has forced Human Rights Watch to call the Gaza Strip an "open-air prison".&nbsp;

Today, as the 75 years of conflict over the Gaza Strip&nbsp;reaches&nbsp;its pinnacle, the question arises for whom is the war being fought and what will it achieve eventually?&nbsp;

"If Israel destroys not only Gaza but also Hamas' or anyone's ability to govern, then it won't have any choice but to re-occupy the territory," stated Hiltermann.

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On October 9, two days after a sudden and barbaric attack by Hamas on Israel which killed more than 1,200 Israeli civilians, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant took a stern stance and ordered the "complete seige" of Hamas-governed Gaza Strip.

On October 9, two days after a sudden and barbaric attack by Hamas on Israel which killed more than 1,200 Israeli civilians, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant took a stern stance and ordered the "complete seige" of Hamas-governed Gaza Strip. "I have given an order - Gaza will be under complete siege. There will be no electricity, food or fuel (delivered to Gaza). We are fighting barbaric (terrorists) and will respond accordingly," Gallant had said in a statement, as Israel prepared for its most violent offensive against Gaza, a narrow strip of land on the Mediterranean coast. As Israel continues to pound the Gaza strip and reduce buildings to rubble in retaliation, the estimated two million people living in its neighbourhood scramble to find shelter amid their dying hope of survival. History of the embattled Gaza Strip The Gaza Strip is a narrow strip of land which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and shares its borders with Egypt and Israel. It covers a total area of about 365 sq km, which is roughly as big as Washington DC. An area with thousands of years of history, the evidence of the first human settlements in Gaza dates back as far as 3,500 BC. Through the centuries, various empires – Romans, Byzantines, Persians and Egyptians – ruled this strip of land, after which it was conquered by Muslim forces in the 7th century AD. Later, it became a part of the Ottoman Empire and was captured by the British Empire in World War I after the fall of the Ottomans in 1918. ALSO READ | Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas After the 1948 Arab-Israeli War marked the end of the British Mandate for Palestine, Gaza went into the hands of Egypt. An All-Palestine government was established in Gaza which worked as a puppet regime for Egypt. However, it was dissolved in 1959 by Gamal Abdel Nasser and the military rulers of Cairo seized control of the Strip. The coalition of Arab states threatened Israel because of which it launched preemptive airstrikes against Egyptian military facilities and airfields in June 1967. The Israeli troops seized the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza Strip from the Egyptians and also captured the Golan Heights from Syrians and the West Bank as well as East Jerusalem from the Jordanians. The Six-Day War came to an end with the victory of Israel. The Gaza Strip remained under Israel's control for the next 38 years, during which the region saw the establishment of 21 Jewish settlements. In the Camp David Accords of 1978, Israel agreed to remove its military occupation from Sinai in exchange for the establishment of diplomatic ties with Egypt. As per the accords, it was also agreed that the rights of the Palestinian people would be recognised and an autonomous governing body would be formed in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Oslo Accords and the birth of Hamas The historic Oslo Peace Accords was signed between Israel and Palestine in 1993 which led to the creation of the Palestinian National Authority. As per the Accords, Palestinians were granted limited control in Gaza, and Jericho in the West Bank. Hamas – a militant Palestinian organisation which was founded with the aim of fighting against the Israeli occupation and restoring Islamic rule in Palestine – turned into a rival of Yasser Arafat's Fatah party, which was leading the Palestine Liberation Organisation. Bombings were carried out by Islamic Jihad and Hamas with the aim to derail the peace process, which led to the imposition of more restrictions by Israel on the movement of Palestinians out of Gaza creating a dire humanitarian situation. The second Palestinian intifada in 2000 saw suicide bombings, Israeli air strikes, shooting attacks by Palestinians and the destruction of Gaza International Airport, which was the only direct link of the Palestinians to the outside world. Israel's withdrawal and Hamas' 'complete control' of Gaza In 2005, Israel withdrew its military forces and around 9,000 Israeli settlers from Gaza and the enclave was left to be governed by the Palestinian Authority. In 2006, Hamas took complete control of Gaza after winning the elections. Speaking about the influence of Hamas on Palestinians to WION, International Crisis Group's Programme Director, Middle East & North Africa Joost R. Hiltermann said, "Palestinians in Gaza support an end to Israel's military occupation everywhere in Palestine and of the Israeli siege on Gaza. For better or worse, Hamas represents those aspirations, and this is why it has popular support." WATCH | Israel-Palestine War: Israeli bombing rocks Gaza through the night Since 2007, Israel has imposed land, air and sea blockade on Gaza which had a devastating effect on Palestinians. However, Israel has defended its action by saying that this allows it to control the borders of Gaza and protect Israeli citizens from Hamas. Gaza Strip has also been under surveillance for years. It is the blockade and surveillance that has forced Human Rights Watch to call the Gaza Strip an "open-air prison". Today, as the 75 years of conflict over the Gaza Strip reaches its pinnacle, the question arises for whom is the war being fought and what will it achieve eventually? "If Israel destroys not only Gaza but also Hamas' or anyone's ability to govern, then it won't have any choice but to re-occupy the territory," stated Hiltermann. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents

Hamas said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that it fired hundreds of rockets on Israel's Ashkelon in "response to the displacement of civilians in Gaza," a statement on Telegram said.&nbsp;

This comes after a Hamas spokesperson issued a warning to the residents of the southern port city of Ashkelon to evacuate before 5pm (local time).&nbsp;

Hamas also shared a video which showed rockets flying through the sky. People were seen taking cover on the side of the road in Israel.&nbsp;

This comes amid escalating tensions over armed conflict between Israel and Palestinians in the last few days, which killed hundreds of people on both sides.&nbsp;

Israel retaliated with air strikes after fighters from the Palestinian militant group Hamas stormed Israeli towns on Saturday (Oct 7) in an assault launched from the Gaza enclave.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-defense-forces-says-it-killed-two-top-hamas-men-during-air-strikes-645045">Israel Defense Forces says it killed two top Hamas men during air strikes</a>

<h2>Rockets fired from south Lebanon&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, a fresh wave of rockets was fired from south Lebanon towards Israel on Tuesday, Lebanese state media said, an attack that drew retaliatory fire, according to a military source. &nbsp;

"Rockets were fired from... southern Lebanon towards the Galilee" region in northern Israel, the official National News Agency said, while the military source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media, confirmed that it triggered retaliatory Israeli fire.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israel-vs-hamas-war-a-look-at-firepower-in-israeli-arsenal-645024">Israel vs Hamas war: A look at firepower in Israeli arsenal</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Protests spark globally after Hamas attack, cities witness pro-Israel vigil&nbsp;

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<h2>Hamas threatens to kill hostages&nbsp;</h2>

The Palestinian militant group has threatened to execute some of the around 150 hostages it abducted in a weekend assault as it warned on Monday that it could start killing them. Hamas said that Israeli strikes killed four of its hostages. &nbsp;

"Every targeting of our people without warning will be met with the execution of one of the civilian hostages," said the Hamas armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday denounced "unacceptable blackmail" by Hamas.

He told reporters on a visit to Germany: "The blackmail by Hamas after its terrorist acts is odious and unacceptable."&nbsp;

The French president added that he considered it "likely" that Hamas had received outside "help" in its attack against Israel.&nbsp;

But he stressed there was "no formal trace" of any "direct involvement" by Iran, at a joint news conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.&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.&nbsp;

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Hamas said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that it fired hundreds of rockets on Israel's Ashkelon in "response to the displacement of civilians in Gaza," a statement on Telegram said.

Hamas said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that it fired hundreds of rockets on Israel's Ashkelon in "response to the displacement of civilians in Gaza," a statement on Telegram said. This comes after a Hamas spokesperson issued a warning to the residents of the southern port city of Ashkelon to evacuate before 5pm (local time). Hamas also shared a video which showed rockets flying through the sky. People were seen taking cover on the side of the road in Israel. This comes amid escalating tensions over armed conflict between Israel and Palestinians in the last few days, which killed hundreds of people on both sides. Israel retaliated with air strikes after fighters from the Palestinian militant group Hamas stormed Israeli towns on Saturday (Oct 7) in an assault launched from the Gaza enclave. Also read: Israel Defense Forces says it killed two top Hamas men during air strikes Rockets fired from south Lebanon Meanwhile, a fresh wave of rockets was fired from south Lebanon towards Israel on Tuesday, Lebanese state media said, an attack that drew retaliatory fire, according to a military source. "Rockets were fired from... southern Lebanon towards the Galilee" region in northern Israel, the official National News Agency said, while the military source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media, confirmed that it triggered retaliatory Israeli fire. Also read: Israel vs Hamas war: A look at firepower in Israeli arsenal Watch: Protests spark globally after Hamas attack, cities witness pro-Israel vigil × Hamas threatens to kill hostages The Palestinian militant group has threatened to execute some of the around 150 hostages it abducted in a weekend assault as it warned on Monday that it could start killing them. Hamas said that Israeli strikes killed four of its hostages. "Every targeting of our people without warning will be met with the execution of one of the civilian hostages," said the Hamas armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades. French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday denounced "unacceptable blackmail" by Hamas. He told reporters on a visit to Germany: "The blackmail by Hamas after its terrorist acts is odious and unacceptable." The French president added that he considered it "likely" that Hamas had received outside "help" in its attack against Israel. But he stressed there was "no formal trace" of any "direct involvement" by Iran, at a joint news conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. (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.

Israel faces barrage of rockets fired from Gaza and south Lebanon

Israel-Palestine conflict is escalating. As the situation gets worse, people staying abroad are getting worried for their families living in war zones. Listen to the audio note from the Gaza resident staying abroad as he talks with family members and acquaintances back home.

Israel-Palestine conflict: Nationals staying abroad worried as war escalates in Gaza

In a move that defies international opposition, Israel has granted approval for the construction of 5,700 new homes in Jewish settlements within the West Bank, marking a record-breaking annual high for settlement development under the government's six-month tenure.

Despite receiving criticism from the international community, which deems all settlement construction a violation of international law and recent Israeli commitments, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has also authorised residency in three illegal outposts established by settlers without government approval, reported the Irish Times.

<h2>Netanyahu's government faces condemnation</h2>

Tensions between Israel and the United States have escalated as the Joe Biden administration increasingly voices its disapproval of Israel's settlement policy. The strained relations have been further exacerbated by the government's plans, seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history, to undermine the judiciary.

Simultaneously, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his belief that Israel should curtail the Palestinian aspiration for an independent state. During a closed meeting of the Knesset parliament's foreign affairs and defence committee, he emphasised the importance of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and stated Israel's willingness to provide economic assistance to ensure its continuation. He noted that in areas where the PA functions effectively, it serves in lieu of Israeli authority.

Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denounced Netanyahu's statement as evidence of Israel's rejection of international law. He argued that the Palestinian state exists and is recognised by over 140 countries, asserting that Israel's aggression against the Palestinian people cannot sustain the occupation indefinitely.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel: Legislation on judicial reforms to continue

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“The Palestinian state exists and is recognised by more than 140 countries. Israel is dreaming if it thinks that it can perpetuate this occupation by continuing the aggression against the Palestinian people,” he said.

Responding to a surge in attacks by settlers against Palestinians, the Israeli army deployed two additional battalions to the West Bank. Since a shooting incident near the settlement of Eli last week, which claimed the lives of four settlers, over 85 acts of Jewish nationalist crimes have been perpetrated against Palestinians in various locations across the West Bank. In an unusual joint statement, the heads of the army, police, and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) publicly condemned the violence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hollowood-producer-arnon-milchan-testifies-in-netanyahu-corruption-case-608785">Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan testifies in Netanyahu corruption case</a>

This condemnation prompted National Missions Minister Orit Struck, a member of the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Strength) party, to draw a controversial comparison between the heads of Israel's security establishments and the Russian mercenary group Wagner. However, following a sharp rebuke from Prime Minister Netanyahu, Struck publicly apologised, acknowledging the inappropriateness of her comment. Netanyahu emphasised the importance of supporting those leading the fight against terrorism and working to secure Israel's safety.

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In a move that defies international opposition, Israel has granted approval for the construction of 5,700 new homes in Jewish settlements within the West Bank, marking a record-breaking annual high for settlement development under the government's six-month tenure.

In a move that defies international opposition, Israel has granted approval for the construction of 5,700 new homes in Jewish settlements within the West Bank, marking a record-breaking annual high for settlement development under the government's six-month tenure. Despite receiving criticism from the international community, which deems all settlement construction a violation of international law and recent Israeli commitments, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has also authorised residency in three illegal outposts established by settlers without government approval, reported the Irish Times. Netanyahu's government faces condemnation Tensions between Israel and the United States have escalated as the Joe Biden administration increasingly voices its disapproval of Israel's settlement policy. The strained relations have been further exacerbated by the government's plans, seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history, to undermine the judiciary. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his belief that Israel should curtail the Palestinian aspiration for an independent state. During a closed meeting of the Knesset parliament's foreign affairs and defence committee, he emphasised the importance of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and stated Israel's willingness to provide economic assistance to ensure its continuation. He noted that in areas where the PA functions effectively, it serves in lieu of Israeli authority. Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denounced Netanyahu's statement as evidence of Israel's rejection of international law. He argued that the Palestinian state exists and is recognised by over 140 countries, asserting that Israel's aggression against the Palestinian people cannot sustain the occupation indefinitely. Also watch | Israel: Legislation on judicial reforms to continue “The Palestinian state exists and is recognised by more than 140 countries. Israel is dreaming if it thinks that it can perpetuate this occupation by continuing the aggression against the Palestinian people,” he said. Responding to a surge in attacks by settlers against Palestinians, the Israeli army deployed two additional battalions to the West Bank. Since a shooting incident near the settlement of Eli last week, which claimed the lives of four settlers, over 85 acts of Jewish nationalist crimes have been perpetrated against Palestinians in various locations across the West Bank. In an unusual joint statement, the heads of the army, police, and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) publicly condemned the violence. Also read | Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan testifies in Netanyahu corruption case This condemnation prompted National Missions Minister Orit Struck, a member of the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Strength) party, to draw a controversial comparison between the heads of Israel's security establishments and the Russian mercenary group Wagner. However, following a sharp rebuke from Prime Minister Netanyahu, Struck publicly apologised, acknowledging the inappropriateness of her comment. Netanyahu emphasised the importance of supporting those leading the fight against terrorism and working to secure Israel's safety. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel sets annual record with approval of 5,700 new settlement homes in West Bank amid global criticism

The Benjamin Netanyahu-coalition government in Israel on Sunday tabled plans to approve 4,650 housing units in the occupied West Bank. The plans were included on the&nbsp;agenda of Israel's Supreme Planning Council that meets next week.&nbsp;

Although only 1,332 units are up for final approval, with the remaining going through the preliminary clearance process, the decision by the Israeli government is set to irk many.&nbsp;

"We will continue to develop the settlement of and strengthen the Israeli hold on the territory," said&nbsp;Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich who also plays a leading role in overseeing West Bank administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/netanyahu-discloses-why-us-intel-leaks-said-mossad-encouraged-israel-protests-583154">Also read |&nbsp;Netanyahu discloses why US intel leaks said Mossad encouraged Israel protests</a>

<h2>Palestine condemns Israel's decision&nbsp;</h2>

The decision did not go down well with the Palestinian Authority which self-rules limited parts of the West Bank. The authority said it would boycott the Joint Economic Committee meeting with Israel scheduled on Monday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist group that has been using Gaza as a launchpad for attacks, condemned the move, adding it&nbsp;"will not give (Israel) legitimacy over our land. Our people will resist it by all means".

Notably, for a long time, Palestinians have been demanding the establishment of an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip with&nbsp;East Jerusalem as the capital.&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu administration in overdrive&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The US, a strong Israel&nbsp;ally had earlier requested the Netanyahu administration to halt settlement expansion as it sees as the step as an obstacle to peace with the Palestinians.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, since coming to power again in January, Netanyahu has exacerbated the speed of approving housing units. As many as 7,00 new units have been approved by the coalition since the turn of the year. It has also amended a law that clears the path for the settlers to return to four settlements that had previously been evacuated.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-opposition-leader-and-former-prime-minister-testifies-at-netanyahus-corruption-trial-603415">WATCH |&nbsp;Israel's opposition leader and former prime minister testifies at Netanyahu's corruption trial</a>

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The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Security Council earlier this year strongly opposed Israel's expansion of settlements. At the time, PM Netanyahu's office released a stinging statement, saying the criticism&nbsp;“negates the rights of Jews to live in their historical homeland".&nbsp;

It added that the UN statement "ignores Palestinian terror attacks in Jerusalem in which 10 Israeli citizens were murdered this month, turns a blind eye to the fact that the Palestinian Authority subsidizes terror and pays the families of terrorists, and diminishes the antisemitism that led to the murder of millions of Jews.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Benjamin Netanyahu-coalition government in Israel on Sunday tabled plans to approve 4,650 housing units in the occupied West Bank. The plans were included on the agenda of Israel's Supreme Planning Council that meets next week.

The Benjamin Netanyahu-coalition government in Israel on Sunday tabled plans to approve 4,650 housing units in the occupied West Bank. The plans were included on the agenda of Israel's Supreme Planning Council that meets next week. Although only 1,332 units are up for final approval, with the remaining going through the preliminary clearance process, the decision by the Israeli government is set to irk many. "We will continue to develop the settlement of and strengthen the Israeli hold on the territory," said Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich who also plays a leading role in overseeing West Bank administration. Also read | Netanyahu discloses why US intel leaks said Mossad encouraged Israel protests Palestine condemns Israel's decision The decision did not go down well with the Palestinian Authority which self-rules limited parts of the West Bank. The authority said it would boycott the Joint Economic Committee meeting with Israel scheduled on Monday. Meanwhile, Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist group that has been using Gaza as a launchpad for attacks, condemned the move, adding it "will not give (Israel) legitimacy over our land. Our people will resist it by all means". Notably, for a long time, Palestinians have been demanding the establishment of an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip with East Jerusalem as the capital. Netanyahu administration in overdrive The US, a strong Israel ally had earlier requested the Netanyahu administration to halt settlement expansion as it sees as the step as an obstacle to peace with the Palestinians. However, since coming to power again in January, Netanyahu has exacerbated the speed of approving housing units. As many as 7,00 new units have been approved by the coalition since the turn of the year. It has also amended a law that clears the path for the settlers to return to four settlements that had previously been evacuated. WATCH | Israel's opposition leader and former prime minister testifies at Netanyahu's corruption trial × The UN Security Council earlier this year strongly opposed Israel's expansion of settlements. At the time, PM Netanyahu's office released a stinging statement, saying the criticism “negates the rights of Jews to live in their historical homeland". It added that the UN statement "ignores Palestinian terror attacks in Jerusalem in which 10 Israeli citizens were murdered this month, turns a blind eye to the fact that the Palestinian Authority subsidizes terror and pays the families of terrorists, and diminishes the antisemitism that led to the murder of millions of Jews.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel to approve over 1,300 housing units in West Bank, much to the chagrin of Palestinians

Thousands of Israeli nationalists paraded through Jerusalem’s Old City chanting racist slogans on an annual celebratory day for Israelis. The crowd, which consisted of mostly men celebrating Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem in 1967, waved blue and white Israeli flags and chanted racist slogans such as “Death to Arabs,” “Mohammed is Dead” and “May Your Village Burn”

Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is not internationally recognised and Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state for them.&nbsp; 
A celebration of the Jerusalem Day, had fuelled an 11-day war between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip, around 2 years ago.&nbsp;

<h2>A violent turn of events</h2>

Throughout the day, hundreds of marchers waving blue and white Israeli flags marched through the Damascus Gate to the Old City in the Western Wall.&nbsp;

The event, which has been a source of friction over the years, witnessed&nbsp;a deployment of over 2,500 police officers for this year’s parade. Hundreds more were stationed around the city.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-israelis-participate-in-contentious-flag-march-in-jerusalem-rattles-palestinians-593867/#jerusalem-will-stay-united-forever-israeli-pm-593871">&nbsp;In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians</a>

As the crowd danced and chanted Jewish religious songs outside Damascus Gate, several Israeli police stood guard. The city’s authorities barred Palestinians from going through most of the gates into the Old City.&nbsp;

However, a group of marchers threw rocks and bottles at members of the press covering the event. The incident wounded three journalists. A Palestinian reporter working for Haaretz, was struck in the neck, as reported by the newspaper’s website.&nbsp;

The authorities have arrested two people responsible for the attack and have described the attack as an “isolated incident”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why is Israel targeting Islamic Jihad in Palestine?

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<h2>Groups of extremist Zionists threw glass bottles&nbsp;</h2>

A Palestinian freelance journalist, Ibrahim Hamad who was covering events at Damascus Gate stated that the attack was unprovoked. He reported that “we were standing here as journalists and there were also some women wearing hijabs near us. Groups of extremist Zionists started throwing glass bottles and sticks.” He further stated that “I believe they were trying to stop us from showing what they are doing.”

<h2>A review of the events</h2>

While the events of the march were unfolding, four police officers approached a Palestinian community leader Fakhri Abu Diab, who was giving a telephonic interview to Israel’s Ynet news just outside the al-Aqsa mosque. One of the police officers grabbed his phone and threw it on the ground. Diab was then forced out of the mosque compound and held at a street corner for an hour and a half.&nbsp;

While this incident was criticised by the Ynet news editor, Nir Cohen, the police spokesperson has refused to comment on the matter.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the Palestinian president in the occupied West Bank, Nabil Abu Rudeineh commented on the matter by saying that allowing the march to snake through Palestinian areas of the Old City “will only lead to a rise in tension and could lead to an explosion.”

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Thousands of Israeli nationalists paraded through Jerusalem’s Old City chanting racist slogans on an annual celebratory day for Israelis. The crowd, which consisted of mostly men celebrating Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem in 1967, waved blue and white Israeli flags and chanted racist slogans such as “Death to Arabs,” “Mohammed is Dead” and “May Your Village Burn” Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is not internationally recognised and Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state for them.

Thousands of Israeli nationalists paraded through Jerusalem’s Old City chanting racist slogans on an annual celebratory day for Israelis. The crowd, which consisted of mostly men celebrating Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem in 1967, waved blue and white Israeli flags and chanted racist slogans such as “Death to Arabs,” “Mohammed is Dead” and “May Your Village Burn” Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is not internationally recognised and Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state for them. A celebration of the Jerusalem Day, had fuelled an 11-day war between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip, around 2 years ago. A violent turn of events Throughout the day, hundreds of marchers waving blue and white Israeli flags marched through the Damascus Gate to the Old City in the Western Wall. The event, which has been a source of friction over the years, witnessed a deployment of over 2,500 police officers for this year’s parade. Hundreds more were stationed around the city. ALSO READ | In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians As the crowd danced and chanted Jewish religious songs outside Damascus Gate, several Israeli police stood guard. The city’s authorities barred Palestinians from going through most of the gates into the Old City. However, a group of marchers threw rocks and bottles at members of the press covering the event. The incident wounded three journalists. A Palestinian reporter working for Haaretz, was struck in the neck, as reported by the newspaper’s website. The authorities have arrested two people responsible for the attack and have described the attack as an “isolated incident”. WATCH | Why is Israel targeting Islamic Jihad in Palestine? × Groups of extremist Zionists threw glass bottles A Palestinian freelance journalist, Ibrahim Hamad who was covering events at Damascus Gate stated that the attack was unprovoked. He reported that “we were standing here as journalists and there were also some women wearing hijabs near us. Groups of extremist Zionists started throwing glass bottles and sticks.” He further stated that “I believe they were trying to stop us from showing what they are doing.” A review of the events While the events of the march were unfolding, four police officers approached a Palestinian community leader Fakhri Abu Diab, who was giving a telephonic interview to Israel’s Ynet news just outside the al-Aqsa mosque. One of the police officers grabbed his phone and threw it on the ground. Diab was then forced out of the mosque compound and held at a street corner for an hour and a half. While this incident was criticised by the Ynet news editor, Nir Cohen, the police spokesperson has refused to comment on the matter. A spokesperson for the Palestinian president in the occupied West Bank, Nabil Abu Rudeineh commented on the matter by saying that allowing the march to snake through Palestinian areas of the Old City “will only lead to a rise in tension and could lead to an explosion.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Jerusalem Day celebrations: Israelis wave flags, chant racist slogans

The Palestinian group Islamic Jihad said on Thursday (May 11) that one of its military leaders was killed in a pre-dawn strike launched by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

A statement from the Al-Quds Brigades, which is the armed branch of the group, read: "Ali Ghali... commander of the rocket launch unit... was assassinated in the south of the Gaza Strip along with other martyrs." Besides the announcement by the Palestinian group, the Israeli army also said that it targeted Ghali in the strike.&nbsp;

More than 22 Palestinians were reportedly killed over two days as Israel's army and Gaza militants exchanged heavy cross-border fire. This is the worst escalation of violence to hit the coastal territory in months.&nbsp;

Palestinian health officials claimed that among the total fatalities, at least five women and five children, as well as three senior Islamic Jihad commanders and four gunmen have been killed since the fighting began.&nbsp;

Israeli officials have said Egypt was working on a possible truce with the militant group Islamic Jihad as blaring sirens warned of incoming rockets in the Tel Aviv area and Israel's south.&nbsp;

Islamic Jihad spokesman Dawoud Shehab said that Cairo had begun brokering a ceasefire. Egypt previously mediated in previous rounds of fighting.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israeli missile strikes continue across Gaza border, Islamic Jihadists retaliate over 100 rockets&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen told public broadcaster Kan that the government was examining Egypt's proposals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in broadcast remarks that Islamic Jihad had sustained a serious blow. However, the prime minister cautioned: "The campaign is not over yet."&nbsp;

More than 130 targets were hit, including rocket-launching sites, the Israeli military said. Netanyahu said that more than 400 rockets were fired, but a quarter of which fell short in Gaza.&nbsp;

As rockets streaked through the sky, Israeli TV showed air defence systems intercepting rockets above Tel Aviv skies.&nbsp;

The Israeli military said that for the first time, an air-defense system known as David's Sling intercepted a rocket. The system, developed with the US, is meant to intercept medium-range threats and is part of a multi-layered air defence that also includes the better-known Iron Dome anti-rocket system. Israeli media said a previous attempt to use the system several years ago had failed.&nbsp;

The army said that schools would remain closed and restrictions on large gatherings would remain in place in southern Israel until at least till Friday. Residents were instructed to stay near bomb shelters.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, in a move that could further raise tensions, Israeli police said they would permit a Jewish ultranationalist parade to take place next week. The parade, meant to celebrate Israel's capture of east Jerusalem and its Jewish holy sites, marches through the heart of the Old City's Muslim Quarter and often leads to friction with local Palestinians.&nbsp;

<h2>Urgent calls for de-escalation&nbsp;</h2>

The White House said that national security advisor Jake Sullivan emphasised the need for de-escalation during a call on Wednesday with the head of Israel's National Security Council, Tzachi Hanegbi.&nbsp;

"Sullivan ... noted continued regional efforts to broker a ceasefire, and emphasized the need to deescalate tensions and prevent further loss of life," according to a White House readout.

The Arab League also condemned the "aggressive (and) barbaric Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip, which targeted civilians, children and women in residential neighbourhoods".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Palestinian group Islamic Jihad said on Thursday (May 11) that one of its military leaders was killed in a pre-dawn strike launched by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip.

The Palestinian group Islamic Jihad said on Thursday (May 11) that one of its military leaders was killed in a pre-dawn strike launched by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip. A statement from the Al-Quds Brigades, which is the armed branch of the group, read: "Ali Ghali... commander of the rocket launch unit... was assassinated in the south of the Gaza Strip along with other martyrs." Besides the announcement by the Palestinian group, the Israeli army also said that it targeted Ghali in the strike. More than 22 Palestinians were reportedly killed over two days as Israel's army and Gaza militants exchanged heavy cross-border fire. This is the worst escalation of violence to hit the coastal territory in months. Palestinian health officials claimed that among the total fatalities, at least five women and five children, as well as three senior Islamic Jihad commanders and four gunmen have been killed since the fighting began. Israeli officials have said Egypt was working on a possible truce with the militant group Islamic Jihad as blaring sirens warned of incoming rockets in the Tel Aviv area and Israel's south. Islamic Jihad spokesman Dawoud Shehab said that Cairo had begun brokering a ceasefire. Egypt previously mediated in previous rounds of fighting. WATCH | Israeli missile strikes continue across Gaza border, Islamic Jihadists retaliate over 100 rockets × Meanwhile, Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen told public broadcaster Kan that the government was examining Egypt's proposals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in broadcast remarks that Islamic Jihad had sustained a serious blow. However, the prime minister cautioned: "The campaign is not over yet." More than 130 targets were hit, including rocket-launching sites, the Israeli military said. Netanyahu said that more than 400 rockets were fired, but a quarter of which fell short in Gaza. As rockets streaked through the sky, Israeli TV showed air defence systems intercepting rockets above Tel Aviv skies. The Israeli military said that for the first time, an air-defense system known as David's Sling intercepted a rocket. The system, developed with the US, is meant to intercept medium-range threats and is part of a multi-layered air defence that also includes the better-known Iron Dome anti-rocket system. Israeli media said a previous attempt to use the system several years ago had failed. The army said that schools would remain closed and restrictions on large gatherings would remain in place in southern Israel until at least till Friday. Residents were instructed to stay near bomb shelters. Meanwhile, in a move that could further raise tensions, Israeli police said they would permit a Jewish ultranationalist parade to take place next week. The parade, meant to celebrate Israel's capture of east Jerusalem and its Jewish holy sites, marches through the heart of the Old City's Muslim Quarter and often leads to friction with local Palestinians. Urgent calls for de-escalation The White House said that national security advisor Jake Sullivan emphasised the need for de-escalation during a call on Wednesday with the head of Israel's National Security Council, Tzachi Hanegbi. "Sullivan ... noted continued regional efforts to broker a ceasefire, and emphasized the need to deescalate tensions and prevent further loss of life," according to a White House readout. The Arab League also condemned the "aggressive (and) barbaric Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip, which targeted civilians, children and women in residential neighbourhoods". (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Islamic Jihad says military leader killed in Israeli strike in Gaza

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted&nbsp;three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit&nbsp;&nbsp;"weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.&nbsp;The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini,&nbsp;also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern&nbsp;Gaza.

The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from&nbsp;Gaza, AFP reported.&nbsp;

According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said&nbsp;an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/45-year-old-islamic-jihad-member-khader-adnan-dies-is-israeli-custody-588164">45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody</a> 
 
Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military&nbsp;killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza.

The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens&nbsp;within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes&nbsp;on the Islamic Jihad&nbsp;group&nbsp;have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians&nbsp;which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-30-rockets-fired-from-gaza-after-palestinian-hunger-striker-dies-in-israeli-custody-588319">Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates</a> 
 
In line with the IDF's&nbsp;warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled.&nbsp;COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters.&nbsp; 
 
Previous attacks 
 
This comes days after dozens of&nbsp;projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel&nbsp;after an Islamic Jihad leader and&nbsp;Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza.&nbsp;

It was not until hours later that the IDF&nbsp;conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said&nbsp;it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group. The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini, also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern Gaza. The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from Gaza, AFP reported. According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah. ALSO WATCH | 45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza. The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes on the Islamic Jihad group have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media. ALSO READ | Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates In line with the IDF's warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled. COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters. Previous attacks This comes days after dozens of projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel after an Islamic Jihad leader and Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza. It was not until hours later that the IDF conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Twelve people, including top militants killed after Israeli jets hit targets in Gaza

The Israeli military on Friday informed that two women were killed while a third was seriously injured in a shooting attack after a gunman opened fire on a vehicle in West Bank.

The Israeli military on Friday informed that two women were killed while a third was seriously injured in a shooting attack after a gunman opened fire on a vehicle in West Bank. The attacker targetted the car near the Hamra junction in the northern part of the Jordan Valley. The Magen David Adom emergency service confirmed the death of the two Israeli women. The army has swung into action by sweeping the area, blocking the roads and launching a manhunt for the assailant. “A shooting attack was carried out on a vehicle at the Hamra Junction. IDF [Israel Defense Force] soldiers are searching the area,” the military said in a statement. Israel attacks Lebanon following provocation Earlier in the day, it was reported that Israel launched missile strikes on Lebanon and Gaza Strip after the Palestine side fired around 34 rockets from the region. According to Israeli media, it was the biggest salvo of fire from Lebanon since Jerusalem fought the 34-day war with the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in 2006. Moreover, this was the first instance Israel had fired missiles on Lebanon territory since April last year. WATCH | Al-Aqsa mosque: Violence as Israeli police raid Jerusalem holy site × Israeli police raid al-Aqsa The development comes hot on the heels of Israeli police clashing with Palestinians at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque on Wednesday (April 5). Experts had feared that the violence in the compound could trigger a cross-border exchange of fire in Gaza and lead to instances of increased violence. “Israel’s raid into al-Aqsa mosque, its assault on worshippers, is a slap to recent US efforts which tried to create calm and stability during the month of Ramadan,” a spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said. ALSO READ | Clashes erupt again at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque, six injured This is not the first instance when violence has escalated in the region. In February, Israel carried out a rare daytime arrest operation that triggered fighting in the occupied West Bank, killing at least 11 people and wounding more than 100. Prior to the ground operation, both sides had fired projectiles that caused significant damage. At the time, many dubbed it as one of the deadliest escalations in the occupied West Bank since 2005. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the situation in the Palestinian territory was the 'most combustible in a year', adding that tensions remained 'sky high'. "Our immediate priority must be to prevent further escalation, reduce tensions and restore calm," said Guterres. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Two Israeli women killed, one seriously injured in West Bank shooting: Report

Conflict between Israel and Palestine continues to simmer. A barrage of explosions have rocked the Gaza Strip. Israel's military says that it carried out these strikes in retaliation to a rocket which it says was launched from Gaza on Saturday.

Israel: Explosions rock Gaza strip

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-confirms-it-intercepted-rocket-fired-from-gaza-strip-558033">after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza</a> towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas. "The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel," the IDF said in a subsequent tweet.&nbsp;

There were no casualties reported on either side. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that videos from the Israeli army showed its airstrikes targeted rocket and weapon production sites used by Hamas. The explosions shook buildings and lit up the night sky over Gaza. Nobody has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's rocket launch.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-guards-kill-teen-palestinian-in-west-bank-jenin-raid-death-toll-climbs-to-10-557069">Israeli guards kill teen Palestinian in West Bank; Jenin raid death toll climbs to 10</a>

Meanwhile, the armed wing of the leftist Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine said it launched rocket salvos at Israel early on Thursday in response to the air strikes by the IDF.&nbsp;

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The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel. 2/2
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This exchange of fire comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid.

Last year, around 235 people were killed in the conflict, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the United States Secretary of States Antony Blinken, who was on a tour of the Middle East, urged both sides (Israel and Palestine) to prevent further bloodshed, as he expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. &nbsp;

Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers. "What we're seeing now for Palestinians is a shrinking horizon of hope, not an expanding one, and that too, we believe, needs to change," the top Washington diplomat said in Ramallah.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas. "The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel," the IDF said in a subsequent tweet. There were no casualties reported on either side. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that videos from the Israeli army showed its airstrikes targeted rocket and weapon production sites used by Hamas. The explosions shook buildings and lit up the night sky over Gaza. Nobody has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's rocket launch. ALSO READ | Israeli guards kill teen Palestinian in West Bank; Jenin raid death toll climbs to 10 Meanwhile, the armed wing of the leftist Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine said it launched rocket salvos at Israel early on Thursday in response to the air strikes by the IDF. The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel. 2/2 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 2, 2023 × This exchange of fire comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid. Last year, around 235 people were killed in the conflict, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added. On Tuesday, the United States Secretary of States Antony Blinken, who was on a tour of the Middle East, urged both sides (Israel and Palestine) to prevent further bloodshed, as he expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers. "What we're seeing now for Palestinians is a shrinking horizon of hope, not an expanding one, and that too, we believe, needs to change," the top Washington diplomat said in Ramallah. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Israel jets strike Hamas facility in Gaza Strip hours after intercepting fired rocket

After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formed the most far-right government in the country, there has been a rising number of attacks on the Gaza Strip. The rocket strikes were launched by Israel on Gaza as recently as Friday. Earlier on Thursday as well, Israeli forces carried out raids on the West Bank which led to the death of two civilians. Though sources in Hamas Islamist-controlled Gaza reportedly said that Israel fired rockets, on the other side, the Israeli army said that rockets were initially launched from Gaza towards Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>So another&nbsp;Intifada is on the way?&nbsp;</h2>

What is the intifada and is it imminent to befall Israel and Palestine again? The first Intifada, a rebellion or uprising, refers to the series of protests and violence that ensued between Palestinians and Israel's military in the West Bank and Gaza strip. The riots took place close on the heels of Israel's 20-year occupation of the contested region following the 1967 Arab-Israel war. According to multiple reports, the first Intifada lasted from December 1987 until the Madrid Conference of 1991.&nbsp;

The Madrid Conference was apparently a diplomatic push by the United States amid an intensive Israel-Palestine fight. It was an unprecedented event as the conference saw the presence of all parties in the Arab-Israeli conflict.&nbsp;

However, according to other accounts, the date of the conclusion of the first Intifada was somewhere in 1993 with the signing of the Oslo Accords, a peace process that was kicked off between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).&nbsp;

The second intifada which is know by the name Al-Aqṣā intifada started in September 2000. As per several estimates, the second intifada went on till 2005. The uprisings saw the death of over 5,000 Palestinians and about 1,400 Israelis.

<h2>Recent clashes fetch&nbsp;Israel rebuke from Arab world&nbsp;</h2>

After a deadly Israeli raid, the spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas reportedly said that the Palestinians are ending their security arrangement with Israel in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia, a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, rebuked Israeli forces for the raids in the West Bank. This brings back the memories of the intensive&nbsp;Arab-Israel conflicts that inflicted Israel and Palestine for decades.

After the&nbsp;Intifada,&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Negotiator Mahmoud Abbas had signed an accord which resulted in the recognition of PLO by Israel.&nbsp;The first Oslo Accords was signed in Washington, US in 1993 while the signing of the second accord took place in Taba, Egypt, in 1995. The name of the Accords was given the basis of the place of the peace negotiations that took place in Oslo, Norway.

Now, as Israel and Palestine possibly stand on the cusp of another intifada amid the&nbsp;fresh clashes, US state secretary Antony Blinken will travel to Israel next week and is expected to call for a truce. Biden had earlier called upon both Israel and Palestine to settle their dispute through diplomatic channels. All of this comes back like a deja vu from the time when Bill Clinton's administration was playing a diplomatic role in settling the Israel-Palestine issue.&nbsp;

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After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formed the most far-right government in the country, there has been a rising number of attacks on the Gaza Strip.

After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formed the most far-right government in the country, there has been a rising number of attacks on the Gaza Strip. The rocket strikes were launched by Israel on Gaza as recently as Friday. Earlier on Thursday as well, Israeli forces carried out raids on the West Bank which led to the death of two civilians. Though sources in Hamas Islamist-controlled Gaza reportedly said that Israel fired rockets, on the other side, the Israeli army said that rockets were initially launched from Gaza towards Israel. So another Intifada is on the way? What is the intifada and is it imminent to befall Israel and Palestine again? The first Intifada, a rebellion or uprising, refers to the series of protests and violence that ensued between Palestinians and Israel's military in the West Bank and Gaza strip. The riots took place close on the heels of Israel's 20-year occupation of the contested region following the 1967 Arab-Israel war. According to multiple reports, the first Intifada lasted from December 1987 until the Madrid Conference of 1991. The Madrid Conference was apparently a diplomatic push by the United States amid an intensive Israel-Palestine fight. It was an unprecedented event as the conference saw the presence of all parties in the Arab-Israeli conflict. However, according to other accounts, the date of the conclusion of the first Intifada was somewhere in 1993 with the signing of the Oslo Accords, a peace process that was kicked off between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). The second intifada which is know by the name Al-Aqṣā intifada started in September 2000. As per several estimates, the second intifada went on till 2005. The uprisings saw the death of over 5,000 Palestinians and about 1,400 Israelis. Recent clashes fetch Israel rebuke from Arab world After a deadly Israeli raid, the spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas reportedly said that the Palestinians are ending their security arrangement with Israel in the occupied West Bank. Saudi Arabia, a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, rebuked Israeli forces for the raids in the West Bank. This brings back the memories of the intensive Arab-Israel conflicts that inflicted Israel and Palestine for decades. After the Intifada, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Negotiator Mahmoud Abbas had signed an accord which resulted in the recognition of PLO by Israel. The first Oslo Accords was signed in Washington, US in 1993 while the signing of the second accord took place in Taba, Egypt, in 1995. The name of the Accords was given the basis of the place of the peace negotiations that took place in Oslo, Norway. Now, as Israel and Palestine possibly stand on the cusp of another intifada amid the fresh clashes, US state secretary Antony Blinken will travel to Israel next week and is expected to call for a truce. Biden had earlier called upon both Israel and Palestine to settle their dispute through diplomatic channels. All of this comes back like a deja vu from the time when Bill Clinton's administration was playing a diplomatic role in settling the Israel-Palestine issue. 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.

EXPLAINED: The history of Palestine intifada, is another on the way?

After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had&nbsp; granted&nbsp;to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday.&nbsp;Following allegations that a labourer was preparing to carry out a blast, according to Shin Bet, the suspect, who was detained on October 30, admitted to interrogators that he had been recruited by relatives in the extremist organisation Islamic Jihad to attack a bus in southern Israel.&nbsp;

It stated that an Israeli court has indicted the culprit. It wasn't immediately obvious if he had a lawyer assigned to him or what kind of plea he might enter.&nbsp;

Israel's responded by&nbsp;revoking about 200 workers' licences.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-claims-to-have-uncovered-us-military-linked-online-propaganda-537062">Meta claims to have uncovered US military-linked online propaganda</a>

"The attempt by terror groups to exploit the jobs of workers in Israel in order to carry out attacks endangers the livelihood of hundreds of thousands of residents of the Gaza Strip," Defence Minister Benny Gantz tweeted.

Gantz, a member of Israel's centrist outgoing administration, has pushed for increasing the number of admission permits to lessen Gaza's extreme poverty and prevent war.&nbsp;

A young Israeli-Canadian was killed and at least 14 other people were injured in a twin bombing that occurred in Jerusalem on Wednesday. No one has yet claimed credit for the attack.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had granted to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday.

After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had granted to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday. Following allegations that a labourer was preparing to carry out a blast, according to Shin Bet, the suspect, who was detained on October 30, admitted to interrogators that he had been recruited by relatives in the extremist organisation Islamic Jihad to attack a bus in southern Israel. It stated that an Israeli court has indicted the culprit. It wasn't immediately obvious if he had a lawyer assigned to him or what kind of plea he might enter. Israel's responded by revoking about 200 workers' licences. Also Read: Meta claims to have uncovered US military-linked online propaganda "The attempt by terror groups to exploit the jobs of workers in Israel in order to carry out attacks endangers the livelihood of hundreds of thousands of residents of the Gaza Strip," Defence Minister Benny Gantz tweeted. Gantz, a member of Israel's centrist outgoing administration, has pushed for increasing the number of admission permits to lessen Gaza's extreme poverty and prevent war. A young Israeli-Canadian was killed and at least 14 other people were injured in a twin bombing that occurred in Jerusalem on Wednesday. No one has yet claimed credit for the attack. (with inputs from agencies)

Israel cancels 200 work permits issued to Palestinians from Gaza Strip after bomb scare

As we report, Honey bees are extremely crucial for the environment and ecosystem, as are other pollinating insects that many plants rely on to reproduce. A decline in their population should worry us and this is now a reality in Gaza. The Gaza strip is witnessing a major decline in bees.

WION Climate Tracker: Declining bee population in Gaza pose threat to ecosystem

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate&nbsp;Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic&nbsp;has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza. &nbsp;

It was last spring when a Palestinian farmer in the midst of planting a new olive tree hit a hard object with his shovel, after which he called his son; together they slowly&nbsp;excavated the mosaic. However, the owner of the land has reportedly chosen to remain anonymous, before any official announcement, he has also covered the unearthed mosaic with tin sheets and hopes to receive some compensation for the protection of the discovery on his property.

Due to this discovery, many have also called for better protection of the antiquities in Gaza, voicing their concerns regarding the fragile collection of sites which is under threat because of lack of awareness and resources, as well as the constant threat of a conflict between Israel and local Palestinian militants. The Hamas-run department of antiquities has called it “a big archaeological discovery”, but is yet to release an official statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-between-israel-and-gaza-militants-continue-for-second-day-claiming-6-lives-504434">Air raid sirens ring out in Jerusalem; Israel, Gaza militants continue strikes</a>

In an interview, René Elter, an archaeologist from the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem, said, “These are the most beautiful mosaic floors discovered in Gaza, both in terms of the quality of the graphic representation and the complexity of the geometry.” &nbsp;He added, “Never have mosaic floors of this finesse, this precision in the graphics and richness of the colors been discovered in the Gaza Strip.”&nbsp;

According to Elter, the ornate mosaic&nbsp;dates back to somewhere between the 5th and 7th centuries, however, his estimation is based on a series of photos and videos taken by local research partners and while he has conducted research on the Gaza Strip before, he has not personally visited the site. He has also expressed concern that such a discovery undertaken by inexperienced people could damage the site.&nbsp;

Historically, the Gaza Strip, a coastal enclave situated between Israel and Egypt was a trade route which witnessed several ancient civilizations from the Bronze Age to the Islamic and Ottoman eras. Reports suggest that these treasures left behind by these civilizations are rarely protected and have been subjected to looting, damage, and even have been destroyed by development projects or regional conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-causing-the-recent-conflict-between-israel-and-gaza-504692">Explained: What's causing the recent conflict between Israel and Gaza?</a>

According to the people with knowledge of the matter, the mosaic is spread over about 23 square meters and the three dug-out spots on the 500 square meters patch of land, reveal parts of the&nbsp;mosaic. While the largest holes dug up are about 2 meters by 3 meters and marked with at least 17 drawings of animals, the other two show tiles that have intricate patterns on them.

The mosaic was unearthed just a kilometer from the Israeli border, the floor consists of 17 iconographies of beasts and birds which were surprisingly well-preserved and their colours remain bright. However, Elter has expressed concern about the discovery due to its close approximation to the Israeli separation fence saying that it is in “immediate danger”. He added, “It is imperative to quickly organize an emergency rescue intervention.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza.

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza. It was last spring when a Palestinian farmer in the midst of planting a new olive tree hit a hard object with his shovel, after which he called his son; together they slowly excavated the mosaic. However, the owner of the land has reportedly chosen to remain anonymous, before any official announcement, he has also covered the unearthed mosaic with tin sheets and hopes to receive some compensation for the protection of the discovery on his property. Due to this discovery, many have also called for better protection of the antiquities in Gaza, voicing their concerns regarding the fragile collection of sites which is under threat because of lack of awareness and resources, as well as the constant threat of a conflict between Israel and local Palestinian militants. The Hamas-run department of antiquities has called it “a big archaeological discovery”, but is yet to release an official statement. ALSO READ: Air raid sirens ring out in Jerusalem; Israel, Gaza militants continue strikes In an interview, René Elter, an archaeologist from the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem, said, “These are the most beautiful mosaic floors discovered in Gaza, both in terms of the quality of the graphic representation and the complexity of the geometry.” He added, “Never have mosaic floors of this finesse, this precision in the graphics and richness of the colors been discovered in the Gaza Strip.” According to Elter, the ornate mosaic dates back to somewhere between the 5th and 7th centuries, however, his estimation is based on a series of photos and videos taken by local research partners and while he has conducted research on the Gaza Strip before, he has not personally visited the site. He has also expressed concern that such a discovery undertaken by inexperienced people could damage the site. Historically, the Gaza Strip, a coastal enclave situated between Israel and Egypt was a trade route which witnessed several ancient civilizations from the Bronze Age to the Islamic and Ottoman eras. Reports suggest that these treasures left behind by these civilizations are rarely protected and have been subjected to looting, damage, and even have been destroyed by development projects or regional conflict. ALSO READ: Explained: What's causing the recent conflict between Israel and Gaza? According to the people with knowledge of the matter, the mosaic is spread over about 23 square meters and the three dug-out spots on the 500 square meters patch of land, reveal parts of the mosaic. While the largest holes dug up are about 2 meters by 3 meters and marked with at least 17 drawings of animals, the other two show tiles that have intricate patterns on them. The mosaic was unearthed just a kilometer from the Israeli border, the floor consists of 17 iconographies of beasts and birds which were surprisingly well-preserved and their colours remain bright. However, Elter has expressed concern about the discovery due to its close approximation to the Israeli separation fence saying that it is in “immediate danger”. He added, “It is imperative to quickly organize an emergency rescue intervention.” (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian farmer unearths a Byzantine-era mosaic in Gaza  while planting olive tree

The Israel Defense Forces say it has blocked a tunnel built by Hamas in the Gaza strip. Israel has accused Hamas of intending to use the tunnel to infiltrate across its borders.

Israel accuses Hamas of using tunnel to cross into Israel

United Nations Security Council held an emergency closed-door meeting to discuss the latest escalation between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) in the Gaza Strip.

UNSC held emergency meet over escalation across Gaza Strip, expresses concern over 'truce deal'

Triggering warning sirens in communities, the Israeli air defence system intercepted rockets fired from Gaza following the country's raid that targeted an "immediate threat".

Killing a commander named Tayseer al-Jabari and prompting vows of retaliation from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, Israeli forces bombed targets they said were linked to the militant group.

Islamic Jihad's military wing said in a statement, "As an initial response to the killing of senior commander Taysir al-Jabari and his brethren martyrs... the Al-Quds Brigade covered Tel Aviv, central cities and areas surrounding Gaza with more than 100 rockets."

Tensions have been escalating between the two countries following the arrest of a Palestinian militant leader Bassam al-Saadi a few days ago in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin.

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ההנחיה שקיבלו כוחות הביטחון היתה חד משמעית: ישראל לא תעמוד מנגד כשמנסים לפגוע בתושביה. מדיניות הממשלה הזו היא אפס סובלנות לכל נסיון ירי – מכל סוג - שיוצא מעזה לעבר שטח ישראל. 
 
ארגוני טרור לא יקבעו את סדר היום בעוטף, לא נקבל שום איום על התושבים.
— יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) <a href="https://twitter.com/yairlapid/status/1555618251169742852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Over fears of retaliatory attacks from the group, all Gaza crossings and some nearby roads were subsequently closed off.

According to the World Health Organisation, the shutdown affected 50 patients a day in need of healthcare outside of Gaza.

After footage circulating in Israeli media appeared to show al-Saadi may have been hurt during his arrest, the militant group declared a full alert among its fighters.

Vowing retaliation for the strikes, Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Al-Nakhala said in a statement broadcast on Al Mayadeen television that Israel will pay for it.

Since Hamas took control of the area in 2007, Gaza has been a constant point of conflict despite being a narrow strip of land where some 2.3 million people live on a patch of 365 square kilometres (140 square miles).

In an 11-day conflict, Hamas fired thousands of rockets into Israel in May 2021, and in response Israel pounded the strip with airstrikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Triggering warning sirens in communities, the Israeli air defence system intercepted rockets fired from Gaza following the country's raid that targeted an "immediate threat".

Triggering warning sirens in communities, the Israeli air defence system intercepted rockets fired from Gaza following the country's raid that targeted an "immediate threat". Killing a commander named Tayseer al-Jabari and prompting vows of retaliation from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, Israeli forces bombed targets they said were linked to the militant group. Islamic Jihad's military wing said in a statement, "As an initial response to the killing of senior commander Taysir al-Jabari and his brethren martyrs... the Al-Quds Brigade covered Tel Aviv, central cities and areas surrounding Gaza with more than 100 rockets." Tensions have been escalating between the two countries following the arrest of a Palestinian militant leader Bassam al-Saadi a few days ago in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin. ההנחיה שקיבלו כוחות הביטחון היתה חד משמעית: ישראל לא תעמוד מנגד כשמנסים לפגוע בתושביה. מדיניות הממשלה הזו היא אפס סובלנות לכל נסיון ירי – מכל סוג - שיוצא מעזה לעבר שטח ישראל. ארגוני טרור לא יקבעו את סדר היום בעוטף, לא נקבל שום איום על התושבים. — יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) August 5, 2022 × Over fears of retaliatory attacks from the group, all Gaza crossings and some nearby roads were subsequently closed off. According to the World Health Organisation, the shutdown affected 50 patients a day in need of healthcare outside of Gaza. After footage circulating in Israeli media appeared to show al-Saadi may have been hurt during his arrest, the militant group declared a full alert among its fighters. Vowing retaliation for the strikes, Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Al-Nakhala said in a statement broadcast on Al Mayadeen television that Israel will pay for it. Since Hamas took control of the area in 2007, Gaza has been a constant point of conflict despite being a narrow strip of land where some 2.3 million people live on a patch of 365 square kilometres (140 square miles). In an 11-day conflict, Hamas fired thousands of rockets into Israel in May 2021, and in response Israel pounded the strip with airstrikes. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Israeli air defence system intercepts rockets fired from Gaza

A mobile phone app has come to the rescue of women in Palestinian Gaza Strip. It will allow women to report domestic abuse anonymously, media reports said. The "Masahatuna" or "Our Spaces" app is a brainchild of local computer engineer Alaa Huthut. It seems to have become a boon for growing numbers of victims, who want to seek help but want to avoid shame and reprisals. Many women are scared to report these offences to the authorities directly.

In a society where domestic violence is generally kept hidden due to family pressures, Huthut saw the need for a way to seek advice safely. "Privacy was very important as fear is usually the main cause women don't contact or visit centres," Huthut told Reuters. &nbsp;

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To be able to use the app, the women need to register, but they don’t have to provide names. They also don’t have to leave a trace of their contacts with the care centres on their own phones. "If anyone looks at the phone, they wouldn't know she made contact," Huthut said. &nbsp;

The app has been downloaded by around 355 women and 160 have already contacted help centres to seek psychological and legal help, said Kholoud Al-Sawalma of the Gaza Community Media Centre. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A mobile phone app has come to the rescue of women in Palestinian Gaza Strip. It will allow women to report domestic abuse anonymously, media reports said. The "Masahatuna" or "Our Spaces" app is a brainchild of local computer engineer Alaa Huthut.

A mobile phone app has come to the rescue of women in Palestinian Gaza Strip. It will allow women to report domestic abuse anonymously, media reports said. The "Masahatuna" or "Our Spaces" app is a brainchild of local computer engineer Alaa Huthut. It seems to have become a boon for growing numbers of victims, who want to seek help but want to avoid shame and reprisals. Many women are scared to report these offences to the authorities directly. In a society where domestic violence is generally kept hidden due to family pressures, Huthut saw the need for a way to seek advice safely. "Privacy was very important as fear is usually the main cause women don't contact or visit centres," Huthut told Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE To be able to use the app, the women need to register, but they don’t have to provide names. They also don’t have to leave a trace of their contacts with the care centres on their own phones. "If anyone looks at the phone, they wouldn't know she made contact," Huthut said. The app has been downloaded by around 355 women and 160 have already contacted help centres to seek psychological and legal help, said Kholoud Al-Sawalma of the Gaza Community Media Centre. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Now, women in Gaza Strip can report domestic abuse anonymously, courtesy new mobile app

A local computer engineer Alaa Huthut in Palestinian Gaza strip has developed a phone app "Masahatuna" or "Our Spaces". This app allows women to report domestic abuse anonymously.

New phone app allows women in Gaza to report domestic abuse anonymously

A farmer in Gaza Strip has found a Bronze Age stone statue dating back 4,500 years, depicting the face of an ancient goddess of beauty, love and war, local media reports.

The statue, carved out of limestone and 22 centimetres (8.6 inches) long, was discovered by a farmer working on his land in Khan Younis.

“The statue represents the Canaanite goddess Anat,” Jamal Abu Reda, chief of the Hamas-run ministry of tourism and antiquities department, said in a statement, according to the Times of Israel newspaper.

According to local folklore, Anat was one of the best-known Canaanite deities, symbolised as the goddess of love and war.

It was unearthed on what was an important “overland trade route for several civilizations” that lived in what is now the Gaza Strip, Reda said.

“We found it by chance. It was muddy and we washed it with water," farmer Nidal Abu Eid, who came across the head while cultivating his field, told the BBC.

"We realised that it was a precious thing, but we didn't know it was of such great archaeological value," he said.

"We thank God, and we are proud that it stayed in our land, in Palestine, since the Canaanite times," he added.

The statue of Anat was put on display on Tuesday in Qasr al-Basha, a historic building that serves as one of Gaza's few museums, the British media outlet reported.

Unveiling the artefact at a press conference, Reda said the statue was "resistant against time" and had been carefully examined by experts.

"Such discoveries prove that Palestine has civilisation and history, and no-one can deny or falsify this history," he said.

"This is the Palestinian people and their ancient Canaanite civilisation," BBC quoted Reda as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

A farmer in Gaza Strip has found a Bronze Age stone statue dating back 4,500 years, depicting the face of an ancient goddess of beauty, love and war, local media reports.

A farmer in Gaza Strip has found a Bronze Age stone statue dating back 4,500 years, depicting the face of an ancient goddess of beauty, love and war, local media reports. The statue, carved out of limestone and 22 centimetres (8.6 inches) long, was discovered by a farmer working on his land in Khan Younis. “The statue represents the Canaanite goddess Anat,” Jamal Abu Reda, chief of the Hamas-run ministry of tourism and antiquities department, said in a statement, according to the Times of Israel newspaper. According to local folklore, Anat was one of the best-known Canaanite deities, symbolised as the goddess of love and war. It was unearthed on what was an important “overland trade route for several civilizations” that lived in what is now the Gaza Strip, Reda said. “We found it by chance. It was muddy and we washed it with water," farmer Nidal Abu Eid, who came across the head while cultivating his field, told the BBC. "We realised that it was a precious thing, but we didn't know it was of such great archaeological value," he said. "We thank God, and we are proud that it stayed in our land, in Palestine, since the Canaanite times," he added. The statue of Anat was put on display on Tuesday in Qasr al-Basha, a historic building that serves as one of Gaza's few museums, the British media outlet reported. Unveiling the artefact at a press conference, Reda said the statue was "resistant against time" and had been carefully examined by experts. "Such discoveries prove that Palestine has civilisation and history, and no-one can deny or falsify this history," he said. "This is the Palestinian people and their ancient Canaanite civilisation," BBC quoted Reda as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza farmer stumbles upon rare Bronze Age statue of goddess of love and war

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a &nbsp;response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave.

AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties. Hamas claims to have staved off the attack using its “anti-aircraft defence” system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-police-palestinians-clash-in-al-aqsa-mosque-59-injured-471116">Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured</a>

Following the rocket firing by Islamist group Hamas, sirens were sounded in southern Israel. Reportedly, the projectile crashed into the sea off Tel Aviv.

In a statement the Israeli ministry said that the “rocket was intercepted by the Iron Dome Air Defense System," and hours later the Israeli air force announced that it has retaliated by targetting a Hamas weapon manufacturing site.

Last year, around the same time, a similar turmoil in Jerusalem had prompted multiple Hamas rocket fire into Israel, which later developed into an 11-day war.

Watch |&nbsp;Is Naftali government under threat after Al-Aqsa mosque storming?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-naftali-government-under-threat-after-al-aqsa-mosque-storming-471771/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tensions between Israel and Palestine have soared in recent days following violence around the Jerusalem holy site of Al-Aqsa Mosque that by some tallies left more than 150 Palestinians injured. As per a report by Al Jazeera, citing Palestinian sources this number can actually be as high as 400.

The fire&nbsp;in Gaza and the Al-Aqsa violence comes following a spike in violence in the Jewish state, which included four deadly attacks by Palestinians and Israeli Arabs since late March, killing 14 people, largely civilians.&nbsp;The surge in hostilities coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, and Passover, the Jewish festival.

According to an AFP tally, 23 Palestinians have been murdered in the unrest since March 22, including assailants who attacked Israelis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/game-changer-israel-successfully-tests-new-laser-missile-system-471087">‘Game changer’: Israel successfully tests new laser defence system</a>&nbsp;

The US has expressed&nbsp;deep&nbsp;concern&nbsp;about the tensions.&nbsp;According to State Department spokesman Ned Price&nbsp;top US officials have been in contact by phone with colleagues from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Arab countries.

He stated, "We have urged all sides to preserve the historic status quo" at the Al-Aqsa compound and avoid "provocative" actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave. AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties.

In a first since January, Israel on Tuesday carried out airstrikes on the Gaza strip. The move came as a response to a rocket fired by the Palestinian enclave. AFP reports that the strike as per witness accounts and Gaza security sources didn’t cause any casualties. Hamas claims to have staved off the attack using its “anti-aircraft defence” system. Also read | Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured Following the rocket firing by Islamist group Hamas, sirens were sounded in southern Israel. Reportedly, the projectile crashed into the sea off Tel Aviv. In a statement the Israeli ministry said that the “rocket was intercepted by the Iron Dome Air Defense System," and hours later the Israeli air force announced that it has retaliated by targetting a Hamas weapon manufacturing site. Last year, around the same time, a similar turmoil in Jerusalem had prompted multiple Hamas rocket fire into Israel, which later developed into an 11-day war. Watch | Is Naftali government under threat after Al-Aqsa mosque storming? Tensions between Israel and Palestine have soared in recent days following violence around the Jerusalem holy site of Al-Aqsa Mosque that by some tallies left more than 150 Palestinians injured. As per a report by Al Jazeera, citing Palestinian sources this number can actually be as high as 400. The fire in Gaza and the Al-Aqsa violence comes following a spike in violence in the Jewish state, which included four deadly attacks by Palestinians and Israeli Arabs since late March, killing 14 people, largely civilians. The surge in hostilities coincides with Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, and Passover, the Jewish festival. According to an AFP tally, 23 Palestinians have been murdered in the unrest since March 22, including assailants who attacked Israelis. Also read | ‘Game changer’: Israel successfully tests new laser defence system The US has expressed deep concern about the tensions. According to State Department spokesman Ned Price top US officials have been in contact by phone with colleagues from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Arab countries. He stated, "We have urged all sides to preserve the historic status quo" at the Al-Aqsa compound and avoid "provocative" actions. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: After rocket fire, Israel conducts airstrikes on Gaza

Tensions are on the rise again between Israel and the Palestinian territory. In the latest, Israel has carried out its first air strikes on the Gaza strip in months, the strikes are said to be in response to a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave.

Israel carries out strikes in Gaza strip in response to rocket attack

Israeli police on Sunday (April 17) arrested nine Palestinians over violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

At least 20 people have been wounded in several incidents in Jerusalem amid rising tension during the holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover festival.

Palestinians hurled stones at the Israeli riot police in the alleyways of Jerusalem's Old City.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-israeli-cops-detain-about-400-rioters-471448/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

They have accused the Israeli forces of not allowing them to attend prayers at the Al Aqsa mosque.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jews toured the site on foot under guard as per a scheduled visit after dawn prayers.

The holy shrine is the third-holiest mosque in Islam. It is also a vestige of ancient Jewish temples.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said “What happened in Al-Aqsa Mosque is a dangerous escalation, the repercussions of which are to be borne by the Israeli government alone.”

"Israel's dangerous escalation in the Al-Aqsa compound ... is a blatant attack on our holy places" according to senior Palestinian official Hussein Al Sheikh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-police-palestinians-clash-in-al-aqsa-mosque-59-injured-471116" hreflang="en">Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured</a>

Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of the Hamas Islamist movement, said in a statement that "Al-Aqsa is ours and ours alone".

"Our people have the right to access it and pray in it, and we will not bow down to (Israeli) repression and terror," he added.

Hamas claims control over the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.&nbsp;

During his Easter address, Pope Francis said, "May Israelis, Palestinians and all who dwell in the Holy City, together with the pilgrims, experience the beauty of peace, dwell in fraternity and enjoy free access to the Holy Places in mutual respect for the rights of each."

“All efforts made to maintain the comprehensive calm and prevent the escalation of violence that threatens security and peace,” said Jordan, which serves as custodian of the holy site.

Israel and Hamas had fought over Jerusalem for 11 days last year in May. Over 250 people Palestinians and 13 Israelis had been killed in the intense conflict that took place in the Gaza Strip.

Israel had captured the Old City, located in East Jerusalem, in 1967. But Palestinians want to make it the capital of a future state. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli police on Sunday (April 17) arrested nine Palestinians over violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. At least 20 people have been wounded in several incidents in Jerusalem amid rising tension during the holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover festival.

Israeli police on Sunday (April 17) arrested nine Palestinians over violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. At least 20 people have been wounded in several incidents in Jerusalem amid rising tension during the holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover festival. Palestinians hurled stones at the Israeli riot police in the alleyways of Jerusalem's Old City. They have accused the Israeli forces of not allowing them to attend prayers at the Al Aqsa mosque. Meanwhile, Jews toured the site on foot under guard as per a scheduled visit after dawn prayers. The holy shrine is the third-holiest mosque in Islam. It is also a vestige of ancient Jewish temples. Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said “What happened in Al-Aqsa Mosque is a dangerous escalation, the repercussions of which are to be borne by the Israeli government alone.” "Israel's dangerous escalation in the Al-Aqsa compound ... is a blatant attack on our holy places" according to senior Palestinian official Hussein Al Sheikh. Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of the Hamas Islamist movement, said in a statement that "Al-Aqsa is ours and ours alone". "Our people have the right to access it and pray in it, and we will not bow down to (Israeli) repression and terror," he added. Hamas claims control over the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. During his Easter address, Pope Francis said, "May Israelis, Palestinians and all who dwell in the Holy City, together with the pilgrims, experience the beauty of peace, dwell in fraternity and enjoy free access to the Holy Places in mutual respect for the rights of each." “All efforts made to maintain the comprehensive calm and prevent the escalation of violence that threatens security and peace,” said Jordan, which serves as custodian of the holy site. Israel and Hamas had fought over Jerusalem for 11 days last year in May. Over 250 people Palestinians and 13 Israelis had been killed in the intense conflict that took place in the Gaza Strip. Israel had captured the Old City, located in East Jerusalem, in 1967. But Palestinians want to make it the capital of a future state. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli police arrest nine Palestinians over violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque

The Israeli military has launched missile strikes against targets in the Gaza strip. A video coming in from the region shows three huge explosions as Israeli fighter jets were heard flying over the area.

The Israeli military has launched missile strikes against targets in the Gaza strip

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