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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address a joint meeting of the US Congress - this comes as heightened tensions with US President Joe Biden over the Israeli leaders' handling of the war.

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Suspected Israeli soldiers posted evidence of atrocities committed in the occupied-West Bank. In our report, we decode the extremist settler violence and raids that is prevalent in the region.

The misery of Palestinians

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The International Court of Justice, ICJ, will rule on South Africa's requests to order a halt to Israel's Rafah offensive in Gaza, after South Africa petitioned the ICJ for emergency measures asking Israel to seek its military operations in Gaza strip.

South Africa seeks ICJ order to halt Israel's assault in Rafah, will ICJ take any action?

Israel's military has pushed deep into the heart of Rafah entering new neighbourhoods and intensifying their fight against Hamas. Ahead of the International Court ruling on the operation, the Israeli Army says that troops are continuing their operational activity in specific areas of Rafah.

Israel war: Israel pushes deep inside Gaza's North & South

Israel War: Will ICJ Israel to halt Rafah assault?

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Watch top headlines of the hour: - Russia advances in Donetsk region - Taiwan: Day 2 of China's war games - Israel defiant in Gaza ahead of ICJ ruling - Vietnam: 14 killed in apartment fire - Biden: Kenya to become non-NATO ally - Japan's inflation slows further

Vietnam: 14 killed in apartment fire | Japan's inflation slows further

The leaders of Norway and Spain said that their nations would recognise Palestine as a state next week. Watch to know more.

Israel furious over Palestine's recognition by Poland, Ireland, Spain & Norway

Israel on Thursday (May 23) warned that its ties with countries recognising a Palestinian state will face "serious consequences". This comes as Ireland, Norway and Spain prepare to recognise it from next week.&nbsp;

"There will be additional serious consequences for relations with their countries following the decision they made," said Jacob Blitstein, a top official, in a statement released by Israel's foreign ministry.

<h2>Recognition 'does not promote peace'&nbsp;</h2>

Blitstein, as per AFP, made the statement during a meeting with the envoys of Ireland, Norway and Spain. During the meeting, he "reprimanded the ambassadors for the perverse decision of their governments to recognise a Palestinian state.

Reprimanding them for their governments' move announced on Wednesday (May 22), he said that the recognition makes it "more difficult to promote a deal for the release of hostages" still held in Gaza by Palestinian militants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indocttrination-four-year-old-australian-kids-hamas-militant-group-themed-birthday-cake-sparks-anger-724643">'Indoctrination': Four-year-old Australian kids Hamas militant group themed birthday cake sparks anger</a>

He also showed them a video of the kidnapping of five women soldiers during the October 7 attack by Hamas.

The video, which was also released to the media, shows the women sitting on the ground, some with blood on their faces, with their hands tied following their capture from the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel.

Israeli government spokesperson, Avi Hyman, addressing the envoys, said: "If Israel has learned anything in recent months, it is that our children deserve a better, safer future - not the resurrection of old, failed policies created by blindsided back-seat drivers abroad."

"A recognition of a Palestinian state does not promote peace. It perpetuates war. Any kind of so-called solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that compromises Israel's security does not mean peace. There will be zero compromise on our security."

"Other than the October 7th massacre, what exactly has changed in the Palestinian Authority to warrants this prize?" questioned Hyman.

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"They continue with their policy of pay for slay, they continue to educate their children to hate, they still haven't held an election in 19 years...Fatah terrorists proudly participated in the October 7th massacre. The Palestinian Authority has not condemned the October 7th massacre."

"So what is this Palestinian state that you recognised? It is simply a public declaration that spits in the face of the Israeli people, while we fight a war for our very survival, against the genocidal forces that surround us," he remarked.

<h2>Recognising the Palestinian state</h2>

The announcement by the three nations comes after the International Criminal Court prosecutor announced that he would seek arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and defence minister. He said he would also seek warrants against Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict.

As per Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is a major force behind the effort to recognise the Palestinian state, the recognition would reinforce efforts to revive a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Thursday (May 23) warned that its ties with countries recognising a Palestinian state will face "serious consequences". This comes as Ireland, Norway and Spain prepare to recognise it from next week.

Israel on Thursday (May 23) warned that its ties with countries recognising a Palestinian state will face "serious consequences". This comes as Ireland, Norway and Spain prepare to recognise it from next week. "There will be additional serious consequences for relations with their countries following the decision they made," said Jacob Blitstein, a top official, in a statement released by Israel's foreign ministry. Recognition 'does not promote peace' Blitstein, as per AFP, made the statement during a meeting with the envoys of Ireland, Norway and Spain. During the meeting, he "reprimanded the ambassadors for the perverse decision of their governments to recognise a Palestinian state. Reprimanding them for their governments' move announced on Wednesday (May 22), he said that the recognition makes it "more difficult to promote a deal for the release of hostages" still held in Gaza by Palestinian militants. Also read | 'Indoctrination': Four-year-old Australian kids Hamas militant group themed birthday cake sparks anger He also showed them a video of the kidnapping of five women soldiers during the October 7 attack by Hamas. The video, which was also released to the media, shows the women sitting on the ground, some with blood on their faces, with their hands tied following their capture from the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel. Israeli government spokesperson, Avi Hyman, addressing the envoys, said: "If Israel has learned anything in recent months, it is that our children deserve a better, safer future - not the resurrection of old, failed policies created by blindsided back-seat drivers abroad." "A recognition of a Palestinian state does not promote peace. It perpetuates war. Any kind of so-called solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that compromises Israel's security does not mean peace. There will be zero compromise on our security." "Other than the October 7th massacre, what exactly has changed in the Palestinian Authority to warrants this prize?" questioned Hyman. Also read | Zelensky claims Russia taking advantage of its 'lack of air defence' by launching brutal strikes "They continue with their policy of pay for slay, they continue to educate their children to hate, they still haven't held an election in 19 years...Fatah terrorists proudly participated in the October 7th massacre. The Palestinian Authority has not condemned the October 7th massacre." "So what is this Palestinian state that you recognised? It is simply a public declaration that spits in the face of the Israeli people, while we fight a war for our very survival, against the genocidal forces that surround us," he remarked. Recognising the Palestinian state The announcement by the three nations comes after the International Criminal Court prosecutor announced that he would seek arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and defence minister. He said he would also seek warrants against Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict. As per Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is a major force behind the effort to recognise the Palestinian state, the recognition would reinforce efforts to revive a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel slams countries recognising Palestinian state, says move 'does not promote peace'

How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons.&nbsp;

The cake features a notorious Hamas militant group terrorist, and Palestinian flags.

<h2>Mixed reactions</h2>

The cake was custom-made by Oven Bakery by Fufu, a Sydney-based bakery, which posted pictures of the Hamas-themed cake on its social media handles.

One of the pictures shows the four-year-old identified as "Omar" by the bakery, impersonating Abu Ubaida, a spokesman for Hamas.

Wearing a keffiyeh and camouflage, striking a pose synonymous with Ubaida, the boy can be seen standing next to the cake and raising his finger.&nbsp;

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The post has caused&nbsp;mixed reactions.

On the one hand, people left comments like "What a cutie Mashallah," and "Omar is a champion," and on the other, people felt disturbed by the "indoctrination" of the young child.

<img alt="Hamas cake" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fa9c14a-d524-4ef8-87ff-80c16443db81" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-05-23T185325.696.jpg" />

As per the New York Pot, the criticism overshadowed the praise, leading the bakery to shut down its Instagram and Facebook pages to the public.

<h2>Child abuse?</h2>

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Australian Jewish Group chief executive Robert Gregory alleged, "Dressing a child up as a terrorist, including with what appears to be a Hamas headband, is reprehensible and a form of child abuse".

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"Islamic extremism and radicalisation of youth is not just a problem for the Jewish community. It's a threat to all Australians," he said, noting "Australia has seen several recent incidents of Muslim youth allegedly stabbing or plotting to attack other Australians.

"Indoctrination starts at a young age and is similar to what is seen across the Middle East," he added.

New South Wales premier Chris Minns called the images "horrifying" and said "Hamas is an evil terrorist organisation. Kids parties should be innocent and fun, not hateful."

(With inputs from agencies)

How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons.

How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons. The cake features a notorious Hamas militant group terrorist, and Palestinian flags. Mixed reactions The cake was custom-made by Oven Bakery by Fufu, a Sydney-based bakery, which posted pictures of the Hamas-themed cake on its social media handles. One of the pictures shows the four-year-old identified as "Omar" by the bakery, impersonating Abu Ubaida, a spokesman for Hamas. Wearing a keffiyeh and camouflage, striking a pose synonymous with Ubaida, the boy can be seen standing next to the cake and raising his finger. Also read | NYU forces pro-Palestinian protesters to watch 'The Simpsons' as punishment The post has caused mixed reactions. On the one hand, people left comments like "What a cutie Mashallah," and "Omar is a champion," and on the other, people felt disturbed by the "indoctrination" of the young child. As per the New York Pot, the criticism overshadowed the praise, leading the bakery to shut down its Instagram and Facebook pages to the public. Child abuse? Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Australian Jewish Group chief executive Robert Gregory alleged, "Dressing a child up as a terrorist, including with what appears to be a Hamas headband, is reprehensible and a form of child abuse". Also read | Beware! Your ready-to-eat ultra-processed food may be readying you for stroke and dementia "Islamic extremism and radicalisation of youth is not just a problem for the Jewish community. It's a threat to all Australians," he said, noting "Australia has seen several recent incidents of Muslim youth allegedly stabbing or plotting to attack other Australians. "Indoctrination starts at a young age and is similar to what is seen across the Middle East," he added. New South Wales premier Chris Minns called the images "horrifying" and said "Hamas is an evil terrorist organisation. Kids parties should be innocent and fun, not hateful." (With inputs from agencies)

'Indoctrination': Four-year-old Australian kid's Hamas-themed birthday cake sparks anger

An Israeli Campaign Group has released footage of five Israeli female soldiers being captured by Palestinian militants during the October 7th attack. The three minutes clip shows the women sitting on the ground - some with blood on their faces.

New Israeli hostage video released: Footage of five captive Israeli female soldiers released

Egyptian intelligence quietly changed the terms of the ceasefire proposal that Israel signed earlier this month. Reports citing three people familiar with the discussions have said that the ceasefire agreement that Hamas announced on the 6th of May was not what the Qataris or the Americans had submitted.

Gaza ceasefire proposal changed? Egypt changes terms of Gaza ceasefire deal, says report

Israel's war cabinet has approved new guidelines regarding the hostage-ceasefire “indirect” talks with Hamas. Watch to know more.

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Israel's War cabinet has approved new guidelines regarding the hostage-ceasefire “indirect” talks with Hamas. Watch to know more.

Israel war cabinet approves new guidelines, NSC Chief says 'Israel failed to achieve war goals'

In a historic decision, Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced their recognition of a Palestinian state, drawing criticism from Israel and support from the Palestinians. Israel responded by recalling its ambassadors from the three countries. Will these decisions by the European countries pave way for stakeholders to discuss a two-state solution?

Gravitas | Israel Fumes as Ireland, Norway, and Spain Officially Recognize Palestinian State

The ongoing Israel Hamas war has not only threatened the life and safety of human beings but also of animals, thankfully they have now found a new home. Watch the video to know more.

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Ireland Norway and Spain have announced their decision to formally recognize Palestine as a state amid the raging Israel Hamas war in Gaza and as a result of the decision Israel has now recalled its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway with immediate effect. Watch in for more details!

Ireland, Spain, Norway to recognise Palestinian state

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Israeli forces are pressing from both the north and south as the Rafah operation continues. From the north, they intend to retake a territory from Hamas.

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#Gravitas | Israel continues to show defiance in response to the potential issuance of an ICC arrest warrant for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Urging 'civilised nations' to oppose ICC prosecutor's request for arrest warrants against its leaders, the Israeli government has refuted allegations of starvation in Gaza. What happens next? Can Netanyahu be arrested? Why has Israel's ally U.S. opposed the ICC move?

ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu: 'ICC allegations a pack of lies,' says Netanyahu

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Netanyahu denies staving Gaza civilians - Khamenei joins funeral procession - Kyiv urges allies to shoot down Russian missiles - UN suspends food distribution in Rafah - Hush Money Trial: Testimony concludes - Nigeria attack: Gunmen killed around 40

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Israel Defiant in face of Possible ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu, Refutes Starvation in Gaza

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The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Tuesday (May 21) that more than 569 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid have been delivered to the besieged city of Gaza via a temporary floating pier.

"To date, over 569 metric tons of humanitarian assistance has been delivered across the temporary pier to Gaza for further distribution by humanitarian partners. The United States, United Kingdom, UAE, European Union, and many other partners have donated this humanitarian assistance,"&nbsp;CENTCOM wrote.&nbsp;

"The pier is a temporary solution to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza to meet the urgent needs of the Palestinian people," the command added in a statement.&nbsp;

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Aid shipments started arriving at the US-constructed pier on Friday (May 17). The United Nations confirmed that on Friday, 10 truckloads of food aid transported by UN contractors reached the World Food Programme warehouse in Deir El Balah, Gaza.

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However, only five truckloads made it to the warehouse on Saturday. Eleven others were stolen by Palestinians en route through a difficult-to-access area, reports said citing a UN official. No aid deliveries occurred on Sunday or Monday.

<h2>Temporary pier</h2>

The temporary pier was pre-assembled at the Israeli port of Ashdod. Later, it was moved to Gaza's shore. Amid this, the Pentagon clarified that no US troops went ashore during this operation.

After extensive discussions, the UN agreed to help coordinate the aid distribution.

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According to Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq,&nbsp;“Given the immense needs in Gaza, the floating dock is intended to supplement existing land crossings of aid into Gaza, including Rafah, Kerem Shalom and Erez. It is not meant to replace any crossings."&nbsp;

The Hamas-run government in Gaza accused the US of attempting to "improve its ugly image" through this initiative. Hamas said, "We hold the Israeli occupation and the U.S. administration fully responsible for the deliberate and premeditated policy of starvation and blockade against our unarmed Palestinian people in Gaza."&nbsp;

The aid delivered to the pier arrives via a maritime route from Cyprus. Here it is first inspected by by Israel. At the floating pier off Gaza coast, the pallets are loaded onto trucks. The trucks are then loaded onto Army boats.

These boats then transport the trucks from the pier to a floating causeway anchored close by the beach. One the aid is dropped off, the trucks return to the boats for the next round of aid transfer.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Tuesday (May 21) that more than 569 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid have been delivered to the besieged city of Gaza via a temporary floating pier.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Tuesday (May 21) that more than 569 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid have been delivered to the besieged city of Gaza via a temporary floating pier. "To date, over 569 metric tons of humanitarian assistance has been delivered across the temporary pier to Gaza for further distribution by humanitarian partners. The United States, United Kingdom, UAE, European Union, and many other partners have donated this humanitarian assistance," CENTCOM wrote. "The pier is a temporary solution to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza to meet the urgent needs of the Palestinian people," the command added in a statement. Also Read | Biden's clean chit to Israel? US president says war in Gaza 'not genocide' Aid shipments started arriving at the US-constructed pier on Friday (May 17). The United Nations confirmed that on Friday, 10 truckloads of food aid transported by UN contractors reached the World Food Programme warehouse in Deir El Balah, Gaza. Also Read | New Caledonia unrest: Australia, New Zealand send evacuation flights, Macron holds security meet However, only five truckloads made it to the warehouse on Saturday. Eleven others were stolen by Palestinians en route through a difficult-to-access area, reports said citing a UN official. No aid deliveries occurred on Sunday or Monday. Temporary pier The temporary pier was pre-assembled at the Israeli port of Ashdod. Later, it was moved to Gaza's shore. Amid this, the Pentagon clarified that no US troops went ashore during this operation. After extensive discussions, the UN agreed to help coordinate the aid distribution. Watch | Iran to hold Presidential elections on June 28 following Raisi's death × According to Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq, “Given the immense needs in Gaza, the floating dock is intended to supplement existing land crossings of aid into Gaza, including Rafah, Kerem Shalom and Erez. It is not meant to replace any crossings." The Hamas-run government in Gaza accused the US of attempting to "improve its ugly image" through this initiative. Hamas said, "We hold the Israeli occupation and the U.S. administration fully responsible for the deliberate and premeditated policy of starvation and blockade against our unarmed Palestinian people in Gaza." The aid delivered to the pier arrives via a maritime route from Cyprus. Here it is first inspected by by Israel. At the floating pier off Gaza coast, the pallets are loaded onto trucks. The trucks are then loaded onto Army boats. These boats then transport the trucks from the pier to a floating causeway anchored close by the beach. One the aid is dropped off, the trucks return to the boats for the next round of aid transfer. (With inputs from agencies)

US delivers over 569mt of humanitarian aid to Gaza via temporary pier

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