At least 33 people were killed and 85 others were injured in Israeli strikes that hit several houses on Friday (Oct 18) in Jabalia, the largest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday citing medics.

At least 33 people were killed and 85 others were injured in Israeli strikes that hit several houses on Friday (Oct 18) in Jabalia, the largest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, the news agency Reuters reported on Saturday citing medics. According to the Hamas-run Gaza government media office, the death toll from the strikes could increase as some people were believed to be trapped under the rubble. The death toll also included children. The Israeli military has not commented on the strikes yet. 'Israeli army destroying dozens of houses daily' As per the Reuters report, Jabalia residents said that Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts. Also read | Skull damaged, fingers chopped off: Chilling details revealed in Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar’s autopsy They added the Israeli army was destroying dozens of houses daily, from the air and the ground, and by placing bombs in buildings then detonating them remotely. These strikes come after Israel declared that it killed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar during an operation in the southern Gaza Strip. A new offensive in Jabalia On October 6, Israel launched a new offensive in northern Gaza, including around Jabalia, saying it was targeting Hamas fighters who were regrouping there. Since then, scores of people have been killed in the area, which had already been hit hard by fighting earlier in the year-long war. This attack in the refugee camp on Friday came a day after 14 people were killed in an Israeli strike on the Abu Hussein school, which has become a shelter in Jabalia. "A horrific massacre, most of the injured and wounded are lying on the ground at Kamal Adwan Hospital, and their condition is critical," an emergency service worker told the news agency AFP. "We are unable to manage these severe cases due to the shortage of medical supplies and specialised personnel, leading to an increase in the number of martyrs," the worker added. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli strike kills 33 people, injures 85 others in Jabalia refugee camp

Israel confirmed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the October 7 attack on Israel last year, has been killed in Gaza. The Israeli army also released footage of what it says - shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar moments before he was killed in southern Gaza's Rafah.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Mourns Sinwar's Death, Issues Warning

Biden Says He Knows Israel's Response To Iran For Oct 1 Attack

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas To Name A New Leader

Hamas on Friday (Oct 18) confirmed that their leader Yahya Sinwar, was killed by Israeli forces on Wednesday. However, the Palestinian militant group remains defiant.

Hamas on Friday (Oct 18) confirmed that their leader Yahya Sinwar, was killed by Israeli forces on Wednesday. However, the Palestinian militant group remains defiant. Al-Hayya, a senior Hamas official, said that Sinwar's death would only make the group stronger. “Sinwar’s death will turn into a curse on the occupiers," he said. He also emphasised that Israeli hostages wouldn’t be freed unless Israel stopped its operations in Gaza and pulled out completely. According to a video statement shared by news agency Reuters, Al-Hayya said, "The hostages will not return, unless the aggression against our people in Gaza stops, there is a complete withdrawal from it, and our heroic prisoners are released from the occupation’s prisons." Hamas' military wing also issued its own statement, vowing to continue their fight against Israel until Palestine is "liberated," as they mourned their leader’s death. Meanwhile, Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthis, both backed by Iran, extended their condolences for Sinwar’s death. In Iran, officials condemned the Hamas leader's death. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called it "a clear sign of the unstoppable crimes committed by Israel," while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Martyrs live forever, and the cause for the liberation of Palestine from occupation is more alive than ever." Also read: West Asia crisis: Drone from Lebanon launched toward Netanyahu's residence On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a video statement, praised the operation and vowed to continue military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. He also addressed the militants holding Israeli hostages, offering them a chance to live if they surrendered and freed the hostages. Hebrew news outlets reported that Netanyahu met with President Isaac Herzog on Friday to discuss the "window of opportunity" created by Sinwar's death. Additionally, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office noted that United States President Joe Biden called Netanyahu on Thursday to congratulate him on the operation and that both leaders agreed to work together to seize the opportunity to secure the release of hostages. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

After Sinwar’s death, Hamas warns: Hostages won’t be freed until Israel withdraws

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Saturday (Oct 19) that a drone was launched toward his residence in Caesarea on Saturday after the military reported a drone from Lebanon had "hit a structure" in the central Israeli town.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Saturday (Oct 19) that a drone was launched toward his residence in Caesarea on Saturday after the military reported a drone from Lebanon had "hit a structure" in the central Israeli town. In a statement, Netanyahu's office said that he and his wife were not at home at the time of the attack. There were no injuries reported. "A UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) was launched toward the prime minister's residence in Caesarea. The prime minister and his wife were not at the location, and there were no injuries in the incident," Netanyahu's office said in the statement. Also read | ‘US will be responsible...,’ Iran irked as Biden says he was aware of Israeli response to Oct 1 attacks Barrage of projectiles fired into northern Israel The Israeli military said three drones had been fired from Lebanon on Saturday and it had intercepted two. A barrage of projectiles were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel on Saturday, with sirens blaring across northern Israel at regular intervals. Lebanese authorities meanwhile said two people were killed in an Israeli strike on Saturday in Jounieh, north of Beirut, in the first strike on the area since Hezbollah and Israel started trading fire last year, the news agency AFP reported. The conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian militants Hamas at the start of the Gaza war. It has escalated sharply in recent weeks. 'Hezbollah has lost 1,500 men' On Friday, Israeli military chief Lt Gen Herzi Halevi said that Hezbollah lost 1,500 of its men in Israeli airstrikes. "We estimate that we are at around 1,500 Hezbollah operatives killed and our estimates are conservative, I assume there are more we don't know of, (killed) in many airstrikes," Lt Gen Halevi said. "There is great damage, an entire chain of command is being wiped out. Hezbollah is hiding its fatalities, it is hiding dead commanders," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Drone from Lebanon launched toward Israeli PM Netanyahu's residence

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said on Friday (Oct 18) that it was moving to a new and escalating phase in its war against Israel while Iran said "the spirit of resistance will be strengthened" after the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said on Friday (Oct 18) that it was moving to a new and escalating phase in its war against Israel while Iran said "the spirit of resistance will be strengthened" after the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Sinwar was the mastermind behind Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack against Israel that triggered the war in the Gaza Strip. He was killed during an operation by Israeli soldiers in the Palestinian enclave on Wednesday. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah erupted one year ago when the Iranian-backed group began launching rockets at northern Israel in support of Hamas at the start of the Gaza war. 'A transition to a new phase in confrontation with Israel' On Friday, Hamas announced "the transition to a new and escalating phase in the confrontation with Israel," the news agency Reuters reported. Also read | Sinwar was killed accidentally: Here's how IDF troops who didn't have intel about Hamas chief neutralised him Iran indicated that no sign of the killing would shift its support. "The spirit of resistance will be strengthened" following the death of Sinwar, its mission to the United Nations said. 'Sinwar's death offers an opportunity for war to end' Meanwhile, Western leaders including US Vice President and current Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris said that while Sinwar's death offered an opportunity for the conflict to end, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pointed out that the war in Gaza would go on until the hostages seized by Hamas militants were returned. "Today we have settled the score. Today evil has been dealt a blow but our task has still not been completed," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement after the death was confirmed on Thursday. Also watch | WION Pulse: Who is Yahya Sinwar, Hamas Chief killed in Gaza strike? × "To the dear hostage families, I say: This is an important moment in the war. We will continue full force until all your loved ones, our loved ones, are home," he added. Sinwar's death came months after Hamas' then-political chief Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran in July. Following Haniyeh's death, Sinwar was named the overall leader of the Palestinian militant group. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Hezbollah to escalate war with Israel after killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar

With Israeli forces confirming Sinwar's killing, the year long hunt for the Hamas leader comes to an end. It's a good day for the world that is what the US President Joe Biden said who spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the phone and congratulated him.

Israel-Hamas: Biden Says Sinwar's Killing By Israel 'A Good Day For The World'

The Israeli cabinet has announced that Yahya Sinwar, a top Hamas leader, was killed in recent military actions. However, Hamas officials have not yet made any public statements confirming or denying the report, leaving uncertainty over Sinwar's status. The situation is being closely monitored as tensions remain high.

Israel-Hamas: Oct 7 Attack Mastermind Killed In Gaza: IDF

Israel-Hamas: Israel 'Eliminates' Hamas' Yahya Sinwar

Israel-Hamas: Impact Of Sinwar's Death On Gaza War

Israel-Hamas: Biden Calls Netanyahu To 'Congratulate' Him After Sinwar's Killing

The Israeli cabinet has announced that Yahya Sinwar, a top Hamas leader, was killed in recent military actions. Israeli dentist recounts how medics fought to save life of the Hamas leader when he was in custody in Israel. Watch to know more.

How Israeli Medics Fought To Save Sinwar's Life

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was the mastermind of the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, was killed by the Israeli military on Wednesday (Oct 16).

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was the mastermind of the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, was killed by the Israeli military on Wednesday (Oct 16). Sinwar was killed during an Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza Strip. Sinwar was chosen as the militant group's overall leader after his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh was killed in July in a suspected Israeli strike during a visit to Tehran. Israel has not confirmed its involvement in the strike (that killed Haniyeh). So, who will be the successor of Yahya Sinwar? Here's a look at the possible names: Mohammed Sinwar Yahya's brother Mohammed Sinwar is under consideration to be the next leader of Hamas. He is one of the most senior, veteran commanders of the armed wing of Hamas. Born on Sept. 15, 1975, he has rarely appeared in public or spoken to the media. Also read | Shocking video shows Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's last moments Just like his late brother, Mohammed has been one of the top targets on Israel's wanted list and, according to Hamas sources, has survived several Israeli attempts on his life, including airstrikes and roadside bomb attacks, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Mahmoud al-Zahar A surgeon by profession, al-Zahar is among the top contenders to be the next leader of Hamas. Friends and enemies used to call him "General" for his hardline views towards Israel and other opponents of Hamas. Zahar, 79, has made no public statement or appearance since October 7 last year and his fate remains unknown. Reuters reported that he survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 2003. He served as the first Hamas-appointed minister of foreign affairs after the group assumed power in Gaza in 2007 in a brief civil war with the secular Palestinian Authority, a year after it swept a parliamentary election. Khalil al-Hayya Al-Hayya was Sinwar's deputy and had recently been leading the Hamas team in indirect ceasefire talks with Israel under the supervision of Ismail Haniyeh. Also watch | Biden says Sinwar's killing by Israel 'a good day for the world' × Hayya was in the same residence when Haniyeh was struck by a short-range projectile, according to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, in Tehran, but not in the same apartment at the time of the strike. Mohammad Shabana Shabana, better known as Abu Anas Shabana, is one of the remaining top and veteran armed commanders of Hamas, heading its battalion in Rafah in the south. Reuters reported that Shabana played a significant role in developing the network of tunnels in Rafah, which were used to attack Israeli troops along the border. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Who will be the next Hamas leader after Yahya Sinwar's killing?

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli shelling late Sunday had killed at least 15 people at a&nbsp;school&nbsp;serving as a shelter for displaced Palestinians in central Gaza's Nuseirat camp.

The vast majority of the besieged Gaza Strip's 2.4 million people have been displaced at least once by the war, sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, with many seeking shelter in&nbsp;school&nbsp;buildings.

"The Al-Mufti&nbsp;school&nbsp;was bombarded with a large volley of Israeli artillery, resulting in an initial death toll of 15 martyrs, including children, women and entire families, and 50 wounded," said Mahmud Bassal, spokesman for the agency.&nbsp;

"This&nbsp;school&nbsp;shelters hundreds of displaced people from different families, including some from Gaza, the south, and various parts of the Gaza Strip," he added.&nbsp;

The Israeli military said it was "looking into the reports".

The attack comes just days after an Israeli air strike on a&nbsp;school&nbsp;killed at least 28 people in Gaza's Deir el-Balah.

Israel's military regularly accuses Hamas of hiding in&nbsp;school&nbsp;buildings where thousands of Gazans have sought shelter -- a charge denied by the Palestinian militant group.

Civilians have borne much of the brunt of the Israeli onslaught, which according to Gaza's health ministry has killed at least 42,227 people over the past year, a majority of them civilians.

The United Nations acknowledges the figures to be reliable.

Hamas triggered the ongoing conflict in Gaza with the deadliest-ever attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. It resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures.

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.

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli shelling late Sunday had killed at least 15 people at a school serving as a shelter for displaced Palestinians in central Gaza's Nuseirat camp.

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli shelling late Sunday had killed at least 15 people at a school serving as a shelter for displaced Palestinians in central Gaza's Nuseirat camp. The vast majority of the besieged Gaza Strip's 2.4 million people have been displaced at least once by the war, sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, with many seeking shelter in school buildings. "The Al-Mufti school was bombarded with a large volley of Israeli artillery, resulting in an initial death toll of 15 martyrs, including children, women and entire families, and 50 wounded," said Mahmud Bassal, spokesman for the agency. "This school shelters hundreds of displaced people from different families, including some from Gaza, the south, and various parts of the Gaza Strip," he added. The Israeli military said it was "looking into the reports". The attack comes just days after an Israeli air strike on a school killed at least 28 people in Gaza's Deir el-Balah. Israel's military regularly accuses Hamas of hiding in school buildings where thousands of Gazans have sought shelter -- a charge denied by the Palestinian militant group. Civilians have borne much of the brunt of the Israeli onslaught, which according to Gaza's health ministry has killed at least 42,227 people over the past year, a majority of them civilians. The United Nations acknowledges the figures to be reliable. Hamas triggered the ongoing conflict in Gaza with the deadliest-ever attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. It resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures. 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.

Gaza war: 15 killed in Israeli strike on school turned shelter

The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration has approved the sale of billions of dollars in weapons to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A report by Bloomberg said that this approval was a fresh support to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who are crucial to the US pushback against Iran and its proxies as conflict escalates in West Asia.

The Joe Biden-led United States (US) administration has approved the sale of billions of dollars in weapons to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A report by Bloomberg said that this approval was a fresh support to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who are crucial to the US pushback against Iran and its proxies as conflict escalates in West Asia. The US Congress was notified about the sale approval. The approvals to Saudi Arabia and the UAE The report said that the US State Department notified Congress it approved the sale of Hellfire and Sidewinder missiles, along with artillery, tank, and machine gun ammunition, to Saudi Arabia in a deal valued at more than $1 billion. The State Department also notified lawmakers that it has approved the potential sale of GMLRS guided-rocket systems, long-range ATACMS missiles, and training and support for both systems to the UAE in a deal valued at as much as $1.2 billion. Unless Congress moved to block the proposed sales, the contractors and receiving countries could begin negotiations on contracts, which might fall short of the maximums approved. In August this year, Washington lifted limits on the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia as a way to pressure Riyadh to wind down its war against Houthi rebels in Yemen. Since the Gaza war began in October last year, the Houthis have gone on the offensive, targeting commercial shipping in the Red Sea. 'Will not recognise Israel without Palestinian state' Last month, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that his country would not recognise Israel without a Palestinian state and strongly condemned the "crimes of the Israeli occupation" against the Palestinian people. "The kingdom will not stop its tireless work towards the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and we affirm that the kingdom will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that," Crown Prince Salman said on September 18. Following the eruption of the Gaza war, Saudi Arabia put on ice US-backed plans for the kingdom to normalise ties with Israel, two sources familiar with Riyadh's thinking told the news agency Reuters earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies)

US approves sale of weapons worth $2.2 billion to Saudi Arabia and UAE

Hamas tried to persuade its two allies, Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, to join its October 7, 2023, attack against Israel or at least commit to a broader fight if the Palestinian militant group staged a surprise cross-border raid, The New York Times (NYT) reported on Saturday, citing the minutes of Hamas' secret meetings seized by the Israeli military.

Hamas tried to persuade its two allies, Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, to join its October 7, 2023, attack against Israel or at least commit to a broader fight if the Palestinian militant group staged a surprise cross-border raid, The New York Times (NYT) reported on Saturday, citing the minutes of Hamas' secret meetings seized by the Israeli military. The report said that the documents showed extensive efforts to deceive Israel about its intentions as Hamas laid the groundwork for a bold assault and a regional conflagration that Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar hoped would cause Israel to “collapse.” Also read | Thousands trapped in Gaza's Jabalia Camp as Israeli forces intensify assault; those trying to flee 'get shot' The documents consist of minutes from 10 secret planning meetings of a small group of Hamas political and military leaders in the run-up to the attack. Hamas planned to attack in fall of 2022 The documents showed that Hamas initially planned to carry out its attack on Israel in the fall of 2022 but delayed it as the Palestinian militant group was persuading Iran and Hezbollah to also participate in it. Hamas members said that the internal situation in Israel, an apparent reference to the turmoil over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial plans to overhaul the judiciary, was among the reasons they were “compelled to move toward a strategic battle”. The documents cited by The NYT further revealed that in July 2023, a top Hamas official visited Lebanon, where he met a senior Iranian commander and requested help with striking sensitive sites at the start of the assault. Also watch | Israeli PM warns Lebanon with 'Gaza-like destruction' × This Iranian commander told the Hamas official that Tehran and Hezbollah were supportive in principle but needed more time to prepare. Hamas planned to discuss attack with Hassan Nasrallah Hamas planned to discuss its attack with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was recently assassinated by Israel. It was not known whether the discussion with Hezbollah happened. Hamas felt assured of its allies’ general support but concluded it might need to go ahead without their full involvement. The documents also highlighted that Hamas deliberately avoided confrontations with Israel for two years from 2021 so that it could maximise the surprise of the October 7 attack. The Gaza war Hamas militants attacked southern Israel (on October 7 last year), killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 others hostage, according to Israeli tallies. More than 100 hostages are reportedly still held by the Hamas. Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed more than 42,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Gaza's health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Hamas tried to persuade Iran and Hezbollah to join its October 7 attack on Israel, says report

Former United States (US) president and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump said on Monday (Oct 7) that Americans should never forget Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel last year (which triggered the war in the Gaza Strip) as he paid tributes to the victims at a campaign event.

Former United States (US) president and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump said on Monday (Oct 7) that Americans should never forget Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel last year (which triggered the war in the Gaza Strip) as he paid tributes to the victims at a campaign event. Addressing a crowd at an event at his Trump National Doral Golf Club in southern Florida to commemorate the first anniversary of the attack, Trump said, "We can never forget the nightmare of that day." Trump claimed that the Hamas attack would have never happened if he was president. Trump hails Israel's offensive against Hamas During the campaign event on Monday, Trump hailed Israel's offensive against Hamas by saying that the "dawn of a new, more harmonious Middle East is finally within our reach." Also read | One year of Gaza war: What happened on October 7 and how Israel responded to deadly attacks Trump has spoken little about the recent escalation in tensions in West Asia since the Israel-Hamas war broke out on October 7 last year. Earlier this week, Trump issued a scathing statement, holding President Joe Biden and Vice President and current Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris responsible for the crisis. Biden, Harris mark first anniversary of Gaza war Apart from Biden, US President Biden and Vice President Harris also marked the first anniversary of the Gaza war. In a solemn Jewish ceremony of mourning at the White House, Biden lit a candle while a rabbi chanted a prayer for the victims, with the president calling for peace even as the region teeters on the edge of all-out war, the news agency AFP reported. In a statement, Biden said, "Far too many civilians have suffered far too much during this year of conflict." He lashed out at the "unspeakable brutality" of the attacks and said he and Harris were "fully committed" to Israel's security against Iran and its regional allies -- Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Huthis in Yemen. Also watch | World DNA: One year after Israel-Hamas war, Gazans long for return to normalcy × But he also described October 7 as a "dark day for the Palestinian people" and said he and Harris "will not stop working to achieve a ceasefire deal in Gaza." Meanwhile, Kamala Harris separately planted a memorial tree at her Washington residence. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Americans should never forget Hamas' Oct 7 attack on Israel, says Trump

Far from the conflict in the Middle East, a church in northeastern&nbsp;Thailand fills with voices of blessing, chants rising on the eve of the war's anniversary. Amid these prayers, the Sriaoun family—one of six&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;families with loved ones believed to remain held in Gaza—gathers under the shadow of war.

Watchara Sriaoun is one of six&nbsp;Thais believed to be held captive by Hamas since the war began on October 7, 2023, according to a statement from the&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;Foreign Ministry in September. Since then, the Sriaoun family, along with the church community, has prayed every week, hoping for the return of their son.

“We can only pray to God,” said Wiwwaro Sriaoun, the mother of the remaining&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;hostage, as she waited endlessly, caught between hope and fear, uncertain whether her son was alive or gone.

“Asking people doesn’t give us answers, and even the village chief or headman cannot confirm anything,” she added.

Before the war, Watchara and his younger brother went to Israel in 2020, hoping to clear the family debt and earn money for their father's medical expenses. Together, they sent 50,000&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;Baht (1,500 USD) home each month to help pay off a debt of 300,000&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;Baht (9,000 USD) and renovate the house.

Since Watchara's capture, the family has faced financial hardship, with his younger brother returning home at their mother's request, afraid of losing another son. This has meant the Sriaoun family has had to work harder, relying on income from farming, rice cultivation, and rubber tapping, especially since Watchara's father's condition worsened after the war began.

Wiwwaro said that whenever she feels tired, she recalls her son's voice to keep her strong. “He told me, 'Mother, as long as I’m not dead, you don’t have to worry. I will provide everything for you.'”

“The debt I haven't yet paid off, I will do my best to repay. I won’t let myself struggle, and I won’t let my parents suffer, as long as I have the strength,” she added, recalling Watchara’s words from his time in Israel.

However, with part of the 3,000,000&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;Baht (approximately 90,000 USD) compensation received in July 2024 from the Israeli government for Watchara's capture, the family was able to pay off their debt and purchase the land that Watchara had promised to buy for his mother.

“Everyone still has hope that one day you will be standing here,” said Wiwwaro as she stood on the land that Watchara had promised to buy for her, hoping he would build a new house there to live with his daughter.

"I wish for this brutal war to end," Wiwwaro told Reuters. “Everyone has suffered enough, and I have suffered enough too, waiting for my son,” she said, tears welling in her eyes as she endured the uncertainty.

Wiwwaro has held onto her courage for the sake of her family, especially 9-year-old Irada Sriaoun, Watchara’s daughter, who lost her mother—Watchara's ex-wife—in August 2024.

Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, held discussions with Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian regarding efforts to negotiate the release of&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;hostages. During their talks, she requested additional support for the release of the remaining six&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;hostages on Thursday (October 3).

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.

Far from the conflict in the Middle East, a church in northeastern Thailand fills with voices of blessing, chants rising on the eve of the war's anniversary. Amid these prayers, the Sriaoun family—one of six Thai families with loved ones believed to remain held in Gaza—gathers under the shadow of war.

Far from the conflict in the Middle East, a church in northeastern Thailand fills with voices of blessing, chants rising on the eve of the war's anniversary. Amid these prayers, the Sriaoun family—one of six Thai families with loved ones believed to remain held in Gaza—gathers under the shadow of war. Watchara Sriaoun is one of six Thais believed to be held captive by Hamas since the war began on October 7, 2023, according to a statement from the Thai Foreign Ministry in September. Since then, the Sriaoun family, along with the church community, has prayed every week, hoping for the return of their son. “We can only pray to God,” said Wiwwaro Sriaoun, the mother of the remaining Thai hostage, as she waited endlessly, caught between hope and fear, uncertain whether her son was alive or gone. “Asking people doesn’t give us answers, and even the village chief or headman cannot confirm anything,” she added. Before the war, Watchara and his younger brother went to Israel in 2020, hoping to clear the family debt and earn money for their father's medical expenses. Together, they sent 50,000 Thai Baht (1,500 USD) home each month to help pay off a debt of 300,000 Thai Baht (9,000 USD) and renovate the house. Since Watchara's capture, the family has faced financial hardship, with his younger brother returning home at their mother's request, afraid of losing another son. This has meant the Sriaoun family has had to work harder, relying on income from farming, rice cultivation, and rubber tapping, especially since Watchara's father's condition worsened after the war began. Wiwwaro said that whenever she feels tired, she recalls her son's voice to keep her strong. “He told me, 'Mother, as long as I’m not dead, you don’t have to worry. I will provide everything for you.'” “The debt I haven't yet paid off, I will do my best to repay. I won’t let myself struggle, and I won’t let my parents suffer, as long as I have the strength,” she added, recalling Watchara’s words from his time in Israel. However, with part of the 3,000,000 Thai Baht (approximately 90,000 USD) compensation received in July 2024 from the Israeli government for Watchara's capture, the family was able to pay off their debt and purchase the land that Watchara had promised to buy for his mother. “Everyone still has hope that one day you will be standing here,” said Wiwwaro as she stood on the land that Watchara had promised to buy for her, hoping he would build a new house there to live with his daughter. "I wish for this brutal war to end," Wiwwaro told Reuters. “Everyone has suffered enough, and I have suffered enough too, waiting for my son,” she said, tears welling in her eyes as she endured the uncertainty. Wiwwaro has held onto her courage for the sake of her family, especially 9-year-old Irada Sriaoun, Watchara’s daughter, who lost her mother—Watchara's ex-wife—in August 2024. Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, held discussions with Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian regarding efforts to negotiate the release of Thai hostages. During their talks, she requested additional support for the release of the remaining six Thai hostages on Thursday (October 3). 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.

Gaza war: We can only pray to God, says mother of Thai hostage

With candles, prayers and music, commemorations for the October 7 attack began in Israel's Tel Aviv on Sunday at a ceremony to mark the first anniversary of the Hamas onslaught at the Nova music festival.

Picture of those killed appeared on a screen at the entrance to the ceremony, as hundreds gathered to light candles at a makeshift shrine, leave handwritten notes or simply embrace each other.

"Coming to this event one year after this terrible massacre that happened on October 7, it's very touching, it's very breathtaking," said one of the event's organisers Solly Laniado.

"Three days ago, we were not even going to hold the event at all," he said, citing the deluge of rocket warnings and last week's missile attack on Tel Aviv that have left many people on edge and large parts of the usually vibrant city empty.

The anniversary comes with Israel engaged in a fresh war in Lebanon against Hezbollah and preparing to retaliate against Tehran, raising fears of an even wider conflict.&nbsp;

Anticipation is building over how and when Israel will respond to Iran's missile barrage last week, with the uncertainty casting a shadow over the commemoration.

"It's a difficult day," said Omri Sasi, 35, one of the producers of last year's festival who survived the attack.

By his own estimate he lost roughly 50 friends that day, including an uncle, a pregnant cousin and her husband.

<h2>Onslaught of violence</h2>

The two-day festival in the fields around Kibbutz Reim was just beyond the&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;border in southern Israel and attracted over 3,000 attendees from October 6 and 7.&nbsp;

At least 370 people were killed at the Nova rave in the Negev desert, making it the deadliest location during the October 7 attack.&nbsp;

Footage from the day filmed by Hamas showed the militants gunning down festival goers en masse as they attempted to flee and taking others hostages, with the heavily armed Hamas fighters moving through the area unopposed.&nbsp;

Following the attack, the festival location was left largely untouched with dozens of burnt-out vehicles and abandoned tents, sleeping bags and clothes strewn across the field.&nbsp;

The festival attack was part of an onslaught of violence unleashed by Palestinian Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on the latest official Israeli figures.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Some 251 people were captured and taken as hostages to the&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip, of whom 97 are still held captive in the coastal territory, including 37 the Israeli military says are dead.

During a one-week truce in late November, 105 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Hours after the October 7 attack, Israel launched a blistering military offensive on&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;that has reduced large swaths of the territory to rubble, and displaced nearly all of its 2.4 million residents at least once amid an unrelenting humanitarian crisis.

In&nbsp;Gaza, at least 41,870 people have been killed since the start of the Israel offensive, a majority of them civilians, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory.

The figures have been deemed to be reliable by the United Nations.

But as the anniversary arrives, for many it's just the latest marker in a year tarnished by trauma, loss and ongoing war.&nbsp;

"It's not easy to think a lot about it," said Sasi.&nbsp;

With candles, prayers and music, commemorations for the October 7 attack began in Israel's Tel Aviv on Sunday at a ceremony to mark the first anniversary of the Hamas onslaught at the Nova music festival.

With candles, prayers and music, commemorations for the October 7 attack began in Israel's Tel Aviv on Sunday at a ceremony to mark the first anniversary of the Hamas onslaught at the Nova music festival. Picture of those killed appeared on a screen at the entrance to the ceremony, as hundreds gathered to light candles at a makeshift shrine, leave handwritten notes or simply embrace each other. "Coming to this event one year after this terrible massacre that happened on October 7, it's very touching, it's very breathtaking," said one of the event's organisers Solly Laniado. "Three days ago, we were not even going to hold the event at all," he said, citing the deluge of rocket warnings and last week's missile attack on Tel Aviv that have left many people on edge and large parts of the usually vibrant city empty. The anniversary comes with Israel engaged in a fresh war in Lebanon against Hezbollah and preparing to retaliate against Tehran, raising fears of an even wider conflict. Anticipation is building over how and when Israel will respond to Iran's missile barrage last week, with the uncertainty casting a shadow over the commemoration. "It's a difficult day," said Omri Sasi, 35, one of the producers of last year's festival who survived the attack. By his own estimate he lost roughly 50 friends that day, including an uncle, a pregnant cousin and her husband. Onslaught of violence The two-day festival in the fields around Kibbutz Reim was just beyond the Gaza border in southern Israel and attracted over 3,000 attendees from October 6 and 7. At least 370 people were killed at the Nova rave in the Negev desert, making it the deadliest location during the October 7 attack. Footage from the day filmed by Hamas showed the militants gunning down festival goers en masse as they attempted to flee and taking others hostages, with the heavily armed Hamas fighters moving through the area unopposed. Following the attack, the festival location was left largely untouched with dozens of burnt-out vehicles and abandoned tents, sleeping bags and clothes strewn across the field. The festival attack was part of an onslaught of violence unleashed by Palestinian Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on the latest official Israeli figures. Some 251 people were captured and taken as hostages to the Gaza Strip, of whom 97 are still held captive in the coastal territory, including 37 the Israeli military says are dead. During a one-week truce in late November, 105 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. Hours after the October 7 attack, Israel launched a blistering military offensive on Gaza that has reduced large swaths of the territory to rubble, and displaced nearly all of its 2.4 million residents at least once amid an unrelenting humanitarian crisis. In Gaza, at least 41,870 people have been killed since the start of the Israel offensive, a majority of them civilians, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory. The figures have been deemed to be reliable by the United Nations. But as the anniversary arrives, for many it's just the latest marker in a year tarnished by trauma, loss and ongoing war. "It's not easy to think a lot about it," said Sasi.

Commemorations for Hamas' Oct 7 attack begin in Israel's Tel Aviv

On Monday (Oct 7), Israel marked the first anniversary of the Gaza war. The war in Gaza was triggered when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked southern Israel (on October 7 last year), killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

On Monday (Oct 7), Israel marked the first anniversary of the Gaza war. The war in Gaza was triggered when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked southern Israel (on October 7 last year), killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies. More than 100 hostages remain held by Hamas. Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed more than 41,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. On Monday, the armed wing of Hamas claimed that it fired rockets into southern Israel. Later in the day, the Palestinian militant group said that it fired a barrage of rockets targeting Tel Aviv. Also read | One year of Hamas terror attack: What happened on October 7 and how Israel responded to deadly attacks The first anniversary of the war came as Israel is engaged in a conflict with Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and is preparing to retaliate against Iran's massive missile attack last week. Here's a look at the latest updates from the first anniversary of the Gaza war: > Hamas' armed wing Ezzedine Al-Qassam said that it "struck deep into the occupation's territory, targeting the city of Tel Aviv with a barrage of M90 missiles as part of the ongoing war of attrition." > Hamas' ally Hezbollah has vowed to keep up the fight against Israeli “aggression.” Hezbollah called Israel a “cancerous gland that must be eliminated, no matter how long it takes.” > Israel's President Isaac Herzog on Monday said the world "must support Israel" to bring peace, as the country marked the first anniversary of the war. "The world has to realise and understand that in order to change the course of history and bring peace, a better future to the region, it must support Israel in its battle against its enemies," Herzog said in a statement. > An Israeli campaign group on Monday announced the death of a hostage held in Gaza. According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, Idan Shtivi, 28, was abducted from the site of the Nova festival and his "body is still held captive by Hamas." > Earlier in the day, thousands of Israelis converged on the Nova Music Festival location to commemorate the first anniversary of the Hamas attack. More than 300 people were killed and 44 were abducted when Hamas attacked the festival in 2023. > The playback of the last track of the Nova party followed by a minute of silence was observed before the memorial was commemorated with prayers and song. Also watch | New details emerge on Mossad's pager and walkie-talkie operations × > The Israeli military said it had also prevented an "immediate threat" from Hamas' intentions to fire rockets. > "The IAF (air force) struck Hamas launch posts and underground terrorist infrastructure throughout the Gaza Strip," the military said. "Furthermore, overnight, the IAF and IDF (Israeli army) artillery struck targets in the central Gaza Strip that posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area," it added. > The first anniversary of the Gaza war was also commemorated in other countries. In France, President Emmanuel Macron paid tributes to the victims of the October 7 attack in Israel. > In Australia, people gathered for vigils to mark the first anniversary of the conflict. At Sydney's famed Bondi Beach, participants holding Israeli and Australian flags listened in silence to a reading of the names of Israel's 101 hostages still held by Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

First anniversary of Gaza war: Hamas fires rocket barrage targeting Israel's Tel Aviv- Top updates

Monday (Oct 7) is the first anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. On the eve of the anniversary,&nbsp;Khalil al-Hayya, a Qatar-based member of the Palestinian militant group, said that its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023,&nbsp;shattered Israel's sense of security and self-perceived superiority.&nbsp;

A massive blast was reported outside the Karachi airport in Pakistan on Sunday (Oct 6). At least two people were killed in the blast that targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers.&nbsp;According to posts circulating on social media, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack.

In other news from around the world, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu began his four-day visit to India on Sunday.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-praises-oct-7-attack-on-israel-says-it-shattered-illusions-the-enemy-had-created-for-itself-watch-765043">Hamas praises Oct 7 attack on Israel, says it shattered 'illusions the enemy had created for itself'. Watch!</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/07/458717-new-wion-2024-10-07t093114028.png?imwidth=400" />

Hamas, in a video released on Sunday (Oct 6), ahead of the one-year anniversary of the attack that triggered the current war in Gaza, praised its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-two-chinese-and-others-killed-in-blast-outside-karachi-airport-bla-claims-responsibility-765034">Pakistan: Chinese convoy attacked, at least two killed in blast at Karachi airport; BLA claims responsibility</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/07/458711-new-wion-2024-10-07t084535606.png?imwidth=400" />

In Pakistan's Karachi, a massive blast outside the airport on Sunday (Oct 6) claimed the lives of at least two, possibly three people, injuring eight others.&nbsp;The two confirmed dead as per a PTI report citing officials were workers from China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-in-india-will-never-do-anything-that-undermines-indias-security-says-muizzu-765031">Maldives president in India: Will never do anything that undermines India's security, says Muizzu</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/07/458709-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who began his first state visit to India on Sunday (Oct 6), said that his government would never do anything that undermined the security of India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-one-year-of-gaza-war-israel-bombed-over-40000-hamas-targets-765036">In one year of Gaza war, Israel bombed over 40,000 Hamas targets</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/07/458712-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military&nbsp;bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites.

Watch | World DNA: Russia hammers Ukraine's energy and&nbsp;military infrastructures

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Monday (Oct 7) is the first anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. On the eve of the anniversary, Khalil al-Hayya, a Qatar-based member of the Palestinian militant group, said that its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, shattered Israel's sense of security and self-perceived superiority.

Monday (Oct 7) is the first anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. On the eve of the anniversary, Khalil al-Hayya, a Qatar-based member of the Palestinian militant group, said that its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, shattered Israel's sense of security and self-perceived superiority. A massive blast was reported outside the Karachi airport in Pakistan on Sunday (Oct 6). At least two people were killed in the blast that targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers. According to posts circulating on social media, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack. In other news from around the world, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu began his four-day visit to India on Sunday. Click on the headlines to read more: Hamas praises Oct 7 attack on Israel, says it shattered 'illusions the enemy had created for itself'. Watch! Hamas, in a video released on Sunday (Oct 6), ahead of the one-year anniversary of the attack that triggered the current war in Gaza, praised its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Pakistan: Chinese convoy attacked, at least two killed in blast at Karachi airport; BLA claims responsibility In Pakistan's Karachi, a massive blast outside the airport on Sunday (Oct 6) claimed the lives of at least two, possibly three people, injuring eight others. The two confirmed dead as per a PTI report citing officials were workers from China. Maldives president in India: Will never do anything that undermines India's security, says Muizzu Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who began his first state visit to India on Sunday (Oct 6), said that his government would never do anything that undermined the security of India. In one year of Gaza war, Israel bombed over 40,000 Hamas targets It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites. Watch | World DNA: Russia hammers Ukraine's energy and military infrastructures ×

Morning brief: Hamas praises Oct 7 attack on Israel; blast at Karachi airport, and more

It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites.

It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites. On Monday (Oct 7), the military said 726 soldiers had been killed since October 7 last year. Of those, 380 died in Hamas' October 7 attacks and 346 in Gaza combat starting October 27, 2023. Injured troops numbered 4,576 since that date. Fifty-six soldiers died as a result of operational accidents, which the military did not define, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Hamas' attack and Israel's retaliation The war in Gaza was triggered when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked southern Israel (on Oct 7 last year), killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies. More than 100 hostages remain held by Hamas. Also read | Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed more than 41,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. On Monday, the Israeli military also said that it enlisted 300,000 reservists since the start of the war - 82 per cent men and 18 per cent women and nearly half of them aged 20 to 29. Tens of thousands of rockets fired into Israel Since the start of the conflict, 13,200 rockets were fired into Israel from Gaza. Another 12,400 were fired from Lebanon, while 60 came from Syria, 180 from Yemen and 400 from Iran, the military said. It said it killed more than 800 "terrorists" in Lebanon, where 4,900 targets had been struck from the air along with about 6,000 ground targets. Over the past year, Israel arrested more than 5,000 suspects in the West Bank and Jordan Valley. The military further said it killed eight Gaza militant brigade commanders, about 30 battalion commanders and 165 company commanders over the past year. October 7 commemorations begin With candles, prayers and music, commemorations for the October 7 attack began in Israel's Tel Aviv to mark the first anniversary of the war. Picture of those killed appeared on a screen at the entrance to the ceremony, as hundreds gathered to light candles at a makeshift shrine, leave handwritten notes or simply embrace each other, a report by the news agency AFP said. Also watch | How will Israel respond to Iran's missile attack? × "Coming to this event one year after this terrible massacre that happened on October 7, it's very touching, it's very breathtaking," one of the organisers of the event told AFP. The first anniversary of the war came as Israel is engaged in a conflict with Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and is preparing to retaliate against Iran's massive missile attack last week, raising fears of an even wider conflict in West Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

In one year of Gaza war, Israel bombed over 40,000 Hamas targets

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7&nbsp;was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately.

Nearly one year later, the confirmed death toll, which includes hostages killed in captivity, now stands at 1,205.

Here is a blow-by-blow timeline of Israel's deadliest day.

<h2>Caught by surprise</h2>

At 6:29 am (0329 GMT), the Israeli army detected thousands of rockets being fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli border communities.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, which rules Gaza, said it had launched about 5,000 projectiles in an offensive dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood", a reference to the mosque in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem that is Islam's third-holiest site.

Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system kicked in but was quickly overwhelmed by the amount of incoming fire.

At the same time, Hamas fighters -- the group would later say they numbered 1,200 -- stormed across the border on motorbikes, in pickup trucks and even in motorised paragliders.

They used explosives and bulldozers to break through the fence separating Gaza from Israel and attacked nearly 50 different sites, including kibbutzim communities, army bases and a music festival.

Militants killed festival-goers en masse and went door-to-door in farming communities, shooting residents dead in their homes.

In March, a United Nations report acknowledged there were "reasonable grounds to believe" that rapes were committed during the attack. It also found "clear and convincing information" that some hostages taken on that day had been raped.

<h2>Slow army response</h2>

By 8:30 am, the militants had stormed six military bases: Erez at the northern end of the Gaza Strip, Nahal Oz opposite Gaza City, two others near the Beeri kibbutz, one in Reim near central Gaza and two in the south close to the Egyptian border.

Residents of kibbutzim near Gaza were forced to fight the attackers on their own for hours, as the military was slow to come to their aid.

They would later describe cowering in safe rooms as militants tried to break down the doors, or taking whatever arms they had and rushing out to try to repel the assault.

At the Nova music festival, where nearly 3,000 people had gathered in fields and woods a few kilometres (miles) from central Gaza, militants went on an hour-long rampage that killed at least 370 people.

In kibbutz Beeri, one of the worst-hit communities, the first individual Israeli reinforcements came to help "from 13:30 onwards", an army report later said.

A full army division arrived at 4:15 pm to organise a coordinated evacuation of survivors and retake control of the kibbutz.

The military announced at around 6:00 pm that both soldiers and civilians had been seized by Hamas attackers and taken into Gaza.

<h2>Taken&nbsp;as hostages</h2>

A total of 251 people in Israel were taken hostage on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7, including 44 from the Nova festival and at least 74 from kibbutz Nir Oz.

Some, including soldiers, were already dead and their bodies were taken into Gaza, the army has said.

Some hostages may have fallen to friendly fire, including in kibbutz Beeri, where witnesses told Israeli media a tank fired at a house in which 14 people were being held by Hamas.

The order may have been an instance of the "Hannibal Directive", which Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported was applied at least three times that day.

This measure allows for the use of force to prevent soldiers from being captured.

<h2>We're at war</h2>

At 11:34 am, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an almost unprecedented televised address on the rest day of Shabbat, declaring: "We are at war."

In the afternoon, the military called up 360,000 reservists to bolster an army that otherwise boasts 170,000 personnel, a mix of those performing mandatory service and career soldiers.

Israel quickly began a relentless bombardment of Gaza, the tiny Palestinian coastal territory home to 2.4 million people that has been ruled by Hamas since 2007.

An AFP journalist reported the first strike in Gaza at 10:39 am that day. Since then, the territory has been devastated by relentless air strikes.

Israel's retaliatory military offensive since&nbsp;October&nbsp;7&nbsp;has killed at least 41,788 people in Gaza, a majority of them civilians, according to data provided by the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable.

As night fell on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7, the search continued for any gunmen still inside Israel, with terrified civilians locked inside their homes and many streets deserted.

On&nbsp;October&nbsp;10, the military said it had taken back control of all territory attacked by the militants.

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&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on October 7 was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately.

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on October 7 was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately. Nearly one year later, the confirmed death toll, which includes hostages killed in captivity, now stands at 1,205. Here is a blow-by-blow timeline of Israel's deadliest day. Caught by surprise At 6:29 am (0329 GMT), the Israeli army detected thousands of rockets being fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli border communities. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which rules Gaza, said it had launched about 5,000 projectiles in an offensive dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood", a reference to the mosque in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem that is Islam's third-holiest site. Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system kicked in but was quickly overwhelmed by the amount of incoming fire. At the same time, Hamas fighters -- the group would later say they numbered 1,200 -- stormed across the border on motorbikes, in pickup trucks and even in motorised paragliders. They used explosives and bulldozers to break through the fence separating Gaza from Israel and attacked nearly 50 different sites, including kibbutzim communities, army bases and a music festival. Militants killed festival-goers en masse and went door-to-door in farming communities, shooting residents dead in their homes. In March, a United Nations report acknowledged there were "reasonable grounds to believe" that rapes were committed during the attack. It also found "clear and convincing information" that some hostages taken on that day had been raped. Slow army response By 8:30 am, the militants had stormed six military bases: Erez at the northern end of the Gaza Strip, Nahal Oz opposite Gaza City, two others near the Beeri kibbutz, one in Reim near central Gaza and two in the south close to the Egyptian border. Residents of kibbutzim near Gaza were forced to fight the attackers on their own for hours, as the military was slow to come to their aid. They would later describe cowering in safe rooms as militants tried to break down the doors, or taking whatever arms they had and rushing out to try to repel the assault. At the Nova music festival, where nearly 3,000 people had gathered in fields and woods a few kilometres (miles) from central Gaza, militants went on an hour-long rampage that killed at least 370 people. In kibbutz Beeri, one of the worst-hit communities, the first individual Israeli reinforcements came to help "from 13:30 onwards", an army report later said. A full army division arrived at 4:15 pm to organise a coordinated evacuation of survivors and retake control of the kibbutz. The military announced at around 6:00 pm that both soldiers and civilians had been seized by Hamas attackers and taken into Gaza. Taken as hostages A total of 251 people in Israel were taken hostage on October 7, including 44 from the Nova festival and at least 74 from kibbutz Nir Oz. Some, including soldiers, were already dead and their bodies were taken into Gaza, the army has said. Some hostages may have fallen to friendly fire, including in kibbutz Beeri, where witnesses told Israeli media a tank fired at a house in which 14 people were being held by Hamas. The order may have been an instance of the "Hannibal Directive", which Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported was applied at least three times that day. This measure allows for the use of force to prevent soldiers from being captured. We're at war At 11:34 am, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an almost unprecedented televised address on the rest day of Shabbat, declaring: "We are at war." In the afternoon, the military called up 360,000 reservists to bolster an army that otherwise boasts 170,000 personnel, a mix of those performing mandatory service and career soldiers. Israel quickly began a relentless bombardment of Gaza, the tiny Palestinian coastal territory home to 2.4 million people that has been ruled by Hamas since 2007. An AFP journalist reported the first strike in Gaza at 10:39 am that day. Since then, the territory has been devastated by relentless air strikes. Israel's retaliatory military offensive since October 7 has killed at least 41,788 people in Gaza, a majority of them civilians, according to data provided by the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable. As night fell on October 7, the search continued for any gunmen still inside Israel, with terrified civilians locked inside their homes and many streets deserted. On October 10, the military said it had taken back control of all territory attacked by the militants. 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.

Israel-Hamas war: How October 7, 2023, became Israel's deadliest day

As the crisis in West Asia is intensifying, the number of international flights passing through Afghan airspace saw a record high this week after Iran launched a massive missile attack against Israel, according to a report by The Independent on Saturday (Oct 5).

As the crisis in West Asia is intensifying, the number of international flights passing through Afghan airspace saw a record high this week after Iran launched a massive missile attack against Israel, according to a report by The Independent on Saturday (Oct 5). The report said that on Thursday (Oct 3), a record 191 flights passed over Afghanistan, with airlines paying the country’s civil aviation ministry $700 per flight for the privilege. It added that these payments showed a growing revenue stream for the cash-strapped Taliban that rule Afghanistan. Which airlines have returned to Afghan airspace? The Independent report said that the international airlines which returned to Afghan airspace included British Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss Air. Citing data from FlightRadar24, the publication reported that an average of 147 flights per day travelled through Afghan airspace between September 19 and 30, not including journeys that started or finished in Afghanistan itself. Also read | Gaza war: Israel places its forces on alert ahead of first anniversary of conflict The number went up to 171 on Tuesday when Iran launched 180 missiles against Israel. And on Friday, this number went up to 191, the report added. Speaking to the publication, FlightRadar24’s spokesperson Ian Petchenik said, "We’re seeing aircraft that would normally transit through Iran make use of Afghanistan airspace now." "As we start to see more and more airspace restrictions (in West Asia), airlines are making a trade-off or a calculated decision on risk – is this a safe method of operation? And is it safer than the alternative that still allows us to operate these flights?” Petchenik added. Afghan airspace largely avoided by international flights after Taliban takeover The Afghan airspace has been largely avoided by international flights since the Taliban took control of the country in August 2021. But the number of flights has steadily gone up since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7 last year and the escalating conflict in the rest of West Asia. The aftermath of Iran's missile attack on Israel Following Iran's missile attack on Israel on Tuesday, Israel’s neighbours closed airspace and airline crews, with many looking for diversions. Also watch | World DNA: Netanyahu promises that response to Iranian attacks is coming × Speaking to the news agency Reuters, a spokesperson from FlightRadar24 said that international flights diverted “anywhere they could,” and a snapshot of traffic in the region showed flights spreading in wide arcs to the north and south, with many converging on Cairo and Istanbul. On Tuesday, about 80 flights, operated by the likes of Emirates, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways and bound for major Middle East hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, were diverted to places such as Cairo and European cities, its data showed. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan sees record high number of international flights passing through its airspace. Here's why

Ahead of the first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war on Monday (October 7), tens of thousands of protesters marched in cities around the world over the weekend, calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip as well as Lebanon.

Ahead of the first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war on Monday (October 7), tens of thousands of protesters marched in cities around the world over the weekend, calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip as well as Lebanon. Israel is currently fighting Hamas, Iran, and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Israel's retaliatory military offensive has killed more than 41,000 people in Gaza, many of them civilians, according to figures provided by the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, described as reliable by the United Nations. With Israel now mounting a ground operation in Lebanon and vowing to respond to a barrage of missiles fired by Iran this week, there are fears the conflict could spiral into a wider war. The calls for ceasefire A report by the news agency AFP on Sunday said that more than a thousand protesters demonstrated outside the White House in Washington, demanding the Joe Biden-led US administration to stop providing weapons and aid to Israel. Also read | Gaza war: Israel places its forces on alert ahead of first anniversary of conflict One man at the demonstrations succeeded in setting ablaze his left arm before bystanders and police extinguished the flames. Thousands of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered in cities across Europe, Africa, Australia and the Americas to demand an end to the Gaza war. In Rome, a pro-Palestinian protest that drew thousands of people turned violent, as dozens of young demonstrators threw bottles and firecrackers at police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. From London to Cape Town, pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets as the war in Gaza nears its first anniversary https://t.co/YhKozkVOOX pic.twitter.com/vdDU5X1mr7 — Reuters (@Reuters) October 5, 2024 × At least one policeman was wounded and two protesters were detained. In Berlin, police said they detained 26 people who shouted insults at a pro-Israeli commemoration attended by around 650 people. At the "National March for Palestine" in London, chants of "stop bombing civilians" were joined by shouts of "hands off Lebanon." Lebanon PM urges pressure on Israel for ceasefire On Sunday, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called for "pressure on Israel" for a ceasefire as a new wave of 'violent strikes' by Israel hit the capital's southern suburbs. Prime Minister Mikati said he backed US and French efforts for a truce. Also watch | WION Pulse: Decoding Hezbollah's political functions × His remarks came as a huge fireball lit up the night sky and plumes of smoke rose over south Beirut early Sunday as Israel unleashed intense air strikes targeting Hezbollah. Fresh Israeli strikes in Beirut were seen later in the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Gaza war’s first anniversary, thousands march worldwide for ceasefire

Israel on Saturday (Oct 5) placed its forces on alert ahead of the first anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack, after a military official said the country was preparing its retaliation for Iran's missile attack.

Israel on Saturday (Oct 5) placed its forces on alert ahead of the first anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack, after a military official said the country was preparing its retaliation for Iran's missile attack. Ahead of the Monday anniversary, military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said at a televised briefing, "We are prepared with increased forces in anticipation for this day" when there could be "attacks on the home front." Meanwhile, Israeli President Issac Herzog said that his country's October 7 "wounds still cannot fully heal". The deaths on both sides in Gaza war The unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people, mostly civilians. Israel struck back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 41,000 people of which the majority were civilians. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: How October 7, 2023, became Israel's deadliest day Ahead of the October 7 anniversary, thousands joined pro-Palestinian rallies in London, Paris, Cape Town and other cities. US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators tried unsuccessfully for months to reach a Gaza truce and secure the release of 97 hostages still held in the Hamas-ruled territory. 18 killed in air strike on Gaza mosque In the latest news from the Gaza war, at least 18 people were killed and dozens of others wounded in an Israeli air strike on a Gaza mosque early on Sunday, the Palestinian news agency Wafa reported. The strike occurred near the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip. Also watch | Hamas commander Saeed Attallah killed in Israeli strike × Eyewitnesses said the number of casualties could rise as the mosque was being used to house displaced people. Meanwhile, The Israeli military said in a statement it "conducted a precise strike on Hamas terrorists who were operating within a command and control centre embedded in a structure that previously served as the 'Shuhada al-Aqsa' Mosque in the area of Deir al Balah." (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel places its forces on alert ahead of first anniversary of conflict

The Israeli military continues to intensify its offensive against Iran-back Lebanese militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon. On Saturday (Oct 5), the military said that it struck Hezbollah militants inside a south Lebanon mosque overnight.

The Israeli military continues to intensify its offensive against Iran-back Lebanese militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon. On Saturday (Oct 5), the military said that it struck Hezbollah militants inside a south Lebanon mosque overnight. In a statement, the military said, "Overnight, with the direction of IDF (army) intelligence, the IAF (air force) struck Hezbollah terrorists who were operating within a command centre that was located inside a mosque adjacent to the Salah Ghandour Hospital in southern Lebanon." This attack on the mosque came as an Israeli strike hit Lebanon's northern city of Tripoli for the first time. Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel should strike Iran's nuclear facilities, says Trump Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging near-daily cross-border fire for almost a year, with the group saying it is acting in support of Palestinian ally Hamas over the Gaza war. Here's a look at the latest updates from the West Asia crisis: > A series of explosions were heard over Beirut's southern suburbs early Saturday after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for parts of the area. > The strike on the mosque in southern Lebanon was the first such strike since the Israel-Hezbollah conflict began. > Hamas said on Saturday that an Israeli strike killed one of its commanders in a refugee camp in Tripoli. "Commander Saeed Attallah Ali, his wife and two daughters were killed in "Zionist bombardment of his house in the Beddawi camp," Hamas said in a statement. > Israel has repeatedly targeted Hamas officials in Lebanon since the Gaza war erupted almost a year ago. Hamas has announced the deaths of at least 18 of its militants in Lebanon since then. > Earlier this week, the Palestinian militant group said that an air strike on Monday killed its leader in Lebanon Fatah Sharif Abu al-Amine in his home in the Al-Bass camp in south Lebanon. Also watch | World Business Watch: West Asia tensions add to economic concerns × > Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah last week has escalated the crisis in West Asia. > Israel has been weighing options in its response to Iran's ballistic missile attack on Tuesday, which Tehran had carried out in response to Israel's military action in Lebanon. > On Friday, Iran threatened to respond to any direct attacks by Israel by striking the country’s energy and gas infrastructure. > “If the occupiers make such a mistake, we will target all their energy sources, installations and all refineries and gas fields,” said Ali Fadavi, deputy commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC), said. > Fadavi's comments came soon after Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made a rare sermon on Friday, describing Iran’s missile attack on Israel on Tuesday as a “legitimate” act. > Nations worldwide including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), China, Australia, and Belgium have prepared contingency plans to evacuate citizens from Lebanon following the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Thousands of Lebanese people have already fled to Syria to escape the Israeli raid. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israeli military struck Hezbollah militants inside Lebanon mosque | Top updates

Officials in the United States (US) warned on Friday (Oct 4) that the upcoming first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip could serve as a motivator for acts of violence by extremists.

Officials in the United States (US) warned on Friday (Oct 4) that the upcoming first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip could serve as a motivator for acts of violence by extremists. The war in Gaza broke out on October 7 last year. In a joint statement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security said, "The FBI and DHS assess the first anniversary of October 7, 2023, attacks that initiated the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict, as well as any further significant escalations in the conflict, maybe a motivating factor for violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators to engage in violence or threaten public safety." Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel should strike Iran's nuclear facilities, says Trump The agencies said that over the past year, they have observed violent extremist activity and hate crimes in the US linked to the conflict. The potential threats "Jewish, Muslim, or Arab institutions — including synagogues, mosques/Islamic centres, and community centres — and large public gatherings, such as memorials, vigils, or other lawful demonstrations, present attractive targets for violent attacks or for hoax threats by a variety of threat actors, including violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators," the FBI and the DHS said. "Such actors may view the anniversary as an opportunity to conduct an attack or other high-profile, illegal activity," their statement added. The agencies also added that online messaging associated with FTOs (Foreign Terrorist Organisations) and other violent extremists highlighting the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks could motivate threat actors across ideologies, including those who espouse violent anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, to engage in violence. The precautions The joint statement advised people to call 911 to report emergencies, including imminent threats to life. "Be aware of your surroundings at all times and report suspicious activities to the authorities," the statement said. "The FBI and DHS encourage the public to promptly report information concerning suspicious activity to tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324)," the statement added.

US agencies warn of threats on upcoming first anniversary of Gaza war

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.

The sermon, his first in five years, also came days after Iran conducted a series of missile strikes on Israel in response to Nasrallah's killing. Addressing thousands of worshippers gathered at a Tehran mosque, Khamenei said Israel will not last long, and described the Iranian strikes on Israel as a "public service".

Watch:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> Leader Ayat. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Khamenei?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Khamenei</a>'s speech started in the Friday prayers of Tehran, along with the commemoration ceremony for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hezbollah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hezbollah</a> chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. <a href="https://t.co/SHGtbzH8ZI">pic.twitter.com/SHGtbzH8ZI</a>
— Iran's Today (@Iran) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran/status/1842123179281506388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The sermon took place just a few days ahead of the anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel that sparked off the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and a wider regional conflict.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chief-of-iranian-intel-unit-turned-out-to-be-mossad-agent-ex-iran-prez-reveals-763598">Also read: Chief of Iranian intel unit turned out to be Mossad agent, ex-Iran president reveals</a>

Khamenei last led a Friday prayer in January 2020 after Iran Guards chief Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US strike in Iraq.

Watch: Iran-Israel War: Will Israel Strike Iran's Nuclear Facilities?

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Praising Hezbollah as a "blessed tree" and hailing Hamas, he doubled down on Iran's support for resistance against Israel, which he described as a "tool" of American interests in the region.&nbsp;

About Nasrallah, Khamenei said his "martyrdom" would only strengthen resistance efforts.&nbsp;

<h2>Not the first time Iran leader sported a gun. Reason is...</h2>

Khamenei's appearance with the gun, while curious, is not a first. In June 2019, he sported a rifle while giving a sermon to mark the end of the Muslim Holy month of Ramadan.

Khamanei had reasons to be worried about his personal security as he always had threats to his life from countries including Israel and the United States. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-in-first-public-address-in-5-years-calls-missile-attack-on-israel-legal-and-legitimate-764453">Also read: Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate'</a>

It was during one such sermon in 1985 that he faced an assassination attempt. A suicide bomber blew himself up near him, but the Iranian leader survived. Reportedly, he continued with the sermon after three minutes of gap.

That was not the first attempt on his life either. He was targeted several times in the past. The most significant assassination attempt was in 1981 when he was seriously injured when a bomb hidden in a tape recorder blew up during a Friday prayer sermon.&nbsp;

Khamenei was partially paralysed after that attack, and permanently lost use of his right arm.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had a gun by his side when he addressed a public sermon after Friday prayers on October 4, in the wake of Israel's killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon. The sermon, his first in five years, also came days after Iran conducted a series of missile strikes on Israel in response to Nasrallah's killing. Addressing thousands of worshippers gathered at a Tehran mosque, Khamenei said Israel will not last long, and described the Iranian strikes on Israel as a "public service". Watch: #Iran Leader Ayat. #Khamenei's speech started in the Friday prayers of Tehran, along with the commemoration ceremony for the #Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. pic.twitter.com/SHGtbzH8ZI — Iran's Today (@Iran) October 4, 2024 × The sermon took place just a few days ahead of the anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel that sparked off the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and a wider regional conflict. Also read: Chief of Iranian intel unit turned out to be Mossad agent, ex-Iran president reveals Khamenei last led a Friday prayer in January 2020 after Iran Guards chief Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US strike in Iraq. Watch: Iran-Israel War: Will Israel Strike Iran's Nuclear Facilities? × Praising Hezbollah as a "blessed tree" and hailing Hamas, he doubled down on Iran's support for resistance against Israel, which he described as a "tool" of American interests in the region. About Nasrallah, Khamenei said his "martyrdom" would only strengthen resistance efforts. Not the first time Iran leader sported a gun. Reason is... Khamenei's appearance with the gun, while curious, is not a first. In June 2019, he sported a rifle while giving a sermon to mark the end of the Muslim Holy month of Ramadan. Khamanei had reasons to be worried about his personal security as he always had threats to his life from countries including Israel and the United States. Also read: Khamenei, in first public address in 5 years, calls missile attack on Israel 'legal and legitimate' It was during one such sermon in 1985 that he faced an assassination attempt. A suicide bomber blew himself up near him, but the Iranian leader survived. Reportedly, he continued with the sermon after three minutes of gap. That was not the first attempt on his life either. He was targeted several times in the past. The most significant assassination attempt was in 1981 when he was seriously injured when a bomb hidden in a tape recorder blew up during a Friday prayer sermon. Khamenei was partially paralysed after that attack, and permanently lost use of his right arm. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei had gun during first public sermon in 5 years slamming Israel. Not for first time

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Sep 1) that one of the six Israeli hostages found dead in the Gaza Strip tunnel was an Israeli-American. In a statement, President Biden said, "We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Sep 1) that one of the six Israeli hostages found dead in the Gaza Strip tunnel was an Israeli-American. In a statement, President Biden said, "We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin." "Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we'll continue working towards a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages," he added. The remaining five hostages were identified by the Israeli military as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino. Who was Hersh Goldberg-Polin? Hersh, 23, was a dual Israeli-American citizen. He immigrated to Israel with his family in 2008 at the age of seven, according to a statement from his family. According to President Biden, Hersh was attending the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack. Also read | Some of the six Israeli hostages found dead were approved for potential swap, says Hamas "He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre," Biden said. "He had just turned 23. He planned to travel the world. I have gotten to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable," he added. "I have worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh safely to them and am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible," the US president further said. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned Hersh's death. "When I met with Jon and Rachel earlier this year, I told them: You are not alone. That remains true as they mourn this terrible loss," she said in a statement. 'Some of 6 hostages were approved for potential swap' The Israeli military claimed that the six hostages were murdered by Hamas. These hostages were among 250 who were captured during the Hamas-led shock incursion into southern Israel on October 7 last year that sparked the war in Gaza. Hamas, meanwhile, did not say anything about the circumstances in which these six hostages were found dead. However, the Palestinian militant group told the news agency AFP that some of these hostages had been "approved" for release in the event of a truce deal. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin found dead besides 5 others. Who was he?

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