Deadly rocket and mortar fire on Israeli cities by Palestinian militant groups during a May conflict in and around Gaza constituted war crimes, Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

The New York-based rights group analysed attacks from Gaza that resulted in the deaths of 12 Israeli civilians and injuries to dozens more.

Rockets that misfired or fell short also killed or wounded "an undetermined number of Palestinians in Gaza," the group said, with at least seven Palestinian civilians killed.&nbsp;

The rockets were fired during an 11-day conflict that saw Israel pound Gaza with air strikes as militants in the blockaded enclave fired more than 4,000 rockets towards Israel.

Israeli strikes killed some 260 people in Gaza, including militants, while munitions from Gaza killed 13 people in Israel, including a soldier.

The report comes a day after the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA condemned "the existence and potential use by Palestinian armed groups" of tunnels under its schools in Gaza, saying they placed pupils and staff "at risk".

The agency issued its statement following a demand by Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, to freeze its funding after Israeli public television reported Hamas blocked UN inspectors from inspecting a tunnel near an UNRWA school.

Human Rights Watch previously accused Israel of war crimes for strikes that killed dozens of civilians despite "no evident military targets in the vicinity" during the conflict that ended with a May 21 ceasefire.&nbsp;

In Thursday's report, the rights group cited statements by Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas and other militant groups announcing barrages of rockets at Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semen-terrorism-angers-women-in-south-korea-404805">Also read |&nbsp;'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea</a>

After one such statement, shrapnel from a rocket killed a 63-year-old Israeli woman south of Tel Aviv. Another rocket killed a father and his teenage daughter in a village about 20 kilometres from Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

"Under international humanitarian law, or the laws of war, warring parties may only attack military objectives," Human Rights Watch said, adding, "launching such rockets to attack civilian areas is a war crime."

The group suggested the International Criminal Court, which is investigating allegations of Israeli war crimes, should include "unlawful Palestinian rocket attacks against Israel, as well as unlawful Israeli attacks in Gaza."

In April, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing the crime of "apartheid" by seeking to maintain Jewish "domination" over Palestinians and its own Arab population, an allegation Israel firmly rejected.

Deadly rocket and mortar fire on Israeli cities by Palestinian militant groups during a May conflict in and around Gaza constituted war crimes, Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

Deadly rocket and mortar fire on Israeli cities by Palestinian militant groups during a May conflict in and around Gaza constituted war crimes, Human Rights Watch said Thursday. The New York-based rights group analysed attacks from Gaza that resulted in the deaths of 12 Israeli civilians and injuries to dozens more. Rockets that misfired or fell short also killed or wounded "an undetermined number of Palestinians in Gaza," the group said, with at least seven Palestinian civilians killed. The rockets were fired during an 11-day conflict that saw Israel pound Gaza with air strikes as militants in the blockaded enclave fired more than 4,000 rockets towards Israel. Israeli strikes killed some 260 people in Gaza, including militants, while munitions from Gaza killed 13 people in Israel, including a soldier. The report comes a day after the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA condemned "the existence and potential use by Palestinian armed groups" of tunnels under its schools in Gaza, saying they placed pupils and staff "at risk". The agency issued its statement following a demand by Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, to freeze its funding after Israeli public television reported Hamas blocked UN inspectors from inspecting a tunnel near an UNRWA school. Human Rights Watch previously accused Israel of war crimes for strikes that killed dozens of civilians despite "no evident military targets in the vicinity" during the conflict that ended with a May 21 ceasefire. In Thursday's report, the rights group cited statements by Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas and other militant groups announcing barrages of rockets at Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities Also read | 'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea After one such statement, shrapnel from a rocket killed a 63-year-old Israeli woman south of Tel Aviv. Another rocket killed a father and his teenage daughter in a village about 20 kilometres from Tel Aviv. "Under international humanitarian law, or the laws of war, warring parties may only attack military objectives," Human Rights Watch said, adding, "launching such rockets to attack civilian areas is a war crime." The group suggested the International Criminal Court, which is investigating allegations of Israeli war crimes, should include "unlawful Palestinian rocket attacks against Israel, as well as unlawful Israeli attacks in Gaza." In April, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing the crime of "apartheid" by seeking to maintain Jewish "domination" over Palestinians and its own Arab population, an allegation Israel firmly rejected.

Palestinian groups in Gaza committed 'war crimes': HRW

Deadly rocket and mortar fire on Israeli cities by Palestinian militant groups during a May conflict in and around Gaza constituted war crimes, Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

The New York-based rights group analysed attacks from Gaza that resulted in the deaths of 12 Israeli civilians and injuries to dozens more.

Rockets that misfired or fell short also killed or wounded "an undetermined number of Palestinians in Gaza," the group said, with at least seven Palestinian civilians killed.&nbsp;

The rockets were fired during an 11-day conflict that saw Israel pound Gaza with air strikes as militants in the blockaded enclave fired more than 4,000 rockets towards Israel.

Israeli strikes killed some 260 people in Gaza, including militants, while munitions from Gaza killed 13 people in Israel, including a soldier.

The report comes a day after the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA condemned "the existence and potential use by Palestinian armed groups" of tunnels under its schools in Gaza, saying they placed pupils and staff "at risk".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semen-terrorism-angers-women-in-south-korea-404805">Also read |&nbsp;'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea</a>

The agency issued its statement following a demand by Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, to freeze its funding after Israeli public television reported Hamas blocked UN inspectors from inspecting a tunnel near an UNRWA school.

Human Rights Watch previously accused Israel of war crimes for strikes that killed dozens of civilians despite "no evident military targets in the vicinity" during the conflict that ended with a May 21 ceasefire.&nbsp;

In Thursday's report, the rights group cited statements by Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas and other militant groups announcing barrages of rockets at Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities&nbsp;

After one such statement, shrapnel from a rocket killed a 63-year-old Israeli woman south of Tel Aviv. Another rocket killed a father and his teenage daughter in a village about 20 kilometres from Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

"Under international humanitarian law, or the laws of war, warring parties may only attack military objectives," Human Rights Watch said, adding, "launching such rockets to attack civilian areas is a war crime."

The group suggested the International Criminal Court, which is investigating allegations of Israeli war crimes, should include "unlawful Palestinian rocket attacks against Israel, as well as unlawful Israeli attacks in Gaza."

In April, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing the crime of "apartheid" by seeking to maintain Jewish "domination" over Palestinians and its own Arab population, an allegation Israel firmly rejected.

Deadly rocket and mortar fire on Israeli cities by Palestinian militant groups during a May conflict in and around Gaza constituted war crimes, Human Rights Watch said Thursday. The New York-based rights group analysed attacks from Gaza that resulted in the deaths of 12 Israeli civilians and injuries to dozens more. Rockets that misfired or fell short also killed or wounded "an undetermined number of Palestinians in Gaza," the group said, with at least seven Palestinian civilians killed. The rockets were fired during an 11-day conflict that saw Israel pound Gaza with air strikes as militants in the blockaded enclave fired more than 4,000 rockets towards Israel. Israeli strikes killed some 260 people in Gaza, including militants, while munitions from Gaza killed 13 people in Israel, including a soldier. The report comes a day after the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA condemned "the existence and potential use by Palestinian armed groups" of tunnels under its schools in Gaza, saying they placed pupils and staff "at risk". Also read | 'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea The agency issued its statement following a demand by Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, to freeze its funding after Israeli public television reported Hamas blocked UN inspectors from inspecting a tunnel near an UNRWA school. Human Rights Watch previously accused Israel of war crimes for strikes that killed dozens of civilians despite "no evident military targets in the vicinity" during the conflict that ended with a May 21 ceasefire. In Thursday's report, the rights group cited statements by Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas and other militant groups announcing barrages of rockets at Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities After one such statement, shrapnel from a rocket killed a 63-year-old Israeli woman south of Tel Aviv. Another rocket killed a father and his teenage daughter in a village about 20 kilometres from Tel Aviv. "Under international humanitarian law, or the laws of war, warring parties may only attack military objectives," Human Rights Watch said, adding, "launching such rockets to attack civilian areas is a war crime." The group suggested the International Criminal Court, which is investigating allegations of Israeli war crimes, should include "unlawful Palestinian rocket attacks against Israel, as well as unlawful Israeli attacks in Gaza." In April, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing the crime of "apartheid" by seeking to maintain Jewish "domination" over Palestinians and its own Arab population, an allegation Israel firmly rejected.

Clashes broke out between Palestinian and Israeli forces during the funeral of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-killed-palestinian-in-west-bank-say-palestinian-authorities-401049">Palestinian</a> boy with one person killed by Israeli gunfire.

The Palestinian health ministry said a Shawkat Khalid Awad, 20, died of gunshot wounds.

Israeli forces said it is looking into claims a Palestinian minor was killed as a result of the gunfire and the incident was under review.&nbsp;The boy was shot in the chest, the Palestinian health ministry said and later died in hospital.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/palestinian-worshipers-clash-with-israeli-police-at-temple-mount-399039/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, a twelve-year-old boy was allegedly shot by Israeli soldiers while travelling in a car with his father in the West Bank. Palestinians threw stones at Israeli soldiers as clashes broke out.

A 17-year-old boy was earlier killed on Saturday in the Palestinian village of Beita as Israeli troops opened fire. On Tuesday, a 41-year-old Palestinian was shot dead, also near Beita.

Israeli warplanes had struck Gaza last weekend after incendiary balloons reportedly launched from the Palestinian enclave caused fires in Israel.

Reports claimed the strikes were aimed at northern Gaza and at a militant training base. Israeli fighters had carried out daily attacks in May during the 11-day conflict with Hamas in Gaza as the militant organization fired thousands of rockets at Israel.

Clashes had erupted between Israeli police and Palestinians at Al Aqsa mosque a fortnight ago as Palestinian officials said police forcefully evacuated Muslim worshippers to clear the way for Jewish visitors.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Clashes broke out between Palestinian and Israeli forces during the funeral of a Palestinian boy with one person killed by Israeli gunfire. The Palestinian health ministry said a Shawkat Khalid Awad, 20, died of gunshot wounds.

Clashes broke out between Palestinian and Israeli forces during the funeral of a Palestinian boy with one person killed by Israeli gunfire. The Palestinian health ministry said a Shawkat Khalid Awad, 20, died of gunshot wounds. Israeli forces said it is looking into claims a Palestinian minor was killed as a result of the gunfire and the incident was under review. The boy was shot in the chest, the Palestinian health ministry said and later died in hospital. Watch: Earlier, a twelve-year-old boy was allegedly shot by Israeli soldiers while travelling in a car with his father in the West Bank. Palestinians threw stones at Israeli soldiers as clashes broke out. A 17-year-old boy was earlier killed on Saturday in the Palestinian village of Beita as Israeli troops opened fire. On Tuesday, a 41-year-old Palestinian was shot dead, also near Beita. Israeli warplanes had struck Gaza last weekend after incendiary balloons reportedly launched from the Palestinian enclave caused fires in Israel. Reports claimed the strikes were aimed at northern Gaza and at a militant training base. Israeli fighters had carried out daily attacks in May during the 11-day conflict with Hamas in Gaza as the militant organization fired thousands of rockets at Israel. Clashes had erupted between Israeli police and Palestinians at Al Aqsa mosque a fortnight ago as Palestinian officials said police forcefully evacuated Muslim worshippers to clear the way for Jewish visitors. (With inputs from Agencies)

Palestinians clash with Israeli troops in West Bank; 1 dead

Police recorded around four times as many anti-Semitic incidents in London during May's Gaza crisis than at any time in the last three years, the city's force said Thursday.

They reported 87 anti-Semitic incidents, 65 more than the previous highest monthly figure recorded since they began reporting the data in May 2018, London Metropolitan Police told&nbsp;Britain's Press Association news agency.

The hostilities between Israel and Hamas claimed 253 Palestinian lives in 11 days from May 10, according to Gaza's health ministry, while Gaza rocket fire killed 12 Israelis.

Disturbances also broke out in the Palestinian territories and between Jewish and Arab citizens in Israel during the conflict, which sparked protests across the world.

The crisis had repercussions for Jews in London, where the word "Hitler" was written on the ceiling in a block of flats and rocks were hurled at a Jewish home.

One resident in north London's Stamford Hill neighbourhood, which has a significant Hasidic Jewish community, said the tyres of more than 30 Jewish-owned cars were slashed.

The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that protects British Jews from anti-Semitism, said 116 incidents across Britain had been reported in an 11-day period from May 8.

In May, police arrested four people after footage emerged showing them shouting anti-Semitic abuse from a car.

Two men were also charged in connection with an incident when a rabbi was struck on the head with a concrete brick near his synagogue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-conflict-israel-removes-almost-all-emergency-restrictions-hamas-claims-victory-386492">Also read |&nbsp;Gaza conflict: Israel removes almost all emergency restrictions; Hamas claims victory</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the time condemned the "intolerable" spate of anti-Semitic incidents in a meeting with British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has increased police patrols in Jewish neighbourhoods.

The CST recorded 1,668 anti-Semitic incidents in the UK in 2020 -- its third-highest annual figure -- and 1,813 in 2019.

Anti-Semitism accusations have dogged Britain's main opposition Labour party for years, particularly during the tenure of hard-left former leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Current leader Keir Starmer suspended Corbyn from the party last October after the latter's refusal to fully accept a report by Britain's human rights watchdog that criticised Labour's anti-Semitism problems under his leadership.

And an independent investigation in May concluded that the ruling Conservative party had issues with Islamophobia among individuals and within local associations.

Police recorded around four times as many anti-Semitic incidents in London during May's Gaza crisis than at any time in the last three years, the city's force said Thursday.

Police recorded around four times as many anti-Semitic incidents in London during May's Gaza crisis than at any time in the last three years, the city's force said Thursday. They reported 87 anti-Semitic incidents, 65 more than the previous highest monthly figure recorded since they began reporting the data in May 2018, London Metropolitan Police told Britain's Press Association news agency. The hostilities between Israel and Hamas claimed 253 Palestinian lives in 11 days from May 10, according to Gaza's health ministry, while Gaza rocket fire killed 12 Israelis. Disturbances also broke out in the Palestinian territories and between Jewish and Arab citizens in Israel during the conflict, which sparked protests across the world. The crisis had repercussions for Jews in London, where the word "Hitler" was written on the ceiling in a block of flats and rocks were hurled at a Jewish home. One resident in north London's Stamford Hill neighbourhood, which has a significant Hasidic Jewish community, said the tyres of more than 30 Jewish-owned cars were slashed. The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that protects British Jews from anti-Semitism, said 116 incidents across Britain had been reported in an 11-day period from May 8. In May, police arrested four people after footage emerged showing them shouting anti-Semitic abuse from a car. Two men were also charged in connection with an incident when a rabbi was struck on the head with a concrete brick near his synagogue. Also read | Gaza conflict: Israel removes almost all emergency restrictions; Hamas claims victory Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the time condemned the "intolerable" spate of anti-Semitic incidents in a meeting with British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has increased police patrols in Jewish neighbourhoods. The CST recorded 1,668 anti-Semitic incidents in the UK in 2020 -- its third-highest annual figure -- and 1,813 in 2019. Anti-Semitism accusations have dogged Britain's main opposition Labour party for years, particularly during the tenure of hard-left former leader Jeremy Corbyn. Current leader Keir Starmer suspended Corbyn from the party last October after the latter's refusal to fully accept a report by Britain's human rights watchdog that criticised Labour's anti-Semitism problems under his leadership. And an independent investigation in May concluded that the ruling Conservative party had issues with Islamophobia among individuals and within local associations.

London anti-Semitism soared during Gaza crisis: Police

Israel hit Gaza with airstrikes on Sunday after incendiary balloons launched from the Palestinian enclave caused fires in the Jewish state. The Israeli strikes targeted an open area in northern Gaza and a militant training site belonging to Gaza Strip’s Hamas Islamist rulers in southern Khan Yunis.

Israel hits Gaza with airstrikes after incendiary balloon fires

Israeli warplanes struck a target in the southern Gaza Strip. The airstrike came several hours after the incendiary balloons were launched into Israel by activists linked to Gaza's ruling Hamas militant group. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

Israeli warplanes strike target in southern Gaza strip

Former United Nations rights chief Navi Pillay will lead the UN’s open-ended inquiry into 'systematic' abuses in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Pillay will be leading a three-person investigation intended to examine abuses and their root causes in the decades-long Middle East conflict.

Former UN rights chief to lead open-ended inquiry into Israel-Gaza conflict

Shot of coffee and teachings of climate: Gaza cafe promotes recycling

26-year-old Palestinian artist Mohammed Al-Shenbari is gifted with the astounding art of balancing objects of all shapes and sizes. The self-taught artist is a silent inspiration to the world.

Al-Shenbari wows people in Gaza with his 'art of balance'

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said that any disturbances aimed at Israel from the Gaza Strip will be met with a harsh response. Bennett also added that his government is working on enabling humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.

Disturbance aimed at Israel will be met with harsh response, Bennett warns Hamas

A Palestinian man was killed by Israeli gunfire in the West Bank on Saturday, July 3, in an incident Israel's army described as a "violent confrontation" between Palestinians and Jewish settlers.

The statement by Israeli army did not confirm the fatality. However, it said that the troops had fired at a suspect who threw "a suspicious object that exploded on the soldiers", amid the unrest.&nbsp;

As per the Palestinian health ministry, Mohammad Fareed Hasan, who was in his 20s, was killed in his village of Qusra near the city Nablus by Israeli gunfire, while two others were wounded.

"Hasan was standing on the rooftop of his home when he was shot dead," said a report on the official Wafa news agency.&nbsp; 
Israel's army said, "a violent confrontation between tens of Palestinians and Israeli settlers developed adjacent to the village of

Qusra, south of Nablus, during which both sides hurled rocks at each other.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-gaza-after-incendiary-balloon-launch-395339">Also Read |&nbsp;Israel strikes Gaza after incendiary balloon launch</a>

"Troops who were present at the scene operated to distance both sides from the area using riot dispersal means.

"During the activity, a suspect was identified throwing a suspicious object that exploded on the soldiers, who responded by firing at the threat," the statement added.&nbsp;

Eleven days of deadly fighting between Israel and Gaza's Hamas Islamist rulers, as well as other Palestinian armed groups based in the enclave, ended on May 21 with a ceasefire declaration. There was no immediate indication as to which Gaza-based group was responsible for the balloon launch.&nbsp;

The conflict has killed 260 Palestinians including some fighters, according to Gaza authorities. In Israel, 13 people were killed, including a soldier, by rockets fired from Gaza, the police and army said.

Israel has maintained a crippling blockade on Gaza since 2007. This is the year Hamas took power, which the Jewish state says is necessary to contain armed groups in the enclave.&nbsp;

A Palestinian man was killed by Israeli gunfire in the West Bank on Saturday, July 3, in an incident Israel's army described as a "violent confrontation" between Palestinians and Jewish settlers.

A Palestinian man was killed by Israeli gunfire in the West Bank on Saturday, July 3, in an incident Israel's army described as a "violent confrontation" between Palestinians and Jewish settlers. The statement by Israeli army did not confirm the fatality. However, it said that the troops had fired at a suspect who threw "a suspicious object that exploded on the soldiers", amid the unrest. As per the Palestinian health ministry, Mohammad Fareed Hasan, who was in his 20s, was killed in his village of Qusra near the city Nablus by Israeli gunfire, while two others were wounded. "Hasan was standing on the rooftop of his home when he was shot dead," said a report on the official Wafa news agency. Israel's army said, "a violent confrontation between tens of Palestinians and Israeli settlers developed adjacent to the village of Qusra, south of Nablus, during which both sides hurled rocks at each other. Also Read | Israel strikes Gaza after incendiary balloon launch "Troops who were present at the scene operated to distance both sides from the area using riot dispersal means. "During the activity, a suspect was identified throwing a suspicious object that exploded on the soldiers, who responded by firing at the threat," the statement added. Eleven days of deadly fighting between Israel and Gaza's Hamas Islamist rulers, as well as other Palestinian armed groups based in the enclave, ended on May 21 with a ceasefire declaration. There was no immediate indication as to which Gaza-based group was responsible for the balloon launch. The conflict has killed 260 Palestinians including some fighters, according to Gaza authorities. In Israel, 13 people were killed, including a soldier, by rockets fired from Gaza, the police and army said. Israel has maintained a crippling blockade on Gaza since 2007. This is the year Hamas took power, which the Jewish state says is necessary to contain armed groups in the enclave.

Israeli fire kills Palestinian man in West Bank unrest

Israeli fighter jets struck a Hamas weapons manufacturing site in Gaza in response to incendiary balloons launched over the frontier into Israel by the militant group Hamas.

Israel forces hit Hamas weapons depot

Israel hit Islamist militant sites in Gaza with airstrikes on Friday, July 2. This comes in retaliation for incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave.

Israel hit Islamist militant sites in Gaza with airstrikes on Friday, July 2. This comes in retaliation for incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave. There were no injuries reported. A statement from Israel's army said: "In response to the arson balloons fired towards Israeli territory today, (military) fighter jets struck... a weapons manufacturing site belonging to the Hamas terror organisation." Also Read | Gaza conflict intensifies with rocket barrages and air strikes Eleven days of deadly fighting between Israel and Gaza's Hamas Islamist rulers, as well as other Palestinian armed groups based in the enclave, ended on May 21 with a ceasefire declaration. There was no immediate indication as to which Gaza-based group was responsible for the balloon launch. The conflict has killed 260 Palestinians including some fighters, according to Gaza authorities. In Israel, 13 people were killed, including a soldier, by rockets fired from Gaza, the police and army said. Israel has maintained a crippling blockade on Gaza since 2007. This is the year Hamas took power, which the Jewish state says is necessary to contain armed groups in the enclave. Meanwhile, in the ongoing conflict, the gap between truth and falsehoods is growing wider by the day. A lot of credit for this goes to social media where misinformation is flourishing with fake videos and images going viral.

Israel strikes Gaza after incendiary balloon launch

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say. 
 
With a truce between Israel and Gaza's Hamas largely holding, Israel on Monday allowed a limited resumption of exports from the enclave. 
 
But it has kept in place tightened measures on raw material imports, including carbon dioxide gas and syrup that the bottling company's factory needs to produce Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda soda, said Pepsi Gaza's Hamam al-Yazeji. 
 
"Yesterday, we completely ran out of raw materials, and unfortunately, we had to shut down the factory, sending home 250 workers," Yazeji said. Before the May fighting, he said, Pepsi Gaza was generally allowed to import needed materials. 
 
Asked for comment, COGAT, a branch of Israel's defence ministry, said: "Due to the security situation, the import of industrial raw materials from the State of Israel into the Gaza Strip is not possible." 
 
COGAT said Israel was allowing other imports into Gaza, including fuel, food, medicine and medical equipment. 
 
Israel and neighbouring Egypt keep tight control over Gaza's borders, and say the restrictions are necessary to stop weapons reaching Hamas and prevent them from being produced locally. 
 
Egypt and the United Nations stepped up mediation last week after incendiary balloons launched from Gaza drew retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, challenging the fragile ceasefire. 
 
Shutdowns could also occur in other Gaza factories if Israeli restrictions are kept up, analysts say. Manufacturing makes up around 10 per cent of Gaza's service sector-dominated economy, according to UN&nbsp;data. 
 
Pepsi Gaza's factory has operated continuously since 1961, when the Gaza-based Yazeji Soft Drinks Company acquired rights to produce 7UP and other types of soda in the enclave. 
 
Worth about $15 million, the owners say, the factory's products are distributed locally. A separate branch operates in the occupied West Bank, worth about $30 million, which serves the territory as well as East Jerusalem. 
 
Company officials had made plans to celebrate 60 years of operations before the shutdown on Sunday. 
 
Yazeji had tears in his eyes as he walked through his empty factory on Monday. The shutdown was 'catastrophic', he said. 
 
"This year should have been exceptional, celebrating 60 years since we began production. 
 
"We are deprived of marking this anniversary." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say.

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say. With a truce between Israel and Gaza's Hamas largely holding, Israel on Monday allowed a limited resumption of exports from the enclave. But it has kept in place tightened measures on raw material imports, including carbon dioxide gas and syrup that the bottling company's factory needs to produce Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda soda, said Pepsi Gaza's Hamam al-Yazeji. "Yesterday, we completely ran out of raw materials, and unfortunately, we had to shut down the factory, sending home 250 workers," Yazeji said. Before the May fighting, he said, Pepsi Gaza was generally allowed to import needed materials. Asked for comment, COGAT, a branch of Israel's defence ministry, said: "Due to the security situation, the import of industrial raw materials from the State of Israel into the Gaza Strip is not possible." COGAT said Israel was allowing other imports into Gaza, including fuel, food, medicine and medical equipment. Israel and neighbouring Egypt keep tight control over Gaza's borders, and say the restrictions are necessary to stop weapons reaching Hamas and prevent them from being produced locally. Egypt and the United Nations stepped up mediation last week after incendiary balloons launched from Gaza drew retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, challenging the fragile ceasefire. Shutdowns could also occur in other Gaza factories if Israeli restrictions are kept up, analysts say. Manufacturing makes up around 10 per cent of Gaza's service sector-dominated economy, according to UN data. Pepsi Gaza's factory has operated continuously since 1961, when the Gaza-based Yazeji Soft Drinks Company acquired rights to produce 7UP and other types of soda in the enclave. Worth about $15 million, the owners say, the factory's products are distributed locally. A separate branch operates in the occupied West Bank, worth about $30 million, which serves the territory as well as East Jerusalem. Company officials had made plans to celebrate 60 years of operations before the shutdown on Sunday. Yazeji had tears in his eyes as he walked through his empty factory on Monday. The shutdown was 'catastrophic', he said. "This year should have been exceptional, celebrating 60 years since we began production. "We are deprived of marking this anniversary." (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza Pepsi factory shuts down, owners blame Israeli restrictions

The Israel-Palestine long standing conflict has started to affect the business. Due to Israeli import restrictions, Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week.

Israel-Palestine Clashes: Gaza Pepsi factory forced to halt operations

The Israel-Hamas conflict is escalating again. After Israeli airstrikes, Palestinians clashed with police at the al-Aqsa mosque. As tensions escalate, "anti-Palestine" messages by a designer at Zara led to boycott calls against the fashion brand. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Palestinians clash with Israeli police at Al-Aqsa mosque

The tensions between Israel and Gaza is once again flaring up. Israeli air strikes hit Gaza city for second night in a row. The Israeli Defece Forces said it was ready for a "resumption of hostilities" if the attacks from Gaza continue.

Israel bombs Gaza City in second day of strikes under new govt

Israel has launched airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, its first offensive since a new coalition government came to power, barely weeks after an 11-day battle with the Palestinian territory.

Blasts were heard across Gaza about 1:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, according to a Hamas radio station, which reported the attacks targeted a Palestinian training camp.

These airstrikes come after militants in the Palestinian territory sent incendiary balloons into the south of Israel.

“Fighter jets recently attacked Hamas military complexes that served as camps and meeting places for terrorist operatives in the Khan Yunis and Gaza brigades,” the military said, adding that it is “prepared for all scenarios, including the resumption of hostilities.” 
 
<img alt="Gaza Strip" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="593ae047-b356-4ce3-9883-aa348c9bab99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9CA3D9.jpg" />

“Terrorist activity took place in the attacked compound,” the IDF said, adding that the attacks were in retaliation to incendiary devices launched earlier in the day toward southern Israel.

“The IDF is prepared for all scenarios, including the resumption of hostilities, in the face of continued terror acts from the Gaza Strip,” the army added.

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VIDEO: Israeli forces launch air strikes on Gaza. 
 
An explosion lights up the night sky in Khan Yunis, in the Gaza Strip, as Israel shells the Palestinian enclave. The Israeli air force says it was responding to incendiary balloons sent into southern Israel from Gaza <a href="https://t.co/2FsiLiSKRr">pic.twitter.com/2FsiLiSKRr</a>
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According to a report by Times of Israel, "No Gazans were injured in the strikes, the Hamas-affiliated Palestinian media centre initially reported."

A truce between Israel and the Gaza Strip went into effect on May 21.

Hundreds of missiles were launched from both Israel and Palestine during the 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, which is administered by Hamas, 253 Palestinians were killed in the battle, including 66 children, while 13 Israelis were slain, including a 5-year-old boy and a soldier.

Israel has launched airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, its first offensive since a new coalition government came to power, barely weeks after an 11-day battle with the Palestinian territory.

Israel has launched airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, its first offensive since a new coalition government came to power, barely weeks after an 11-day battle with the Palestinian territory. Blasts were heard across Gaza about 1:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, according to a Hamas radio station, which reported the attacks targeted a Palestinian training camp. These airstrikes come after militants in the Palestinian territory sent incendiary balloons into the south of Israel. “Fighter jets recently attacked Hamas military complexes that served as camps and meeting places for terrorist operatives in the Khan Yunis and Gaza brigades,” the military said, adding that it is “prepared for all scenarios, including the resumption of hostilities.” “Terrorist activity took place in the attacked compound,” the IDF said, adding that the attacks were in retaliation to incendiary devices launched earlier in the day toward southern Israel. “The IDF is prepared for all scenarios, including the resumption of hostilities, in the face of continued terror acts from the Gaza Strip,” the army added. VIDEO: Israeli forces launch air strikes on Gaza. An explosion lights up the night sky in Khan Yunis, in the Gaza Strip, as Israel shells the Palestinian enclave. The Israeli air force says it was responding to incendiary balloons sent into southern Israel from Gaza pic.twitter.com/2FsiLiSKRr — AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 16, 2021 × According to a report by Times of Israel, "No Gazans were injured in the strikes, the Hamas-affiliated Palestinian media centre initially reported." A truce between Israel and the Gaza Strip went into effect on May 21. Hundreds of missiles were launched from both Israel and Palestine during the 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, which is administered by Hamas, 253 Palestinians were killed in the battle, including 66 children, while 13 Israelis were slain, including a 5-year-old boy and a soldier.

Israel strikes Gaza, first time under the new government and after the ceasefire

Explosions light up night sky in Gaza city

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions."

In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace".

The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo &amp; Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC.&nbsp;

The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position.

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions." In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace". The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo & Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.

Our position not new, says India after Palestine FM writes to EAM

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday warned that over 200,000 people in Palestinian territories require aid after the recent conflict between Israel-Gaza which saw heavy rockets being fired. The organisation said there exist “staggering health needs” in the territories heavily damaged by the conflict.

"WHO is scaling up its response to provide health aid for almost 200,000 people in need across the occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT)," WHO's Eastern Mediterranean regional office said in a statement, reported by AFP.

"The situation is volatile. WHO remains concerned... and calls for unhindered access for humanitarian and development-related essential supplies and staff into Gaza and referral of patients out of Gaza whenever needed," warned WHO’s Rik Peeperkorn.

The conflict between Israel and Gaza lasted for 11 days and saw heavy rocket fire from Gaza as well as Israel, the latter causing significant damage and civilian casualties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/palestine-miffed-with-indias-abstention-at-unhrc-vote-fm-riad-writes-to-eam-388960" hreflang="en">Palestine miffed with India's abstention at UNHRC vote; FM Riad writes to EAM</a>

Israeli strikes killed 254 Palestinians, including 66 children along with some fighters, authorities reported. In Israel, Palestinian strikes killed 12 people including a child, a teenager and an Israeli soldier.

"Over 77,000 people were internally displaced and around 30 health facilities have been damaged”, WHO said.

Israel has enforced a land and sea blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007, which is home to two million Palestinians.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch-12-year-old-gaza-rapper-sings-emotionally-on-palestines-plight-386539" hreflang="en">Watch: 12-year-old Gaza rapper sings emotionally on Palestine's plight</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday warned that over 200,000 people in Palestinian territories require aid after the recent conflict between Israel-Gaza which saw heavy rockets being fired.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday warned that over 200,000 people in Palestinian territories require aid after the recent conflict between Israel-Gaza which saw heavy rockets being fired. The organisation said there exist “staggering health needs” in the territories heavily damaged by the conflict. "WHO is scaling up its response to provide health aid for almost 200,000 people in need across the occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT)," WHO's Eastern Mediterranean regional office said in a statement, reported by AFP. "The situation is volatile. WHO remains concerned... and calls for unhindered access for humanitarian and development-related essential supplies and staff into Gaza and referral of patients out of Gaza whenever needed," warned WHO’s Rik Peeperkorn. The conflict between Israel and Gaza lasted for 11 days and saw heavy rocket fire from Gaza as well as Israel, the latter causing significant damage and civilian casualties. Also read: Palestine miffed with India's abstention at UNHRC vote; FM Riad writes to EAM Israeli strikes killed 254 Palestinians, including 66 children along with some fighters, authorities reported. In Israel, Palestinian strikes killed 12 people including a child, a teenager and an Israeli soldier. "Over 77,000 people were internally displaced and around 30 health facilities have been damaged”, WHO said. Israel has enforced a land and sea blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007, which is home to two million Palestinians. Also read: Watch: 12-year-old Gaza rapper sings emotionally on Palestine's plight

Nearly 200,000 Palestinians need health aid after Israel-Gaza conflict, says WHO

Egypt's intelligence chief Abbas Kamel met Hamas leaders in Gaza on Monday to try to bolster a ceasefire between the Palestinian militant group and Israel and to discuss reconstruction plans following the recent hostilities.

Egypt's intelligence chief Kamel holds truce talks with Hamas in Gaza

The Palestinian Islamic Hamas movement has rejected linking the process of the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip with reaching a prisoner swap deal with Israel. 
 
On Monday, Egyptian security chief Abbas Kamel arrived in the Gaza Strip through Erez Crossing point on the borders with Israel to hold talks with leaders of Palestinian factions, including the Hamas, reports Xinhua news agency. 
 
Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader, told reporters at the end of a meeting with Kamel that members of the group discussed with the Egyptian security delegation the ceasefire with Israel and the process of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip. 
 
Palestinian sources, close to Hamas, told Xinhua that Kamel discussed with the movement`s leader a possible prisoner swap deal with Israel. 
 
The sources said that Kamel, who on Sunday met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Benny Gantz, carried an Israeli message that links between reconstruction and the missing Israelis in Gaza. 
 
"In regards to the issue of a prisoner exchange with the occupation (Israel), it is an independent subject and we will never accept linking it to the issue of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip," al-Hayya said. 
 
Meanwhile, Moussa Abu Marzouk, deputy chief of Hamas abroad, said that the movement completely rejects linking the issue of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip with the issue of the release of the Israelis held in the enclave.

The Palestinian Islamic Hamas movement has rejected linking the process of the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip with reaching a prisoner swap deal with Israel. On Monday, Egyptian security chief Abbas Kamel arrived in the Gaza Strip through Erez Crossing point on the borders with Israel to hold talks with leaders of Palestinian factions, including the Hamas, reports Xinhua news agency.

The Palestinian Islamic Hamas movement has rejected linking the process of the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip with reaching a prisoner swap deal with Israel. On Monday, Egyptian security chief Abbas Kamel arrived in the Gaza Strip through Erez Crossing point on the borders with Israel to hold talks with leaders of Palestinian factions, including the Hamas, reports Xinhua news agency. Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader, told reporters at the end of a meeting with Kamel that members of the group discussed with the Egyptian security delegation the ceasefire with Israel and the process of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip. Palestinian sources, close to Hamas, told Xinhua that Kamel discussed with the movement`s leader a possible prisoner swap deal with Israel. The sources said that Kamel, who on Sunday met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Benny Gantz, carried an Israeli message that links between reconstruction and the missing Israelis in Gaza. "In regards to the issue of a prisoner exchange with the occupation (Israel), it is an independent subject and we will never accept linking it to the issue of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip," al-Hayya said. Meanwhile, Moussa Abu Marzouk, deputy chief of Hamas abroad, said that the movement completely rejects linking the issue of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip with the issue of the release of the Israelis held in the enclave.

Hamas rejects linking Gaza reconstruction to prisoner swap

For the first time in 13 years, Israel’s foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi is visiting Egypt to discuss ways to establish a ‘permanent ceasefire’ between Israel and Gaza.

"We will discuss establishing a permanent ceasefire with Hamas, a mechanism for providing humanitarian aid &amp; the reconstruction of Gaza with a pivotal role played by the intl. Community," Ashkenazi tweeted in English, Arabic and Hebrew.

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Thank you, FM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sameh_Shoukry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sameh_Shoukry</a>, for your invitation to visit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Egypt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Egypt</a>, the first formal visit of an Israeli FM in 13 years. 
 
During the visit we will discuss regional issues as well as ways and means to strengthen our bilateral relations. <a href="https://t.co/j6pcv4gs9T">pic.twitter.com/j6pcv4gs9T</a>
— גבי אשכנזי - Gabi Ashkenazi (@Gabi_Ashkenazi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gabi_Ashkenazi/status/1398921142849638403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ashkenazi has also assured that the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government will also discuss the terms to repatriate the Israeli prisoners held by the Hamas group in Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjot9HzmPHwAhVzmeYKHWNxCPQQFjACegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3bIOrE3nkvetE4-nhNXZKX" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271" target="_blank">Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force</a>

While Ashkenazi visits Egypt to meet his counterpart, Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel, along with a high-security delegation, is visiting Israel and Palestinian communities and hold discussions on similar tunes.

"President (Abdel Fattah) al-Sisi instructed the general intelligence chief to discuss with the Israeli Prime Minister (Benjamin Netanyahu) and concerned authorities the fixing of a permanent ceasefire and the latest developments on the Palestinian front," Egyptian security officials told news agency AFP.

In addition to this, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has also promised to help re-build the destroyed areas in Gaza by donating $500 million for the cause.

The peace-building plans have come after Egypt successfully brokered a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, which killed 354 Palestinians and 12 Israelis during the weeks-long fight.

For the first time in 13 years, Israel’s foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi is visiting Egypt to discuss ways to establish a ‘permanent ceasefire’ between Israel and Gaza.

For the first time in 13 years, Israel’s foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi is visiting Egypt to discuss ways to establish a ‘permanent ceasefire’ between Israel and Gaza. "We will discuss establishing a permanent ceasefire with Hamas, a mechanism for providing humanitarian aid & the reconstruction of Gaza with a pivotal role played by the intl. Community," Ashkenazi tweeted in English, Arabic and Hebrew. Thank you, FM #Sameh_Shoukry, for your invitation to visit #Egypt, the first formal visit of an Israeli FM in 13 years. During the visit we will discuss regional issues as well as ways and means to strengthen our bilateral relations. pic.twitter.com/j6pcv4gs9T — גבי אשכנזי - Gabi Ashkenazi (@Gabi_Ashkenazi) May 30, 2021 × Ashkenazi has also assured that the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government will also discuss the terms to repatriate the Israeli prisoners held by the Hamas group in Gaza. Also read | Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force While Ashkenazi visits Egypt to meet his counterpart, Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel, along with a high-security delegation, is visiting Israel and Palestinian communities and hold discussions on similar tunes. "President (Abdel Fattah) al-Sisi instructed the general intelligence chief to discuss with the Israeli Prime Minister (Benjamin Netanyahu) and concerned authorities the fixing of a permanent ceasefire and the latest developments on the Palestinian front," Egyptian security officials told news agency AFP. In addition to this, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has also promised to help re-build the destroyed areas in Gaza by donating $500 million for the cause. The peace-building plans have come after Egypt successfully brokered a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, which killed 354 Palestinians and 12 Israelis during the weeks-long fight.

Israel's foreign minister visits Egypt to discuss 'permanent ceasefire' with Gaza

This week on The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis takes a look at the region's biggest conflict in years. A ceasefire is holding in Gaza after 11 days of fighting between Israel and Hamas. As U.S. President Joe Biden dispatches his top diplomat Antony Blinken to hold peace, who will help rebuild Gaza? For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post Episode 31: Who will help rebuild Gaza?

In the tiny coastal strip of Gaza, children live under fear. They are scared that any moment could be their last. In The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you about the mental scars that the children of Gaza bear. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post: Gaza's children face brunt of conflict

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands.

Brigadier General Esmail Ghaani, the commander of the Quds Force made the comments during a ceremony in Iran's capital Tehran.

Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have established ceasefire last week but tensions are still high in the region. The ceasefire halted the 11-day fighting between the two warring parties that saw rocket attacks and airstrikes causing casualties on both sides.

Iran supports Hamas that rules the Gaza Strip. Iran does not recognise Tehran.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-fighters-display-weapons-in-gaza-after-truce-with-israel-388205">Hamas fighters display weapons in Gaza after truce with Israel&nbsp;</a>

Israeli strikes on Gaza during the 11-day conflict killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says.

Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands.

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands. Brigadier General Esmail Ghaani, the commander of the Quds Force made the comments during a ceremony in Iran's capital Tehran. Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have established ceasefire last week but tensions are still high in the region. The ceasefire halted the 11-day fighting between the two warring parties that saw rocket attacks and airstrikes causing casualties on both sides. Iran supports Hamas that rules the Gaza Strip. Iran does not recognise Tehran. Also Read | Hamas fighters display weapons in Gaza after truce with Israel Israeli strikes on Gaza during the 11-day conflict killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says. Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force commander

Thousands of Hamas fighters held a military parade Friday in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, a week after a ceasefire with Israel took effect in the devastated coastal enclave.&nbsp;

Holding weapons, the masked members of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed branch of Hamas, the Islamist group that runs Gaza, paraded through the southern city, AFP reporters said.&nbsp;

Riding pick-up trucks, the fighters showed off a military arsenal including rocket launchers and a drone as groups of people, including women and children, cheered them on.&nbsp;

An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire that went into force on last Friday has so far held, ending 11 days of devastating Israeli bombardment of Gaza and rocket fire into Israel from the coastal strip that started on May 10.&nbsp;

Israeli strikes on Gaza killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says.&nbsp;

Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.&nbsp;

There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians.&nbsp;

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's bombing campaign had killed 'more than 200 terrorists' in Gaza, which Hamas has controlled since 2007.&nbsp;

But both sides claimed victory after the ceasefire went into force.&nbsp;

Hamas has held several post-ceasefire rallies across the devastated Gaza Strip, including one on Thursday in Khan Yunis and also in the south of the Israeli-blockaded territory.&nbsp;

Thousands of Hamas fighters held a military parade Friday in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, a week after a ceasefire with Israel took effect in the devastated coastal enclave.

Thousands of Hamas fighters held a military parade Friday in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, a week after a ceasefire with Israel took effect in the devastated coastal enclave. Holding weapons, the masked members of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed branch of Hamas, the Islamist group that runs Gaza, paraded through the southern city, AFP reporters said. Riding pick-up trucks, the fighters showed off a military arsenal including rocket launchers and a drone as groups of people, including women and children, cheered them on. An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire that went into force on last Friday has so far held, ending 11 days of devastating Israeli bombardment of Gaza and rocket fire into Israel from the coastal strip that started on May 10. Israeli strikes on Gaza killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says. Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's bombing campaign had killed 'more than 200 terrorists' in Gaza, which Hamas has controlled since 2007. But both sides claimed victory after the ceasefire went into force. Hamas has held several post-ceasefire rallies across the devastated Gaza Strip, including one on Thursday in Khan Yunis and also in the south of the Israeli-blockaded territory.

Hamas fighters display weapons in Gaza after truce with Israel 

UNHRC wants to probe Israel for war crimes. The resolution was adopted in a special session called by Pakistan. China, Russia voted in favour of the probe. Since when did these countries start championing human rights? Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas: UN Human Rights Council to probe Israel

The World Health Organization called on Friday for access to patients in the Gaza strip and the possibility to be able to evacuate them for medical treatment as health workers struggle to care for the sick and wounded after 11 days of violence.

WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told a Geneva briefing that around 600 patients, including some with chronic conditions, needed to be referred outside of the Palestinian enclave since hostilities began earlier this month, but had been unable to due to crossing closures.

Dozens of health centres were damaged during Israeli bombings earlier this month, prompting the WHO to warn that facilities risked being overwhelmed.

Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;says.&nbsp;

Rocket and other fire from&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

The Israeli bombardment of&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;has ravaged homes and businesses as well as key power and water networks in the already impoverished enclave, which has been under Israeli blockade since 2007.

Some 258 buildings, comprising 1,042 housing and commercial units, have been completely destroyed, authorities in&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;say, while the United Nations says at least 6,000 people have been made homeless.

The UN says it has released millions of dollars for its humanitarian response and other countries such as Qatar, Egypt and the United States have pledged millions more in aid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization called on Friday for access to patients in the Gaza strip and the possibility to be able to evacuate them for medical treatment as health workers struggle to care for the sick and wounded after 11 days of violence.

The World Health Organization called on Friday for access to patients in the Gaza strip and the possibility to be able to evacuate them for medical treatment as health workers struggle to care for the sick and wounded after 11 days of violence. WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told a Geneva briefing that around 600 patients, including some with chronic conditions, needed to be referred outside of the Palestinian enclave since hostilities began earlier this month, but had been unable to due to crossing closures. Dozens of health centres were damaged during Israeli bombings earlier this month, prompting the WHO to warn that facilities risked being overwhelmed. Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says. Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. The Israeli bombardment of Gaza has ravaged homes and businesses as well as key power and water networks in the already impoverished enclave, which has been under Israeli blockade since 2007. Some 258 buildings, comprising 1,042 housing and commercial units, have been completely destroyed, authorities in Gaza say, while the United Nations says at least 6,000 people have been made homeless. The UN says it has released millions of dollars for its humanitarian response and other countries such as Qatar, Egypt and the United States have pledged millions more in aid. (With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organization calls for access to patients in Gaza strip

A day after the UN rights chief said that Israeli forces may have committed war crimes in Gaza territory, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticised the decision by the UN Human Rights Council to probe abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

Calling the decision "shameful", Netanyahu said in a statement that "this is yet another example of the UN Human Rights Council’s blatant anti-Israel obsession”.

“This travesty makes a mockery of international law and encourages terrorists worldwide,” he added. 
 
Gravitas: UN Human Rights Council to probe Israel

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-un-human-rights-council-to-probe-israel-387894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On the other hand, The Palestinian Authority welcomed the resolution, saying it amounted to “international recognition of Israel’s systemic oppression and discrimination against the Palestinian people.”

“This reality of apartheid and impunity can no longer be ignored,” it added.

On Thursday, the UN Human Rights Council decided to create an open-ended international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, and into the "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

The resolution, which passed with 24 of the council's 47 members in favour, will spur an unprecedented level of scrutiny on abuses and their "root causes" in the decades-long Middle East conflict.

Earlier this month, The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over the possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence.

Egypt played an important role to establish a ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after the UN rights chief said that Israeli forces may have committed war crimes in Gaza territory, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticised the decision by the UN Human Rights Council to probe abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

A day after the UN rights chief said that Israeli forces may have committed war crimes in Gaza territory, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticised the decision by the UN Human Rights Council to probe abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel. Calling the decision "shameful", Netanyahu said in a statement that "this is yet another example of the UN Human Rights Council’s blatant anti-Israel obsession”. “This travesty makes a mockery of international law and encourages terrorists worldwide,” he added. Gravitas: UN Human Rights Council to probe Israel On the other hand, The Palestinian Authority welcomed the resolution, saying it amounted to “international recognition of Israel’s systemic oppression and discrimination against the Palestinian people.” “This reality of apartheid and impunity can no longer be ignored,” it added. On Thursday, the UN Human Rights Council decided to create an open-ended international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, and into the "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel. The resolution, which passed with 24 of the council's 47 members in favour, will spur an unprecedented level of scrutiny on abuses and their "root causes" in the decades-long Middle East conflict. Earlier this month, The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over the possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence. Egypt played an important role to establish a ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. (With inputs from agencies)

'Blatant anti-Israel obsession': Netanyahu denounces war crime probe by UN

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