To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework&nbsp;displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.&nbsp;

The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere&nbsp;expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip".&nbsp;

Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve&nbsp;celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays

Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved.

Last month,&nbsp;Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea?</a>

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<h2>UAE calls for ceasefire</h2>

The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces.&nbsp;

UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year.

"As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-informs-arab-states-it-wants-a-buffer-zone-in-gaza-post-war-report-665400">Also read |&nbsp;Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report</a>

Despite the insistence by the Gulf&nbsp;regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas.&nbsp;

"We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it&nbsp;wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends.

(With inputs from agencies)

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations. The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip". Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved. Last month, Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea? UAE calls for ceasefire The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords. As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces. UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year. "As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also read | Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report Despite the insistence by the Gulf regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month. Notably, Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends. (With inputs from agencies)

Sharjah in UAE bans New Year’s Eve celebrations in solidarity with Gaza

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has not rejected the proposal and that further negotiations may follow.

But PM Netanyahu said that Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over Hamas is achieved.

"This is the only way to destroy Hamas, bring our hostages back, and ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

According to the Saudi news website Asharq cited by The Times of Israel, the Egyptian initiative is a plan to end hostilities and release all the remaining hostages&nbsp;in three stages.

<h2>Egypt's proposal for peace in Gaza: Reading into three stages</h2>

According to a report in The Times of Israel, the first stage would be a two-week halt in fighting, extendable to three or four, in exchange for the release of 40 hostages — women, minors and elderly men, especially sick ones.

In return, Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners of the 'same categories', the report added. During this time, hostilities would stop, Israeli tanks would withdraw, and humanitarian aid would enter Gaza, it said further.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis prays for people suffering from war

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The second phase is an Egypt-sponsored “Palestinian national talk” to end the division between Palestinian factions — mainly the Palestinian Authority and the Hamas terror group — aiming to&nbsp;form a technocratic government in the West Bank and Gaza that would oversee the reconstruction of Gaza and pave the way for Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections.

The third stage would include a comprehensive ceasefire&nbsp;and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, including soldiers, in return for a to-be-determined number of Palestinian security prisoners in Israeli jails affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad groups.&nbsp;

In this phase, Israel would withdraw its forces from cities in the Gaza Strip and would allow displaced Gazans from the blockaded Palestinian enclave’s north to return to their homes.

<h2>Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza: What is happening now?</h2>

Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on&nbsp;Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far.

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)

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has not rejected the proposal and that further negotiations may follow. But PM Netanyahu said that Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over Hamas is achieved. "This is the only way to destroy Hamas, bring our hostages back, and ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel," Netanyahu said. According to the Saudi news website Asharq cited by The Times of Israel, the Egyptian initiative is a plan to end hostilities and release all the remaining hostages in three stages. Egypt's proposal for peace in Gaza: Reading into three stages According to a report in The Times of Israel, the first stage would be a two-week halt in fighting, extendable to three or four, in exchange for the release of 40 hostages — women, minors and elderly men, especially sick ones. In return, Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners of the 'same categories', the report added. During this time, hostilities would stop, Israeli tanks would withdraw, and humanitarian aid would enter Gaza, it said further. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis prays for people suffering from war × The second phase is an Egypt-sponsored “Palestinian national talk” to end the division between Palestinian factions — mainly the Palestinian Authority and the Hamas terror group — aiming to form a technocratic government in the West Bank and Gaza that would oversee the reconstruction of Gaza and pave the way for Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections. The third stage would include a comprehensive ceasefire and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, including soldiers, in return for a to-be-determined number of Palestinian security prisoners in Israeli jails affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad groups. In this phase, Israel would withdraw its forces from cities in the Gaza Strip and would allow displaced Gazans from the blockaded Palestinian enclave’s north to return to their homes. Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza: What is happening now? Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials. Also read | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far. 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-Hamas war: Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes ambitious peace plan

A second man was arrested&nbsp;on Sunday (Dec 24) on the suspicion of theft and criminal damage after a road sign featuring work by street artist Banksy was removed in south-east London on Friday, said the police. The recent arrest comes a day after another man was arrested in the case.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

A traffic stop sign covered with three aircraft resembling military drones was revealed at the intersection of Southampton Way and Commercial Way in Peckham, which is southeast of London, United Kingdom, on Friday (Dec 22) afternoon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-police-increase-security-at-cologne-cathedral-for-christmas-amid-attack-threat-673163">German police increase security at Cologne Cathedral for Christmas celebrations amid attack threat</a>

However, around an hour after Banksy confirmed it was his with a post on social media, two men were seen ripping down the sign. Subsequently, the men were seen running down the street with the sign in hand, according to British media reports.&nbsp;

The London police said a man in his 40s was arrested on Sunday and remains in police custody. This was a day after they said they had arrested a man in his 20s also on suspicion of theft and criminal damage.&nbsp;

The man in his 20s had later been bailed pending further inquiries and will return to London police station in March. &nbsp;

British media reports citing witnesses said that the sign was taken by a man using bolt cutters prompting the Metropolitan Police to launch an investigation. “We are aware of footage being shared which shows the sign being removed,” said the Met police after the incident.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

The police are now looking for the sign and have asked anyone with information about its whereabouts to contact Scotland Yard.&nbsp;

<h2>‘For the people’</h2>

Southwark council has since replaced the stolen sign to avoid endangering motorists. Deputy leader of Southwark Council, Jasmine Ali&nbsp;said she had “every confidence” police would be able to retrieve the Banksy sign.

“We are not just talking about a street sign here, it is a work of art which was put there for the community,” said Ali. “It is street art and it is for the people.”

“Of course Banksy picked Peckham, it’s already on the map when it comes to art and is a hotbed for creativity,” she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-foreign-minister-denies-helping-houthis-plan-attacks-on-israel-linked-ships-673175">Iran's foreign minister denies helping Houthis plan attacks on Israel-linked ships</a>

Banksy’s followers on Instagram have widely interpreted his latest work as calling for a ceasefire in Gaza as the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group continues to rage on.&nbsp;

John Brandler, whose Essex gallery sells Banksy’s works, said that the missing artwork could be worth more than $633,775 (£500,000), reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

“It could easily be higher,” said Brandler. “The media attention has made it more valuable.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A second man was arrested on Sunday (Dec 24) on the suspicion of theft and criminal damage after a road sign featuring work by street artist Banksy was removed in south-east London on Friday, said the police.

A second man was arrested on Sunday (Dec 24) on the suspicion of theft and criminal damage after a road sign featuring work by street artist Banksy was removed in south-east London on Friday, said the police. The recent arrest comes a day after another man was arrested in the case. What happened? A traffic stop sign covered with three aircraft resembling military drones was revealed at the intersection of Southampton Way and Commercial Way in Peckham, which is southeast of London, United Kingdom, on Friday (Dec 22) afternoon. ALSO READ | German police increase security at Cologne Cathedral for Christmas celebrations amid attack threat However, around an hour after Banksy confirmed it was his with a post on social media, two men were seen ripping down the sign. Subsequently, the men were seen running down the street with the sign in hand, according to British media reports. The London police said a man in his 40s was arrested on Sunday and remains in police custody. This was a day after they said they had arrested a man in his 20s also on suspicion of theft and criminal damage. The man in his 20s had later been bailed pending further inquiries and will return to London police station in March. British media reports citing witnesses said that the sign was taken by a man using bolt cutters prompting the Metropolitan Police to launch an investigation. “We are aware of footage being shared which shows the sign being removed,” said the Met police after the incident. ALSO READ | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war The police are now looking for the sign and have asked anyone with information about its whereabouts to contact Scotland Yard. ‘For the people’ Southwark council has since replaced the stolen sign to avoid endangering motorists. Deputy leader of Southwark Council, Jasmine Ali said she had “every confidence” police would be able to retrieve the Banksy sign. “We are not just talking about a street sign here, it is a work of art which was put there for the community,” said Ali. “It is street art and it is for the people.” “Of course Banksy picked Peckham, it’s already on the map when it comes to art and is a hotbed for creativity,” she added. ALSO READ | Iran's foreign minister denies helping Houthis plan attacks on Israel-linked ships Banksy’s followers on Instagram have widely interpreted his latest work as calling for a ceasefire in Gaza as the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group continues to rage on. John Brandler, whose Essex gallery sells Banksy’s works, said that the missing artwork could be worth more than $633,775 (£500,000), reported the Guardian. “It could easily be higher,” said Brandler. “The media attention has made it more valuable.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Police arrest two men on suspicion of theft, causing damage to Banksy artwork in Peckham

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on.&nbsp;

The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians.&nbsp;

<h2>‘We feel sad’</h2>

The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-didnt-talk-about-ceasefire-during-private-conversation-with-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-673116">Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza.

This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas.

“This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square.

“This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-amid-israel-hamas-war-the-turmoil-in-top-us-universities-over-antisemitism-668405">Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row</a>

The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans.&nbsp;

<h2>People of&nbsp;Bethlehem&nbsp;</h2>

Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza.

The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;

“My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-cancels-christmas-in-solidarity-with-gaza-668430">Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza</a>

He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.”&nbsp;

He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born.

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on. The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians. ‘We feel sad’ The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday. ALSO READ | Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza. This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas. “This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square. “This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press. He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering. ALSO READ | Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans. People of Bethlehem Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza. The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry. “My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.” He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war

Israeli army&nbsp;in early hours of Saturday (Dec&nbsp;16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead&nbsp;three hostages&nbsp;after considering them a threat.

"During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident".

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דובר צה"ל: 
 
במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו. 
 
במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים&gt;&gt;
— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1735725778250170731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added.

The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family.

Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am.

When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages.

The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of&nbsp;Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday.

<h2>Status of the war and main developments on&nbsp;Friday (Dec 15)</h2>

Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000.&nbsp; Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure.

Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside.

Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023

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AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes.

Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem.&nbsp;The city has a powerful missile defence system.

Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began.

US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip.

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US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday.

Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/45pc-of-israeli-air-to-ground-munitions-in-gaza-are-dumb-bombs-reveals-report-669941">45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report</a>

On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers".&nbsp;

A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat.

Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident". דובר צה"ל: במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו. במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים>> — צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) December 15, 2023 × "The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added. The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family. Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am. When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages. The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday. Status of the war and main developments on Friday (Dec 15) Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000. Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure. Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside. Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023 × AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes. Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem. The city has a powerful missile defence system. Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began. US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip. Also Read | Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday. Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state. Also Read | 45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers". A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel troops ‘mistakenly’ shot dead three Israeli hostages, says army

The U.N. human rights chief urged countries on Monday to work together to defeat threats such as war and pollution at an event to mark 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that risks being overshadowed by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Ministers, diplomats and activists attended the Geneva event where Volker Turk invoked the spirit in which the newly-formed United Nations adopted the declaration in December 1948, in response to what the document calls "barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind".

"I view today's event as a call to hope, and a call to action," said Turk, an Austrian, who said the declaration had inspired successes such as the end of racial segregation in the United States and apartheid in South Africa.

"At a time of so little solidarity, and so much divisive and short-sighted vision, I view it as a call to overcome polarisation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-leader-alexey-navalny-goes-missing-from-prison-668638">Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison</a>

But he also lamented failures in the struggle, such as war, referring to "millions of people suffering unbearably in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, notably in Gaza, and Israel" as well as famine, discrimination, repression and pollution.

Never before in the period after World War Two has the world seen so many conflicts, with 55 now active, including a war between rival military factions in Sudan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations said.

In communications about the two-day event, Turk's office has avoided the word "celebrate" in referring to the anniversary, preferring instead the term "mark".

Other U.N. officials were more downbeat than Turk.

Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said human rights were under assault more than two months after Hamas' deadly cross-border attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, followed by a retaliatory Israeli bombing campaign.

"In 2023, I should not have to issue such a statement," she said. "It is as if we have learned nothing in the past 75 years."

The U.N. human rights chief urged countries on Monday to work together to defeat threats such as war and pollution at an event to mark 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that risks being overshadowed by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The U.N. human rights chief urged countries on Monday to work together to defeat threats such as war and pollution at an event to mark 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that risks being overshadowed by the Israel-Hamas conflict. Ministers, diplomats and activists attended the Geneva event where Volker Turk invoked the spirit in which the newly-formed United Nations adopted the declaration in December 1948, in response to what the document calls "barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind". "I view today's event as a call to hope, and a call to action," said Turk, an Austrian, who said the declaration had inspired successes such as the end of racial segregation in the United States and apartheid in South Africa. "At a time of so little solidarity, and so much divisive and short-sighted vision, I view it as a call to overcome polarisation." Also read: Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison But he also lamented failures in the struggle, such as war, referring to "millions of people suffering unbearably in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, notably in Gaza, and Israel" as well as famine, discrimination, repression and pollution. Never before in the period after World War Two has the world seen so many conflicts, with 55 now active, including a war between rival military factions in Sudan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations said. In communications about the two-day event, Turk's office has avoided the word "celebrate" in referring to the anniversary, preferring instead the term "mark". Other U.N. officials were more downbeat than Turk. Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said human rights were under assault more than two months after Hamas' deadly cross-border attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, followed by a retaliatory Israeli bombing campaign. "In 2023, I should not have to issue such a statement," she said. "It is as if we have learned nothing in the past 75 years."

UN marks 75 years of human rights declaration in shadow of Gaza war

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation.

Earlier, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate&nbsp;ceasefire on Friday. Washington cited the absence of any plan for return of Israelis held hostage in Gaza since October 7 as one of the reasons behind its opposition. But its veto was strongly condemned by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, as well as Islamin nations and humanitarian groups.&nbsp;

Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority, said the US veto in the UNSC made it complicit in Israel’s "genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes" against Palestinians, Reuters reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-un-security-council-resolution-demanding-immediate-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-667777">US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas</a>

<h2>Jaishankar dials Palestinian PM</h2>

Meanwhile, India's Minister for External Affairs (MEA) Dr S. Jaishankar spoke to the Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on the evening of Dec 9.&nbsp;

"Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening," Jaishankar wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"He expressed deep concern on the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated India’s long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch," Jaishankar added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Why Houthis Target Ships in the Red Sea | What Stops U.S. From Retaliating?

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India supports a two-state&nbsp;resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

Amid Israel continuing&nbsp;to pound Gaza with air strikes, the Hamas ministry said 71 dead had arrived at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah alone over 24 hours, and 62 at Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Yunis.&nbsp;

Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas after its unprecedented attacks on October 7, when the men owing allegiance to Hamas broke through Gaza's border with Israel to kill about 1,200 Israelis and seize hostages, of whom 138 remain captive, according to Israel. 
 
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)

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation.

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation. Earlier, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire on Friday. Washington cited the absence of any plan for return of Israelis held hostage in Gaza since October 7 as one of the reasons behind its opposition. But its veto was strongly condemned by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, as well as Islamin nations and humanitarian groups. Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority, said the US veto in the UNSC made it complicit in Israel’s "genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes" against Palestinians, Reuters reported. Also read | US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas Jaishankar dials Palestinian PM Meanwhile, India's Minister for External Affairs (MEA) Dr S. Jaishankar spoke to the Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on the evening of Dec 9. "Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening," Jaishankar wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "He expressed deep concern on the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated India’s long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch," Jaishankar added. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Why Houthis Target Ships in the Red Sea | What Stops U.S. From Retaliating? × India supports a two-state resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Amid Israel continuing to pound Gaza with air strikes, the Hamas ministry said 71 dead had arrived at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah alone over 24 hours, and 62 at Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Yunis. Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas after its unprecedented attacks on October 7, when the men owing allegiance to Hamas broke through Gaza's border with Israel to kill about 1,200 Israelis and seize hostages, of whom 138 remain captive, according to Israel. 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-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas

Israel is&nbsp;planning a global operation to target Hamas leaders once the war in the Gaza Strip ends, media reports said citing Israeli officials.

The nation's intelligence services, under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's orders, are developing plans to pursue Hamas leaders residing in Lebanon, Turkey, and Qatar, a report by WSJ said quoting the officials.&nbsp;

Netanyahu publicly announced the intention to target Hamas leaders around the world in a national address on November 22, stating, "I have instructed the Mossad to act against the heads of Hamas wherever they are."

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has also earlier said, "They are marked for death. The struggle is worldwide, both the terrorists in Gaza and those who fly in expensive planes."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zaporizhzhia-plants-power-cut-carried-risk-of-nuclear-accident-ukraine-665458">Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine</a>

While Israel usually keeps such operations secret, the leaders have been forthcoming about their intent to pursue those responsible for the recent attacks. The plans represent an extension of Israel's ongoing war with Hamas.&nbsp;

Former Mossad director Efraim Halevy has been critical of the plan, deeming it ill-advised, and said that eliminating Hamas leaders may escalate tensions rather than mitigate the threat.

In contrast, retired Israeli general Amos Yadlin supports the years-long campaign, stating that it aligns with justice.&nbsp;“All the Hamas leaders, all those who participated in the attack, who planned the attack, who ordered the attack, should be brought to justice or eliminated,” Yadlin said adding, “It’s the right policy.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-blu-109-bunker-buster-bombs-could-potentially-decimate-hamas-tunnels-in-gaza-665456">Explained: How BLU-109 'bunker buster' bombs could potentially decimate Hamas tunnels in Gaza</a>

<h2>Israel's history&nbsp;</h2>

This initiative is now recalling Israel's history of conducting over 2,700 worldwide such operations since World War II, according to the book "Rise and Kill First" by Israeli journalist Ronen Bergman, the WSJ report said.&nbsp;

The pursuit of Hamas leaders globally is in the same vein as&nbsp;previous operations, including the failed attempt to poison Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal in 1997 in Jordan.&nbsp;

<h5>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/melodi-indian-pm-modis-selfie-with-italian-pm-meloni-goes-viral-665453">Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral</a></h5>

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The plans are also symbolic of Israel's historical use of covert operations in response to events, such as Operation Wrath of God initiated after the 1972 Munich Olympics attack.

The operation involved hunting down and assassinating individuals linked to the attack while showing Israel's embrace of covert assassinations as a tool of government policy.

The potential targeted killings abroad, the report said, raise concerns about violating international law and potential diplomatic repercussions. Nevertheless, Israel seems determined, just as in earlier instances to pursue this strategy, as part of its broader efforts to neutralise&nbsp;the Hamas threat, the report added.&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.

Israel is planning a global operation to target Hamas leaders once the war in the Gaza Strip ends, media reports said citing Israeli officials. The nation's intelligence services, under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's orders, are developing plans to pursue Hamas leaders residing in Lebanon, Turkey, and Qatar, a report by WSJ said quoting the officials.

Israel is planning a global operation to target Hamas leaders once the war in the Gaza Strip ends, media reports said citing Israeli officials. The nation's intelligence services, under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's orders, are developing plans to pursue Hamas leaders residing in Lebanon, Turkey, and Qatar, a report by WSJ said quoting the officials. Netanyahu publicly announced the intention to target Hamas leaders around the world in a national address on November 22, stating, "I have instructed the Mossad to act against the heads of Hamas wherever they are." Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has also earlier said, "They are marked for death. The struggle is worldwide, both the terrorists in Gaza and those who fly in expensive planes." Also Read | Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine While Israel usually keeps such operations secret, the leaders have been forthcoming about their intent to pursue those responsible for the recent attacks. The plans represent an extension of Israel's ongoing war with Hamas. Former Mossad director Efraim Halevy has been critical of the plan, deeming it ill-advised, and said that eliminating Hamas leaders may escalate tensions rather than mitigate the threat. In contrast, retired Israeli general Amos Yadlin supports the years-long campaign, stating that it aligns with justice. “All the Hamas leaders, all those who participated in the attack, who planned the attack, who ordered the attack, should be brought to justice or eliminated,” Yadlin said adding, “It’s the right policy.” Also Read | Explained: How BLU-109 'bunker buster' bombs could potentially decimate Hamas tunnels in Gaza Israel's history This initiative is now recalling Israel's history of conducting over 2,700 worldwide such operations since World War II, according to the book "Rise and Kill First" by Israeli journalist Ronen Bergman, the WSJ report said. The pursuit of Hamas leaders globally is in the same vein as previous operations, including the failed attempt to poison Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal in 1997 in Jordan. Watch | Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral × The plans are also symbolic of Israel's historical use of covert operations in response to events, such as Operation Wrath of God initiated after the 1972 Munich Olympics attack. The operation involved hunting down and assassinating individuals linked to the attack while showing Israel's embrace of covert assassinations as a tool of government policy. The potential targeted killings abroad, the report said, raise concerns about violating international law and potential diplomatic repercussions. Nevertheless, Israel seems determined, just as in earlier instances to pursue this strategy, as part of its broader efforts to neutralise the Hamas threat, the report added. (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.

What after Gaza war ends? Israel plans to hunt down Hamas leaders globally, says report

Take a look at the extensive labyrinth of tunnels built by the Hamas militant group which stretches across the densely populated strip, hiding fighters, their rockets and ammunition. The tunnels inside Gaza are believed to be as much as 30m (100ft) below the surface.

Israel-Palestine war | Gazans residents face near-total communication blackout

On the May 10 of last year, the first rockets from Gaza were fired towards Israel which lasted 11 days. WION's Jodie Cohen spoke exclusively to ambassador Danny Danon about the way forward and the way forward towards peace in a fraught region.

WION Exclusive: 'We should not allow radical leaders to promote hate', says Danny Danon

WION Exclusive: 'Hope to sign a peace deal with the Palestinians', says Danny Danon

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup.

"I have no intention of letting Hamas members who are detainees in our prisons enjoy the World Cup matches while we have Israeli hostages and soldiers in the Gaza Strip," Erdan said, quoted by the YNet news website.

The minister said he had asked the Israel Prison Service to "put pressure" on jailed members of Hamas.

Under current rules, prisoners have the right to watch television, but Erdan said he was checking to see if regulations could be changed in time for the World Cup, which runs from June 14 to July 15.&nbsp

Prisoners who "support terrorism cannot benefit from a sporting competition which unites populations," the minister said.&nbsp

The bodies of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war, Oren Shaul and Hadar Goldin, are believed to be held by Hamas.&nbsp

Around 6,500 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club.

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup. "I have no intention of letting Hamas members who are detainees in our prisons enjoy the World Cup matches while we have Israeli hostages and soldiers in the Gaza Strip," Erdan said, quoted by the YNet news website. The minister said he had asked the Israel Prison Service to "put pressure" on jailed members of Hamas. Under current rules, prisoners have the right to watch television, but Erdan said he was checking to see if regulations could be changed in time for the World Cup, which runs from June 14 to July 15. Prisoners who "support terrorism cannot benefit from a sporting competition which unites populations," the minister said. The bodies of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war, Oren Shaul and Hadar Goldin, are believed to be held by Hamas. Around 6,500 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club.

Israel minister Gilad Erdan wants World Cup TV ban for Hamas inmates

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