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.

Israel War: Gazans await more aid via US-built pier

The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants against both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza war.

ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu; 'ICC's move absurd, compared to Hamas' sham, ' says Israel PM

United States President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to link the ongoing Gaza war with a "political strategy" for the future of the territory.

United States President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to link the ongoing Gaza war with a "political strategy" for the future of the territory. Sullivan also discussed the "potential" of reaching a normalisation deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia after talks were held in the region, said the White House on Sunday (May 19). During the weekend, Sullivan held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Dharan on Saturday (May 18) before he went to Israel to hold talks with Netanyahu as well as other key officials. Also Read: Israeli minister says Hezbollah must be dealt with military action if needed "Mr Sullivan briefed Prime Minister Netanyahu and his team on these meetings and the potential that may now be available for Israel, as well as the Palestinian people," said the White House. Sullivan discusses 'semi-final' version of key deal with Saudi's Prince Mohammed Earlier on Sunday (May 19), Saudi state media reported that Sullivan and the country's de facto ruler Prince Mohammed discussed a "semi-final" version of a deal which is likely to increase the security ties between the two nations. That deal is seen as a major part of the efforts made by Washington to bring Riyadh around a mega-deal in which the state of Israel gets recognised for the first time. Israel, which has relied on the United States for supply of military aid, did not immediately react. The country has pushed back Biden's appeal for restraint in Gaza. Sullivan reiterates position of US in Israel During his visit to Israel, Sullivan had "reiterated the president's longstanding position on Rafah," the southern town in Gaza where Israel said it will launch a major offensive, said the White House. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli cabinet split over Gaza post-war plan | Israel Government on the brink? The Biden administration has been appealing to Israel to avoid any such offensive and recently paused the shipment of bombs to its ally amid concerns that they may be used for bombing Rafah. Sullivan "reaffirmed the need for Israel to connect its military operations to a political strategy that can ensure the lasting defeat of Hamas, the release of all the hostages, and a better future for Gaza," said the White House, in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US NSA appeals Netanyahu to link Gaza war with 'political strategy' for enclave's future

Israeli planes and tanks pounded areas across the Gaza strip, residents said, as White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan travelled to the region amid U.S. calls for a more focused military campaign. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Israel launches strikes across Gaza strip

Israel War: Israel has been pushing into Gaza

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip.&nbsp;

The development comes with a warning by Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz as he demanded a post-war plan by June 8, otherwise, he would quit the coalition.&nbsp;

Gantz asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to an agreed vision for the Gaza conflict that would include stipulating who might rule the territory after the war with Hamas.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-captured-another-village-in-kharkiv-region-ukraine-struggles-on-eastern-front-722910">Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front</a>&nbsp;

While speaking during a news conference, Gantz said he wanted the war cabinet to form a six-point plan by June 8.&nbsp;

He further added that if his expectations were not met, he would withdraw his centrist party from the conservative premier's emergency government.&nbsp;

<h2>Ron Benjamin's body retrieved&nbsp;</h2>

Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Benjamin's body was retrieved in the same operation that saw troops recover the remains of three other hostages.&nbsp;

In a separate statement, the military said that Benjamin was "murdered during the October 7th massacre at the Mefalsim intersection, and his body was abducted to Gaza by Hamas militants".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-use-data-from-tiktok-to-spy-on-people-warns-canadas-security-intelligence-chief-722901">China may use data from TikTok to spy on people, warns Canada’s security intelligence chief</a>&nbsp;

"His body was rescued along with the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila ... based on precise intelligence obtained during the interrogations of terrorists who were apprehended in the Gaza Strip," the statement added.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Israeli military announced that the troops had recovered the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila. All of them were taken hostage during the attack on the Nova music festival.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Palestinian Islamic Jihad's senior operative killed in West Bank

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The war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on October 7. Nearly 1,200 people were killed in Israel, as per the authorities.&nbsp;

Thousands of young people had gathered on October 6 and 7 for the electronic music event, which was held near the Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border. The Nova festival victims accounted for nearly a third of the Israeli death toll.&nbsp;

Hamas militants had also taken hostages. Out of the 252 people, 124 are still being held inside the Gaza Strip, including 37 the army says are dead.&nbsp;

In retaliation to the attack, Israel launched the war and vowed to wipe out Hamas militants from the Strip.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip.

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip. The development comes with a warning by Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz as he demanded a post-war plan by June 8, otherwise, he would quit the coalition. Gantz asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to an agreed vision for the Gaza conflict that would include stipulating who might rule the territory after the war with Hamas. Also read: Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front While speaking during a news conference, Gantz said he wanted the war cabinet to form a six-point plan by June 8. He further added that if his expectations were not met, he would withdraw his centrist party from the conservative premier's emergency government. Ron Benjamin's body retrieved Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Benjamin's body was retrieved in the same operation that saw troops recover the remains of three other hostages. In a separate statement, the military said that Benjamin was "murdered during the October 7th massacre at the Mefalsim intersection, and his body was abducted to Gaza by Hamas militants". Also read: China may use data from TikTok to spy on people, warns Canada’s security intelligence chief "His body was rescued along with the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila ... based on precise intelligence obtained during the interrogations of terrorists who were apprehended in the Gaza Strip," the statement added. On Friday, the Israeli military announced that the troops had recovered the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila. All of them were taken hostage during the attack on the Nova music festival. Watch: Palestinian Islamic Jihad's senior operative killed in West Bank × The war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on October 7. Nearly 1,200 people were killed in Israel, as per the authorities. Thousands of young people had gathered on October 6 and 7 for the electronic music event, which was held near the Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border. The Nova festival victims accounted for nearly a third of the Israeli death toll. Hamas militants had also taken hostages. Out of the 252 people, 124 are still being held inside the Gaza Strip, including 37 the army says are dead. In retaliation to the attack, Israel launched the war and vowed to wipe out Hamas militants from the Strip. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF retrieves body of fourth hostage in Gaza; Gantz gives ultimatum to Netanyahu, sets June 8 deadline

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state.

"This is one of the hardest, most complicated problems in the world. There's nothing easy about it," said Biden while addressing students at a graduation ceremony at the former university of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr.

"I know it angers and frustrates many of you, including my family, but most of all, I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well."

The US president said that he was pushing for an "immediate ceasefire to stop the fighting" and expressed his willingness to bring back all the hostages held captive by Hamas.

He then said that he was working towards achieving "lasting, durable peace" in the wider Middle East that would also eventually lead to an independent Palestinian state, which he termed as the "only solution."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-after-israeli-strike-on-nuseirat-refugee-camp-in-central-gaza-723049">Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31</a>

<h2>'I support peaceful non-violent protest,' says Biden</h2>

The 81-year-old leader further reacting to the Gaza protests that have taken over several universities in the country, said that he would pay attention to "non-violent" demonstrations and further stated that everyone's voices should be heard.

"I support peaceful non-violent protest. Your voices should be heard, and I promise you I hear them," Biden told a graduation ceremony at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, which went ahead without disruption.

Biden's remarks come amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel who is pushing for a ceasefire as well as a normalization deal between the two countries.&nbsp;

Sullivan, earlier in the day, held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran.

"The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said.

The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. &nbsp;

The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state.

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (May 19) called for an immediate ceasefire in war-torn Gaza and said that he was making continuous efforts to ensure "lasting, durable peace" in the region that would also include the creation of a Palestinian state. "This is one of the hardest, most complicated problems in the world. There's nothing easy about it," said Biden while addressing students at a graduation ceremony at the former university of civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr. "I know it angers and frustrates many of you, including my family, but most of all, I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well." The US president said that he was pushing for an "immediate ceasefire to stop the fighting" and expressed his willingness to bring back all the hostages held captive by Hamas. He then said that he was working towards achieving "lasting, durable peace" in the wider Middle East that would also eventually lead to an independent Palestinian state, which he termed as the "only solution." Also read: Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31 'I support peaceful non-violent protest,' says Biden The 81-year-old leader further reacting to the Gaza protests that have taken over several universities in the country, said that he would pay attention to "non-violent" demonstrations and further stated that everyone's voices should be heard. "I support peaceful non-violent protest. Your voices should be heard, and I promise you I hear them," Biden told a graduation ceremony at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, which went ahead without disruption. Biden's remarks come amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel who is pushing for a ceasefire as well as a normalization deal between the two countries. Sullivan, earlier in the day, held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran. "The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said. The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden says pushing for ‘lasting, durable peace’ in Middle East

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties.

The meeting involved discussions between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday (May 19).

Sullivan arrived in Israel on Sunday for talks surrounding the ongoing war in Gaza.

"The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," SPA said.

The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whitewashed-words-netanyahus-office-hits-back-at-gantzs-ultimatum-722944">Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum'</a>

The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel.

Earlier in the month of September, Prince Mohammed in an interview with the US network Fox News said that "every day we get closer" to a deal to normalise ties. This was before Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel.

After the Palestinian militant group's Oct 7 assault, the US had accused Hamas of derailing the efforts to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

"It wouldn't be a surprise that part of the motivation may have been to disrupt efforts to bring Saudi Arabia and Israel together, along with other countries that may be interested in normalising relations with Israel," the US Secretary of State had said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties.

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and United States President Joe Biden's top aide have reportedly held talks around a "semi-final" version of a deal that is expected to strengthen the security ties. The meeting involved discussions between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, in the eastern Saudi city of Dhahran, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday (May 19). Sullivan arrived in Israel on Sunday for talks surrounding the ongoing war in Gaza. "The semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States of America, which are almost being finalised... were discussed," SPA said. The meeting between the officials also involved talks around "what is being worked on between the two sides on the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution", along with endeavours to put an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and streamline the distribution of humanitarian aid in the region. Also read: Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum' The Biden administration has actively chased the 'mega-deal' where Washington has agreed to give benefits to Saudi Arabia including a defence pact and assistance with a civilian nuclear programme with uranium enrichment capacity in exchange for providing first-ever recognition of Israel. Earlier in the month of September, Prince Mohammed in an interview with the US network Fox News said that "every day we get closer" to a deal to normalise ties. This was before Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. After the Palestinian militant group's Oct 7 assault, the US had accused Hamas of derailing the efforts to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. "It wouldn't be a surprise that part of the motivation may have been to disrupt efforts to bring Saudi Arabia and Israel together, along with other countries that may be interested in normalising relations with Israel," the US Secretary of State had said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi crown prince and US national security adviser discuss ‘semi-final’ version of security deal

Israeli forces with their armored tanks continue to push deeper into congested parts of the norther Gaza strip. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: 10 people killed as Hamas-IDF wage battles in Jabalia

The death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on&nbsp;Sunday (May 19).&nbsp;This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents.&nbsp;

<h2>Deadly strike on Nuseirat refugee camp</h2>

"The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists.

This comes after the&nbsp;Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital said at least 20 people had been killed due to the Israeli strike.&nbsp;

“We received 20 fatalities and several wounded after an Israeli air strike targeted a house belonging to the Hassan family in Al-Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza,” the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital had said, in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;IDF's campaign leaves Gaza's medical system on brink of collapse

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The news agency citing witnesses said that the airstrike occurred around 3:00 am (local time), while the Israeli army said that they were checking reports.&nbsp;

The Palestinian official news agency Wafa reported that several children were among those wounded and that the rescuers were searching for those missing under the rubble.&nbsp;

Heavy Israeli bombardment has been reported in the central Nuseirat camp since the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) launched a “targeted” operation focusing on the city of Rafah, earlier this month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whitewashed-words-netanyahus-office-hits-back-at-gantzs-ultimatum-722944">Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum'</a>

Witnesses, according to AFP, said several other houses were targeted in air strikes during the night across Gaza. Additionally, air strikes and artillery shelling also hit parts of Rafah overnight.&nbsp;

<h2>At least 800,000 Gazans have evacuated from Rafah: UN</h2>

The Israeli forces, earlier this month, issued evacuation orders for Rafah, a southern city in the Palestinian enclave near the Egyptian border packed with hundreds of thousands of Gazans displaced amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

Around 800,000 Palestinians have been “forced to flee” Rafah amid Israel’s military operation, said the United Nations, on Saturday.&nbsp;

“In response to evacuation orders demanding people to flee to so-called safe zones, people mainly went to the middle areas and Khan Younis including to destroyed buildings,” said UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, in a post on X.&nbsp;

He added, “Every time, they are forced to leave behind the few belongings they have:  mattresses, tents, cooking utensils and basic supplies that they cannot carry or pay to transport. Every time, they have to start from scratch, all over again.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-hostage-shani-louks-body-recovered-who-was-she-722672">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hostage Shani Louk's body recovered. Who was she?&nbsp;</a>

The Hamas-run health ministry and the Civil Emergency Service said teams received dozens of calls about possible casualties but were unable to carry out any searches because of the ongoing ground offensive and aerial bombardment, reported Reuters, on Saturday.&nbsp;

“Today is the most difficult in terms of the occupation bombardment, air strikes and tank shelling have going on almost non-stop,” a resident in Jabalia, Ibrahim Khaled, told Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “We know of dozens of people, martyrs (killed) and wounded, but no ambulance vehicle can get into the area.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19).

The death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19). This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents. Deadly strike on Nuseirat refugee camp "The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists. This comes after the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital said at least 20 people had been killed due to the Israeli strike. “We received 20 fatalities and several wounded after an Israeli air strike targeted a house belonging to the Hassan family in Al-Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza,” the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital had said, in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP. WATCH | IDF's campaign leaves Gaza's medical system on brink of collapse The news agency citing witnesses said that the airstrike occurred around 3:00 am (local time), while the Israeli army said that they were checking reports. The Palestinian official news agency Wafa reported that several children were among those wounded and that the rescuers were searching for those missing under the rubble. Heavy Israeli bombardment has been reported in the central Nuseirat camp since the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) launched a “targeted” operation focusing on the city of Rafah, earlier this month. Also Read | Whitewashed words: Netanyahu's office hits back at Gantz's 'ultimatum' Witnesses, according to AFP, said several other houses were targeted in air strikes during the night across Gaza. Additionally, air strikes and artillery shelling also hit parts of Rafah overnight. At least 800,000 Gazans have evacuated from Rafah: UN The Israeli forces, earlier this month, issued evacuation orders for Rafah, a southern city in the Palestinian enclave near the Egyptian border packed with hundreds of thousands of Gazans displaced amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Around 800,000 Palestinians have been “forced to flee” Rafah amid Israel’s military operation, said the United Nations, on Saturday. “In response to evacuation orders demanding people to flee to so-called safe zones, people mainly went to the middle areas and Khan Younis including to destroyed buildings,” said UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, in a post on X. He added, “Every time, they are forced to leave behind the few belongings they have:  mattresses, tents, cooking utensils and basic supplies that they cannot carry or pay to transport. Every time, they have to start from scratch, all over again.” Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hostage Shani Louk's body recovered. Who was she? The Hamas-run health ministry and the Civil Emergency Service said teams received dozens of calls about possible casualties but were unable to carry out any searches because of the ongoing ground offensive and aerial bombardment, reported Reuters, on Saturday. “Today is the most difficult in terms of the occupation bombardment, air strikes and tank shelling have going on almost non-stop,” a resident in Jabalia, Ibrahim Khaled, told Reuters. He added, “We know of dozens of people, martyrs (killed) and wounded, but no ambulance vehicle can get into the area.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Death toll after Israeli strike on Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza rises to 31

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip. They were held captive and "murdered" by Hamas after the terror attack of October 7 last year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said.

IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari on Friday (May 17) identified the hostages as Shani Louk, Amit Bouskila, and Itshak Gelernter.

"Last night, the Israel Defence Forces (army) rescued the bodies of our hostages Shani Louk, Amit Buskila and Itzhak Gelerenter," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised address.

He said that all three of them were killed by the Palestinian militant group at the Nova music festival and their bodies taken into Gaza.

"They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas," he said.&nbsp;

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We are devastated to share that the <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDF</a> recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were kidnapped from the Nova Festival and held by Hamas in Gaza. 
 
Amit Bouskila (28) 
Shani Louk (23) 
Itzhak Gelerenter (53) 
 
There are no words. 
 
May their memory be a blessing. <a href="https://t.co/N8xEvUPBC2">pic.twitter.com/N8xEvUPBC2</a>
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1791495933508649120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Thousands of people had gathered to enjoy the electronic music fest at Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border when Hamas launched its assault against Israel on Oct 7 and held hundreds of them as hostages.

The Palestinian militant group, as per Israeli officials, crossed over the border and claimed the lives of over 360 people at the festival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-south-africas-genocide-case-totally-divorced-from-facts-says-israel-722433">Israel-Hamas war: US delivers first aid to Gaza via temporary&nbsp;pier</a>

<h2>'This terrible loss is heart-breaking,' says Netanyahu</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement and vowed to bring back all the hostages after the announcement.

He also heaped praises on the military operation and his "brave" soldiers.&nbsp;

"Heartbroken for the great loss. My wife Sara and I grieve with the families. The hearts of all of us are firm in the hour of the liver's death. We will return all our hostages, living and space alike. I congratulate our brave forces who, with determined action, returned boys and girls to their border," Netanyahu wrote in a posting on his official X account.

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הלב נשבר על האובדן הגדול. רעייתי שרה ואני דואבים עם המשפחות. לב כולנו איתן בשעת יגונן הכבד. 
 
נחזיר את כל חטופינו, החיים והחללים כאחד. 
 
אני מברך את כוחותינו האמיצים שבפעולה נחושה השיבו בנים ובנות לגבולם.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1791491891331998008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7, which as per Israeli tallies claimed the lives of 1,200 people. The militant group abducted 252 people and held them as hostages, out of which 125 still remain in Gaza.

The Hostages Families Forum released a statement saying that the recovery of the bodies was a "painful and stark reminder that we must swiftly bring back all our brothers and sisters from their cruel captivity".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip.

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip. They were held captive and "murdered" by Hamas after the terror attack of October 7 last year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari on Friday (May 17) identified the hostages as Shani Louk, Amit Bouskila, and Itshak Gelernter. "Last night, the Israel Defence Forces (army) rescued the bodies of our hostages Shani Louk, Amit Buskila and Itzhak Gelerenter," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised address. He said that all three of them were killed by the Palestinian militant group at the Nova music festival and their bodies taken into Gaza. "They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas," he said. We are devastated to share that the @IDF recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were kidnapped from the Nova Festival and held by Hamas in Gaza. Amit Bouskila (28) Shani Louk (23) Itzhak Gelerenter (53) There are no words. May their memory be a blessing. pic.twitter.com/N8xEvUPBC2 — Israel ישראל (@Israel) May 17, 2024 × Thousands of people had gathered to enjoy the electronic music fest at Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border when Hamas launched its assault against Israel on Oct 7 and held hundreds of them as hostages. The Palestinian militant group, as per Israeli officials, crossed over the border and claimed the lives of over 360 people at the festival. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: US delivers first aid to Gaza via temporary pier 'This terrible loss is heart-breaking,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement and vowed to bring back all the hostages after the announcement. He also heaped praises on the military operation and his "brave" soldiers. "Heartbroken for the great loss. My wife Sara and I grieve with the families. The hearts of all of us are firm in the hour of the liver's death. We will return all our hostages, living and space alike. I congratulate our brave forces who, with determined action, returned boys and girls to their border," Netanyahu wrote in a posting on his official X account. הלב נשבר על האובדן הגדול. רעייתי שרה ואני דואבים עם המשפחות. לב כולנו איתן בשעת יגונן הכבד. נחזיר את כל חטופינו, החיים והחללים כאחד. אני מברך את כוחותינו האמיצים שבפעולה נחושה השיבו בנים ובנות לגבולם. — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) May 17, 2024 × Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7, which as per Israeli tallies claimed the lives of 1,200 people. The militant group abducted 252 people and held them as hostages, out of which 125 still remain in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum released a statement saying that the recovery of the bodies was a "painful and stark reminder that we must swiftly bring back all our brothers and sisters from their cruel captivity". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli military says bodies of three hostages 'murdered' by Hamas recovered in Gaza

The Israeli Army has called on Gazans living in Eastern Rafah to head to an expanded humanitarian area in Gaza strip's Khan Younis and Al-Mawasi areas. The order comes after a night of intense Israeli bombardment on Rafah. Hours after Hamas rockets killed three IDF soldiers. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: UN says Humanitarian situation worsening

Spain has denied docking permission to a mystery ship that was allegedly carrying arms for Israel. A Spanish newspaper claims the ship departed from India with 27 tonnes of explosives. What is the real story?

Gravitas | Israel-Gaza war: Spain denies docking permission to mystery ship

Watch top headlines of the hour: - UN: Famine looming in Sudan - Aid arrives in Gaza via US pier - Houthis: Reaper drone destroyed - Seized 12 villages in Kharkiv: Russia

UN: Famine looming in Sudan | Aid arrives in Gaza via US pier

The US military has confirmed on Friday (May 17) that the first aid shipment has reached Gaza via the temporary pier. According to a post on X by US Central Command, aid trucks began moving ashore around 0900 local time.

"This is an ongoing, multinational effort to deliver additional aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza via a maritime corridor that is entirely humanitarian in nature," the post stated, stressing that no US troops went ashore.

The US started constructing the floating base weeks ago to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza amidst Israel's military campaign against Hamas.

<h2>What's the process of dispatching aid?</h2>

This announcement follows reports that hundreds of tonnes of aid had arrived in Cyprus on Wednesday (May 15),&nbsp; where it undergoes screening before being loaded on to commercial ships for delivery to the pier.

Once at the pier, smaller US military vessels, capable of carrying five to 15 lorries of aid, will transport it to a floating pier several hundred metres long, fixed to Gaza's beach.

The lorries will travel along the pier and drop off the aid at a marshalling yard on the beach.

Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: US military completes installation of Gaza floating pier for aid delivery

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The UN, primarily the World Food Programme, will be responsible for the onward distribution of the aid.

The announcement signifies the opening of a new route for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.

Approximately 2.2 million Palestinians are in need of food, shelter, and other assistance.

Aid deliveries to the area have slowed since Israeli forces took control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing last week.

Earlier this month, Israel temporarily closed the key Kerem Shalom crossing overnight, citing the death of four soldiers in a Hamas rocket attack near the crossing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-south-africa-alleges-israel-stepping-up-genocide-in-gaza-tel-aviv-slams-biased-and-false-claims-722456">Also read | At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza; Tel Aviv slams 'biased and false claims'</a>

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<h2>Gaza crisis deepens; bleak conditions grip region</h2>
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Aid agencies said that they are almost out of food in southern Gaza and running low on fuel.

This shortage will cause hospitals to stop critical operations and prevent aid trucks from delivering supplies.

The United Nations and other agencies have warned for weeks that an Israeli attack on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-rafah-offensive-will-provoke-anarchy-without-eliminating-hamas-says-blinken-720701">Rafah</a>, near the main aid entry points on the Egypt border, would severely disrupt humanitarian efforts and lead to many civilian deaths.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)
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The US military has confirmed on Friday (May 17) that the first aid shipment has reached Gaza via the temporary pier. According to a post on X by US Central Command, aid trucks began moving ashore around 0900 local time.

The US military has confirmed on Friday (May 17) that the first aid shipment has reached Gaza via the temporary pier. According to a post on X by US Central Command, aid trucks began moving ashore around 0900 local time. "This is an ongoing, multinational effort to deliver additional aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza via a maritime corridor that is entirely humanitarian in nature," the post stated, stressing that no US troops went ashore. The US started constructing the floating base weeks ago to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza amidst Israel's military campaign against Hamas. What's the process of dispatching aid? This announcement follows reports that hundreds of tonnes of aid had arrived in Cyprus on Wednesday (May 15), where it undergoes screening before being loaded on to commercial ships for delivery to the pier. Once at the pier, smaller US military vessels, capable of carrying five to 15 lorries of aid, will transport it to a floating pier several hundred metres long, fixed to Gaza's beach. The lorries will travel along the pier and drop off the aid at a marshalling yard on the beach. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: US military completes installation of Gaza floating pier for aid delivery The UN, primarily the World Food Programme, will be responsible for the onward distribution of the aid. The announcement signifies the opening of a new route for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza. Approximately 2.2 million Palestinians are in need of food, shelter, and other assistance. Aid deliveries to the area have slowed since Israeli forces took control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing last week. Earlier this month, Israel temporarily closed the key Kerem Shalom crossing overnight, citing the death of four soldiers in a Hamas rocket attack near the crossing. Also read | At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza; Tel Aviv slams 'biased and false claims' Gaza crisis deepens; bleak conditions grip region Aid agencies said that they are almost out of food in southern Gaza and running low on fuel. This shortage will cause hospitals to stop critical operations and prevent aid trucks from delivering supplies. The United Nations and other agencies have warned for weeks that an Israeli attack on Rafah, near the main aid entry points on the Egypt border, would severely disrupt humanitarian efforts and lead to many civilian deaths. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US confirms arrival of first aid trucks via Gaza pier

With less than six months to go for Presidential elections in the United States, Joe Biden's Democratic vote bank is witnessing growing divide and at the heart of this divide is Gaza's war-induced humanitarian crisis and the nationwide US campus protests.

Race to the White House: Democrats divided over Gaza crisis | Can Gaza cost Biden a re-election?

While Israel is vowing to send more troops into Gaza's Rafah city, fears surrounding IDF's war objectives in Gaza, are growing by the hour. World leaders have united in their efforts to halt Israel's Rafah incursion.

US: Israel won't achieve 'total victory'

Two of the eight Thai hostages who were held captive by Hamas were confirmed to have been killed in the October 7 assault and their bodies are being held by the militant group, the Israel army said in a statement on Thursday (May 16).&nbsp;

"We informed the families of two kidnapped Thai citizens, who worked in agriculture in the plantations near Kibbutz Beeri, that they were murdered in the terrorist attack on October 7 and their bodies are being held by Hamas," said Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari, according to AFP news agency.

The same was confirmed by the Thailand government, which in a statement, said that the news was communicated to the country's foreign ministry by the&nbsp;Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv. The Thai nationals were identified as Sonthaya Oakkharasri and Sudthisak Rinthalak.

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Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs was informed about the unfortunate development "upon consideration of the available evidence." This comes as the "Committee for Assessing the Conditions of the Hostages of the Israeli Government has concluded that two Thai nationals listed as hostages in Gaza" are deceased, since October 2023," as per the the Thailand government.&nbsp;

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Hagari in a press briefing said, “On October 7, Hamas terrorists brutally murdered 39 Thai nationals, and kidnapped 31 Thai nationals to Gaza.”

“Like them, other foreign nationals were abducted, including from Tanzania, Nepal, Mexico, the US, and France," he continued, adding, “The terrible cruelty of Hamas was used against anyone that stood in its way, without distinction of their origin."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-caledonia-protest-france-sends-troop-to-diffuse-unrest-722266">New Caledonia protest: France sends troop to diffuse unrest</a>

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Notably, on the fateful day of October 7 last year, nearly 1,200 people were killed while about 252 were held hostages by the militant group.

<h2>30,000 Thai nationals were working in Israel on Hamas assault eve&nbsp;</h2>

Media reports suggest that around 30,000 Thai nationals were working in Israel on the eve of the Hamas attack. Among these Thai nationals, the majority were fieldhands in agricultural regions near the Gaza border.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Two of the eight Thai hostages who were held captive by Hamas were confirmed to have been killed in the October 7 assault and their bodies are being held by the militant group, the Israel army said in a statement on Thursday (May 16).

Two of the eight Thai hostages who were held captive by Hamas were confirmed to have been killed in the October 7 assault and their bodies are being held by the militant group, the Israel army said in a statement on Thursday (May 16). "We informed the families of two kidnapped Thai citizens, who worked in agriculture in the plantations near Kibbutz Beeri, that they were murdered in the terrorist attack on October 7 and their bodies are being held by Hamas," said Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari, according to AFP news agency. The same was confirmed by the Thailand government, which in a statement, said that the news was communicated to the country's foreign ministry by the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv. The Thai nationals were identified as Sonthaya Oakkharasri and Sudthisak Rinthalak. Also Read | In historic move, US moves to reclassify Marijuana as drug with less risk Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs was informed about the unfortunate development "upon consideration of the available evidence." This comes as the "Committee for Assessing the Conditions of the Hostages of the Israeli Government has concluded that two Thai nationals listed as hostages in Gaza" are deceased, since October 2023," as per the the Thailand government. Also Read | US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways' Hagari in a press briefing said, “On October 7, Hamas terrorists brutally murdered 39 Thai nationals, and kidnapped 31 Thai nationals to Gaza.” “Like them, other foreign nationals were abducted, including from Tanzania, Nepal, Mexico, the US, and France," he continued, adding, “The terrible cruelty of Hamas was used against anyone that stood in its way, without distinction of their origin." Watch | New Caledonia protest: France sends troop to diffuse unrest × Notably, on the fateful day of October 7 last year, nearly 1,200 people were killed while about 252 were held hostages by the militant group. 30,000 Thai nationals were working in Israel on Hamas assault eve Media reports suggest that around 30,000 Thai nationals were working in Israel on the eve of the Hamas attack. Among these Thai nationals, the majority were fieldhands in agricultural regions near the Gaza border. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Thai nationals held hostage by Hamas in Gaza were killed on Oct 7

The Israeli Prime Minister has for years, wanted to shut the agency down. Why does Netanyahu have a problem with UNRWA? Our next report breaks it down for you.

Does Israel want to shut down UN offices?

South Africa requests new emergency measures over Israel's attacks on Rafah from the International Court of Justice. The measures form part of an ongoing case South Africa filed at the ICJ in December last year accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention during its offensive against Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel war: South Africa warns of 'irreparable harm' over Israel's Rafah assault

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Putin, Xi seal 'new era' in strategic relations - Ready to hold peace talks: Putin - Air strike continues over Gaza - Israeli official heckled at World Court - First aid enters Gaza via US Pier - Swati Maliwal row: Cops at Delhi CM's house

Ready to hold peace talks: Putin | Air strike continues over Gaza

Israel war: World Court opens hearings on request to halt Rafah incursion

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources".

Kicking off the two-day&nbsp;hearing in The Hague, South Africa&nbsp;accused Israel of stepping up 'genocide' in Gaza and alleged "Israel's genocide has continued apace and has just reached a new and horrific stage".

Meanwhile, a statement from the Israel Foreign Ministry, as quoted by Reuters, said that "Israel acts in accordance with international law and its humanitarian obligations...while implementing measures to minimise harm to civilians and civilian facilities."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/house-republicans-pass-bill-mandating-weapons-shipment-to-israel-722289">House Republicans pass bill mandating weapons shipment to Israel</a>

It also called on the ICJ, also known as the World Court, "to reject South Africa's appeal and to bring the abuse of the Court to an end."

<h2>Order Ceasefire in Gaza, demands South Africa</h2>

South Africa has also implored the world court to order a ceasefire throughout Gaza.

Previously, in January, the ICJ had ordered Tel Aviv to do everything to prevent genocidal acts and enable humanitarian aid to Gaza.

However, the court, as per AFP, had stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blasts-china-after-putin-xi-meet-says-you-cant-have-it-both-ways-722280">US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways'</a>

Now, South Africa contends that the current situation, most notably the operation in the crowded city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have taken shelter, requires fresh ICJ action.

The Rafah campaign, argued Vaughan Lowe, a lawyer for South Africa, is "the last step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people".

"It was Rafah that brought South Africa to the court. But it is all Palestinians as a national, ethnical and racial group who need the protection from genocide that the court can order," he added.

However, Israel's foreign ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein in a statement slammed South Africa and said that the nation's "claims are both morally and factually distorted and constitute an abuse of the Genocide Convention and the ICJ."&nbsp;

Israel is scheduled to respond to South Africa's 'genocide' accusations on Friday (May 17).

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources".

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources". Kicking off the two-day hearing in The Hague, South Africa accused Israel of stepping up 'genocide' in Gaza and alleged "Israel's genocide has continued apace and has just reached a new and horrific stage". Meanwhile, a statement from the Israel Foreign Ministry, as quoted by Reuters, said that "Israel acts in accordance with international law and its humanitarian obligations...while implementing measures to minimise harm to civilians and civilian facilities." Also read | House Republicans pass bill mandating weapons shipment to Israel It also called on the ICJ, also known as the World Court, "to reject South Africa's appeal and to bring the abuse of the Court to an end." Order Ceasefire in Gaza, demands South Africa South Africa has also implored the world court to order a ceasefire throughout Gaza. Previously, in January, the ICJ had ordered Tel Aviv to do everything to prevent genocidal acts and enable humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, the court, as per AFP, had stopped short of ordering a ceasefire. Also read | US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways' Now, South Africa contends that the current situation, most notably the operation in the crowded city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have taken shelter, requires fresh ICJ action. The Rafah campaign, argued Vaughan Lowe, a lawyer for South Africa, is "the last step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people". "It was Rafah that brought South Africa to the court. But it is all Palestinians as a national, ethnical and racial group who need the protection from genocide that the court can order," he added. However, Israel's foreign ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein in a statement slammed South Africa and said that the nation's "claims are both morally and factually distorted and constitute an abuse of the Genocide Convention and the ICJ." Israel is scheduled to respond to South Africa's 'genocide' accusations on Friday (May 17). (With inputs from agencies)

At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza; Tel Aviv slams 'biased and false claims'

Israel war: South Africa drags Israel to UN court, demands constraints on IDF actions

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Fresh Israel strikes hit Lebanon - Scuffle in Taiwan's Parliament - Thunderstorms pound Houtson in US - UN: Recieved only 12% funds for Sudan - Stop Israel's Rafah offensive: South Africa to ICJ

Fresh Israel strikes hit Lebanon | Scuffle in Taiwan's Parliament

On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was openly questioned regarding post-war plans for the Gaza Strip by his own Defense Chief, who vowed to resist Israel's long-term military rule over the wrecked Palestinian enclave. Watch to know more.

Israel war: Netanyahu fends off criticism at home and abroad

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in a confrontation on Wednesday (May 15), rejected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy for the Gaza Strip following the war with Hamas, which has been going on since October 7 when the militant group led an assault on the Jewish nation.&nbsp;

Gallant's televised statement highlighted a deepening rift within the Israeli leadership. "We must dismantle Hamas’ governing capabilities in Gaza. The key to this goal is military action, and the establishment of a governing alternative in Gaza," Gallant said, adding,&nbsp;"In the absence of such an alternative, only two negative options remain: Hamas' rule in Gaza or Israeli military rule in Gaza."

As per Gallant, he has been making efforts to promote his plan within the Israeli cabinet since October of a&nbsp;"non-hostile Palestinian governing alternative". However, there has been no response, he added.&nbsp;

Gallant has shown&nbsp;his opposition to any long-term military rule by Israel in the besieged territory.

While Netanyahu in a veiled statement and without mentioning defence minister directly, hinted at Gallant's remarks as being mere "excuses."

However, former general Benny Gantz supported&nbsp;Gallant's position and said that the defence minister "spoke the truth".&nbsp;

The defence minister's criticism echoed sentiments expressed by the United States that&nbsp;has been advocating for a role for the internationally supported Palestinian Authority (PA) in Gaza.

<h2>Israel's Rafah invasion&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;public dissent from within the Israeli leadership comes amid the ongoing bombardment of areas in Rafah and amid the dismissal by Netanyahu of US President Joe Biden's warnings to stop the supply of weapons to Israel

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Netanyahu's ruling coalition includes ultra-nationalist partners who oppose the PA and support new Jewish settlements in Gaza, leading to occasional policy disagreements within the government.

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Netanyahu has indicated that Israel will retain overall security control over Gaza post-war but stopped short of terming it an occupation.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/slovak-pm-shooting-slovakia-president-condemns-attack-721880">Slovak PM shooting: Slovakia president condemns attack</a>

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As Israeli ground forces reenter areas of northern Gaza, concerns mount over the lack of a clear post-Hamas strategy for the territory.

The World Food Programme (WFP) warned of a potential humanitarian catastrophe if Israel's incursion into Rafah City escalates further, with hundreds of thousands already displaced due to evacuation orders issued earlier in May.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in a confrontation on Wednesday (May 15), rejected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy for the Gaza Strip following the war with Hamas, which has been going on since October 7 when the militant group led an assault on the Jewish nation.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in a confrontation on Wednesday (May 15), rejected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy for the Gaza Strip following the war with Hamas, which has been going on since October 7 when the militant group led an assault on the Jewish nation. Gallant's televised statement highlighted a deepening rift within the Israeli leadership. "We must dismantle Hamas’ governing capabilities in Gaza. The key to this goal is military action, and the establishment of a governing alternative in Gaza," Gallant said, adding, "In the absence of such an alternative, only two negative options remain: Hamas' rule in Gaza or Israeli military rule in Gaza." As per Gallant, he has been making efforts to promote his plan within the Israeli cabinet since October of a "non-hostile Palestinian governing alternative". However, there has been no response, he added. Gallant has shown his opposition to any long-term military rule by Israel in the besieged territory. While Netanyahu in a veiled statement and without mentioning defence minister directly, hinted at Gallant's remarks as being mere "excuses." However, former general Benny Gantz supported Gallant's position and said that the defence minister "spoke the truth". The defence minister's criticism echoed sentiments expressed by the United States that has been advocating for a role for the internationally supported Palestinian Authority (PA) in Gaza. Israel's Rafah invasion The public dissent from within the Israeli leadership comes amid the ongoing bombardment of areas in Rafah and amid the dismissal by Netanyahu of US President Joe Biden's warnings to stop the supply of weapons to Israel Also Read | Slovak PM Robert Fico 'not in life-threatening situation': Dy PM gives update Netanyahu's ruling coalition includes ultra-nationalist partners who oppose the PA and support new Jewish settlements in Gaza, leading to occasional policy disagreements within the government. Also Read | French PM declares state of emergency in New Caledonia as four killed in riots Netanyahu has indicated that Israel will retain overall security control over Gaza post-war but stopped short of terming it an occupation. Watch | Slovak PM shooting: Slovakia president condemns attack × As Israeli ground forces reenter areas of northern Gaza, concerns mount over the lack of a clear post-Hamas strategy for the territory. The World Food Programme (WFP) warned of a potential humanitarian catastrophe if Israel's incursion into Rafah City escalates further, with hundreds of thousands already displaced due to evacuation orders issued earlier in May. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli defence min opposes Bibi, endorses 'non-hostile Palestinian governing alternative' for Gaza post-war

A split had been festering in Israel's war cabinet. Now it has burst out into the open. Defence minister Yoav Gallant has challenged Prime Minister Netanyahu to come up with a post war plan for Gaza.

Gravitas | Split in Israel's war cabinet: Gallant challenges PM Netanyahu

The military has completed its floating Pier along the Gaza Coast. US officials say the pier would be operational within days and start receiving humanitarian aid for civilians through a sea route.

Israel-Hamas War: How will the US set up the pier?

Israel war: Questions over lack of post-war Gaza plan

Israel Defence Minister Gallant questions PM Netanyahu over lack post-war Gaza plan

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