Trump expresses uncertainty about the Gaza ceasefire's stability as he prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Donald Trump doubts Gaza ceasefire will hold ahead of Netanyahu meeting

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to the US for key discussions with President Donald Trump on the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire. Netanyahu is the first world leader to visit Washington since January 20.

Benjamin Netanyahu travels to the US for Trump meeting amid Gaza ceasefire

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens after the two nations dismissed the American leader's plan to "clean out" the Palestinian territory.
His comment comes just a day after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians saying "it can never be tolerated or allowed".
<h2>Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will take in Gazans</h2>
While addressing reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump was asked for his response to Egypt and Jordan refusing to take in displaced Gazans. "They will do it," insisted the US president.
"They're going to do it. We do a lot for them, and they're going to do it," he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
Last week, just days into his second tenure as POTUS, Trump said that the 15-month war had reduced the Palestinian territory to a "demolition site." He then floated a plan to "clean out" the Gaza Strip and move Gazans to "safer" locations such as Egypt or Jordan. &nbsp;
<h2>Egypt and Jordan's statement on forced displacements</h2>
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 29) Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said, Regarding what is being said about the displacement of Palestinians, it can never be tolerated or allowed because of its impact on Egyptian national security."
"The deportation or displacement of the Palestinian people is an injustice in which we cannot participate," he added.
Meanwhile, Jordan's King Abdullah II insisted that Palestinians must remain on their land.
As per a statement by his royal palace, the king, during meetings in Brussels stressed "Jordan's firm position on the need to keep the Palestinians on their land and to guarantee their legitimate rights, in accordance with the Israeli and Palestinian two-state solution."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: While addressing reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump was asked for his response to Egypt and Jordan refusing to take in displaced Gazans. "They will do it," insisted the US president.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens after the two nations dismissed the American leader's plan to "clean out" the Palestinian territory. His comment comes just a day after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians saying "it can never be tolerated or allowed". Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will take in Gazans While addressing reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump was asked for his response to Egypt and Jordan refusing to take in displaced Gazans. "They will do it," insisted the US president. "They're going to do it. We do a lot for them, and they're going to do it," he said. Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash Last week, just days into his second tenure as POTUS, Trump said that the 15-month war had reduced the Palestinian territory to a "demolition site." He then floated a plan to "clean out" the Gaza Strip and move Gazans to "safer" locations such as Egypt or Jordan. Egypt and Jordan's statement on forced displacements Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 29) Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said, Regarding what is being said about the displacement of Palestinians, it can never be tolerated or allowed because of its impact on Egyptian national security." "The deportation or displacement of the Palestinian people is an injustice in which we cannot participate," he added. Meanwhile, Jordan's King Abdullah II insisted that Palestinians must remain on their land. As per a statement by his royal palace, the king, during meetings in Brussels stressed "Jordan's firm position on the need to keep the Palestinians on their land and to guarantee their legitimate rights, in accordance with the Israeli and Palestinian two-state solution." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will accept displaced Gaza citizens: 'They're going to do it'

Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said.
Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day separately.
The released hostages were identified as Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, and Thai nationals, including Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak.&nbsp;
All the hostages have crossed the border into Israel, the IDF said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-claims-delay-in-aid-delivery-to-gaza-israel-denies-calls-it-fake-news-8669066" rel="dofollow">Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news'</a>
The Hamas group handed over the seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area.
Yehoud and Mozes will meet with their family members at the IDF facility, while the five Thai nationals will meet Thai officials.
Israeli sources said Yehoud and Mozes are in &ldquo;good health&rdquo; after the chaotic transfer, Channel 12 reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-israel-soldier-agam-berger-over-to-red-cross-in-gazas-jabalia-report-8674176" rel="dofollow">Hamas hands Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to Red Cross in Gaza's Jabalia</a>
"The 7 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the IDF said in a post on X.&nbsp; &nbsp; It added, "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel."
This comes after Hamas released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-release-six-hostages-including-arbel-yehud-israel-says-gazans-can-now-return-home-8656726" rel="dofollow"> Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud</a>
The five Thai citizens were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers.&nbsp;
There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity, identified as Pinta Nattapong.
Meanwhile, two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive.
<h2>Israel President welcomes return of hostages&nbsp;</h2>
Israel President Isaac Herzog welcomed the return of eight hostages to Israel and slammed the scenes of chaos seen during the handover.
&ldquo;We are moved to tears by the return from captivity of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehoud, and Gadi Mozes, together with five Thai citizens,&rdquo; said Herzog in a statement.
<h2>Netanyahu calls the chaotic release of hostages 'unacceptable'</h2>
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the chaotic release in Khan Younis of seven hostages, who were pushed and shoved by an angry mob as they were handed over to the Red Cross, is unacceptable.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages,&rdquo; Netanyahu said. &ldquo;This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation.&rdquo;
Netanyahu said that he "demands the negotiators ensure that such horrific scenes do not occur again, and to guarantee the safety of our hostages.&rdquo;
He further warned, "Whoever dares to harm our hostages &mdash; will pay.&rdquo;
<h2>110 Palestinian prisoners expected to be released&nbsp;</h2>
Israel is expected to release 100 Palestinian prisoners on Thursday as part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">ceasefire agreement</a> and hostage deal.&nbsp;
A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news".
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World Middle East: The Hamas group handed over seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area. Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day.

Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said. Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day separately. The released hostages were identified as Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, and Thai nationals, including Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak. All the hostages have crossed the border into Israel, the IDF said. Also read: Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news' The Hamas group handed over the seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area. Yehoud and Mozes will meet with their family members at the IDF facility, while the five Thai nationals will meet Thai officials. Israeli sources said Yehoud and Mozes are in “good health” after the chaotic transfer, Channel 12 reported. Also read: Hamas hands Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to Red Cross in Gaza's Jabalia "The 7 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the IDF said in a post on X. It added, "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel." This comes after Hamas released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day. Also read: Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud The five Thai citizens were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers. There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity, identified as Pinta Nattapong. Meanwhile, two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive. Israel President welcomes return of hostages Israel President Isaac Herzog welcomed the return of eight hostages to Israel and slammed the scenes of chaos seen during the handover. “We are moved to tears by the return from captivity of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehoud, and Gadi Mozes, together with five Thai citizens,” said Herzog in a statement. Netanyahu calls the chaotic release of hostages 'unacceptable' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the chaotic release in Khan Younis of seven hostages, who were pushed and shoved by an angry mob as they were handed over to the Red Cross, is unacceptable. “I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages,” Netanyahu said. “This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation.” Netanyahu said that he "demands the negotiators ensure that such horrific scenes do not occur again, and to guarantee the safety of our hostages.” He further warned, "Whoever dares to harm our hostages — will pay.” 110 Palestinian prisoners expected to be released Israel is expected to release 100 Palestinian prisoners on Thursday as part of the ceasefire agreement and hostage deal. A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news". (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens

US aid experts, on Wednesday (Jan 29), rebuffed Donald Trump's claims that the United States spent $50 million on condoms for the Gaza Strip.
The claim has been used by the president to illustrate wasteful spending by the previous administration.
Trump stated that the funds were intended to purchase condoms for the militant group Hamas but aid experts have rejected this claim, saying it's unfounded.
"We identified and stopped $50 million being sent to Gaza to buy condoms for Hamas," Trump told reporters, referring to the militant group that has ruled the Palestinian territory for nearly two decades.
"And do you know what's happened to them? They've used them as a method of making bombs."
Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion.&nbsp;
International Medical Corps, a humanitarian aid organisation, revealed that it received approximately $68 million from USAID since October 7, 2023, to support its operations in Gaza.&nbsp;
"No US government funding was used to procure or distribute condoms," the organisation said in a statement.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246">Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6izw1g7-oot6llw2-uzhxlno2">
Tip of iceberg <a href="https://t.co/ixjtgut26G">https://t.co/ixjtgut26G</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884326482161590294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6izxq24-fxbv5b5o-eu769gqh">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the X users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion. 

US aid experts, on Wednesday (Jan 29), rebuffed Donald Trump's claims that the United States spent $50 million on condoms for the Gaza Strip. The claim has been used by the president to illustrate wasteful spending by the previous administration. Trump stated that the funds were intended to purchase condoms for the militant group Hamas but aid experts have rejected this claim, saying it's unfounded. "We identified and stopped $50 million being sent to Gaza to buy condoms for Hamas," Trump told reporters, referring to the militant group that has ruled the Palestinian territory for nearly two decades. "And do you know what's happened to them? They've used them as a method of making bombs." Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion. International Medical Corps, a humanitarian aid organisation, revealed that it received approximately $68 million from USAID since October 7, 2023, to support its operations in Gaza. "No US government funding was used to procure or distribute condoms," the organisation said in a statement. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” Tip of iceberg https://t.co/ixjtgut26G — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the X users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Aid experts reject Donald Trump's $50 million 'Gaza condom' spending claim

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza.
A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report.&nbsp;
The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906">Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqx50c-qoplspvl-4o11o5s0">
My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329088040722724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqxpnm-hhdf8z32-g1jroe3n">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqynkf-fnsd30e9-3b4hhn95">
Elon Musk chimes in: &lsquo;Explains why all condom orders were &ldquo;Magnum&rdquo; 😂&rsquo; When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to &lsquo;condoms in Gaza&rsquo; goes far beyond satire. <a href="https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7">https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7</a>
&mdash; Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) <a href="https://twitter.com/WallSTQuon/status/1884419245381169236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands.

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza. A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report. The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend." Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." Elon Musk chimes in: ‘Explains why all condom orders were “Magnum” 😂’ When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to ‘condoms in Gaza’ goes far beyond satire. https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7 — Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) January 29, 2025 US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts

Palestinians returning to Northern Gaza, after 15 months of war, found their homes turned to rubble and things around them destroyed.

Israel-Gaza War: Gazans return home to rubble and destruction

Donald Trump faces intense backlash after making controversial statements regarding Gaza, with critics accusing him of endorsing ethnic cleansing against Palestinians. His remarks have sparked a heated debate over the ongoing conflict.

Trump calls for 'ethnic cleansing' of Palestinians from Gaza, receives backlash | WION Originals

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad has released a propaganda video of hostage Arbel Yehoud, who is due to be released on Thursday. Watch this report for more details!

Islamic Jihad releases video of Israeli hostage Arbel Yehud

#Gravitas Iran has flown its largest ever drone called ‘Gaza.’ The drone can carry up to 12 bombs and is aimed at bolstering Iran’s security and border operations.

Iran Unveils Heavy-Duty ‘Gaza’ Drone With 1000 Km Range

Israel Ceasefire: Crowds of displaced Palestinians started arriving in Gaza City on January 27. Israel opened roadblocks following Hamas' agreement to hand over female Israeli hostage Arbel Yehud and two other hostages.

Gaza: thousands of displaced Palestinians return to north as Israel opens crossings

Donald Trump and Keir Starmer held talks discussing the ongoing Gaza conflict and its implications on global politics. They also addressed economic concerns, exploring potential solutions and cooperation on key issues.

Donald Trump And Keir Starmer Discuss Gaza & Economy Agree To Meet ‘Soon’

US President Donald Trump floated a plan to "just clean out" Gaza, and said he wants Egypt and Jordan to take Palestinians from the territory in a bid to create Middle East peace. Watch this report for more details!

Gaza Ceasefire: Donald Trump suggests moving Palestinians to Egypt & Jordan

Gaza Ceasefire: US President Donald Trump floated a plan to "just clean out" Gaza, and said he wants Egypt and Jordan to take Palestinians from the territory in a bid to create Middle East peace. Watch this report for more details!

Gaza Ceasefire | Donald Trump floats plan to 'just clean out' Gaza

The White House said Sunday that a deal between Lebanon and Israel had been extended until February 18, as Israel missed a previous deadline to pull troops. Watch this report for more details!

Israel, Lebanon extend deal to withdraw Israeli troops

The Israel-Hamas conflict has left Gaza in a state of catastrophic destruction, with an estimated 60 years of development lost. Nearly two-thirds of the region's buildings have been damaged or completely destroyed, amounting to an overwhelming 42 million tonnes of rubble.

Gaza's devastation: 60 years of development lost

Israel's large-scale operation in occupied West Bank

At least 80 people killed in fighting between armed leftist groups in Colombia

M23 rebels encircle Goma, the capital of the North Kivu province

& Sudanese army claims to recapture main oil refinery from paramilitary RSF

Rahesha Sehgal gets you an in-depth analysis of the world's biggest warzones of the week.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel's Large-scale Operation In Occupied West Bank

Israel will not allow Palestinians to return to the northern Gaza Strip until Hamas arranges the release of female civilian hostage, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.&nbsp;
The Israeli female hostage Arbel Yehud was scheduled to be released today as per the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">ceasefire agreement</a>.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Israel has received four female hostage soldiers from the Hamas terrorist group today, and in return will release security prisoners&rdquo; according to the deal, the PMO said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-four-female-israeli-soldiers-released-in-second-hostage-exchange-between-israel-and-hamas-8652476" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire: Four female Israeli soldiers released in second hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas</a>
&ldquo;In accordance with the agreement, Israel will not allow the passage of Gazans to the north of the Gaza Strip, until the arrangement of the release of civilian Arbel Yehud, who was supposed to be released today,&rdquo; the PMO statement added.&nbsp;
This further means that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will not be withdrawing from part of the Netzarim Corridor tomorrow.
According to the deal, Israel was supposed to withdraw from the northern half of the corridor on day seven of the ceasefire agreement, allowing Palestinians to return to north Gaza via the coastal road.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-four-hostages-to-be-released-on-jan-25-8651144" rel="dofollow">Hamas releases names of 4 hostages to be released tomorrow, Israel accuses group of violating truce deal terms</a>
<h2>Arbel Yehud to be released next Saturday&nbsp;</h2>
An official from the Hamas group told Reuters that mediators have been informed that the female hostage Arbel Yehud is alive and will be released next Saturday.&nbsp;
Israel accused Hamas of violating the deal by releasing female hostage soldiers before all of the living civilian women captives.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/eurovision-2025-hamas-attack-survivor-to-represent-israel-at-song-contest-8648133" rel="dofollow">Eurovision 2025: Hamas attack survivor to represent Israel at song contest</a>
<h2>Hamas released four hostage female soldiers</h2>
This comes after Hamas on Saturday released four hostage female soldiers, Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy.&nbsp;
The soldiers were members of an all-female surveillance unit stationed near Nahal Oz on the Gaza border and were responsible for monitoring activity in the area when they were taken hostage during the Hamas terror attack of October 7, 2023.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel was supposed to withdraw from the northern half of the corridor on day seven of the ceasefire, allowing Palestinians to return to north Gaza via the coastal road. 

Israel will not allow Palestinians to return to the northern Gaza Strip until Hamas arranges the release of female civilian hostage, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. The Israeli female hostage Arbel Yehud was scheduled to be released today as per the ceasefire agreement. “Israel has received four female hostage soldiers from the Hamas terrorist group today, and in return will release security prisoners” according to the deal, the PMO said. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Four female Israeli soldiers released in second hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas “In accordance with the agreement, Israel will not allow the passage of Gazans to the north of the Gaza Strip, until the arrangement of the release of civilian Arbel Yehud, who was supposed to be released today,” the PMO statement added. This further means that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will not be withdrawing from part of the Netzarim Corridor tomorrow. According to the deal, Israel was supposed to withdraw from the northern half of the corridor on day seven of the ceasefire agreement, allowing Palestinians to return to north Gaza via the coastal road. Also read: Hamas releases names of 4 hostages to be released tomorrow, Israel accuses group of violating truce deal terms Arbel Yehud to be released next Saturday An official from the Hamas group told Reuters that mediators have been informed that the female hostage Arbel Yehud is alive and will be released next Saturday. Israel accused Hamas of violating the deal by releasing female hostage soldiers before all of the living civilian women captives. Also read: Eurovision 2025: Hamas attack survivor to represent Israel at song contest Hamas released four hostage female soldiers This comes after Hamas on Saturday released four hostage female soldiers, Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy. The soldiers were members of an all-female surveillance unit stationed near Nahal Oz on the Gaza border and were responsible for monitoring activity in the area when they were taken hostage during the Hamas terror attack of October 7, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

'Won't allow Palestinians to return to north Gaza until Hamas releases female civilian hostage,' warns Netanyahu

While a truce holds in Gaza, Israel has escalated its military actions in the West Bank, raising tensions in the region and complicating efforts for lasting peace.

Israel-Gaza War: Israel's Crackdown On West Bank Amid Gaza Truce

For the first time in 15 months, Gaza's skies are free of airstrikes, marking a significant shift in the Israel-Gaza conflict and raising hopes for a lasting ceasefire.

Israel-Gaza War: Gaza skies free of airstrikes after 15 months

The war that raged in Gaza has subsided, but the battlefield seems to have shifted to the West Bank. There has been a sharp escalation in Israeli military operations and settler aggression in the West Bank.

Israel-Gaza War: War shifts from Gaza to West Bank

After much anticipation, the first three Israeli hostages being released were finally handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas on Sunday hours after the ceasefire came into effect, Reuters reported, citing local media. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire: Three hostages released by hamas reunited with family members

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire: Gaza Truce Begins With Release Of 3 Israeli Hostages

Over the past 15 months, Israeli airstrikes have devastated the long-besieged Palestinian enclave, reducing much of it to rubble. Satellite imagery reveals that 70% of Gaza's agricultural infrastructure has been systematically destroyed, either through shelling or the movement of heavy military equipment, further compounding the region's humanitarian crisis.

Gaza: The Enormous Costs And Challenges Ahead To Rebuild Rubble

Fireworks and celebrations erupt as freed Palestinian prisoners arrive in occupied West Bank town. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire: 90 Palestinian Prisoners Freed By Israel, 3 Hostages Returned

Israel-Hamas ceasefire: First 3 hostages back in Israel, IDF confirms

Ceasefire deal takes effect after 15 months

A ceasefire in Gaza has taken effect after Hamas provided Israel with the names of hostages to be released on Sunday.

Gaza ceasefire: First aid trucks arrive in Gaza under ceasefire

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas to free 3 woman hostages

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas names 3 hostages to be released

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel reserves the right to resume fighting in Gaza with US support, as he pledged to bring home all hostages held in the Palestinian territory.

Netanyahu says Israel reserves 'right to resume war'

WION tells you what happened in Gaza and Israel in the past 24 hours.

Gaza Ceasefire: Events in Gaza and Israel in the past 24 hours?

gaza

Gaza, News on Gaza, stories on Gaza, articles on Gaza, Gaza stories at Wion, Gaza news, Gaza latest news