The crisis is unfolding in the Middle East. As concerns mount over attacks by Iran-backed groups. In this crucial time, the U.S. military is taking new steps to protect its troops in the Middle East.

How is the US military stepping up Middle East surveillance?

Palestinian officials claim that over the course of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza overnight, approximately 700 Palestinians lost their lives. This is the biggest number of deaths in a single day since Israel started attacking the beleaguered enclave earlier this month.

Israel-Palestine war: 6 hospitals in Gaza forced to shut down due to lack of fuel: WHO

In an escalating humanitarian crisis, hundreds of thousands of terrified Gazans fled south on Saturday in response to Israeli threats, struggling to find food and shelter as the UN reported that over half the population had been displaced and water supplies were running low.

Israel-Palestine war | Half of Gaza's population displaced in humanitarian crisis

According to a statement from his office, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli defense personnel on Saturday outside of the Gaza Strip. "Are you prepared for the next phase?" PM Netanyahu asked the military staff. The next phase will soon arrive.

Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion'

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is ready to work with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi. Both leaders will help prevent the conflict in the Middle East from spreading when they meet later this week.

Israel-Palestine war: How are the US & China planning to rein in Mideast tensions?

Israel strikes Gaza: Rescuers struggle to save civilians, assure people stuck under rubble in Gaza

Israel-Palestine war: 700 Palestinians killed in overnight Israel strikes: Hamas-run Health Ministry

Israel-Hamas War News: Israel's attacks on Hamas are increasing day by day. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has warned Hezbollah, saying, 'If Hezbollah jumps into war, it will be its biggest mistake'.

Israel-Palestine war: Israel says war triggered elderly population's World War-II holocaust trauma

As a war between Israel and the Hamas militant group escalates, Israel's Defense Forces are now preparing for a ground offensive in Gaza. Israel is poised to launch an attack into the northern half of the Gaza Strip. It is an attack that is filled with uncertainty and whose potential humanitarian consequences are grim as Israel vows to destroy and eliminate Hamas completely.

Israel to flood Hamas' hostage tunnels, preparing to turn Gaza into rubble: US journalist

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday alleged violations of international law in Gaza and urged an immediate ceasefire as Israel pounds the Palestinian territory in response to Hamas attacks, with the crisis deeply dividing the Security Council.

Israeli envoy expresses concerns on UN Chief's remarks on Israel-Palestine war, demands resignation

<p>The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started&nbsp;a full-fledged ground invasion.</p>

<p>Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move?</p>

<p>As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report</a></p>

<p>"There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant."&nbsp;</p>

<p>What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a></p>

<p>It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Complex situation in Gaza Strip&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While&nbsp;Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation.</p>

<p>Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement".</p>

<p>"But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts."</p>

<p>Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904">Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages</a></strong></p>

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<p>There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation.</p>

<p>Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group.</p>

<p>Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon."&nbsp;</p>

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The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets.

The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started a full-fledged ground invasion. Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move? As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group. Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner. Also Read | Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report "There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues." Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack? Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened." Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant." What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other. Also Read | Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read. "There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world? Complex situation in Gaza Strip While Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation. Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive. Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement". "But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts." Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently". Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages × There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation. Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group. Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot." "We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu. Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive." "The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on the back-burner?

Israel-Palestine war: Israel plans to flood underground tunnels where hostages may be held

Approximately 15,000 Israelis have responded to the call to action that evolved over night from activists against the government's controversial plans for judicial reform to organizers of an extensive network to assist and rescue fellow citizens in need. Three thousand people were later evacuated from the Gaza border communities, 200 of whom were under fire, thanks to this infrastructure, which has been stationed at the Expo Tel Aviv International Convention Center since the day following the atrocities.

Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report

Israel-Palestine war: Survivors find solace in Tel Aviv as volunteers help displaced Israelis

Rocket warning sirens sounded in Israel’s Tel Aviv on Tuesday (October 24) as fighting between Israel and Hamas continued, 17 days after the start of the conflict.

Israel-Palestine war: Sirens warn of incoming rockets in Israeli cities from Hamas

<p>After Greta Thunberg's pro-Palestine post 'Stand with Gaza,' Israel swiftly hit back by removing all of her references from the Israeli textbooks included in the school curriculum, media reports said.&nbsp;The Israeli education ministry said that her stance on the Israel-Hamas war "disqualifies her from being an educational and moral role model, and she is no longer eligible to serve as an inspiration and educator for Israeli students.”</p>

<p>“Hamas is a terrorist organisation responsible for the murder of 1,400 innocent Israelis, including children, women, and the elderly, and it has abducted over 200 people to Gaza,” the ministry added while announcing its move against Thunberg.</p>

<p>Swedish Climate activist Greta Thunberg landed herself in a controversy when on Friday (Oct 20) she shared a post along with a picture of her and three other activists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soul-stirring-survival-story-of-a-9-day-old-whose-house-was-set-ablaze-by-hamas-650979">Soul-stirring survival story of a 9-day-old whose house was set ablaze by Hamas</a></p>

<p>In the picture, all of them can be seen holding pro-Palestine signs like "Free Palestine", "This Jew Stands With Palestine" and "Stand With Gaza."</p>

<p>"Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice, and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected," the climate activist wrote on X social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It goes without saying - or so I thought - that I’m against the horrific attacks by Hamas. As I said, 'the world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected'," she added in the post.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreePalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreePalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IStandWithPalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IStandWithPalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithGaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithGaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FridaysForFuture?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FridaysForFuture</a><br />
Thread🧵 <a href="https://t.co/0hVtya0yWO">pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO</a></p>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1715355502337499332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'One-sided, ill-informed'</strong></h2>

<p>The environmental activist was condemned by over 100 Israeli activists for what they called her "one-sided" and "ill-informed" knowledge of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-mother-of-6-year-old-hate-crime-victim-asks-world-to-pray-for-peace-650965">Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace'</a></p>

<p>These activists in an open letter said that the statements made by Thunberg "are in complete contrast to your ability to deep dive into details and get to the bottom of complex issues.”</p>

<p>“Do you think Hamas represents human rights and freedom? Think again!” the letter read, adding, “On Saturday, October 7th a brutal massacre took place in Israel. So far, we have counted 1,400 bodies of babies, children, women and men. All brutally murdered, shot, burned alive, molested before their deaths, raided by terrorists in their homes, in a music festival and randomly on the streets."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-chief-says-clear-violations-of-international-humanitarian-law-in-gaza-latest-news-650990">UN chief says ‘clear violations of international humanitarian law’ in Gaza | Latest News</a></strong></p>

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<p>“Hundreds of people were kidnapped to Gaza, ages ranging from 9 months to 90 years old, including babies and people with severe illnesses (like cancer, heart failure, Parkinson's) without their medication, and people with special needs such as autism and dementia, and many more are still missing,” the signatories said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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After Greta Thunberg's pro-Palestine post 'Stand with Gaza,' Israel swiftly hit back by removing all of her references from the Israeli textbooks included in the school curriculum, media reports said.

After Greta Thunberg's pro-Palestine post 'Stand with Gaza,' Israel swiftly hit back by removing all of her references from the Israeli textbooks included in the school curriculum, media reports said. The Israeli education ministry said that her stance on the Israel-Hamas war "disqualifies her from being an educational and moral role model, and she is no longer eligible to serve as an inspiration and educator for Israeli students.” “Hamas is a terrorist organisation responsible for the murder of 1,400 innocent Israelis, including children, women, and the elderly, and it has abducted over 200 people to Gaza,” the ministry added while announcing its move against Thunberg. Swedish Climate activist Greta Thunberg landed herself in a controversy when on Friday (Oct 20) she shared a post along with a picture of her and three other activists. Also Read | Soul-stirring survival story of a 9-day-old whose house was set ablaze by Hamas In the picture, all of them can be seen holding pro-Palestine signs like "Free Palestine", "This Jew Stands With Palestine" and "Stand With Gaza." "Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice, and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected," the climate activist wrote on X social media platform. "It goes without saying - or so I thought - that I’m against the horrific attacks by Hamas. As I said, 'the world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected'," she added in the post. Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.#FreePalestine #IStandWithPalestine #StandWithGaza #FridaysForFuture Thread🧵 pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) October 20, 2023 × 'One-sided, ill-informed' The environmental activist was condemned by over 100 Israeli activists for what they called her "one-sided" and "ill-informed" knowledge of the war. Also Read | Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace' These activists in an open letter said that the statements made by Thunberg "are in complete contrast to your ability to deep dive into details and get to the bottom of complex issues.” “Do you think Hamas represents human rights and freedom? Think again!” the letter read, adding, “On Saturday, October 7th a brutal massacre took place in Israel. So far, we have counted 1,400 bodies of babies, children, women and men. All brutally murdered, shot, burned alive, molested before their deaths, raided by terrorists in their homes, in a music festival and randomly on the streets." Watch | UN chief says ‘clear violations of international humanitarian law’ in Gaza | Latest News × “Hundreds of people were kidnapped to Gaza, ages ranging from 9 months to 90 years old, including babies and people with severe illnesses (like cancer, heart failure, Parkinson's) without their medication, and people with special needs such as autism and dementia, and many more are still missing,” the signatories said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row

<p>The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years.</p>

<p>Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions.</p>

<p>However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute.</p>

<h2><b>Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable</b></h2>

<p>Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East.&nbsp;Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack.</p>

<p>While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools.</p>

<p><img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74af6f10-a727-415e-ab81-d0dd5f4f1cb5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202023-10-24T115958.769.jpg" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters</strong></em></p>

<p>Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-rare-dissent-over-us-arms-for-israel-raises-troubling-questions-650540">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions</a></p>

<h2><b>Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check</b></h2>

<p>Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel.</p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64fdc5e9-2167-4389-a0c4-9eae3e76fc9d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202023-10-24T120154.147.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters</strong></em></p>

<p>In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison."</p>

<h2><b>Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations</b></h2>

<p>For the longest time,&nbsp; the US&nbsp; has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.</p>

<p>The US has also consistently&nbsp; prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine.</p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="553edaa4-5f95-4a4a-b3cb-9e91961e65f2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202023-10-24T120413.579.png" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP</strong></em></p>

<p>Yet, this time around,&nbsp;President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.

The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US. The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions. However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute. Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East. Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack. While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools. Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad. Also read | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians. The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel. Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison." Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations For the longest time, the US has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. The US has also consistently prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine. President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP Yet, this time around, President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians

Many relatives of hostages taken by Hamas are pleading with the government to scale back the war effort and instead negotiate the release of their loved ones as Israel gets ready to attack the Gaza Strip.

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Israel is offering cash, safety to Gazans in exchange of information on the hostages. IDF has dropped leaflets into Gaza asking residents to contact the Israeli military through secured channels. Priyanka Sharma brings you the latest.

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Israel-Palestine war: Iran-backed militia's fighters continue to attack North Israel

US accuses Iran of ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on bases in West Asia. Washington says it will not allow threats to its interests to ‘go unchallenged’ after increase in attacks on its forces in the region. But with current attacks, would a US President really be willing to become embroiled in another war, especially in an election year?

Gravitas: US vows to hold Iran responsible for attacks on troops in West Asia

Former US President Barack Obama stated on Monday that some of Israel's measures in its war against Hamas, such as denying food and water to Gaza, could "harden Palestinian attitudes for generations" and reduce international support for Israel. Obama stated in an uncommon statement on a current foreign policy problem that any Israeli military plan that disregards the human cost of the conflict "could ultimately backfire."

Israel-Palestine war: Some Israeli actions in Gaza can weaken international support: Barack Obama

The Israeli Central Bank has lowered its economic forecasts and maintained its focus on propping up the domestic currency, the shekel, by holding interest rates steady. The research division of the bank of Israel revised its gdp growth forecasts for 2023 and 2024 downward on Monday.

Bank of Israel revises economic forecast downward amid conflict

Amid the Gaza War, Israel has called its reserves to defend their homeland. But there's a mounting question: Where is Prime Minister's son? In the midst of this mobilization, Israeli soldiers are seething with anger. The Prime Minister's 32-year-old son remains absent even as countless soldiers rush back home to fight the war. But why is Yair Netanyahu still in the U.S., far from the frontlines? Here's a report.

Gravitas: Israeli PM's Son Absence Amid Gaza War Mobilization Sparks Outrage

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died. "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip," Levy declared in an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

'Will completely destroy Hamas', Israeli govt spokesperson Eylon Levy in a conversation with WION

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's 'full solidarity' with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

Israel-Palestine war: France President Macron says, 'Terrorism a common enemy for Israel & France'

<p>The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.</p>

<p>When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people.</p>

<p>"If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet.</p>

<p>"The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages</strong></p>

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<p>Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information.</p>

<p>AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes.</p>

<p>"We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a></strong></p>

<p>Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas.</p>

<p>Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known.</p>

<h2><strong>Two hostages freed</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7.</p>

<p>Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release.</p>

<p>While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell'</p>

<p>She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way.</p>

<p>"...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said.</p>

<p>She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days.</p>

<p>Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity.</p>

<p>"They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people. "If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet. "The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality." Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages × Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information. AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes. "We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP. Also Read | 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas. Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known. Two hostages freed Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7. Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release. While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell' She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way. "...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said. She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days. Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity. "They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages

Israeli aircraft struck a compound beneath a mosque in the occupied West Bank early on Sunday that the military said was being used by militants to organise attacks, and Palestinian medics said at least one person was killed.

Israel-Palestine War: Preparing for unrelenting attacks to dismantle Hamas: Israel military

Two Israeli hostages, Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, and Nurit Cooper, 79, were freed by Hamas. According to Hamas' armed branch, the ladies were freed for "compelling humanitarian" grounds. The two hostages' liberation was confirmed by the ICRC.

Israel-Hamas: Four hostages released by Hamas so far; Can Israel manage to release hostages?

President Joe Biden declared that until all of the hostages taken by Hamas are freed, he will not support an Israel-Hamas ceasefire. When questioned about the possibility of a ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing some 200 prisoners, including Americans, said to be in the Gaza Strip, Biden told reporters, "We should have those hostages released and then we can talk."

Death toll in Gaza crosses 5,700, including 2,300 children

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