The United States has proposed a draft United Nations security Council resolution which calls for a temporary ceasefire in the war and opposes Israel's ground offensive in Rafah. All EU countries except Hungary have called for an immediate humanitarian pause in the war. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel army to push deeper into Rafah during Ramadan

Israel-Hamas war | US pushes for UN support temporary Gaza ceasefire

Israel warns of military expansion in Rafah if hostages not returned before ramadan. Netanyahu agrees to limit Arab-Israeli worshipers on temple mount during holy month. Meanwhile, Palestine Health Officials say that overnight strikes in Gaza killed more than 100 Palestinians, taking the death toll past 29,000.

Israel sets Ramadan deadline for offensive on Gazan city Rafah

Israel has put Gaza on a deadline- either Hamas frees all remaining hostages by Ramzan, or Israel will invade Rafah. Israel has also announced it would be limiting access to the Al-Aqza Mosque compound during Ramzan.

Gravitas | Dangerous Ramzan in Palestine: Israel announces Rafah invasion deadline

Pressure is mounting on Israel for ceasefire. Brazil President has linked Israel's war on Hamas equal to Holocast. Several leaders from the United States, Australia, Canada, UK, EU, Jordan joined growing calls for Israel to pause and back off from a planned ground offensive in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, urging a humanitarian ceasefire. But are prospects dim for truce in the Israel-Hamas war? Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel government formally rejects recognition of Palestinian state

US forces have conducted five self-defence strikes in the Red Sea to foil Land and Sea attacks from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The Pentagon says that it was the first time the US forces observed the rebel group using what the military called an unmanned underwater vessel since the beginning of a spat of attacks in the region.

US claims strikes on Houthi underwater drones

Israel’s military operations in Gaza have taken an unprecedented turn. Netanyahu’s eyes are now on Rafah – and millions of Palestinian refugees at risk. Watch this video to know more.

Israel sets Ramadan deadline for Rafah attack; EU warns Israel against Rafah offensive

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide.&nbsp;

Summoning Brazil's ambassador on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's instructions, Katz emphasised the seriousness of Lula's comments. Labelling them as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-president-lula-accuses-israel-of-genocide-in-gaza-netanyahu-responds-691529">Brazilian President Lula compares Gaza action to 'Holocaust', leaving Israel furious</a>

As per a statement from his office, he has instructed the message to be conveyed to Lula through Brazil's ambassador, stating, "We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back."

<h2>What Lula said</h2>

The Brazilian President on Sunday (Feb 18th) accused Israel of committing "genocide" against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

Further drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, he said, "It's not a war of soldiers against soldiers. It's a war between a highly prepared army and women and children."

While attending an African Union summit, Lula told reporters that what was happening in the Gaza Strip "isn't a war, it's a genocide".

Watch |&nbsp;Prospects dim for truce in Israel-Hamas war

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"What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews," he said.

<h2>'Shameful and grave' comments</h2>

Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israel-warns-rafah-offensive-will-be-launched-if-hostages-not-returned-by-ramadan-691563">Israel-Hamas war: Return hostages by Ramadan or face Rafah ground offensive from Mar 10, Israel warns</a>

In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line".

"Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide. Summoning Brazil's ambassador on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's instructions, Katz emphasised the seriousness of Lula's comments. Labelling them as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark. Also read | Brazilian President Lula compares Gaza action to 'Holocaust', leaving Israel furious As per a statement from his office, he has instructed the message to be conveyed to Lula through Brazil's ambassador, stating, "We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back." What Lula said The Brazilian President on Sunday (Feb 18th) accused Israel of committing "genocide" against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Further drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, he said, "It's not a war of soldiers against soldiers. It's a war between a highly prepared army and women and children." While attending an African Union summit, Lula told reporters that what was happening in the Gaza Strip "isn't a war, it's a genocide". Watch | Prospects dim for truce in Israel-Hamas war "What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews," he said. 'Shameful and grave' comments Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Return hostages by Ramadan or face Rafah ground offensive from Mar 10, Israel warns In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line". "Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel declares Brazilian President Lula ‘persona non grata’ over his ‘antisemitic’ comments

The show Israel's Army pressed on Sunday with its campaign in southern Gaza to destroy Hamas as prospects dimmed for a ceasefire. In the more than 4-month old conflict Israel has concentrated its military operations in Khan Younis the hometown of Hamas in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Big admission by Hamas on war casualties, says '6,000 operatives killed'

Israel-Hamas War | US signals it would veto fresh push for UNSC resolution

#ThisWorld | As Israel prepares to raid Rafah, we ask- Where is the world's conscience? Where is our sense of right and wrong? Over 12,000 children have died in Gaza in the last four months, thousands are in the line of fire. Even wars have rules. It's time to cease fire.

Israel-Gaza War: Why is Netanyahu killing innocent children?

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Saturday (Feb 17) said what Palestinian militant group Hamas did on October 7 was an act of terrorism. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Munich security conference, the Indian minister also warned Israel that it should be mindful of civilian casualties and observe international humanitarian law in Gaza.

“We must be clear that what happened on October 7 was terrorism,” S Jaishankar said, adding, “No caveats, no justification, no explanation, it was terrorism.”

Jaishankar also said Israel’s response should have spared civilian lives.

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EAM Jaishankar <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> at Munich security conference on Israel Palestine issue: 
-Oct 7 was terrorism 
-Israel should be mindful of civilian casualties 
-Return hostages 
-Humanitarian corridor -Permanent Fix 
-India backs 2 state solution <a href="https://t.co/ZBWxQtJyg4">pic.twitter.com/ZBWxQtJyg4</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1758874331705442783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“It is important that Israel should have been very mindful of civilian casualties and that it has an obligation to observe international humanitarian law,” the EAM said.

The number of Palestinians killed during the war in Gaza has surpassed 28,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.

Speaking of the hostages, Jaishankar said their release was important to secure a peace deal.

“The return of hostages is today imperative,” he said while sharing the stage with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

Jaishankar further talked about the need to establish a humanitarian, sustainable corridor in Gaza to provide relief material to the Gazan population.

“There is a need for a humanitarian corridor, a sustainable corridor to provide relief,” he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel to comply with decreasing civilian losses, says UN top court

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Jaishankar also talked about the need to have a long-term solution to the Israel-Gaza conflict. He said India’s commitment towards a two-state solution has been unwavering and it was more urgent than ever to secure a solution.

“Eventually, there has to be a permanent fix, a long term fix, otherwise you’re going to see reoccurrence. India has certainly believed in a two-state solution, we maintain that position from many decades,” Jaishankar said. “And today many more countries in the world feel not just the two-state solution is necessary but it is more urgent than it was before,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw3Mhc08spBH17te5IKjExcg" data-ved="2ahUKEwib79PezrKEAxXIU2wGHb-4D_EQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-thousands-fleeing-rafah-as-israeli-military-campaign-intensifies-691224" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel-Hamas war: Thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli military campaign intensifies</a>

Jaishankar also responded to criticism regarding India’s close relationship with Russia. While reaffirming India’s stance, Jaishankar said it should not be a problem for others.

"Is that a problem, why should that be a problem? if I am smart enough to have multiple options, you should be admiring me. Is that a problem for others? I don't think so, suddenly in this case. We try to explain what are the different pulls and pressures that countries have. it's very hard to have that unidimensional relationship," Jaishankar said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Saturday (Feb 17) said what Palestinian militant group Hamas did on October 7 was an act of terrorism. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Munich security conference, the Indian minister also warned Israel that it should be mindful of civilian casualties and observe international humanitarian law in Gaza.

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Saturday (Feb 17) said what Palestinian militant group Hamas did on October 7 was an act of terrorism. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Munich security conference, the Indian minister also warned Israel that it should be mindful of civilian casualties and observe international humanitarian law in Gaza. “We must be clear that what happened on October 7 was terrorism,” S Jaishankar said, adding, “No caveats, no justification, no explanation, it was terrorism.” Jaishankar also said Israel’s response should have spared civilian lives. EAM Jaishankar @DrSJaishankar at Munich security conference on Israel Palestine issue: -Oct 7 was terrorism -Israel should be mindful of civilian casualties -Return hostages -Humanitarian corridor -Permanent Fix -India backs 2 state solution pic.twitter.com/ZBWxQtJyg4 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 17, 2024 × “It is important that Israel should have been very mindful of civilian casualties and that it has an obligation to observe international humanitarian law,” the EAM said. The number of Palestinians killed during the war in Gaza has surpassed 28,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Speaking of the hostages, Jaishankar said their release was important to secure a peace deal. “The return of hostages is today imperative,” he said while sharing the stage with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. Jaishankar further talked about the need to establish a humanitarian, sustainable corridor in Gaza to provide relief material to the Gazan population. “There is a need for a humanitarian corridor, a sustainable corridor to provide relief,” he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel to comply with decreasing civilian losses, says UN top court × Jaishankar also talked about the need to have a long-term solution to the Israel-Gaza conflict. He said India’s commitment towards a two-state solution has been unwavering and it was more urgent than ever to secure a solution. “Eventually, there has to be a permanent fix, a long term fix, otherwise you’re going to see reoccurrence. India has certainly believed in a two-state solution, we maintain that position from many decades,” Jaishankar said. “And today many more countries in the world feel not just the two-state solution is necessary but it is more urgent than it was before,” he added. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli military campaign intensifies Jaishankar also responded to criticism regarding India’s close relationship with Russia. While reaffirming India’s stance, Jaishankar said it should not be a problem for others. "Is that a problem, why should that be a problem? if I am smart enough to have multiple options, you should be admiring me. Is that a problem for others? I don't think so, suddenly in this case. We try to explain what are the different pulls and pressures that countries have. it's very hard to have that unidimensional relationship," Jaishankar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: India’s Jaishankar says Israel should have been ‘mindful’ of civilian casualties, watch

The Iran-backed Hezbollah signalled on Friday it would escalate attacks on Israel in response to the deaths of 10 Lebanese civilians killed in Israeli attacks this week, while Israel said it would remove Hezbollah from the border if diplomacy failed.

Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says its missiles can reach Eilat in Israel's far south

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment.

"The wounded and sick enemy prisoners are going through very difficult conditions and are struggling to stay alive," Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a televised statement.

"This is not surprising because everything that our people are suffering from, be it hunger, thirst and lack of medical help, is also what the enemy prisoners are suffering from," he added.

<h2>Efforts underway to reach truce</h2>

As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, the efforts are being made to reach a truce by mediators from the US, Qatar and Egypt. The provisions of the truce deal would be the same as previous ones: Israel will release prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-builds-wall-deploys-tanks-on-gaza-border-to-prevent-refugee-influx-report-690935">Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report</a>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (Feb 15) he believed a deal was still "possible" but there has been no public announcement of any breakthrough.

Hamas maintains only Israel and its military campaign is responsible for the miserable situation in the Gaza Strip. “Time is running out fast," Abu Obeida added.

<h2>What’s the status of hostages in Gaza?</h2>

Some 250 hostages were taken to the Gaza Strip during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Out of those 250 hostages, roughly 130 are still being held there, according to Israeli officials. 30 of them are believed to be dead, while more than 100 had been freed during a one-week truce that ended on December 1.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel army video shows 'Hamas' Sinwar in tunnel'

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Three hostages were mistakenly killed by Israeli soldiers in December, while some have been rescued in military operations. Several hostages among those still captive in Gaza are suffering from various illnesses and attempts have been made to supply medicines to them.

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday (Feb 16) said hostages held in Gaza territory were "struggling to stay alive" as the besieged territory reels under intense Israeli bombardment. "The wounded and sick enemy prisoners are going through very difficult conditions and are struggling to stay alive," Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a televised statement. "This is not surprising because everything that our people are suffering from, be it hunger, thirst and lack of medical help, is also what the enemy prisoners are suffering from," he added. Efforts underway to reach truce As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, the efforts are being made to reach a truce by mediators from the US, Qatar and Egypt. The provisions of the truce deal would be the same as previous ones: Israel will release prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas. Also read: Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday (Feb 15) he believed a deal was still "possible" but there has been no public announcement of any breakthrough. Hamas maintains only Israel and its military campaign is responsible for the miserable situation in the Gaza Strip. “Time is running out fast," Abu Obeida added. What’s the status of hostages in Gaza? Some 250 hostages were taken to the Gaza Strip during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Out of those 250 hostages, roughly 130 are still being held there, according to Israeli officials. 30 of them are believed to be dead, while more than 100 had been freed during a one-week truce that ended on December 1. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel army video shows 'Hamas' Sinwar in tunnel' × Three hostages were mistakenly killed by Israeli soldiers in December, while some have been rescued in military operations. Several hostages among those still captive in Gaza are suffering from various illnesses and attempts have been made to supply medicines to them. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Time running out fast,’ Hamas warns hostages in Gaza ‘struggling to survive’

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital&nbsp;that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.&nbsp;

"The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis.

Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control.&nbsp;

Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that&nbsp;"a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply."&nbsp;

The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-forces-are-storming-main-hospital-in-southern-gaza-says-hamas-690551">Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside</a>

A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for&nbsp;safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire.

On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex.

<h2>Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital</h2>

The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility.

But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza

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Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex.

The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far&nbsp;killed&nbsp;at least 28,775&nbsp;Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139.&nbsp;

(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.

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said.

Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said. "The generators of the complex stopped and the power was cut off," the ministry said, raising fears over the fate of six other patients in intensive care and three children in a nursery at the Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. Hamas-run health ministry said that they hold Israel responsible for the lives of patients and staff since the entire Nasser hospital complex is allegedly under Israeli control. Later in the day, the Hamas-run health ministry released another statement, which said that "a fifth patient at Nasser hospital was martyred as a result of the stopping of generators that caused a cut in oxygen supply." The Israeli military is yet to address the reports of the fatalities at the hospital. Also read | Israel forces storm Nasser hospital in Gaza, take 'suspects' after claiming Hamas held hostages inside A witness, who declined to be named out of fear for safety, told news agency AFP that army snipers shot "at anyone who moved inside the hospital" and that "military vehicles surrounding" it also opened fire. On Thursday (Feb 15) the Hamas-run health ministry said that hundreds of people, including patients and medical staff, were still inside the hospital complex. Israel launched 'precise' operation in Gaza hospital The Israeli army, meanwhile, confirmed on Thursday (Feb 15) that it had launched a "precise" operation in the hospital after receiving "credible intelligence" to suggest that Israeli hostages were held inside and that the bodies of hostages may be in the facility. But later on Thursday the army said it had "not yet found any evidence of this", although forces had found "weapons, grenades and mortar bombs" at the hospital complex. Also watch | Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza × Thousands of people who have been displaced by the war have taken refuge at the complex. The attacks in Gaza led by Israel have so far killed at least 28,775 Palestinians and wounded 68,552. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 Hamas-led attacks stands at 1,139. (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.

Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry

Israel can compete in this year's Eurovision Song Contest, organisers confirmed on Thursday, again rejecting calls for it to be excluded over the Gaza war like Russia was after invading Ukraine.

On Wednesday, a group of 400 celebrities including British actress Helen Mirren, British singer Boy George and former Kiss frontman Gene Simmons published an open letter supporting Eurovision's decision to maintain Israel's participation.&nbsp;

The letter was issued in response to petitions calling for Israel to be kicked out of the world's biggest live music event, which is being held in Malmo, Sweden, in May.

Approached by AFP, the European Broadcasting Union said it had conducted a review and decided late last year that Israel could participate in the kitsch annual pop extravaganza.

"The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political music event and a competition between public service broadcasters who are members of the EBU. It is not a contest between governments," EBU director general Noel Curran said, reiterating a statement made in January.

Israel is to take part in the second semi-final on May 9, from which 10 of the 16 contenders will progress to the grand final on May 11.

Eden Golan, 20, who grew up in Russia, will represent Israel after winning a domestic contest. Her song has yet to be announced by broadcaster KAN, which handles Israel's participation in Eurovision.

Israel has qualified for every grand final since 2015.

The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

After the attack, Israel launched a relentless military offensive that has killed at least 28,600 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory.

- Russia situation 'fundamentally different' -

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The following day, the EBU said that including a Russian entry in that year's contest "would bring the competition into disrepute".

The decision was "based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU", it said.

Curran said it was not the EBU's place to make comparisons between wars, and that in the case of Russia, it was the Russian broadcasters themselves who were suspended from the EBU "due to their persistent breaches of membership obligations and the violation of public service values".&nbsp;

In their open letter, the artists led by Mirren said they had been "disappointed to see some members of the entertainment community calling for Israel to be banished from the Contest for responding to the greatest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust".&nbsp;

"We believe that unifying events such as singing competitions are crucial to help bridge our cultural divides and unite people of all backgrounds through their shared love of music," said the letter, which makes no mention of the massive civilian casualties in Gaza.

Founded in 1950, the Geneva-based EBU is the world's biggest public service media alliance. It has 112 member organisations in 56 countries.

Curran said the EBU was acting in line with other international organisations, such as sports federations, which have kept Israel in their competitions.

In 1998, Israel's Dana International became the first openly transgender singer to win Eurovision.

After also winning in 1978 and 1979, Israel won Eurovision for a fourth time in 2018.

Malmo is hosting the 68th edition after Swedish singer Loreen won the 2023 contest in Liverpool, England with the song Tattoo, watched by some 162 million viewers.

The 2024 event coincides with the 50th anniversary of ABBA's Eurovision victory -- Sweden's first -- with their breakthrough hit "Waterloo".

Israel can compete in this year's Eurovision Song Contest, organisers confirmed on Thursday, again rejecting calls for it to be excluded over the Gaza war like Russia was after invading Ukraine.

Israel can compete in this year's Eurovision Song Contest, organisers confirmed on Thursday, again rejecting calls for it to be excluded over the Gaza war like Russia was after invading Ukraine. On Wednesday, a group of 400 celebrities including British actress Helen Mirren, British singer Boy George and former Kiss frontman Gene Simmons published an open letter supporting Eurovision's decision to maintain Israel's participation. The letter was issued in response to petitions calling for Israel to be kicked out of the world's biggest live music event, which is being held in Malmo, Sweden, in May. Approached by AFP, the European Broadcasting Union said it had conducted a review and decided late last year that Israel could participate in the kitsch annual pop extravaganza. "The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political music event and a competition between public service broadcasters who are members of the EBU. It is not a contest between governments," EBU director general Noel Curran said, reiterating a statement made in January. Israel is to take part in the second semi-final on May 9, from which 10 of the 16 contenders will progress to the grand final on May 11. Eden Golan, 20, who grew up in Russia, will represent Israel after winning a domestic contest. Her song has yet to be announced by broadcaster KAN, which handles Israel's participation in Eurovision. Israel has qualified for every grand final since 2015. The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. After the attack, Israel launched a relentless military offensive that has killed at least 28,600 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory. - Russia situation 'fundamentally different' - Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The following day, the EBU said that including a Russian entry in that year's contest "would bring the competition into disrepute". The decision was "based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU", it said. Curran said it was not the EBU's place to make comparisons between wars, and that in the case of Russia, it was the Russian broadcasters themselves who were suspended from the EBU "due to their persistent breaches of membership obligations and the violation of public service values". In their open letter, the artists led by Mirren said they had been "disappointed to see some members of the entertainment community calling for Israel to be banished from the Contest for responding to the greatest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust". "We believe that unifying events such as singing competitions are crucial to help bridge our cultural divides and unite people of all backgrounds through their shared love of music," said the letter, which makes no mention of the massive civilian casualties in Gaza. Founded in 1950, the Geneva-based EBU is the world's biggest public service media alliance. It has 112 member organisations in 56 countries. Curran said the EBU was acting in line with other international organisations, such as sports federations, which have kept Israel in their competitions. In 1998, Israel's Dana International became the first openly transgender singer to win Eurovision. After also winning in 1978 and 1979, Israel won Eurovision for a fourth time in 2018. Malmo is hosting the 68th edition after Swedish singer Loreen won the 2023 contest in Liverpool, England with the song Tattoo, watched by some 162 million viewers. The 2024 event coincides with the 50th anniversary of ABBA's Eurovision victory -- Sweden's first -- with their breakthrough hit "Waterloo".

Eurovision confirms Israel can compete despite boycott calls over Gaza

Israeli troops launch raid on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza. Staff say one person killed and eight injured in attack as un aid chief warns Rafah offensive could cause refugee exodus into Egypt.

Israel-Hamas war | Egypt constructing wall near its border with Gaza strip

Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade.

<h2>Highest toll</h2>

As per the organisation, this is the highest toll since 2015, an approximate 44 per cent increase on the previous year's (2022) figures.

The CPJ, as cited by the news agency AFP, said that if not for the conflict in the Middle East, the killing of reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year.&nbsp;

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"In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," it said in a statement.

CPJ said that of the 77 journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas war, a vast majority — 72 of them — were Palestinians. Of the remaining five, three were Lebanese and two were Israelis.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza

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<h2>Bearing witness on the frontlines</h2>

In a statement, CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg remarked that "journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines."&nbsp;

"The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond."&nbsp;

"Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," she added.

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While CPJ figures put the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict at 77, as per data released on February 7&nbsp;by the New York-based press freedom organisation, the death toll has risen to 85.

CPJ previously labelled the deaths "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces. It is reportedly investigating the deaths of a dozen journalists killed during the Gaza war, looking into whether their deaths constitute a "war crime" — if they were deliberately killed by Israeli forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade.

Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade. Highest toll As per the organisation, this is the highest toll since 2015, an approximate 44 per cent increase on the previous year's (2022) figures. The CPJ, as cited by the news agency AFP, said that if not for the conflict in the Middle East, the killing of reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year. Also read | Israel army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike "In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," it said in a statement. CPJ said that of the 77 journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas war, a vast majority — 72 of them — were Palestinians. Of the remaining five, three were Lebanese and two were Israelis. Watch | Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza Bearing witness on the frontlines In a statement, CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg remarked that "journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines." "The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond." "Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," she added. Also read | Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House While CPJ figures put the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict at 77, as per data released on February 7 by the New York-based press freedom organisation, the death toll has risen to 85. CPJ previously labelled the deaths "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces. It is reportedly investigating the deaths of a dozen journalists killed during the Gaza war, looking into whether their deaths constitute a "war crime" — if they were deliberately killed by Israeli forces. (With inputs from agencies)

2023 deadliest year for journalists: 99 killed, 77 in Israel-Hamas War alone

Israeli hostages have filed a complaint against Hamas at the international criminal court. What are the charges against Hamas? Ghadi Francis explains.

Families of hostages urge ICJ to arrest Hamas leaders

Israel’s military operations in Gaza have taken an unprecedented turn. Netanyahu’s eyes are now on Rafah – and millions of Palestinian refugees at risk. What is Israel’s operation Rafah, and why is the UN raising an alarm over a potential slaughter? Ghadi Francis gets you more.

Israel-Hamas war | Israeli PM: Rafah offensive critical to eliminate Hamas

Israeli Special Forces enter largest functioning, Nasser hospital, in Gaza

The Israeli military said that its fighter jets "began a series of strikes in Lebanon". Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas.

Israel begins a series of strikes in Lebanon; at least one killed and eight injured

Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza

Israel-Hamas war: IDF claims ‘credible intelligence’ on hostages in Nasser hospital

Israel vowed on Wednesday to press on with a "powerful" operation in war-torn Gaza's Rafah, even as calls mounted for it to hold off sending troops into the territory's overcrowded far-southern city.

Israel-Gaza War: Netanyahu vows 'powerful' Rafah operation, despite global opposition

Israel-Gaza War: Israel vows to press ahead with 'powerful' Rafah operation

Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to press on with a powerful operation in Gaza's Rafah even as calls mounted for him to hold off sending troops into the territories' overcrowded city. Netanyahu has insisted Hamas battalions must be eliminated in the city as Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo are hoping to secure a ceasefire that would see more of the roughly 130 hostages still in Gaza released in another swap.

Israel-Hamas war | Drop delusional demands, Israeli Prime Minister tells Hamas

The United States is reviewing reports that Israel has harmed civilians in its war against Hamas in Gaza under a set of guidelines aimed at ensuring countries receiving US arms conduct military operations in line with international humanitarian law, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Tuesday.

Israel war: Gaza suffering persists, casualties mount | Reports of civilian harm by Israel forces

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports&nbsp;on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to&nbsp;the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted".&nbsp;

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"Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added.

<h2>Is Israel to blame?</h2>

The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT).

"Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement.

While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency)&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes.

Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after&nbsp;Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel&nbsp;has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP.

Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack.

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted". Also read | As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory' "Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added. Is Israel to blame? The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT). "Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement. While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency) blamed Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes. Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP. Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian air defences 'engage hostile targets' near Damascus, source of attack unclear

Israeli strikes deepen panic in Rafah as un aid chief warns a ground offensive could result in ‘slaughter’. Israeli officials have requested un aid agencies to help with efforts to evacuate civilians from Gaza war zones.

‘We lived in terror,’ say Palestinians in Rafah

As Israel prepares for an incursion in Rafah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces growing international pressure to agree to a ceasefire. While displaced palestinians only urge for safety and to return home. What is next? Where will the displaced go now?

Displaced residents in Rafah ask: Where to now? Where is home?

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