<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (April 10) accused Spain of waging a diplomatic campaign against the Jewish state, following Madrid's sustained criticism of Israel's war in Gaza after Hamas' attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.</p><p>Netanyahu announced the removal of Spain's representatives from the US-led Commanders' Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, a body created to help stabilise post-war Gaza. "I have instructed today to remove Spain's representatives from the coordination centre in Kiryat Gat, after Spain has chosen repeatedly to stand against Israel," he said in a video statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Relations between Israel and Spain have been on a downward spiral since Madrid's recognition of the Palestinian state in May 2024 and its vocal criticism of the Gaza war. Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Those who attack the State of Israel instead of confronting terrorist regimes will not be our partners in shaping the region's future," Netanyahu added. "I am not prepared to tolerate this hypocrisy and hostility. I will not allow any country to conduct a diplomatic war against us without facing an immediate price," he said, referring to the decision to bar Madrid from the CMCC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Spain was among a wave of European nations that moved to formally recognise the State of Palestine following the escalation of the conflict in late 2023. The momentum began in May 2024 with a coordinated announcement by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, followed by Slovenia and Armenia in June 2024.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A more significant shift came during the 80th UN General Assembly in September 2025, when several major powers, including France and the United Kingdom, joined the list, alongside Belgium, Portugal, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, and Andorra. This collective movement reflects a growing consensus among European governments that recognition is a necessary step toward a two-state solution, despite continued opposition from nations such as Germany and Italy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-talks-what-are-the-two-key-demands-tehran-has-set-before-negotiations-in-pakistan-1775832708939"><strong> US-Iran talks: Lebanon ceasefire, asset release—Tehran sets two key demands before negotiations in Pakistan</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The CMCC, from which Spain has now been barred, includes military personnel and diplomats from several countries, including France, Britain and the United Arab Emirates, who participate in meetings on security and humanitarian issues in Gaza, devastated by more than two years of war. Israel's foreign ministry had earlier on Friday announced the decision to bar Spain from the centre. "Israel will not remain silent in the face of those who attack us," Netanyahu said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, American public opinion toward Israel has shifted significantly in recent years, with unfavourable views reaching 60% by April 2026, according to available data. Net approval has fallen sharply from positive territory to deeply negative over the past four years, driven by growing concerns over civilian casualties and a generational divide in public attitudes.</p>

Relations between Israel and Spain have been on a downward spiral since Madrid's recognition of the Palestinian state in May 2024 and its vocal criticism of the Gaza war. Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (April 10) accused Spain of waging a diplomatic campaign against the Jewish state, following Madrid's sustained criticism of Israel's war in Gaza after Hamas' attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Netanyahu announced the removal of Spain's representatives from the US-led Commanders' Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, a body created to help stabilise post-war Gaza. "I have instructed today to remove Spain's representatives from the coordination centre in Kiryat Gat, after Spain has chosen repeatedly to stand against Israel," he said in a video statement. Relations between Israel and Spain have been on a downward spiral since Madrid's recognition of the Palestinian state in May 2024 and its vocal criticism of the Gaza war. Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors. "Those who attack the State of Israel instead of confronting terrorist regimes will not be our partners in shaping the region's future," Netanyahu added. "I am not prepared to tolerate this hypocrisy and hostility. I will not allow any country to conduct a diplomatic war against us without facing an immediate price," he said, referring to the decision to bar Madrid from the CMCC. Spain was among a wave of European nations that moved to formally recognise the State of Palestine following the escalation of the conflict in late 2023. The momentum began in May 2024 with a coordinated announcement by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, followed by Slovenia and Armenia in June 2024. A more significant shift came during the 80th UN General Assembly in September 2025, when several major powers, including France and the United Kingdom, joined the list, alongside Belgium, Portugal, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, and Andorra. This collective movement reflects a growing consensus among European governments that recognition is a necessary step toward a two-state solution, despite continued opposition from nations such as Germany and Italy. Also Read: US-Iran talks: Lebanon ceasefire, asset release—Tehran sets two key demands before negotiations in Pakistan The CMCC, from which Spain has now been barred, includes military personnel and diplomats from several countries, including France, Britain and the United Arab Emirates, who participate in meetings on security and humanitarian issues in Gaza, devastated by more than two years of war. Israel's foreign ministry had earlier on Friday announced the decision to bar Spain from the centre. "Israel will not remain silent in the face of those who attack us," Netanyahu said. Meanwhile, American public opinion toward Israel has shifted significantly in recent years, with unfavourable views reaching 60% by April 2026, according to available data. Net approval has fallen sharply from positive territory to deeply negative over the past four years, driven by growing concerns over civilian casualties and a generational divide in public attitudes.

<p>Relations between Israel and Spain have been on a downward spiral since Madrid's recognition of the Palestinian state in May 2024 and its vocal criticism of the Gaza war. Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.</p>

Is Europe turning against Israel? Netanyahu accuses Spain of ‘hostility’ after Gaza truce centre row

Tensions are rising around the fragile Gaza ceasefire as Hamas demands a halt to what it calls continued Israeli aggression.

The militant group warns that further military operations could jeopardize ongoing truce efforts, while Israel says its actions are focused on security and preventing future attacks.

Diplomats and mediators are working to preserve the ceasefire, but uncertainty remains over whether both sides can maintain calm amid deep mistrust.

Gaza Ceasefire: Hamas Demands Halt To Israeli Aggression

<p>The Donald Trump administration, as per reports, is planning to construct a large military base in southern Gaza. The proposed installation would span more than 350 acres and house up to 5,000 personnel.</p><h2><strong>A US military base in Gaza?</strong></h2><p>According to a The Guardian report, the Board of Peace contracting records show that the military base is being envisioned as a military operating base for a future International Stabilization Force.</p><p>The base is envisioned as the operational hub of a multinational force operating under the newly created Board of Peace, an entity chaired by US President Donald Trump and reportedly led in part by his son-in-law Jared Kushner. The United Nations Security Council has authorised the Board to establish a temporary stabilisation mission in Gaza, tasked with securing borders, protecting civilians and supporting vetted Palestinian police units.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shaping-a-presidential-legacy-from-donald-j-trump-international-airport-kennedy-center-to-warships-trump-s-latest-self-naming-moves-in-pics-1771400773467"><strong>What's in a name? Trump's many attempts to leave behind a presidential legacy: Airport, warship and more | In pics</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How big would the compound be?</strong></h2><p>According to the documents, the compound would measure roughly 1,400 by 1,100 meters and be surrounded by barbed wire and 26 armoured watchtowers. Plans include bunkers with reinforced ventilation systems, a small-arms range, and storage facilities for military equipment. "The Contractor," reads the document, "shall conduct a geophysical survey of the site to identify any subterranean voids, tunnels, or large cavities per phase," a likely reference to Hamas’s extensive tunnel network.</p><p>The site is described as a flat, arid stretch of land in southern Gaza, an area heavily damaged during the conflict.</p><h2><strong>Human Remains Protocol</strong></h2><p>According to the Guardian, one section of the proposal outlines a "Human Remains Protocol" that requires work to stop if suspected remains are discovered. "If suspected human remains or cultural artefacts are discovered, all work in the immediate area must cease immediately, the area must be secured, and the Contracting Officer must be notified immediately for direction". Gaza authorities have said thousands of bodies remain buried beneath rubble.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-snubs-trump-s-board-of-peace-invitation-over-governance-concerns-leavitt-hits-back-at-pope-1771462475804"><strong>Vatican snubs Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace invitation over governance concerns; Leavitt hits back at Pope</strong></a></p><p>Indonesia has reportedly offered up to 8,000 troops for the stabilisation force, and more than 20 countries have signed onto the Board of Peace. However, several governments, and most recently the Pope, have declined to participate, and critics have questioned the Board's governance structure, noting that its charter appears to grant Trump permanent leadership.</p>

The Donald Trump administration is reportedly planning a 350 acre military base in southern Gaza to house up to 5,000 personnel under the new Board of Peace. All you need to know.

The Donald Trump administration, as per reports, is planning to construct a large military base in southern Gaza. The proposed installation would span more than 350 acres and house up to 5,000 personnel. A US military base in Gaza? According to a The Guardian report, the Board of Peace contracting records show that the military base is being envisioned as a military operating base for a future International Stabilization Force. The base is envisioned as the operational hub of a multinational force operating under the newly created Board of Peace, an entity chaired by US President Donald Trump and reportedly led in part by his son-in-law Jared Kushner. The United Nations Security Council has authorised the Board to establish a temporary stabilisation mission in Gaza, tasked with securing borders, protecting civilians and supporting vetted Palestinian police units. Also read | What's in a name? Trump's many attempts to leave behind a presidential legacy: Airport, warship and more | In pics How big would the compound be? According to the documents, the compound would measure roughly 1,400 by 1,100 meters and be surrounded by barbed wire and 26 armoured watchtowers. Plans include bunkers with reinforced ventilation systems, a small-arms range, and storage facilities for military equipment. "The Contractor," reads the document, "shall conduct a geophysical survey of the site to identify any subterranean voids, tunnels, or large cavities per phase," a likely reference to Hamas’s extensive tunnel network. The site is described as a flat, arid stretch of land in southern Gaza, an area heavily damaged during the conflict. Human Remains Protocol According to the Guardian, one section of the proposal outlines a "Human Remains Protocol" that requires work to stop if suspected remains are discovered. "If suspected human remains or cultural artefacts are discovered, all work in the immediate area must cease immediately, the area must be secured, and the Contracting Officer must be notified immediately for direction". Gaza authorities have said thousands of bodies remain buried beneath rubble. Also read | Vatican snubs Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace invitation over governance concerns; Leavitt hits back at Pope Indonesia has reportedly offered up to 8,000 troops for the stabilisation force, and more than 20 countries have signed onto the Board of Peace. However, several governments, and most recently the Pope, have declined to participate, and critics have questioned the Board's governance structure, noting that its charter appears to grant Trump permanent leadership.

<p>The Donald Trump administration is reportedly planning a 350 acre military base in southern Gaza to house up to 5,000 personnel under the new Board of Peace. All you need to know.</p>

Trump administration to build 350-acre US base in war-scarred Gaza: Report

<p>Israeli singer-actor Idan Amedi, who is also a combat reservist, has returned to the frontline reserve duty, two years after being critically injured during fighting in Gaza. This development is said to mark a new chapter in the life of the 37-year-old.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/adolescence-star-owen-cooper-makes-history-at-a-young-age-becomes-the-youngest-to-win-golden-globe-emmy-critics-choice-awards-1768209495153"><strong>Owen Cooper makes history; becomes the youngest to win Golden Globe, Emmy Awards</strong></a></p><h2>How did Amedi get injured?</h2><p>As per reports, the popular singer and songwriter, who played the role of Sagi Tzur in the series <i>Fauda</i>, was wounded in January 2024 while serving with the Israel Defense Forces’ Combat Engineering Corps reserves. At the time, his unit was deployed in Gaza as part of a mission to dismantle Hamas’s terror-tunnel network.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/golden-globes-2026-a-look-at-jaw-dropping-fashion-trends-from-the-red-carpet-1768201944907"><strong>Golden Globes 2026: A look at jaw-dropping fashion trends from the red carpet</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reportedly, the incident in which Amedi was injured occurred while they were preparing to demolish a tunnel area filled with explosives. A large cache detonated unexpectedly, killing six IDF soldiers and severely wounding several others, including Amedi. He was evacuated by helicopter to Sheba Medical Center, where he arrived sedated and ventilated, suffering from shrapnel injuries and multiple traumas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-ott-releases-this-week-jan-12-18-2026-golden-globes-one-last-adventure-taskaree-8-new-movies-and-tv-shows-on-netflix-jiohotstar-and-more-1768122351690"><strong>New OTT Releases this week (Jan 12-18, 2026): 8 new movies and TV shows on OTT</strong></a></p><h2>Long recovery process</h2><p>After the incident, the singer underwent a long recovery process. Talking about the blast during his rehabilitation, he said, "We were three teams, supposed to destroy several tunnel shafts. We were already at the end of the mission and on the way out when the explosion happened, completely by surprise."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/nikki-glaser-s-silent-tribute-to-rob-reiner-at-2026-golden-globes-1768207440704"><strong>'This one went to 1': Nikki Glaser pays tribute to Rob Reiner at Golden Globes</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The IDF has not disclosed details of his current role or deployment location, but they have confirmed that he has returned in an operational reserve capacity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Idan Amedi joined the IDF reserves on October 7, 2023, shortly after the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. Announcing the news, he shared a video from the front revealing that "this isn’t a scene from Fauda-this is real life."&nbsp;</p>

After two years of recovery from injury, Israeli singer-actor Idan Amedi has returned to the frontline reserve duty. He was wounded during fighting in Gaza in January 2024. Details inside. 

Israeli singer-actor Idan Amedi, who is also a combat reservist, has returned to the frontline reserve duty, two years after being critically injured during fighting in Gaza. This development is said to mark a new chapter in the life of the 37-year-old. Also Read: Owen Cooper makes history; becomes the youngest to win Golden Globe, Emmy Awards How did Amedi get injured? As per reports, the popular singer and songwriter, who played the role of Sagi Tzur in the series Fauda, was wounded in January 2024 while serving with the Israel Defense Forces’ Combat Engineering Corps reserves. At the time, his unit was deployed in Gaza as part of a mission to dismantle Hamas’s terror-tunnel network. Also Read: Golden Globes 2026: A look at jaw-dropping fashion trends from the red carpet Reportedly, the incident in which Amedi was injured occurred while they were preparing to demolish a tunnel area filled with explosives. A large cache detonated unexpectedly, killing six IDF soldiers and severely wounding several others, including Amedi. He was evacuated by helicopter to Sheba Medical Center, where he arrived sedated and ventilated, suffering from shrapnel injuries and multiple traumas. Also Read: New OTT Releases this week (Jan 12-18, 2026): 8 new movies and TV shows on OTT Long recovery process After the incident, the singer underwent a long recovery process. Talking about the blast during his rehabilitation, he said, "We were three teams, supposed to destroy several tunnel shafts. We were already at the end of the mission and on the way out when the explosion happened, completely by surprise." Also Read: 'This one went to 1': Nikki Glaser pays tribute to Rob Reiner at Golden Globes The IDF has not disclosed details of his current role or deployment location, but they have confirmed that he has returned in an operational reserve capacity. Idan Amedi joined the IDF reserves on October 7, 2023, shortly after the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. Announcing the news, he shared a video from the front revealing that "this isn’t a scene from Fauda-this is real life."

<p>After two years of recovery from injury, Israeli singer-actor Idan Amedi has returned to the frontline reserve duty. He was wounded during fighting in Gaza in January 2024. Details inside.&nbsp;</p>

Fauda actor Idan Amedi returns to frontline duty two years after being wounded in Gaza

<p>Israel on Tuesday (Dec 30) announced that it will suspend the operations of dozens of aid organisations in Gaza within the next 36 hours, over their failure to comply with new registration rules that require the submission of personal details of Palestinian and international staff. Among those affected are some of the world’s best-known humanitarian groups, including Oxfam, ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The decision announced by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs comes as conditions in Gaza worsen due to powerful winter storms. In recent days, these storms have torn through thousands of makeshift tents, deepening what aid agencies describe as an already severe humanitarian crisis.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763"><strong>Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Situation in Gaza 'catastrophic'</strong></h2><p>Foreign ministers from 10 countries have issued a joint statement expressing "serious concerns" about what they called a renewed deterioration of conditions on the ground. The ministers, from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, warned that the situation in Gaza was now "catastrophic".</p><p>"As winter draws in, civilians in Gaza are facing appalling conditions with heavy rainfall and temperatures dropping," said the statement, pointing to heavy rain, falling temperatures and a lack of shelter. It noted that "1.3 million people still require urgent shelter support. More than half of health facilities are only partially functional and face shortages of essential medical equipment and supplies. The total collapse of sanitation infrastructure has left 740,000 people vulnerable to toxic flooding".</p><p>The ministers urged Israel to lift what they described as "unreasonable restrictions on imports considered to have a dual use" and to allow the UN and its partners to continue operating. Hundreds of items remain blocked from entering Gaza on the grounds of possible dual use, including medical and shelter supplies that aid groups say are essential.</p><p>The nations also called for border crossings to be opened to increase the flow of aid, highlighting continued restrictions at Rafah, the main gateway to Egypt.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561"><strong>Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleges drone attack on residence?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did Israel say?</strong></h2><p>Israeli officials said aid groups had been given ample warning about the new rules and that 15 per cent had not had their permits renewed. Organisations that failed to submit staff lists, the ministry said, would have their licences revoked from 1 January. The ones that "refused to submit a list of their Palestinian employees in order to rule out any links to terrorism," it added.</p><p>Aid agencies have previously argued the requirements clash with European data protection laws and could put staff at risk.</p>

Israel says it will suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours over new staff disclosure rules, hitting major charities as winter storms worsen conditions. Ten countries warn Gaza is now “catastrophic,” accusing Israel of choking lifesaving aid when it is needed most.

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 30) announced that it will suspend the operations of dozens of aid organisations in Gaza within the next 36 hours, over their failure to comply with new registration rules that require the submission of personal details of Palestinian and international staff. Among those affected are some of the world’s best-known humanitarian groups, including Oxfam, ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The decision announced by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs comes as conditions in Gaza worsen due to powerful winter storms. In recent days, these storms have torn through thousands of makeshift tents, deepening what aid agencies describe as an already severe humanitarian crisis. Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people Situation in Gaza 'catastrophic' Foreign ministers from 10 countries have issued a joint statement expressing "serious concerns" about what they called a renewed deterioration of conditions on the ground. The ministers, from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, warned that the situation in Gaza was now "catastrophic". "As winter draws in, civilians in Gaza are facing appalling conditions with heavy rainfall and temperatures dropping," said the statement, pointing to heavy rain, falling temperatures and a lack of shelter. It noted that "1.3 million people still require urgent shelter support. More than half of health facilities are only partially functional and face shortages of essential medical equipment and supplies. The total collapse of sanitation infrastructure has left 740,000 people vulnerable to toxic flooding". The ministers urged Israel to lift what they described as "unreasonable restrictions on imports considered to have a dual use" and to allow the UN and its partners to continue operating. Hundreds of items remain blocked from entering Gaza on the grounds of possible dual use, including medical and shelter supplies that aid groups say are essential. The nations also called for border crossings to be opened to increase the flow of aid, highlighting continued restrictions at Rafah, the main gateway to Egypt. Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleges drone attack on residence? What did Israel say? Israeli officials said aid groups had been given ample warning about the new rules and that 15 per cent had not had their permits renewed. Organisations that failed to submit staff lists, the ministry said, would have their licences revoked from 1 January. The ones that "refused to submit a list of their Palestinian employees in order to rule out any links to terrorism," it added. Aid agencies have previously argued the requirements clash with European data protection laws and could put staff at risk.

<p>Israel says it will suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours over new staff disclosure rules, hitting major charities as winter storms worsen conditions. Ten countries warn Gaza is now “catastrophic,” accusing Israel of choking lifesaving aid when it is needed most.</p>

Amid 'catastrophic' conditions Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours

<p>The Israeli army on Tuesday (December 30) launched fresh strikes in Gaza, renewing aerial and artillery bombardment across several areas of the enclave. These strikes came as Gaza authorities alleged that Israel committed repeated violations of the October 10 ceasefire agreement, brokered by US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Israeli warplanes carried out an air strike on the town of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza. At the same time, Israeli jets targeted an area east of the Maghazi refugee camp, while the IDF artillery also targeted the western part of Rafah city in southern Gaza.</p><p><br>Gaza's government Media Office on Sunday claimed that Israeli forces have committed 969 ceasefire violations since it came into effect on October 10, which led to the deaths of 418 civilians and the wounding of more than 1100.</p><p><br>These strikes come hours after the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met the US President Donald Trump at the Mar-a-lago estate in Florida, where both leaders emphasised that Hamas must be completely disarmed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. However, the clarity on the implementation of the second phase of the US-brokered peace plan for Gaza remains elusive.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-trump-meeting-netanyahu-holds-talks-with-us-secretary-of-state-rubio-donald-trump-gaza-war-iran-nuclear-programme-1767031716563"><strong>Ahead of Trump meeting, Netanyahu holds talks with US Secretary of State Rubio</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the issue of repeated ceasefire violations by Israel since the October ceasefire, Trump said he is not concerned about Israel's actions. “I’m not concerned about anything that Israel is doing," adding that the Jewish state has lived up to 100 per cent of its commitment under the Gaza ceasefire plan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the meeting, the Israeli Prime Minister announced the ‘Israel Prize for Peace’ for the US President. Trump became the first recipient of the prize, which Israel created especially for him. Responding to the announcement, the US president said it was “really surprising and very much appreciated.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Israeli warplanes carried out an air strike on the town of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza. At the same time, Israeli jets targeted an area east of the Maghazi refugee camp.

The Israeli army on Tuesday (December 30) launched fresh strikes in Gaza, renewing aerial and artillery bombardment across several areas of the enclave. These strikes came as Gaza authorities alleged that Israel committed repeated violations of the October 10 ceasefire agreement, brokered by US President Donald Trump. Israeli warplanes carried out an air strike on the town of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza. At the same time, Israeli jets targeted an area east of the Maghazi refugee camp, while the IDF artillery also targeted the western part of Rafah city in southern Gaza. Gaza's government Media Office on Sunday claimed that Israeli forces have committed 969 ceasefire violations since it came into effect on October 10, which led to the deaths of 418 civilians and the wounding of more than 1100. These strikes come hours after the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met the US President Donald Trump at the Mar-a-lago estate in Florida, where both leaders emphasised that Hamas must be completely disarmed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. However, the clarity on the implementation of the second phase of the US-brokered peace plan for Gaza remains elusive. Also Read: Ahead of Trump meeting, Netanyahu holds talks with US Secretary of State Rubio On the issue of repeated ceasefire violations by Israel since the October ceasefire, Trump said he is not concerned about Israel's actions. “I’m not concerned about anything that Israel is doing," adding that the Jewish state has lived up to 100 per cent of its commitment under the Gaza ceasefire plan. After the meeting, the Israeli Prime Minister announced the ‘Israel Prize for Peace’ for the US President. Trump became the first recipient of the prize, which Israel created especially for him. Responding to the announcement, the US president said it was “really surprising and very much appreciated.”

<p>Israeli warplanes carried out an air strike on the town of Beit Lahia in northern Gaza. At the same time, Israeli jets targeted an area east of the Maghazi refugee camp.</p>

Israel launches fresh air strikes across Gaza, violating October 10 ceasefire

Gazans are facing an escalating humanitarian catastrophe after nearly two years of war, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies pushing large sections of the population toward starvation.


Gazans Face Relentless Starvation After Two Years of War 

Storm Byron drowned Gaza’s makeshift camps, leaving families shivering in soaked tents and ankle-deep water. UN says 850,000 people face high flood risk. Civil defence warns tents can’t protect anyone now.

<p>Storm Byron drowned Gaza’s makeshift camps, leaving families shivering in soaked tents and ankle-deep water. UN says 850,000 people face high flood risk. Civil defence warns tents can’t protect anyone now.</p>

Storm Byron slams Gaza camps, washing away the little people have left

<p>Amnesty International has, for the first time, accused Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups of committing crimes against humanity during and after the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza. In a 173-page report released on Thursday (Dec 11), it said Palestinian armed factions carried out serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, during their assault on southern Israel. Amnesty concluded that the mass killing of civilians that day amounted to "crime against humanity of extermination".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-benjamin-netanyahu-shrugs-off-zohran-mamdani-s-threat-to-enforce-icc-arrest-warrant-says-he-ll-visit-nyc-anyway-1764826042335"><strong>Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway</strong></a></p><h2><strong>From war crimes to crimes against humanity</strong></h2><p>The findings mark a significant shift in Amnesty's position. While the organisation had earlier accused Hamas of war crimes, it said the scale and nature of the violence now met the threshold for crimes against humanity, particularly in the mass killings and the taking of hostages.</p><p>"Palestinian armed groups committed violations of international humanitarian law, war crimes and crimes against humanity during their attacks in southern Israel that started on 7 October 2023," it said.</p><p>Amnesty said Hamas and other armed groups "continued to commit violations and crimes under international law in their holding and mistreatment of hostages and the withholding of bodies seized." According to the report, the hostage taking was not incidental. “The holding of hostages was done as part of an explicitly stated plan explained by the leadership of Hamas and of other Palestinian armed groups,” the report stated.</p><p>The October 7 attack left 1,221 people dead in Israel, according to official figures. A total of 251 people were taken hostage, including 44 who were already dead. Of the 207 hostages taken alive, 41 later died or were killed in captivity. All hostages have since been returned under a ceasefire agreement, except for the body of one Israeli officer.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-us-israel-and-qatar-hold-a-secret-meeting-on-gaza-peace-deal-report-suggests-highest-level-meeting-happened-in-new-york-1765155726180"><strong>Did US, Israel and Qatar hold a secret meeting on Gaza peace deal? Report suggests 'highest level meeting' happened in New York</strong></a></p><h2><strong>The scale of sexual crimes inconclusive</strong></h2><p>Among the crimes against humanity cited by Amnesty were murder, extermination, imprisonment, torture, enforced disappearance, rape and other forms of sexual violence. The organisation said it was unable to assess the full scope of sexual crimes due to limited access to survivors, noting it could confirm only one such case directly.</p><p>The report said Hamas, including its armed wing, the Ezzedine Al Qassam Brigades, was "chiefly responsible" for the crimes. Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Al Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades and some unaffiliated Palestinian civilians were also found to be responsible to a lesser degree, it alleged.</p><h2><strong>What about Israel?</strong></h2><p>Amnesty's findings come alongside its continued accusations against Israel. The group has said Israel committed genocide during its military campaign in Gaza, an allegation Israel strongly rejects. Amnesty reiterated last month that it believes Israel was "still committing genocide", even after a ceasefire took effect.</p><p>Israel’s retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed at least 70,369 people, according to Gaza’s health ministry figures, which the United Nations considers credible. Israel has dismissed Amnesty’s genocide claims as "entirely false" and "based on lies".</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Amnesty International has, for the first time, accused Hamas of crimes against humanity over the October 7 attacks, calling the mass killing of civilians an act of extermination. The rights group also repeats its charge that Israel committed genocide in Gaza.

Amnesty International has, for the first time, accused Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups of committing crimes against humanity during and after the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza. In a 173-page report released on Thursday (Dec 11), it said Palestinian armed factions carried out serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, during their assault on southern Israel. Amnesty concluded that the mass killing of civilians that day amounted to "crime against humanity of extermination". Also read | Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway From war crimes to crimes against humanity The findings mark a significant shift in Amnesty's position. While the organisation had earlier accused Hamas of war crimes, it said the scale and nature of the violence now met the threshold for crimes against humanity, particularly in the mass killings and the taking of hostages. "Palestinian armed groups committed violations of international humanitarian law, war crimes and crimes against humanity during their attacks in southern Israel that started on 7 October 2023," it said. Amnesty said Hamas and other armed groups "continued to commit violations and crimes under international law in their holding and mistreatment of hostages and the withholding of bodies seized." According to the report, the hostage taking was not incidental. “The holding of hostages was done as part of an explicitly stated plan explained by the leadership of Hamas and of other Palestinian armed groups,” the report stated. The October 7 attack left 1,221 people dead in Israel, according to official figures. A total of 251 people were taken hostage, including 44 who were already dead. Of the 207 hostages taken alive, 41 later died or were killed in captivity. All hostages have since been returned under a ceasefire agreement, except for the body of one Israeli officer. Also read | Did US, Israel and Qatar hold a secret meeting on Gaza peace deal? Report suggests 'highest level meeting' happened in New York The scale of sexual crimes inconclusive Among the crimes against humanity cited by Amnesty were murder, extermination, imprisonment, torture, enforced disappearance, rape and other forms of sexual violence. The organisation said it was unable to assess the full scope of sexual crimes due to limited access to survivors, noting it could confirm only one such case directly. The report said Hamas, including its armed wing, the Ezzedine Al Qassam Brigades, was "chiefly responsible" for the crimes. Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Al Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades and some unaffiliated Palestinian civilians were also found to be responsible to a lesser degree, it alleged. What about Israel? Amnesty's findings come alongside its continued accusations against Israel. The group has said Israel committed genocide during its military campaign in Gaza, an allegation Israel strongly rejects. Amnesty reiterated last month that it believes Israel was "still committing genocide", even after a ceasefire took effect. Israel’s retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed at least 70,369 people, according to Gaza’s health ministry figures, which the United Nations considers credible. Israel has dismissed Amnesty’s genocide claims as "entirely false" and "based on lies".

<p>Amnesty International has, for the first time, accused Hamas of crimes against humanity over the October 7 attacks, calling the mass killing of civilians an act of extermination. The rights group also repeats its charge that Israel committed genocide in Gaza.</p>

Amnesty International, for the first time, accuses Hamas of crimes against humanity, 'extermination' during Oct 7 attack

Turkey says it has issued arrest warrants for genocide against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior Israeli officials.

Among 37 suspects listed are Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, according to a Friday statement from the Istanbul prosecutor’s office, which did not publish the complete list.

Gaza war: Turkey accuses Israel of genocide, will Arab nations follow suit?

Gaza war: Erdogan-Netanyahu war of words turns into legal warfare 

Trump Warns Israel: U.S. President Donald Trump has dashed the Israeli right’s hopes of annexing parts of the West Bank, warning that Israel would lose “all support” from Washington if it pursued sovereignty over the territory. 

Trump Warns Israel: Annexing West Bank Would End U.S. Support 

As the world marks the second anniversary of Hamas's Oct 7 attack, here’s a closer look at the human and material toll of the conflict that shows no sign of truly ending.

<p>As the world marks the second anniversary of Hamas's Oct 7 attack, here’s a closer look at the human and material toll of the conflict that shows no sign of truly ending.</p>

Gaza war, two years later: The staggering toll in lives lost, hunger and devastation

It has been two years since Hamas launched its deadly Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel, sparking a war in Gaza that has since claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. As the world marks the grim anniversary, protests have erupted across major cities. Let's take a look.

<p>It has been two years since Hamas launched its deadly Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel, sparking a war in Gaza that has since claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. As the world marks the grim anniversary, protests have erupted across major cities. Let's take a look.</p>

In pictures: Protests globally as world marks two years since Hamas’ Oct 7 attack

Trump-Netanyahu Talks: Trump Says 'Very Good Response' from Israel and Arab Leaders on Gaza War End Plan as Sudan and Israel Meet in White House. The plan calls for the release of all hostages held by Hamas, a halt to further Israeli attacks on Qatar, and a renewed dialogue between Israel and Palestinians aimed at peaceful coexistence. 


Trump-Netanyahu Talks: Trump Sees 'Very Good Response' To Gaza Deal 

The US proposal for ending the war in Gaza encourages Palestinians to remain in the Strip and provides for the creation of a pathway to a future Palestinian state.


US 21-point plan for ending Gaza war, creating pathway to Palestinian state

<p>Organisers of a Gaza-bound flotilla carrying aid and pro-Palestinian activists said late Tuesday they heard explosions and saw multiple drones that targeted some of their boats, currently situated off Greece.</p><p>"Multiple drones, unidentified objects dropped, communications jammed and explosions heard from a number of boats," the Global Sumud Flotilla said in a statement, without adding whether there were any casualties.</p><p>"We are witnessing these psychological operations firsthand, right now, but we will not be intimidated," the statement said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strike-or-accident-greta-thunberg-s-gaza-bound-flotilla-ship-catches-fire-1757381225223"><strong>Greta Thunberg's Gaza-bound flotilla catches fire after alleged 'drone strike'. Did Israel attack her ship?</strong></a></p><p>German human rights activist and flotilla member Yasemin Acar said in a video she posted on Instagram that five vessels had been attacked.</p><p>"We are carrying only humanitarian aid," she said. “We have no weapons. We pose no threat to anyone. It is Israel who is killing thousands of people (and) starving a whole population.”</p>

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<p>In an earlier video, Acar said the activists had "sighted 15 to 16 drones", adding that their radios had been jammed as loud music could be heard.</p><p>One video posted by the flotilla's official Instagram page showed an explosion it said it recorded from the Spectre boat at "01:43 GMT +3".</p><p>In another video posted by the same page, Brazilian activist Thiago Avila said four boats had been "targeted with drones throwing devices" just before another explosion was heard in the background.</p><p>The Global Sumud Flotilla set sail from Barcelona earlier this month with the aim of breaking Israel's blockade of Gaza and delivering aid to the territory.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-un-against-letting-survival-of-the-fittest-define-world-order-a-dig-at-trump-1758674204290"><strong>Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision?</strong></a></p><p>It currently numbers 51 vessels, most of which are situated off the Greek island of Crete.</p><p>It had already been targeted in two suspected drone attacks in Tunisia, where its boat had been anchored before resuming its voyage towards Gaza.</p><p>Among its high-profile participants is environmental activist Greta Thunberg.</p><p>Israel said Monday it would not allow the boats to reach Gaza.</p><p>Israel blocked two earlier attempts by activists to reach Gaza by sea in June and July.</p><p>Israel has come under huge international pressure over its war in Gaza, which has sparked a dire humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory.</p><p>Last month, a body backed by the United Nations officially declared famine in part of Gaza.</p><p>And on September 16, UN investigators accused Israel of committing "genocide" in the besieged territory, nearly two years after the war erupted following Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

"We are carrying only humanitarian aid," said German human rights activist and flotilla member Yasemin Acar in a video. "We have no weapons. We pose no threat to anyone. It is Israel who is killing thousands of people (and) starving a whole population."

Organisers of a Gaza-bound flotilla carrying aid and pro-Palestinian activists said late Tuesday they heard explosions and saw multiple drones that targeted some of their boats, currently situated off Greece. "Multiple drones, unidentified objects dropped, communications jammed and explosions heard from a number of boats," the Global Sumud Flotilla said in a statement, without adding whether there were any casualties. "We are witnessing these psychological operations firsthand, right now, but we will not be intimidated," the statement said. Also read | Greta Thunberg's Gaza-bound flotilla catches fire after alleged 'drone strike'. Did Israel attack her ship? German human rights activist and flotilla member Yasemin Acar said in a video she posted on Instagram that five vessels had been attacked. "We are carrying only humanitarian aid," she said. “We have no weapons. We pose no threat to anyone. It is Israel who is killing thousands of people (and) starving a whole population.”

<p>"We are carrying only humanitarian aid," said German human rights activist and flotilla member Yasemin Acar in a video. "We have no weapons. We pose no threat to anyone. It is Israel who is killing thousands of people (and) starving a whole population."</p>

‘We only carry aid’: Gaza flotilla claims drone attacks off Greece, explosions reported on boats

<p>A series of technical breakdowns at the United Nations left world leaders struggling to be heard as they addressed the General Assembly on Gaza and Palestinian statehood. Microphone failures interrupted speeches by Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto. UN staff later said the glitches were due to equipment faults in the General Assembly hall, stressing there was “no indication” of deliberate interference.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-funeral-in-pakistan-after-military-bombs-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-village-killing-30-1758606948105"><strong>Mass funeral in Pakistan after military bombs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa village killing 30</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What happened to Indonesia’s president mid-speech?</strong></h2><p>On Tuesday, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was outlining plans to send peacekeepers to Gaza when his microphone suddenly went silent. The interpreter was left unable to continue until the feed returned seconds later.</p><h2><strong>Erdogan’s warning on Gaza cut short</strong></h2><p>Hours earlier, Turkish President Erdogan was denouncing what he called Israel’s “genocide in Gaza” and urging immediate recognition of Palestine when his audio failed. Delegates briefly heard the interpreter say, “Cannot hear the President, his voice is gone.” The sound came back soon after, but not before confusion spread through the hall.</p><h2><strong>Canada’s Palestine recognition met with cheers, then silence</strong></h2><p>The most dramatic disruption came when Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney formally recognised the State of Palestine. His declaration, “In this context, Canada recognises the state of Palestine,” drew applause from delegates. Moments later, his microphone cut out completely, raising questions about the timing of the glitch. One delegate later remarked, “The recognition was heard loud and clear, even if the microphone was not.”</p><h2><strong>Why is Palestinian statehood dominating the UN session?</strong></h2><p>This year’s General Assembly has been dominated by calls for Palestinian recognition and urgent action on Gaza. France, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg and Canada have joined the growing list of countries extending recognition, with President Emmanuel Macron declaring, “Today, France recognises the state of Palestine.”</p><p>Israel has rejected the move, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting, “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.” The US also opposed the announcements, with the White House warning recognition would be seen as a “reward to Hamas.”</p><p>Despite the audio problems, momentum for Palestinian statehood has gathered pace, with around 150 countries now backing recognition. Britain, France, Canada and others have shifted their positions in recent months, while Japan has hinted its own decision is imminent.</p>

Technical glitches at the UN cut off speeches by Erdogan, Carney and Prabowo on Gaza and Palestinian statehood. Despite interruptions, momentum for Palestine’s recognition grew, with over 150 nations backing it.

A series of technical breakdowns at the United Nations left world leaders struggling to be heard as they addressed the General Assembly on Gaza and Palestinian statehood. Microphone failures interrupted speeches by Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto. UN staff later said the glitches were due to equipment faults in the General Assembly hall, stressing there was “no indication” of deliberate interference. Also read: Mass funeral in Pakistan after military bombs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa village killing 30 What happened to Indonesia’s president mid-speech? On Tuesday, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was outlining plans to send peacekeepers to Gaza when his microphone suddenly went silent. The interpreter was left unable to continue until the feed returned seconds later. Erdogan’s warning on Gaza cut short Hours earlier, Turkish President Erdogan was denouncing what he called Israel’s “genocide in Gaza” and urging immediate recognition of Palestine when his audio failed. Delegates briefly heard the interpreter say, “Cannot hear the President, his voice is gone.” The sound came back soon after, but not before confusion spread through the hall. Canada’s Palestine recognition met with cheers, then silence The most dramatic disruption came when Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney formally recognised the State of Palestine. His declaration, “In this context, Canada recognises the state of Palestine,” drew applause from delegates. Moments later, his microphone cut out completely, raising questions about the timing of the glitch. One delegate later remarked, “The recognition was heard loud and clear, even if the microphone was not.” Why is Palestinian statehood dominating the UN session? This year’s General Assembly has been dominated by calls for Palestinian recognition and urgent action on Gaza. France, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg and Canada have joined the growing list of countries extending recognition, with President Emmanuel Macron declaring, “Today, France recognises the state of Palestine.” Israel has rejected the move, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting, “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.” The US also opposed the announcements, with the White House warning recognition would be seen as a “reward to Hamas.” Despite the audio problems, momentum for Palestinian statehood has gathered pace, with around 150 countries now backing recognition. Britain, France, Canada and others have shifted their positions in recent months, while Japan has hinted its own decision is imminent.

<p>Technical glitches at the UN cut off speeches by Erdogan, Carney and Prabowo on Gaza and Palestinian statehood. Despite interruptions, momentum for Palestine’s recognition grew, with over 150 nations backing it.</p>

Glitches or sabotage? From Turkey's Erdogan to Canada's Carney world leaders face microphone failures while raising Palestine, Gaza issue at UN

<p>Qatar has told Israel it wants an apology for the recent strike in Doha before it returns to its role as mediator in Gaza peace talks, according to a report by Axios. The move comes after an Israeli strike in the Qatari capital killed five Hamas members and one Qatari security officer ten days ago.</p><h2><strong>Why does this matter for Gaza negotiations?</strong></h2><p>Officials in Washington say that without Qatari mediation, it will be extremely difficult to secure a deal that would release hostages and bring the Gaza war to an end. The Trump administration is pushing to calm tensions so that talks can restart. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Qatar of sheltering terrorists and even suggested that Israel could strike again. An apology, however, would be politically risky for his hard-right coalition. A source told Axios Qatar recognises the political challenges Netanyahu faces and may show flexibility on the wording of the apology.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-was-trump-s-border-czar-tom-homan-under-investigation-what-fbi-s-secret-sting-revealed-1758430517588"><strong>Why was Trump’s border czar Tom Homan under investigation? What FBI’s secret sting revealed</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What is the regional fallout?</strong></h2><p>The strike on Doha was the first time Israel had carried out such an attack in a Gulf state, a move that deepened its regional isolation. A senior Israeli official admitted the government underestimated the crisis it would trigger, adding that Netanyahu now realises he miscalculated.</p><h2><strong>What role is the US playing?</strong></h2><p>Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani raised the apology request with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during their meeting in Doha on Tuesday. The issue was also discussed in talks between Rubio, Netanyahu, US envoy Steve Witkoff, and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Witkoff is set to meet Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in New York this Saturday to explore ways to ease tensions and resume the negotiations.</p><h2><strong>Could Israel agree to apologise?</strong></h2><p>According to the Axios report, Qatar may accept an Israeli apology that specifically acknowledges the death of the Qatari officer, includes compensation for his family, and promises not to breach Qatari sovereignty again. Israel has made similar apologies before, in 2013, Netanyahu apologised to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan over the deaths of Turkish activists in the 2010 Gaza flotilla raid.</p>

Qatar has demanded an Israeli apology for the Doha strike that killed Hamas and a Qatari officer, warning mediation in Gaza talks will stall without it, complicating US diplomatic efforts.

Qatar has told Israel it wants an apology for the recent strike in Doha before it returns to its role as mediator in Gaza peace talks, according to a report by Axios. The move comes after an Israeli strike in the Qatari capital killed five Hamas members and one Qatari security officer ten days ago. Why does this matter for Gaza negotiations? Officials in Washington say that without Qatari mediation, it will be extremely difficult to secure a deal that would release hostages and bring the Gaza war to an end. The Trump administration is pushing to calm tensions so that talks can restart. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Qatar of sheltering terrorists and even suggested that Israel could strike again. An apology, however, would be politically risky for his hard-right coalition. A source told Axios Qatar recognises the political challenges Netanyahu faces and may show flexibility on the wording of the apology. Also read: Why was Trump’s border czar Tom Homan under investigation? What FBI’s secret sting revealed What is the regional fallout? The strike on Doha was the first time Israel had carried out such an attack in a Gulf state, a move that deepened its regional isolation. A senior Israeli official admitted the government underestimated the crisis it would trigger, adding that Netanyahu now realises he miscalculated. What role is the US playing? Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani raised the apology request with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during their meeting in Doha on Tuesday. The issue was also discussed in talks between Rubio, Netanyahu, US envoy Steve Witkoff, and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Witkoff is set to meet Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in New York this Saturday to explore ways to ease tensions and resume the negotiations. Could Israel agree to apologise? According to the Axios report, Qatar may accept an Israeli apology that specifically acknowledges the death of the Qatari officer, includes compensation for his family, and promises not to breach Qatari sovereignty again. Israel has made similar apologies before, in 2013, Netanyahu apologised to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan over the deaths of Turkish activists in the 2010 Gaza flotilla raid.

<p>Qatar has demanded an Israeli apology for the Doha strike that killed Hamas and a Qatari officer, warning mediation in Gaza talks will stall without it, complicating US diplomatic efforts.</p>

'One apology' can restart Gaza peace talks, but will Netanyahu apologise to Qatar?

<p>The Israeli Minister of Culture has said funds for the country's film academy and its annual awards will be cut after a movie about a Palestinian boy won big. On Tuesday night in Tel Aviv, the Israeli Academy of Film and Television awarded the 2025 Best Picture award to The Sea at the Ophir Awards, which is often dubbed the Israeli Oscars. The movie centres around a Palestinian boy's dream to visit the sea. The film is directed and written by Shai Carmeli Pollak and produced by Baher Agbariya. The film follows a young boy’s road trip from his home of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank to the coastal city of Tel Aviv.</p><p><br>The Sea is now slated to represent Israel at the Oscars 2026 in the International Feature Film category.</p><h2><strong>Laurels for The Sea</strong></h2><p><br>The Sea also won four other awards, including best actor for 13-year-old Muhammad Ghazawi. He became the youngest actor to win the award. Khalifa Natour, who plays the boy’s father, won best supporting actor.</p><p><br>During the awards ceremony, several filmmakers and nominees called for an end to the war in Gaza. Some criticised the Israeli government.</p><p><br>“This film is about every child’s right to live in peace, a basic right we will not give up on,” Agbariya said. “We are all equal. Peace and equality are not an illusion, but a possible choice here and now.”</p><h2>Gaza war discussed at Emmys</h2><p><br>The war was widely discussed at this week's Emmy Awards. Several actors including Hannah Einbinder and Javier Bardem called for a ceasefire. Over 1,000 actors and directors have vowed not to work with Israeli film institutions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/mark-ruffalo-ayo-edebiri-javier-bardem-and-1300-artistes-pledge-to-not-work-with-israeli-film-companies-amid-gaza-war-1757388940262">Mark Ruffalo, Ayo Edebiri, Javier Bardem and 1300 artistes pledge to not work with Israeli film companies amid Gaza war</a></p><p><br>Meanwhile, a day after the awards in Isarel, the Israeli Ministry of Culture announced that it would withdraw funding for “the disgraceful ceremony” from next year onwards.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The ministry in a statement, said that the winning film “presents the Palestinian perspective and depicts IDF (Israel Defense Forces) soldiers and the State of Israel in a negative way."</p><p><br>A CNN report stated that the Culture Minister Miki Zohar described the ceremony and the award as an insult to the people of Israel. It is "spit in the face of Israeli citizens. The fact that the winning film depicts our heroic soldiers in a defamatory and false way while they fight and risk their lives to protect us no longer surprises anyone," said Zohar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Sea has been selected as Israel's entry to the Oscars 2026 in the Best International Film category. The film depicts the story of a Palestinian boy who dreams of visiting the sea. The film's success has not gone down well with the country's ministry of culture.

The Israeli Minister of Culture has said funds for the country's film academy and its annual awards will be cut after a movie about a Palestinian boy won big. On Tuesday night in Tel Aviv, the Israeli Academy of Film and Television awarded the 2025 Best Picture award to The Sea at the Ophir Awards, which is often dubbed the Israeli Oscars. The movie centres around a Palestinian boy's dream to visit the sea. The film is directed and written by Shai Carmeli Pollak and produced by Baher Agbariya. The film follows a young boy’s road trip from his home of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank to the coastal city of Tel Aviv. The Sea is now slated to represent Israel at the Oscars 2026 in the International Feature Film category. Laurels for The Sea The Sea also won four other awards, including best actor for 13-year-old Muhammad Ghazawi. He became the youngest actor to win the award. Khalifa Natour, who plays the boy’s father, won best supporting actor. During the awards ceremony, several filmmakers and nominees called for an end to the war in Gaza. Some criticised the Israeli government. “This film is about every child’s right to live in peace, a basic right we will not give up on,” Agbariya said. “We are all equal. Peace and equality are not an illusion, but a possible choice here and now.” Gaza war discussed at Emmys The war was widely discussed at this week's Emmy Awards. Several actors including Hannah Einbinder and Javier Bardem called for a ceasefire. Over 1,000 actors and directors have vowed not to work with Israeli film institutions. Read: Mark Ruffalo, Ayo Edebiri, Javier Bardem and 1300 artistes pledge to not work with Israeli film companies amid Gaza war Meanwhile, a day after the awards in Isarel, the Israeli Ministry of Culture announced that it would withdraw funding for “the disgraceful ceremony” from next year onwards. The ministry in a statement, said that the winning film “presents the Palestinian perspective and depicts IDF (Israel Defense Forces) soldiers and the State of Israel in a negative way." A CNN report stated that the Culture Minister Miki Zohar described the ceremony and the award as an insult to the people of Israel. It is "spit in the face of Israeli citizens. The fact that the winning film depicts our heroic soldiers in a defamatory and false way while they fight and risk their lives to protect us no longer surprises anyone," said Zohar.

<p>The Sea has been selected as Israel's entry to the Oscars 2026 in the Best International Film category. The film depicts the story of a Palestinian boy who dreams of visiting the sea. The film's success has not gone down well with the country's ministry of culture.</p>

Israel's Ministry of Culture decides to withdraw funds for 'Israeli Oscars' after a film on Palestine wins top award

<p>Israel on Tuesday urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to withdraw a proposal that would curb trade ties in a bid to pressure Israel to end the war in Gaza.</p><p>"Pressure through sanctions will not work," Foreign Minister Gideon Saar wrote in a letter to Von der Leyen.</p><p>The initiative, announced during her State of the Union speech last week, is due to be discussed Wednesday by the European Commission's College of Commissioners, which she chairs.</p><p>If approved, it would freeze the EU's bilateral support to Israel, halting all payments, while preserving cooperation with civil society groups and Israel's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial.</p><p>According to the commission, the move would block future allocations of about six million euros ($7 million) annually and suspend disbursement of roughly 14 million euros for ongoing institutional projects.</p><p>The EU executive also plans to propose sanctions against "extremist ministers" and "violent settlers".</p><p>"This unprecedented proposal, which has never been applied to any other country, is a clear attempt to harm Israel while we are still fighting a war imposed on us by the October 7 terror attack," Saar wrote, referring to the Hamas-led assault on Israel that triggered the now two-year war.</p><p>He added that Israel had not been notified or consulted and warned the measures would "empower Hamas" and "jeopardise efforts to end the war".</p><p>Diplomats say the measures are unlikely to be adopted given deep divisions among the EU's 27 member states over Israel's conduct in Gaza.</p><p>Last week, the European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution endorsing Von der Leyen's proposal to suspend bilateral support and partially suspend the EU-Israel trade agreement.</p><p>Lawmakers also urged sanctions against Israel's far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, and national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir.</p><p>Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.</p><p>Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed nearly 65,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, which the United Nations deems reliable.</p><p>The UN has declared famine in parts of Gaza, a designation Israel disputes.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

Last week, the European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution endorsing Von der Leyen's proposal to suspend bilateral support and partially suspend the EU-Israel trade agreement.

Israel on Tuesday urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to withdraw a proposal that would curb trade ties in a bid to pressure Israel to end the war in Gaza. "Pressure through sanctions will not work," Foreign Minister Gideon Saar wrote in a letter to Von der Leyen. The initiative, announced during her State of the Union speech last week, is due to be discussed Wednesday by the European Commission's College of Commissioners, which she chairs. If approved, it would freeze the EU's bilateral support to Israel, halting all payments, while preserving cooperation with civil society groups and Israel's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial. According to the commission, the move would block future allocations of about six million euros ($7 million) annually and suspend disbursement of roughly 14 million euros for ongoing institutional projects. The EU executive also plans to propose sanctions against "extremist ministers" and "violent settlers". "This unprecedented proposal, which has never been applied to any other country, is a clear attempt to harm Israel while we are still fighting a war imposed on us by the October 7 terror attack," Saar wrote, referring to the Hamas-led assault on Israel that triggered the now two-year war. He added that Israel had not been notified or consulted and warned the measures would "empower Hamas" and "jeopardise efforts to end the war". Diplomats say the measures are unlikely to be adopted given deep divisions among the EU's 27 member states over Israel's conduct in Gaza. Last week, the European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution endorsing Von der Leyen's proposal to suspend bilateral support and partially suspend the EU-Israel trade agreement. Lawmakers also urged sanctions against Israel's far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, and national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir. Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed nearly 65,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, which the United Nations deems reliable. The UN has declared famine in parts of Gaza, a designation Israel disputes. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>Last week, the European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution endorsing Von der Leyen's proposal to suspend bilateral support and partially suspend the EU-Israel trade agreement.</p>

Israel calls on EU chief to drop proposed sanctions over Gaza offensive

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his government will “carefully consider” the recommendations of an independent report which found that anti-Muslim incidents in the country have “skyrocketed” since the start of Israel’s war on Gaza.


Australia: 150% surge in Islamophobic incidents since Israel’s Gaza war 

<p>An American anarchist activist group staged a provocative protest outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, kicking around a mock severed head of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a football. The group, known as INDECLINE, released a video of the event, which they called “Freedom Kick.”</p><p>“The ball is the head of Benjamin Netanyahu,” the video says, showing activists, many masked, playing the game in front of the UN building and an Israeli flag. The footage ends with the group announcing that the fake head has been donated to what they call “The Palestinian Genocide Museum.”</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-responsibility-is-inevitable-ukraine-s-intelligence-taunts-russia-by-secretly-planting-posters-across-moscow-1757392364347"><strong>‘Responsibility is inevitable’: Ukraine’s intelligence taunts Russia by 'secretly planting' posters across Moscow</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Punk soundtrack and symbolic message</strong></h2><p>The video, set to punk rock music, shows several activists kicking the Netanyahu head across a field, before posing with it for the camera. The group said the stunt was timed ahead of this month’s UN General Assembly, where world leaders, including Netanyahu, are expected to gather.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel steps up warnings on Gaza</strong></h2><p>The protest comes as tensions continue to escalate in Gaza. Israel on Monday ordered residents of Gaza City to evacuate, warning that intensified airstrikes and a possible ground assault would follow if Hamas does not release the remaining 48 hostages it is holding and surrender.</p><p>Prime Minister Netanyahu said, “I say to the residents of Gaza (City): you have been warned, get out of there!” He added that Israel had already destroyed 50 “terror towers” in preparation for an upcoming offensive. Defence Minister Israel Katz wrote on X, “A mighty hurricane will hit the skies of Gaza City today, and the roofs of the terror towers will shake.”</p><p>Residents reported heavy bombardment and explosions in the city, while Hamas was said to be reviewing a new ceasefire proposal delivered by Washington. President Donald Trump has warned the militant group that it is their “last chance.”</p>

American anarchist group INDECLINE staged a protest outside the UN, kicking a fake head of Netanyahu as a football, condemning Israel and donating the prop to a so-called Palestinian Genocide Museum.

An American anarchist activist group staged a provocative protest outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, kicking around a mock severed head of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a football. The group, known as INDECLINE, released a video of the event, which they called “Freedom Kick.” “The ball is the head of Benjamin Netanyahu,” the video says, showing activists, many masked, playing the game in front of the UN building and an Israeli flag. The footage ends with the group announcing that the fake head has been donated to what they call “The Palestinian Genocide Museum.” Also read: ‘Responsibility is inevitable’: Ukraine’s intelligence taunts Russia by 'secretly planting' posters across Moscow Punk soundtrack and symbolic message The video, set to punk rock music, shows several activists kicking the Netanyahu head across a field, before posing with it for the camera. The group said the stunt was timed ahead of this month’s UN General Assembly, where world leaders, including Netanyahu, are expected to gather.

<p>American anarchist group INDECLINE staged a protest outside the UN, kicking a fake head of Netanyahu as a football, condemning Israel and donating the prop to a so-called Palestinian Genocide Museum.</p>

WATCH | US activist group plays ‘soccer’ with mock Netanyahu head outside UN headquarters

<p>The Global Sumud Flotilla, a Gaza-bound aid mission carrying activists from 44 countries, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, claimed one of its vessels was struck by a drone off the coast of Tunisia on Tuesday. Also among those sailing as part of the campaign is UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese. According to the organisation, the "Family Boat"—sailing under a Portuguese flag and carrying steering committee members—was hit by a drone, sparking a fire onboard. Visuals posted online by the aid mission appeared to show flames erupting on the deck, purportedly after a drone strike. Here's all we know.</p><h2><strong>Are Thunberg and the crew safe?</strong></h2><p>In a post online, Global Sumud Flotilla revealed that "All passengers and crew are safe." The flotilla said the strike would not derail its attempt to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza: "Acts of aggression will not deter us".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-aide-navarro-labels-india-and-brics-vampires-claims-they-re-sucking-us-blood-dry-in-latest-bizarre-tirade-1757378876520"><strong>Trump aide Navarro labels India and BRICS 'vampires' claims they're 'sucking US blood dry' in latest bizarre tirade</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Tunisia refutes drone strike claim, says...</strong></h2><p>Tunisian authorities have disputed the drone claim. National Guard spokesperson Houcem Eddine Jebabli told AFP that no drones were detected. "According to preliminary findings, a fire broke out in the life jackets on board a ship anchored 50 miles (around 80 kilometres) from the port of Sidi Bou Said, which had come from Spain," he said. "The investigation is ongoing, and no drone has been detected," added Jebabli.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dead-bodies-dragged-out-by-clothes-taliban-let-afghan-women-die-trapped-under-rubble-after-deadly-quake-to-obey-no-touch-rule-1757316171559"><strong>Dead bodies dragged out by clothes? Taliban let Afghan women die under rubble after deadly quake... all to obey ‘no touch’ rule</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Greta Thunberg's aid mission to Palestine derailed again</strong></h2><p>According to reports, the "Family Boat", which was sailing under a Portuguese flag, had Greta Thunberg onboard. This was the second time in recent days that Thunberg's aid mission to Palestine was derailed. Earlier, another flotilla boat, called 'the Madleen' — carrying the Swedish climate activist Thunberg — was intercepted by the Israeli military about 185 km from Gaza. At the time, all passengers, including Thunberg, were detained and later deported. Israel has warned it will act against attempts to breach the blockade.</p><p>Her latest mission, the Sumud flotilla, set sail from Barcelona in August, with its second wave of ships regrouping in Tunisia before heading toward Gaza. The flotilla was expected to arrive in Gaza in mid-September.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Global Sumud Flotilla, a Gaza-bound aid mission, claims one of its vessels was struck by a drone off the Tunisian coast. The "Family Boat," which had Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg on board, reportedly caught fire. Here's what we know.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, a Gaza-bound aid mission carrying activists from 44 countries, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, claimed one of its vessels was struck by a drone off the coast of Tunisia on Tuesday. Also among those sailing as part of the campaign is UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese. According to the organisation, the "Family Boat"—sailing under a Portuguese flag and carrying steering committee members—was hit by a drone, sparking a fire onboard. Visuals posted online by the aid mission appeared to show flames erupting on the deck, purportedly after a drone strike. Here's all we know. Are Thunberg and the crew safe? In a post online, Global Sumud Flotilla revealed that "All passengers and crew are safe." The flotilla said the strike would not derail its attempt to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza: "Acts of aggression will not deter us". Also read | Trump aide Navarro labels India and BRICS 'vampires' claims they're 'sucking US blood dry' in latest bizarre tirade

<p>The Global Sumud Flotilla, a Gaza-bound aid mission, claims one of its vessels was struck by a drone off the Tunisian coast. The "Family Boat," which had Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg on board, reportedly caught fire. Here's what we know.</p>

Greta Thunberg's Gaza-bound flotilla catches fire after alleged 'drone strike'. Did Israel attack her ship?

<p>Hamas on Friday released a video showing two Israeli hostages being driven through Gaza City, in what appeared to be an attempt to influence Israeli public opinion as the military stepped up its assault on the city. The nearly four-minute clip shows Guy Gilboa-Dalal sitting in a car as it passes through several locations, including outside the Red Crescent headquarters. Damaged buildings can be seen through the car window. CNN verified that the footage was filmed in Gaza City. At the end of the video, Alon Ohel, 22, appears alongside Gilboa-Dalal. The two embrace, with Gilboa-Dalal repeatedly saying, “I can’t believe I’m seeing you.”</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-us-lost-india-russia-to-deepest-darkest-china-1757069287794"><strong>'Have prosperous future together': Trump says US lost India, Russia to 'deepest, darkest' China - Here's how New Delhi replied</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Plea to stop the Gaza City offensive</strong></h2><p>In the video, Gilboa-Dalal says it was filmed on 28 August and that he has been held hostage for 22 months. He warns that Israel’s planned takeover of Gaza City will put their lives at risk. “I heard that you’re going to carry an assault on Gaza City, and this idea is giving me nightmares. What does it mean? It means we’ll die here,” he says. He claims that eight other hostages are being held in Gaza City and would also die if the offensive continues. WION has not confirmed that claim.</p><h2><strong>Released on 700th day of the war</strong></h2><p>The video was made public on the 700th day of the war, a day that saw protests across Israel calling for a ceasefire deal to secure the release of hostages. Gilboa-Dalal urges Israelis to demonstrate against the government and to demand an end to the conflict.</p><p>“We just want this to end. We want to go back to our families. We’re found adjacent to the military. We’re scared, there are explosions here, gunfire. Please return us,” he says.</p><p>The Israeli army said on Thursday it now controls 40% of Gaza City, as fighting intensifies in the densely populated urban area. Officials have said 48 hostages remain in captivity, with around 20 still believed to be alive.</p>

Hamas released a video of two Israeli hostages driven through Gaza City, seemingly to sway Israeli public opinion as military attacks intensified. The emotional footage shows destruction and a tearful reunion.

Hamas on Friday released a video showing two Israeli hostages being driven through Gaza City, in what appeared to be an attempt to influence Israeli public opinion as the military stepped up its assault on the city. The nearly four-minute clip shows Guy Gilboa-Dalal sitting in a car as it passes through several locations, including outside the Red Crescent headquarters. Damaged buildings can be seen through the car window. CNN verified that the footage was filmed in Gaza City. At the end of the video, Alon Ohel, 22, appears alongside Gilboa-Dalal. The two embrace, with Gilboa-Dalal repeatedly saying, “I can’t believe I’m seeing you.” Also read: 'Have prosperous future together': Trump says US lost India, Russia to 'deepest, darkest' China - Here's how New Delhi replied Plea to stop the Gaza City offensive In the video, Gilboa-Dalal says it was filmed on 28 August and that he has been held hostage for 22 months. He warns that Israel’s planned takeover of Gaza City will put their lives at risk. “I heard that you’re going to carry an assault on Gaza City, and this idea is giving me nightmares. What does it mean? It means we’ll die here,” he says. He claims that eight other hostages are being held in Gaza City and would also die if the offensive continues. WION has not confirmed that claim. Released on 700th day of the war The video was made public on the 700th day of the war, a day that saw protests across Israel calling for a ceasefire deal to secure the release of hostages. Gilboa-Dalal urges Israelis to demonstrate against the government and to demand an end to the conflict. “We just want this to end. We want to go back to our families. We’re found adjacent to the military. We’re scared, there are explosions here, gunfire. Please return us,” he says. The Israeli army said on Thursday it now controls 40% of Gaza City, as fighting intensifies in the densely populated urban area. Officials have said 48 hostages remain in captivity, with around 20 still believed to be alive.

<p>Hamas released a video of two Israeli hostages driven through Gaza City, seemingly to sway Israeli public opinion as military attacks intensified. The emotional footage shows destruction and a tearful reunion.</p>

'We’ll die here': Hamas releases rare video of Israeli hostages in Gaza on 700th day of war; captives warn Tel Aviv against further offensive

<p>US President Donald Trump has warned that Israel’s war in Gaza is harming its reputation worldwide and urged a quick resolution. “They’re gonna have to get that war over with. But it is hurting Israel. There’s no question about it. They may be winning the war, but they’re not winning the world of public relations, you know, and it is hurting them,” Trump told the Daily Caller.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-thrown-india-over-the-side-did-trump-cast-india-aside-for-business-with-pakistan-ex-us-nsa-jake-sullivan-weighs-in-1756780938116"><strong>'Thrown India over the side': Did Trump cast India aside for business with Pakistan? Ex-US NSA Jake Sullivan weighs In</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Israel’s weakened influence in Washington</strong></h2><p>Trump also said that Israel no longer has the same sway in Washington that it once enjoyed. “If you go back 15–20 years, Israel had the strongest lobby in Congress of anything or body, or of any company or corporation or state that I’ve ever seen. Israel was the strongest, and today it doesn’t have that strong a lobby. It’s amazing,” he said.</p><p>He blamed the rise of progressive Democrats for this shift, saying, “There was a time where you couldn’t speak badly about Israel if you wanted to be a politician, you couldn’t. But today you have Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and all these lunatics, and they’ve really changed it. Israel once had complete control in Congress, and now it doesn’t. I’m a little surprised to see it.”</p><h2><strong>Trump recalls October 7 attacks</strong></h2><p>The president also stressed the importance of remembering Hamas’s October 7 assault. “People have forgotten October 7, it was a really horrible day. I saw the pictures. It was really bad. You have people that deny it ever happened. You have people that deny the Holocaust ever happened,” he said.</p><h2><strong>White House weighs in on postwar Gaza plans</strong></h2><p>Last week, the White House held internal discussions on what Gaza could look like after the fighting. A senior official said Trump convened a meeting with aides to review “all aspects of the Gaza issue, including increasing aid deliveries, the hostage crisis and plans for the day after the war.” Another official said Trump “made clear that he wants the war to end, and that he wants peace and prosperity for all the people of the region.”</p><p>Trump also claimed, “Nobody has done more for Israel than I have, including the recent attacks with Iran, wiping that thing out.”</p><p>While pressing Israel to end the war quickly, Trump has also backed its plan to seize Gaza City. In recent weeks, he said Jerusalem must “finish the job” against Hamas, adding that hostages will only be freed after the militant group is destroyed.</p><p>The Israeli military has reportedly assessed that the Gaza City campaign could last four to five months, after which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has discussed operations in refugee camps in central Gaza. Despite this, US officials, including Trump and his special envoy Steve Witkoff, have repeatedly stressed their preference for a shorter&nbsp;timeline.</p>

Donald Trump warned that Israel’s war in Gaza is damaging its global image and urged a swift end. He added that Israel’s political influence in Washington has significantly declined over time.

US President Donald Trump has warned that Israel’s war in Gaza is harming its reputation worldwide and urged a quick resolution. “They’re gonna have to get that war over with. But it is hurting Israel. There’s no question about it. They may be winning the war, but they’re not winning the world of public relations, you know, and it is hurting them,” Trump told the Daily Caller. Also read: 'Thrown India over the side': Did Trump cast India aside for business with Pakistan? Ex-US NSA Jake Sullivan weighs In Israel’s weakened influence in Washington Trump also said that Israel no longer has the same sway in Washington that it once enjoyed. “If you go back 15–20 years, Israel had the strongest lobby in Congress of anything or body, or of any company or corporation or state that I’ve ever seen. Israel was the strongest, and today it doesn’t have that strong a lobby. It’s amazing,” he said. He blamed the rise of progressive Democrats for this shift, saying, “There was a time where you couldn’t speak badly about Israel if you wanted to be a politician, you couldn’t. But today you have Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and all these lunatics, and they’ve really changed it. Israel once had complete control in Congress, and now it doesn’t. I’m a little surprised to see it.” Trump recalls October 7 attacks The president also stressed the importance of remembering Hamas’s October 7 assault. “People have forgotten October 7, it was a really horrible day. I saw the pictures. It was really bad. You have people that deny it ever happened. You have people that deny the Holocaust ever happened,” he said. White House weighs in on postwar Gaza plans Last week, the White House held internal discussions on what Gaza could look like after the fighting. A senior official said Trump convened a meeting with aides to review “all aspects of the Gaza issue, including increasing aid deliveries, the hostage crisis and plans for the day after the war.” Another official said Trump “made clear that he wants the war to end, and that he wants peace and prosperity for all the people of the region.” Trump also claimed, “Nobody has done more for Israel than I have, including the recent attacks with Iran, wiping that thing out.” While pressing Israel to end the war quickly, Trump has also backed its plan to seize Gaza City. In recent weeks, he said Jerusalem must “finish the job” against Hamas, adding that hostages will only be freed after the militant group is destroyed. The Israeli military has reportedly assessed that the Gaza City campaign could last four to five months, after which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has discussed operations in refugee camps in central Gaza. Despite this, US officials, including Trump and his special envoy Steve Witkoff, have repeatedly stressed their preference for a shorter timeline.

<p>Donald Trump warned that Israel’s war in Gaza is damaging its global image and urged a swift end. He added that Israel’s political influence in Washington has significantly declined over time.</p>

'They may be winning, but...': Trump says Gaza war is 'hurting Israel' - Here's what he thinks Tel Aviv should do

<p>Hamas negotiators in Cairo have received a new proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, a Palestinian official said Monday, with the prime minister of key mediator Qatar also in Egypt to push for a truce. Efforts by mediators Egypt and Qatar, along with the United States, have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire in the ongoing war, which over more than 22 months has created a dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Palestinian official, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that the latest proposal from mediators "is a framework agreement to launch negotiations on a permanent ceasefire", calling for an initial 60-day truce and hostage release in two batches.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The official said that "Hamas will hold internal consultations among its leadership" and with leaders of other Palestinian factions to review the text.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A source from Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant faction that has fought alongside Hamas in Gaza, told AFP that the plan involved a "ceasefire agreement lasting 60 days, during which 10 Israeli hostages would be released alive, along with a number of bodies".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Out of 251 hostages taken during Hamas's October 2023 attack that triggered the war, 49 are still held in Gaza including 27 the Israeli military says are dead.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the Islamic Jihad source, "the remaining captives would be released in a second phase, with immediate negotiations to follow for a broader deal" for a permanent end to "the war and aggression" with international guarantees.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The source added that "all factions are supportive of what was presented" by the Egyptian and Qatari mediators.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, visiting the Rafah border crossing with Gaza on Monday, said that Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was visiting "to consolidate our existing common efforts in order to apply maximum pressure on the two sides to reach a deal as soon as possible".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Alluding to the dire humanitarian conditions for the more than two million people living in the Gaza Strip, where UN agencies and aid groups have warned of famine, Abdelatty stressed the urgency of reaching an agreement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The current situation on the ground is beyond imagination," he said.</p><h2><strong>'Deliberate' starvation</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the ground, Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli strikes and gunfire across the territory killed at least 11 people on Monday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>AFP has contacted the Israeli military for comment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties accessing swaths of the Palestinian territory mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence agency or the Israeli military.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rights group Amnesty International meanwhile accused Israel of enacting a "deliberate policy" of starvation in Gaza and "systematically destroying the health, well-being and social fabric of Palestinian life".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Israel, while heavily restricting aid allowed into the Gaza Strip, has repeatedly rejected claims of deliberate starvation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Israel's offensive has killed more than 61,944 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza which the United Nations considers reliable.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

The official said that "Hamas will hold internal consultations among its leadership" and with leaders of other Palestinian factions to review the text.

Hamas negotiators in Cairo have received a new proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, a Palestinian official said Monday, with the prime minister of key mediator Qatar also in Egypt to push for a truce. Efforts by mediators Egypt and Qatar, along with the United States, have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire in the ongoing war, which over more than 22 months has created a dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian official, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that the latest proposal from mediators "is a framework agreement to launch negotiations on a permanent ceasefire", calling for an initial 60-day truce and hostage release in two batches. The official said that "Hamas will hold internal consultations among its leadership" and with leaders of other Palestinian factions to review the text. A source from Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant faction that has fought alongside Hamas in Gaza, told AFP that the plan involved a "ceasefire agreement lasting 60 days, during which 10 Israeli hostages would be released alive, along with a number of bodies". Out of 251 hostages taken during Hamas's October 2023 attack that triggered the war, 49 are still held in Gaza including 27 the Israeli military says are dead. According to the Islamic Jihad source, "the remaining captives would be released in a second phase, with immediate negotiations to follow for a broader deal" for a permanent end to "the war and aggression" with international guarantees. The source added that "all factions are supportive of what was presented" by the Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, visiting the Rafah border crossing with Gaza on Monday, said that Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was visiting "to consolidate our existing common efforts in order to apply maximum pressure on the two sides to reach a deal as soon as possible". Alluding to the dire humanitarian conditions for the more than two million people living in the Gaza Strip, where UN agencies and aid groups have warned of famine, Abdelatty stressed the urgency of reaching an agreement. "The current situation on the ground is beyond imagination," he said. 'Deliberate' starvation On the ground, Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli strikes and gunfire across the territory killed at least 11 people on Monday. AFP has contacted the Israeli military for comment. Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties accessing swaths of the Palestinian territory mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence agency or the Israeli military. Rights group Amnesty International meanwhile accused Israel of enacting a "deliberate policy" of starvation in Gaza and "systematically destroying the health, well-being and social fabric of Palestinian life". Israel, while heavily restricting aid allowed into the Gaza Strip, has repeatedly rejected claims of deliberate starvation. Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Israel's offensive has killed more than 61,944 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza which the United Nations considers reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>The official said that "Hamas will hold internal consultations among its leadership" and with leaders of other Palestinian factions to review the text.</p>

Hamas receives fresh ceasefire proposal: Report

<p>Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting.</p><p>He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.”</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-want-everyone-both-living-and-fallen-netanyahu-says-partial-hostage-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-is-behind-us-1755025818107"><strong>'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why are families of hostages angry?</strong></h2><p>Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home.</p><p>“Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added.</p><p>They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.”</p><h2><strong>What triggered the general strike?</strong></h2><p>The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages.</p><p>According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.”</p><h2><strong>What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza?</strong></h2><p>Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security.</p><h2><strong>How many hostages remain in Gaza?</strong></h2><p>Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.</p>

Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.” Also read: 'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’ Why are families of hostages angry? Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home. “Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added. They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.” What triggered the general strike? The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages. According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.” What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza? Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security. How many hostages remain in Gaza? Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.

<p>Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted that defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.</p>

'October 7 will repeat': Netanyahu says Israelis calling to end war are 'strengthening Hamas' amid backlash from hostage families

<p>The Israeli military on Wednesday (Aug 13) said that it had approved the “framework” for a fresh offensive in the Gaza Strip. This new development comes days after the nation’s security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza City. The plan was approved by the Armed Forces Chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. A statement by the IDF said that he "approved the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip." Hamas has, meanwhile, accused Israel of escalating its attacks. “The Israeli occupation forces continue to carry out aggressive incursions in Gaza City,” said Ismail Al-Thawabta, director general of the Hamas government media office, claiming that Tel Aviv was using a “scorched earth policy” aimed at destroying civilian property. "These assaults represent a dangerous escalation aimed at imposing a new reality on the ground by force, through a scorched earth policy and the complete destruction of civilian property," he told AFP.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>When will the new offensive take place?</strong></h2><p>As per an AFP report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is yet to provide a precise timetable for when the warring nations’ troops will enter Gaza City – the territory's largest city – where thousands sought refuge from Israel’s previous offensive.&nbsp;</p><p>News of the Israeli military’s approval of the fresh framework comes just hours after a senior delegation arrived in Cairo for “preliminary talks” for a temporary truce with Egyptian officials.&nbsp;</p><p>Israel’s plan to expand operations after more than 22 months of war has drawn international criticism and domestic pushback. UN-backed experts warn of famine across Gaza, where Israel has sharply limited humanitarian aid. The war began with Hamas’s October 2023 attack, which killed 1,219 people in Israel, according to official figures. Israel’s retaliatory offensive, meanwhile, has killed at least 61,599 Palestinians, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza — figures the UN regards as credible.</p>

The Israeli military has approved a new operational framework for an offensive in Gaza City, days after the security cabinet backed its seizure.

The Israeli military on Wednesday (Aug 13) said that it had approved the “framework” for a fresh offensive in the Gaza Strip. This new development comes days after the nation’s security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza City. The plan was approved by the Armed Forces Chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. A statement by the IDF said that he "approved the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip." Hamas has, meanwhile, accused Israel of escalating its attacks. “The Israeli occupation forces continue to carry out aggressive incursions in Gaza City,” said Ismail Al-Thawabta, director general of the Hamas government media office, claiming that Tel Aviv was using a “scorched earth policy” aimed at destroying civilian property. "These assaults represent a dangerous escalation aimed at imposing a new reality on the ground by force, through a scorched earth policy and the complete destruction of civilian property," he told AFP. When will the new offensive take place? As per an AFP report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is yet to provide a precise timetable for when the warring nations’ troops will enter Gaza City – the territory's largest city – where thousands sought refuge from Israel’s previous offensive. News of the Israeli military’s approval of the fresh framework comes just hours after a senior delegation arrived in Cairo for “preliminary talks” for a temporary truce with Egyptian officials. Israel’s plan to expand operations after more than 22 months of war has drawn international criticism and domestic pushback. UN-backed experts warn of famine across Gaza, where Israel has sharply limited humanitarian aid. The war began with Hamas’s October 2023 attack, which killed 1,219 people in Israel, according to official figures. Israel’s retaliatory offensive, meanwhile, has killed at least 61,599 Palestinians, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza — figures the UN regards as credible.

<p>The Israeli military has approved a new operational framework for an offensive in Gaza City, days after the security cabinet backed its seizure.</p>

Israeli Armed Forces Chief approves new ‘framework’ for Gaza city seizure; Hamas slams ‘aaggressive' incursions

<p>Al Jazeera said two of its correspondents, including a prominent reporter, and three cameramen were killed in an Israeli strike on their tent in Gaza City on Sunday.</p><p>The Israeli military admitted in a statement to targeting Anas al-Sharif, the reporter it labelled as a "terrorist" affiliated with Hamas.</p><p>The attack was the latest to see journalists targeted in the 22-month war in Gaza, with around 200 media workers killed over the course of the conflict, according to media watchdogs.</p><p>"Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif has been killed alongside four colleagues in a targeted Israeli attack on a tent housing journalists in Gaza City," the Qatar-based broadcaster said.</p><p>"Al-Sharif, 28, was killed on Sunday after a tent for journalists outside the main gate of the hospital was hit. The well-known Al Jazeera Arabic correspondent reportedly extensively from northern Gaza."</p><p>The channel said that five of its staff members were killed during the strike on a tent in Gaza City, listing the others as Mohammed Qreiqeh along with camera operators Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa.</p><p>The Israeli military confirmed that it had carried out the attack, saying it had struck Al Jazeera's al-Sharif and calling him a "terrorist" who "posed as a journalist".</p><p>"A short while ago, in Gaza City, the IDF struck the terrorist Anas Al-Sharif, who posed as a journalist for the Al Jazeera network," it said on Telegram, using an acronym for the military.</p><p>"Anas Al-Sharif served as the head of a terrorist cell in the Hamas terrorist organisation and was responsible for advancing rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops," it added.</p><p>Al-Sharif was one of the channel's most recognisable faces working on the ground in Gaza, providing daily reports in regular coverage.</p><p>Following a press conference by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, where the premier defended approving a new offensive in Gaza, al-Sharif posted messages on X describing "intense, concentrated Israeli bombardment" on Gaza City.</p><p>One of his final messages included a short video showing nearby Israeli strikes hitting Gaza City.</p><p>In July, the Committee to Protect Journalists issued a statement calling for his protection as it accused the Israeli military's Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee of stepping up online attacks on the reporter by alleging that he was a Hamas terrorist.</p><p>Following the attack, the CPJ said it was "appalled" to learn of the journalists' deaths.</p><p>"Israel's pattern of labelling journalists as militants without providing credible evidence raises serious questions about its intent and respect for press freedom," said CPJ Regional Director Sara Qudah.</p><p>"Journalists are civilians and must never be targeted. Those responsible for these killings must be held accountable."</p><p>The Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate condemned what it described as a "bloody crime" of assassination.</p><p>Israel and Al Jazeera have had a contentious relationship for years, with Israeli authorities banning the channel in the country and raiding its offices following the latest war in Gaza.</p><p>Qatar, which partly funds Al Jazeera, has hosted an office for the Hamas political leadership for years and been a frequent venue for indirect talks between Israel and the militant group.</p><h2><strong>Sealed off</strong></h2><p>With Gaza sealed off, many media groups around the world, including AFP, depend on photo, video and text coverage of the conflict provided by Palestinian reporters.</p><p>Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said in early July that more than 200 journalists had been killed in Gaza since the war began, including several Al Jazeera journalists.</p><p>International criticism is growing over the plight of the more than two million Palestinian civilians in Gaza, with UN agencies and rights groups warning that a famine is unfolding in the territory.</p><p>The targeted strike comes as Israel announced plans to expand its military operations on the ground in Gaza, with Netanyahu saying on Sunday that the new offensive was set to target the remaining Hamas strongholds there.</p><p>He also announced a plan to allow more foreign journalists to report inside Gaza with the military, as he laid out his vision for victory in the territory.</p><p>A UN official warned the Security Council that Israel's plans to control Gaza City risked "another calamity" with far-reaching consequences.</p><p>"If these plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacement, killings, and destruction," UN Assistant Secretary General Miroslav Jenca told the Security Council.</p>

Israeli strike in Gaza City kills Al Jazeera reporter Anas al-Sharif and four colleagues. Israel called al-Sharif a Hamas militant, sparking condemnation from media watchdogs who accused Israel of targeting journalists in the 22-month war.

Al Jazeera said two of its correspondents, including a prominent reporter, and three cameramen were killed in an Israeli strike on their tent in Gaza City on Sunday. The Israeli military admitted in a statement to targeting Anas al-Sharif, the reporter it labelled as a "terrorist" affiliated with Hamas. The attack was the latest to see journalists targeted in the 22-month war in Gaza, with around 200 media workers killed over the course of the conflict, according to media watchdogs. "Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif has been killed alongside four colleagues in a targeted Israeli attack on a tent housing journalists in Gaza City," the Qatar-based broadcaster said. "Al-Sharif, 28, was killed on Sunday after a tent for journalists outside the main gate of the hospital was hit. The well-known Al Jazeera Arabic correspondent reportedly extensively from northern Gaza." The channel said that five of its staff members were killed during the strike on a tent in Gaza City, listing the others as Mohammed Qreiqeh along with camera operators Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa. The Israeli military confirmed that it had carried out the attack, saying it had struck Al Jazeera's al-Sharif and calling him a "terrorist" who "posed as a journalist". "A short while ago, in Gaza City, the IDF struck the terrorist Anas Al-Sharif, who posed as a journalist for the Al Jazeera network," it said on Telegram, using an acronym for the military. "Anas Al-Sharif served as the head of a terrorist cell in the Hamas terrorist organisation and was responsible for advancing rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops," it added. Al-Sharif was one of the channel's most recognisable faces working on the ground in Gaza, providing daily reports in regular coverage. Following a press conference by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, where the premier defended approving a new offensive in Gaza, al-Sharif posted messages on X describing "intense, concentrated Israeli bombardment" on Gaza City. One of his final messages included a short video showing nearby Israeli strikes hitting Gaza City. In July, the Committee to Protect Journalists issued a statement calling for his protection as it accused the Israeli military's Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee of stepping up online attacks on the reporter by alleging that he was a Hamas terrorist. Following the attack, the CPJ said it was "appalled" to learn of the journalists' deaths. "Israel's pattern of labelling journalists as militants without providing credible evidence raises serious questions about its intent and respect for press freedom," said CPJ Regional Director Sara Qudah. "Journalists are civilians and must never be targeted. Those responsible for these killings must be held accountable." The Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate condemned what it described as a "bloody crime" of assassination. Israel and Al Jazeera have had a contentious relationship for years, with Israeli authorities banning the channel in the country and raiding its offices following the latest war in Gaza. Qatar, which partly funds Al Jazeera, has hosted an office for the Hamas political leadership for years and been a frequent venue for indirect talks between Israel and the militant group. Sealed off With Gaza sealed off, many media groups around the world, including AFP, depend on photo, video and text coverage of the conflict provided by Palestinian reporters. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said in early July that more than 200 journalists had been killed in Gaza since the war began, including several Al Jazeera journalists. International criticism is growing over the plight of the more than two million Palestinian civilians in Gaza, with UN agencies and rights groups warning that a famine is unfolding in the territory. The targeted strike comes as Israel announced plans to expand its military operations on the ground in Gaza, with Netanyahu saying on Sunday that the new offensive was set to target the remaining Hamas strongholds there. He also announced a plan to allow more foreign journalists to report inside Gaza with the military, as he laid out his vision for victory in the territory. A UN official warned the Security Council that Israel's plans to control Gaza City risked "another calamity" with far-reaching consequences. "If these plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacement, killings, and destruction," UN Assistant Secretary General Miroslav Jenca told the Security Council.

<p>Israeli strike in Gaza City kills Al Jazeera reporter Anas al-Sharif and four colleagues. Israel called al-Sharif a Hamas militant, sparking condemnation from media watchdogs who accused Israel of targeting journalists in the 22-month war.</p>

Entire AlJazeera team of journalists, three others killed in israeli strikes on Gaza. Here is what happened

<p>After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able.</p><p>Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.”&nbsp;</p><p>“They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.”</p><p>This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow.&nbsp;</p><p>“If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.</p>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.

After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP. Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able. Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said. ‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’ Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.” “They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.” This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted. “The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said. ‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’ He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow. “If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war. The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages. Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said. He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.

<p>Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.</p>

Hamas accuses Netanyahu of reeling out ‘series of lies’ in Gaza press conference

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