As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing &ldquo;genocide&rdquo; in Gaza.
Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner.
"Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,&rdquo; Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. &ldquo;Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5zmx7ln-m9ajhgyk-4aipmh53">
Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken&rsquo;s final press conference. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNationalNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheNationalNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/xw5ulrYhPA">pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA</a>
&mdash; Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) <a href="https://twitter.com/willy_lowry/status/1879930156644811084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
On the other hand, Husseini yelled, &ldquo;You pontificate about a free press!&rdquo; &ldquo;I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,&rdquo; the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking.
&ldquo;Criminal! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague!&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-israel-hamas-reach-gaza-ceasefire-deal-hostages-to-be-released-soon-8625065">Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be&nbsp;released&nbsp;soon'</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected amid hiccups. 

As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing “genocide” in Gaza. Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner. "Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,” Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. “Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?” Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken’s final press conference. @TheNationalNews pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA — Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) January 16, 2025 On the other hand, Husseini yelled, “You pontificate about a free press!” “I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,” the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking. “Criminal! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague!” Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue. Also read: Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be released soon' “It’s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,” he said. “We’re tying up that loose end as we speak.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session

With just three days left for the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli health ministry on Thursday (Jan 16) issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from Hamas' captivity.
Citing a top official from the health ministry, a report by The Times of Israel said that the protocol differed significantly from the one that was in place during the ceasefire deal in November 2023.
"There is a risk that returning hostages may develop Refeeding syndrome," the ministry's General Medicine Division Head, Dr Hagar Mizrahi, said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882" rel="dofollow">Amid announcement of Gaza ceasefire deal, a look at the key war events</a>
&ldquo;This condition arises when individuals deprived of food during captivity attempt to compensate by consuming carbohydrates, potentially leading to serious harm,&rdquo; Dr Mizrahi told the Times of Israel.
<h2>A look at the guidelines</h2>
The guidelines say that the released hostages would be required to stay in hospital for a minimum of four days.
Mizrahi pointed out that some of the hostages released in the November 2023 truce deal regretted leaving (the hospital) earlier than recommended, and extending the stay could better support their recovery.
The official also said that there would be documentation of and collection of forensic evidence from the atrocities the hostages have suffered.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-iraq-yemen-forces-to-halt-attacks-on-israel-8627557" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;If they return, we will return&rsquo;: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire</a>
Hostages would undergo tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and female hostages would also be given pregnancy tests.
<h2>Govt announces financial aid for released hostages</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel's Welfare Minister Yoav Ben Tzur welcomed the upcoming truce deal, which will be in place from January 19.
Welfare Minister Tzur announced financial aid for the hostages that would be released.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-reneging-on-parts-of-gaza-deal-8626657" rel="dofollow">Israel accuses Hamas of 'reneging' on parts of Gaza deal</a>
Tzur said that hostages who would be returning would get $2,700 for immediate needs, a per abductee grant of $13,800 for medical treatment, and the unconditional recognition of 50 per cent disability status.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Middle East: The guidelines say that the released hostages would be required to stay in hospital for a minimum of four days. They would undergo tests for STDs.

With just three days left for the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli health ministry on Thursday (Jan 16) issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from Hamas' captivity. Citing a top official from the health ministry, a report by The Times of Israel said that the protocol differed significantly from the one that was in place during the ceasefire deal in November 2023. "There is a risk that returning hostages may develop Refeeding syndrome," the ministry's General Medicine Division Head, Dr Hagar Mizrahi, said. Also read | Amid announcement of Gaza ceasefire deal, a look at the key war events “This condition arises when individuals deprived of food during captivity attempt to compensate by consuming carbohydrates, potentially leading to serious harm,” Dr Mizrahi told the Times of Israel. A look at the guidelines The guidelines say that the released hostages would be required to stay in hospital for a minimum of four days. Mizrahi pointed out that some of the hostages released in the November 2023 truce deal regretted leaving (the hospital) earlier than recommended, and extending the stay could better support their recovery. The official also said that there would be documentation of and collection of forensic evidence from the atrocities the hostages have suffered. Also read | ‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire Hostages would undergo tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and female hostages would also be given pregnancy tests. Govt announces financial aid for released hostages Meanwhile, Israel's Welfare Minister Yoav Ben Tzur welcomed the upcoming truce deal, which will be in place from January 19. Welfare Minister Tzur announced financial aid for the hostages that would be released. Also read | Israel accuses Hamas of 'reneging' on parts of Gaza deal Tzur said that hostages who would be returning would get $2,700 for immediate needs, a per abductee grant of $13,800 for medical treatment, and the unconditional recognition of 50 per cent disability status. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli health ministry issues guidelines for hospitals that will receive hostages

The Palestinian militant group Hamas has accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday (Jan 14) for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/israel-hamas-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">ceasefire </a>in the Gaza Strip, and the release of dozens of hostages, The Times of Israel reported citing two officials involved in the ongoing talks.&nbsp;
This comes while Israel and Hamas are holding talks on the final ceasefire and hostage agreement, along with the Arab mediators.&nbsp;
An Israeli official said that progress had been made, but, the details are still being finalised.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-in-farewell-speech-says-gaza-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-and-israel-on-the-brink-of-being-finalised-8619662" rel="dofollow"> Biden says Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel 'on the brink' of being finalised</a>
An Egyptian official and a Hamas official confirmed the authenticity of the copy of the proposed agreement obtained by The Associated Press.&nbsp;
Moreover, the plan is still needed to be submitted to Israel's cabinet for final approval.&nbsp;
<h2>Talks in 'final stages'</h2>
Qatar's foreign ministry said that the negotiations in Doha for the Gaza truce and hostage release deal are in their "final stages", adding that the most obstacles had been overcome.&nbsp;
The ministry further said that this would lead to an agreement very soon.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-expected-to-release-33-hostages-in-first-phase-of-emerging-truce-deal-with-israel-report-8620200">Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report</a>
"We do believe that we are at the final stages&hellip; certainly we are hopeful that this would lead very soon to an agreement,&rdquo; foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari tells a news conference, adding that &ldquo;until there is an announcement&hellip; we shouldn&rsquo;t be over-excited about what&rsquo;s happening right now," the ministry stated.&nbsp;
"During the past months, there were underlying issues, major issues between the two parties unresolved. These issues were resolved during the talks in the past couple of weeks, and therefore we have reached a point where the major issues that were preventing a deal from happening were addressed."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-receiving-ceasefire-proposal-despite-qatar-says-it-shared-final-hostage-deal-draft-8618427" rel="dofollow"> 'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas</a>
<h2>Deal 'could be' made today</h2>
A Palestinian source close to the talks told Reuters that "if all goes well", the deal can be finalised on Tuesday (Jan 14), The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Middle East: This comes while Israel and Hamas are holding talks on the final ceasefire and hostage agreement, along with the Arab mediators, including Qatar. 

The Palestinian militant group Hamas has accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday (Jan 14) for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and the release of dozens of hostages, The Times of Israel reported citing two officials involved in the ongoing talks. This comes while Israel and Hamas are holding talks on the final ceasefire and hostage agreement, along with the Arab mediators. An Israeli official said that progress had been made, but, the details are still being finalised. Also read: Biden says Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel 'on the brink' of being finalised An Egyptian official and a Hamas official confirmed the authenticity of the copy of the proposed agreement obtained by The Associated Press. Moreover, the plan is still needed to be submitted to Israel's cabinet for final approval. Talks in 'final stages' Qatar's foreign ministry said that the negotiations in Doha for the Gaza truce and hostage release deal are in their "final stages", adding that the most obstacles had been overcome. The ministry further said that this would lead to an agreement very soon. Also read: Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report "We do believe that we are at the final stages… certainly we are hopeful that this would lead very soon to an agreement,” foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari tells a news conference, adding that “until there is an announcement… we shouldn’t be over-excited about what’s happening right now," the ministry stated. "During the past months, there were underlying issues, major issues between the two parties unresolved. These issues were resolved during the talks in the past couple of weeks, and therefore we have reached a point where the major issues that were preventing a deal from happening were addressed." Also read: 'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas Deal 'could be' made today A Palestinian source close to the talks told Reuters that "if all goes well", the deal can be finalised on Tuesday (Jan 14), The Times of Israel reported. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas accepts draft agreement for Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal; awaits Israel's approval: Report

United States (US) National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that the White House was working on a ceasefire and hostage deal in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip but "was not there yet.

United States (US) National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that the White House was working on a ceasefire and hostage deal in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip but "was not there yet." "We are working actively to try to make it happen. We are engaged deeply with the key players in the region, and there is activity even today," NSA Sullivan told NBC. "There will be further conversations and consultations, and our hope is that we can generate a ceasefire and hostage deal, but we're not there yet," he added. The Gaza war and failed ceasefire talks The war in Gaza began last year after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people. Israel struck back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 44,000 people, mostly civilians, as per Hamas' claims. Also read | Gaza war: IDF chief intends to step down once October 7 probe is completed During its attack on Israel, Hamas also took 251 hostages, with 97 still being held in Gaza, including 34 who have been confirmed to be dead, a report by the news agency AFP said. The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have led multiple failed efforts since the start of the year to reach a new ceasefire and hostage release. The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Progress could be made on hostage release deal...' US NSA Sullivan's remarks came as ceasefire talks began in Cairo on Saturday. Earlier on Sunday, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said there were "indications" progress could be made on a deal securing the release of hostages by Hamas in Gaza. Also watch | Gaza war: Thousands protest in Tel Aviv demanding release of hostages × "There are signs we may see a greater degree of flexibility from Hamas as a result of circumstances that have developed...," Foreign Minister Saar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Aug 16) that he was optimistic about the prospects of reaching a ceasefire and hostage deal in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Aug 16) that he was optimistic about the prospects of reaching a ceasefire and hostage deal in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Speaking to reporters in Hagerstown, Maryland, Biden was asked about the status of the ceasefire talks to which he said, "...it’s still in play. I’m optimistic, it’s far from over. Just a couple more issues, I think we’ve got a shot." Biden pointed out that he was more optimistic (about the deal) than he had been in the past few months. Truce talks paused, negotiators to meet again Biden's remarks came as truce talks in Doha, Qatar paused on Friday with negotiators to meet again next week. A report by the news agency Reuters said that in a joint statement, the US, Qatar and Egypt said Washington presented a new proposal. Also read | Gaza war: US, Qatar and Egypt put forward ‘bridging proposal’, Hamas rejects Israel’s conditions Meanwhile, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty demanded an immediate ceasefire deal. Foreign Minister Abdelatty made this remark as he was on a visit to Lebanon amid border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel turning into an all-out war. Speaking in a joint press conference with his Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib at the end of his visit, Abdelatty said Egypt will continue its effort to reach a ceasefire deal. "A deal that leads to an immediate ceasefire, an end to the killing of civilians and an exchange of prisoners and hostages is the key to the beginning of the solution in this region, the beginning of a de-escalation, and the beginning to prevent the region from slipping into the furnace of a comprehensive war," he said. Death toll in Gaza Strip over 40,000 The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Also watch | Gravitas: Is Israel's High Command on Iran’s, Hezbollah's hit list? × Israel's subsequent assault on the enclave has killed over 40,000 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, and has displaced nearly the entire population of 2.3 million. Apart from Hamas, Hezbollah has also vowed to retaliate against Israel for the killing of a top commander, as has Iran, for the killing in Tehran of the Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: 'Optimistic about prospects of reaching truce deal', says Biden

Qatari and Egyptian mediators in the ongoing Gaza war told Israel that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar wants a ceasefire deal, just three days ahead of a fresh round of truce talks, CNN reported on Sunday (Aug 11) citing an Israeli source.

Qatari and Egyptian mediators in the ongoing Gaza war told Israel that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar wants a ceasefire deal, just three days ahead of a fresh round of truce talks, CNN reported on Sunday (Aug 11) citing an Israeli source. Whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wanted a ceasefire deal was uncertain. Earlier, two other Israeli sources told CNN that Prime Minister Netanyahu's allies told the media and government officials that "Bibi" (Netanyahu's nickname) was ready to make a deal, regardless of the impact on his governing coalition. Also read | Gaza war: Israel expands evacuation orders in Gaza Strip following school attack However, the Israeli security establishment remained considerably more skeptical about Netanyahu’s willingness to strike a deal given fierce opposition from far-right ministers in his coalition. One of the above two Israeli sources told the network that no one knew what Netanyahu wanted. Hamas doubtful of participating in Aug 15 truce talks Though the Qatari and Egyptian mediators said that Yahya Sinwar wanted a ceasefire deal, Hamas on Sunday cast doubt on its participation in the fresh round of talks on Thursday (Aug 15). In a statement, Hamas said it demanded the mediators to present a plan to implement what they presented to the movement and agreed upon on July 2, "based on United States (US) President Joe Biden's vision and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, and to compel the occupation to do so, instead of going for further negotiation rounds or new proposals." Why this stance by Hamas? Citing officials, CNN reported that this stance of Hamas was influenced by an Israeli strike on the Al-Tabin school complex compound in the Gaza Strip that killed at least 100 people. Also watch | Is Lebanon in 'regional' war with Israel? × The school compound was housing displaced Palestinian families. The Israeli strike drew international condemnation. One of the above two Israeli sources further told the network that US officials made it clear to their Israeli counterparts that the time to reach a truce deal was now to avoid a wider regional war. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war | Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar wants ceasefire deal: Mediators tell Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Thursday (Aug 8) that his government agreed to resume the Gaza war ceasefire talks on August 15 at the demand of US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Thursday (Aug 8) that his government agreed to resume the Gaza war ceasefire talks on August 15 at the demand of US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators. Following a week-long ceasefire in November last year, mediators have endeavoured to secure a second truce in the 10-month-old war. In a joint statement, the US, Qatar, and Egypt invited the warring parties (Israel and Hamas) to resume talks on August 15 in Doha or Cairo "to close all remaining gaps and commence implementation of the deal without further delay." Also read | After resisting for months, Israeli PM Netanyahu finally ‘sorry’ for Oct 7 Hamas attack A framework agreement was "now on the table, with only the details of implementation" left to conclude, and the mediators were "prepared to present a final bridging proposal" to resolve remaining issues, the statement added. Israel to send a negotiating team On Thursday, Netanyahu's office said that Israel would be sending a negotiating team on August 15 to conclude the details of implementing a ceasefire deal. A report by the news agency AFP said that a prospective cessation of hostilities also involving the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip and scaled-up aid deliveries has centred around a phased deal beginning with an initial truce. Recent discussions have focused on a framework outlined by US President Joe Biden in late May which he said had been proposed by Israel. "It's not like the agreement's going to be ready to sign on Thursday. There's still a significant amount of work to do," a senior Biden administration official said of the talks. This official said that Israel had been very receptive to the idea of the talks, rejecting suggestions that Netanyahu was stalling on a deal. Also watch | Israel agrees to resume Gaza truce talks on August 15 × Last week, Benjamin Netanyahu blamed Hamas for a long-stalled deal to end the war in Gaza and release Israeli hostages. "The simple truth is that until this moment, Hamas has not agreed to the most basic terms of the outline. While we have not added a single demand to the outline, Hamas is the one demanding to include tens of changes," he said. Netanyahu apologises for Oct 7 attack Also last week, Netanyahu apologised for the October 7 attack by Hamas happening on his watch and warned that Israel now faced a full-fledged Iranian axis. Speaking to Time magazine, the Israeli prime minister said, " ...I am sorry, deeply, that something like this happened. And you always look back and you say, ‘Could we have done things that would have prevented it?" "We’re facing not merely Hamas. We’re facing a full-fledged Iranian axis, and we understand that we have to organize ourselves for broader defence," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel agrees to resume truce talks on Aug 15 at mediators' demand

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has deemed US President Joe Biden's Gaza proposal for a truce as 'partial', as per a government spokesman David Mencer&nbsp;quoted by AFP news agency.&nbsp;However, Netanyahu reportedly indicated that the plan could commence even without all terms being fully agreed upon.

Biden introduced an Israeli three-phase plan to halt the conflict and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas as well as rebuilding the Gaza Strip.

"The outline that President Biden presented is partial," Mencer said while quoting Netanyahu. Speaking over the plan, Mencer elaborated that "the war will be stopped for the purpose of returning the hostages" but there will be subsequent discussions. These discussions, as per the AFP report, will be on ensuring that Israel can root out the militant group from Gaza completely.

In a separate statement, Netanyahu dismissed claims that Israel had agreed to a ceasefire without its conditions being met. He said that these assertions were "incorrect."

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a far-right coalition partner, criticised Biden's proposal and called it "irresponsible." He argued that the plan would end the war without fulfilling the cabinet's clear objective of destroying Hamas.

Ben Gvir warned his party would "break up the government."

Contrarily, opposition leader Yair Lapid, a centrist and former prime minister, urged the government to consider Biden's proposal and pledged to support Netanyahu if far-right coalition partners abandoned the government.

Netanyahu has been reiterating that Israel's primary goal remains the destruction of Hamas and the recovery of captives held in Gaza.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Hezbollah has launched a drone squadron towards the Israeli military’s Galilee formation headquarters.

<h2>Slovenia delays Palestinian state recognition</h2>

In Slovenia, the conservative opposition Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) has filed a proposal for an advisory referendum on a decree for Palestine statehood recognition. This motion filed by the opposition will now delay the parliamentary vote by about 30 days.

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;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has deemed US President Joe Biden's Gaza proposal for a truce as 'partial', as per a government spokesman David Mencer quoted by AFP news agency.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has deemed US President Joe Biden's Gaza proposal for a truce as 'partial', as per a government spokesman David Mencer quoted by AFP news agency. However, Netanyahu reportedly indicated that the plan could commence even without all terms being fully agreed upon. Biden introduced an Israeli three-phase plan to halt the conflict and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas as well as rebuilding the Gaza Strip. "The outline that President Biden presented is partial," Mencer said while quoting Netanyahu. Speaking over the plan, Mencer elaborated that "the war will be stopped for the purpose of returning the hostages" but there will be subsequent discussions. These discussions, as per the AFP report, will be on ensuring that Israel can root out the militant group from Gaza completely. In a separate statement, Netanyahu dismissed claims that Israel had agreed to a ceasefire without its conditions being met. He said that these assertions were "incorrect." Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a far-right coalition partner, criticised Biden's proposal and called it "irresponsible." He argued that the plan would end the war without fulfilling the cabinet's clear objective of destroying Hamas. Ben Gvir warned his party would "break up the government." Contrarily, opposition leader Yair Lapid, a centrist and former prime minister, urged the government to consider Biden's proposal and pledged to support Netanyahu if far-right coalition partners abandoned the government. Netanyahu has been reiterating that Israel's primary goal remains the destruction of Hamas and the recovery of captives held in Gaza. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has launched a drone squadron towards the Israeli military’s Galilee formation headquarters. Slovenia delays Palestinian state recognition In Slovenia, the conservative opposition Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) has filed a proposal for an advisory referendum on a decree for Palestine statehood recognition. This motion filed by the opposition will now delay the parliamentary vote by about 30 days. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement

Palestinian militant group Hamas said Sunday (May 12) that&nbsp;US President Biden's remarks that the truce in Gaza war is linked&nbsp;to the release of hostages was a "setback" to peace negotiations.&nbsp;

"We condemn this position by the US president, we consider it a setback from the outcomes of the latest round of negotiations, which led to the movement's agreement to the proposal put forward by mediators," Hamas said&nbsp;in a statement.

A day before, Biden suggested that a ceasefire in the besieged territory was possible 'tomorrow' if Hamas released all hostages it captured in the&nbsp;October 7&nbsp;attack.

<h2>Truce talks stalled</h2>

Hamas also said that Israel's decision to advance with the Rafah attack 'overturned' peace talks.

Negotiations, led by mediators from Egypt, Qatar and the United States, have&nbsp;largely stalled&nbsp;due to Israel's operation in Rafah.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjo4JTDvoiGAxWGS2wGHarAD6QQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-just-wrong-biden-issues-most-direct-warning-to-israel-against-rafah-invasion-719507" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/its-just-wrong-biden-issues-most-direct-warning-to-israel-against-rafah-invasion-719507&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo4JTDvoiGAxWGS2wGHarAD6QQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Israel reacts to Biden`s most direct warning against full blown Rafah invasion</a>

The militant group accused the Israeli government of "escalating their brutal massacres in various areas of the Gaza Strip" and "reaffirming their pursuit of continuing the genocidal war in Gaza".

<h2>US says Israel lacks a credible plan for&nbsp;Rafah</h2>

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the Biden administration's decision to halt arms delivery to Israel by saying that the Jewish nation lacked credible plans to safeguard the civilian population.

Biden has made clear to Israel that if it “launches this major military operation to Rafah, then there are certain systems that we’re not going to be supporting and supplying for that operation,” Blinken said.

“We have real concerns about the way they’re used,” he continued. Israel needs to “have a clear, credible plan to protect civilians, which we haven’t seen.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjo4JTDvoiGAxWGS2wGHarAD6QQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-evacuation-orders-for-people-in-more-areas-of-gazas-rafah-720367" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-evacuation-orders-for-people-in-more-areas-of-gazas-rafah-720367&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo4JTDvoiGAxWGS2wGHarAD6QQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Israel orders evacuation from more areas in Rafah, presses ahead with ground offensive</a>

Experts are worried a full-throttle military offensive in Gaza would further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the territory.

As per data released by the Gaza health ministry, more than 35,000 Palestinians have&nbsp;been killed&nbsp;in the war triggered after the&nbsp;Oct 7&nbsp;attacks.&nbsp;

More than 78,000 people have sustained injuries. Most of the casualties have been women and children, the health ministry has said.

<h2>IDF opens&nbsp;‘Western Erez’ Crossing&nbsp;</h2>

The IDF revealed that it has&nbsp;opened&nbsp;‘Western Erez’ Crossing in northern Gaza for transfer of humanitarian aid.&nbsp;This was done in accordance with the government directive and in coordination with the US, as part of the effort to increase aid routes to Gaza and to the northern part in particular.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Today (Sun), the ‘Western Erez’ Crossing was opened in the area of northern Gaza for the transfer of humanitarian aid. 
 
This was done in accordance with the government directive and in coordination with the US, as part of the effort to increase aid routes to Gaza and to the… <a href="https://t.co/Tqosop32F5">pic.twitter.com/Tqosop32F5</a>
— COGAT (@cogatonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/cogatonline/status/1789686967589843327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas said Sunday (May 12) that US President Biden's remarks that the truce in Gaza war is linked to the release of hostages was a "setback" to peace negotiations.

Palestinian militant group Hamas said Sunday (May 12) that US President Biden's remarks that the truce in Gaza war is linked to the release of hostages was a "setback" to peace negotiations. "We condemn this position by the US president, we consider it a setback from the outcomes of the latest round of negotiations, which led to the movement's agreement to the proposal put forward by mediators," Hamas said in a statement. A day before, Biden suggested that a ceasefire in the besieged territory was possible 'tomorrow' if Hamas released all hostages it captured in the October 7 attack. Truce talks stalled Hamas also said that Israel's decision to advance with the Rafah attack 'overturned' peace talks. Negotiations, led by mediators from Egypt, Qatar and the United States, have largely stalled due to Israel's operation in Rafah. Also read: Israel reacts to Biden`s most direct warning against full blown Rafah invasion The militant group accused the Israeli government of "escalating their brutal massacres in various areas of the Gaza Strip" and "reaffirming their pursuit of continuing the genocidal war in Gaza". US says Israel lacks a credible plan for Rafah Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the Biden administration's decision to halt arms delivery to Israel by saying that the Jewish nation lacked credible plans to safeguard the civilian population. Biden has made clear to Israel that if it “launches this major military operation to Rafah, then there are certain systems that we’re not going to be supporting and supplying for that operation,” Blinken said. “We have real concerns about the way they’re used,” he continued. Israel needs to “have a clear, credible plan to protect civilians, which we haven’t seen.” Also read: Israel orders evacuation from more areas in Rafah, presses ahead with ground offensive Experts are worried a full-throttle military offensive in Gaza would further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the territory. As per data released by the Gaza health ministry, more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war triggered after the Oct 7 attacks. More than 78,000 people have sustained injuries. Most of the casualties have been women and children, the health ministry has said. IDF opens ‘Western Erez’ Crossing The IDF revealed that it has opened ‘Western Erez’ Crossing in northern Gaza for transfer of humanitarian aid. This was done in accordance with the government directive and in coordination with the US, as part of the effort to increase aid routes to Gaza and to the northern part in particular. Today (Sun), the ‘Western Erez’ Crossing was opened in the area of northern Gaza for the transfer of humanitarian aid. This was done in accordance with the government directive and in coordination with the US, as part of the effort to increase aid routes to Gaza and to the… pic.twitter.com/Tqosop32F5 — COGAT (@cogatonline) May 12, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

‘Setback for peace talks’: Hamas slams Biden’s call for releasing all hostages in Gaza

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war.

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war. Hamas did not share the terms of the truce formally, but a senior Hamas member Khalil al-Hayya said on Monday that the proposal includes a three-stage truce with the goal of a lasting ceasefire. Hayya divulged details to the Qatar-based Al Jazeera channel, stating that each phase would last 42 days. According to him, the deal includes plans for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an exchange of hostages and prisoners. the deal would also guarantee the return of Palestinians displaced by the ongoing war, with the aim of a "permanent ceasefire". Also read: Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas Hamas's announcement came moments after the White House said that US President Joe Biden held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a statement published on its official website, the militant group said, "Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of Hamas movement, conducted a telephone call with the prime minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and with the Egyptian intelligence minister, Mr Abbas Kamel, and informed them of Hamas's approval of their proposal regarding a ceasefire agreement." After the announcement, a senior Hamas official said that Israel must decide whether it accepts or "obstructs" a truce in Gaza. While speaking to the news agency AFP on condition of anonymity, the official said, "After Hamas agreed to the mediators' proposal for a ceasefire, the ball is now in the court of Israeli occupation, whether it will agree to the ceasefire agreement or obstruct it." Also read: Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Times of Israel reported that Israeli officials have warned against accepting the announcement made by the Palestine-based militant group. Israel cautioned that the offer Hamas says it accepted is not the one it agreed to. Officials told networks Kan, 12 and 13 that the terms Hamas accepted are different to what Israel agreed to. The offer Hamas has accepted is apparently made unilaterally by Egypt. It is not being taken seriously in Jerusalem before the details are clarified, the networks mentioned. A senior Israeli official spoke to AFP, reiterating that it was not the "framework" Israel had previously agreed to, but he mentioned that the government was studying the proposal. "We have received the proposal and are reviewing it. It is not the framework that was agreed upon. We are examining it," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Celebrations were seen in the streets of Gaza after Hamas claimed to accept a ceasefire agreement. Watch this report: × Rafah evacuation order Despite Hamas saying it had approved the truce proposal, Israel's army late Monday reiterated its call for evacuations in Rafah. "We also call on residents this evening to evacuate," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a broadcast address after the Hamas announcement. Hagari added that "airforce aircraft targeted more than 50 terror targets in the Rafah area" throughout the day Monday. Fears are also looming over a possible invasion of Rafah, where more than one million people have sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment, which will be catastrophic. Meanwhile, the UN rights chief said Monday that Israel's order for Palestinians to evacuate from eastern Rafah in Gaza is "inhumane" and warned that the offensive would push suffering and destruction beyond already "unbearable" levels. Volker Turk further said forcing hundreds of thousands of people to flee to areas with almost no access to aid for survival was "inconceivable". Biden-Netanyahu talks The White House also said that Biden "reiterated his clear position" to Netanyahu after Israel defied US warnings and told Palestinians to evacuate part of the southern Gaza city of Rafah. It added that Netanyahu, meanwhile, "agreed to ensure the Kerem Shalom crossing is open for humanitarian assistance for those in need". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel cautions after Hamas says it accepts ceasefire proposal of Egypt and Qatar

Negotiations for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are under way in Cairo, sources said after a delegation of the Palestinian militant group Hamas arrived in Egypt on Saturday (May 4) for the latest round of talks on a proposed truce and hostage release in Gaza, the news agency AFP reported citing Egyptian media.

Negotiations for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are under way in Cairo, sources said after a delegation of the Palestinian militant group Hamas arrived in Egypt on Saturday (May 4) for the latest round of talks on a proposed truce and hostage release in Gaza, the news agency AFP reported citing Egyptian media. The mediators have already rejected Hamas’s demand for Russia, China and Turkey to be the guarantors of a ceasefire deal, reported The National citing sources. The Hamas delegation led by Khalil Al Hayah and including Zahed Gabreen, a confidante of Yahya Sinwar, arrived in Cairo on Saturday to resume the truce talks after months of negotiations failed. Zahed Gabreen, a senior group official and a confidante of Yahya Sinwar, is also in the delegation. According to a source in the Egyptian intelligence service, there has been significant progress in the negotiations between Hamas and Israel, and that the Egyptian mediators have "reached an agreed-upon formula on most points of contention." Also read | Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal, says PM Netanyahu Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the Palestinian militant group took hundreds of Israelis as hostages. This led to Israeli forces striking back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 34,000 people, injuring tens of thousands, and displacing over a million civilians. Here's a look at the latest updates: > A report in the Palestinian Al-Quds newspaper on Saturday said that Hamas would announce its approval of the latest proposal for a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the coming hours. > The latest proposal (in the ceasefire agreement) includes a first phase lasting up to 40 days in which up to 33 of 128 Israeli hostages held in Gaza would be released along with IDF withdrawal from parts of Gaza, a report by the Times of Israel said. > The second phase, which would last for 42 days, would see the release of all other living hostages and the sides completing arrangements for sustainable calm in Gaza. > The third and final phase, which would also last for 42 days, would see an exchange of bodies. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × > On Friday, Hamas said in a statement, "We emphasise the positive spirit with which the Hamas leadership dealt with the ceasefire proposal it recently received, and we are going to Cairo in the same spirit to reach an agreement." > The Gaza Health Ministry has denounced the passing of a prominent Palestinian physician in an Israeli detention facility following over four months of imprisonment. In a statement on X, it said that “the torture and assassination” of Dr Adnan al-Barash was the latest example of Israel’s “continued violation of international conventions in dealing with the health sector and medical personnel during its aggression against Gaza”. > On Friday, Hamas also accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to derail the proposed ceasefire, and hostage release deal with his threats to keep fighting the militants. > "Netanyahu was the obstructionist of all previous rounds of dialogue... and it is clear that he still is," a Hamas official told AFP. Al-Amal hospital continues to operate ‘partially’: Red Crescent The Palestine Red Crescent Society shared a video showing a hospital in Khan Younis and the nearby areas damaged by Israeli airstrikes. The video revealed destroyed buildings and lots of rubble everywhere. At least 5 dead in Israeli raid in occupied West Bank The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that Israeli forces allegedly killed five people during a raid on the town of Deir al-Ghusun in Tulkarem district. According to the ministry's Telegram channel, four of those killed were aged between 32 and 45. This report follows the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Deir al-Ghusun after a 15-hour raid that resulted in fatalities. Students in Switzerland join Gaza protests Around 100 students took over a building at Lausanne University as a form of protest against the conflict in Gaza. They called for an halt to scientific collaboration with Israel. Israeli official: Hamas' war end demand 'thwarting' truce efforts In another statement within hours, a diplomatic source once more rejects claims that Israel will accept a hostage-for-truce deal with Hamas, which involves Israel committing to end the conflict in Gaza. The source also refutes reports suggesting Israel will agree to mediators providing assurances for ending the war, as cited by the Times of Israel. Hamas’ Osama Hamdan on ongoing truce talks “We are still talking about the main issues, which are the complete ceasefire and complete withdrawal [of Israel] from Gaza. We hope we can find some positive answers today.” “Unfortunately, there was a clear statement from Netanyahu saying regardless of any ceasefire or not he’ll continue the attack against Rafah – which means there will be no ceasefire. Our understanding to achieve a ceasefire means there will be no more attacks anywhere in Gaza, including Rafah.” “We have to talk about the real position of the United States because that is the main issue that will affect the position of the Israelis, mainly Netanyahu. Guarantees are important, but we need a clear statement that clarifies the positions of each side. Because as we all know, the Israelis are trying every time to get out of their commitments,” Hamdan, a Hamas spokesman, told Al Jazeera over a phone call. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Negotiations underway in Cairo to secure new ceasefire deal | Top points