Israel is on the verge of a ground offensive in Gaza's Rafah neighbourhood but Biden administration which has supported Israel throughout the war against Hamas has expressed concern about such an operation.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel faces growing pressure over Gaza ceasefire

On the May 10 of last year, the first rockets from Gaza were fired towards Israel which lasted 11 days. WION's Jodie Cohen spoke exclusively to ambassador Danny Danon about the way forward and the way forward towards peace in a fraught region.

Israel Knesset member Danny Danon talks about Rafah operation in Gaza

Britain imposed sanctions on four Israeli nationals saying they were extremist settlers who had violently attacked Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. After US and UK, France imposed sanctions on Israel. Watch in for more details!

After US & UK, France imposes sanctions on Israel | 28 Israelis banned from entering France

Israelis welcome the rescue of two Gaza hostages on Monday. Well fears of a looming ground incursion grew among over a million Palestinians were trapped in the war ravaged territories densely crowded far south. International mediators they've continued working towards a truce and a hostage prisoner exchange. President Joe Biden said that US is working to negotiate a ceasefire of at least 6 weeks in the Gaza Strip as part of a wider deal that would also involve the release of hostages. However, Jordan's King Abdullah second appealed for a full ceasefire to end the Gaza war after talks with Joe Biden...Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: After talks with Biden, Jordan's king appeals for full ceasefire

Israelis welcome the rescue of two Gaza hostages on Monday. Well fears of a looming ground incursion grew among over a million Palestinians were trapped in the war ravaged territories densely crowded far south. International mediators they've continued working towards a truce and a hostage prisoner exchange.

Israel's assault on Rafah looms, 'Pushing for 6-week Gaza pause,' says Biden

Israeli security forces had freed two hostages on Monday, who were being held in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, in only the second known rescue of its kind in Gaza since the start of the war.

Israelis welcomed the rescue of two Gaza hostages; Rafah assault looms

Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu says, 'Continued military pessure' key, alarm over tensions

Israel-Hamas war: Dutch court orders halt to export of F-35 Jet parts to Israel

<p>United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war.</p>

<p>The Jordan King's appeal differed from the US president's appeal in which he sought a shorter six-week pause in the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at the White House, both leaders issued a warning against any indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion into the southern city of Rafah in Gaza, where more than a million Palestinians are trapped.</p>

<p>"We cannot afford an Israeli attack on Rafah. It is certain to produce another humanitarian catastrophe," said the Jordanian king.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-says-she-is-ready-to-serve-amid-concerns-about-bidens-age-689665">Kamala Harris says she is 'ready to serve' amid concerns about Biden's age</a></p>

<p>"We cannot stand by and let this continue. We need a lasting ceasefire now -- this war must end," Abdullah said. He has repeatedly raised his voice for a full truce to end the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Military operation in Rafah needs to ensure safety of people: Biden</strong></h2>

<p>After holding talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House on Monday (Feb 12), Biden said: “A major military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible plan for ensuring the safety and support of more than 1 million people sheltering there."</p>

<p>“Many people there have been displaced multiple times fleeing the violence to the north and now they are packed into Rafah, exposed and vulnerable. They need to be protected,” Biden said.</p>

<p>Biden added that the United States had been working “day and night” on efforts to finalise a six-week pause in the fighting between Hamas and Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden, who will be running for reelection in November, has said that Israel's offensive was "over the top".</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election</strong></p>

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<p>"The United States is working on a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, which would bring in a sustained period of calm to Gaza for at least six weeks," Biden stated, further adding that key elements have been in place but "gaps" remained.</p>

<p>He said that the warring parties could then "take the time to build something more enduring."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden further stated that civilians living in Rafah, on the Egyptian border, "need to be protected" as Israel has been planning a ground incursion.</p>

<p>It was the first face-to-face meeting of Biden and Abdullah since the October 7 attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war.

United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war. The Jordan King's appeal differed from the US president's appeal in which he sought a shorter six-week pause in the war. While speaking at the White House, both leaders issued a warning against any indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion into the southern city of Rafah in Gaza, where more than a million Palestinians are trapped. "We cannot afford an Israeli attack on Rafah. It is certain to produce another humanitarian catastrophe," said the Jordanian king. Also Read: Kamala Harris says she is 'ready to serve' amid concerns about Biden's age "We cannot stand by and let this continue. We need a lasting ceasefire now -- this war must end," Abdullah said. He has repeatedly raised his voice for a full truce to end the conflict. Military operation in Rafah needs to ensure safety of people: Biden After holding talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House on Monday (Feb 12), Biden said: “A major military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible plan for ensuring the safety and support of more than 1 million people sheltering there." “Many people there have been displaced multiple times fleeing the violence to the north and now they are packed into Rafah, exposed and vulnerable. They need to be protected,” Biden said. Biden added that the United States had been working “day and night” on efforts to finalise a six-week pause in the fighting between Hamas and Israel. Biden, who will be running for reelection in November, has said that Israel's offensive was "over the top". Watch: US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election "The United States is working on a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, which would bring in a sustained period of calm to Gaza for at least six weeks," Biden stated, further adding that key elements have been in place but "gaps" remained. He said that the warring parties could then "take the time to build something more enduring." Biden further stated that civilians living in Rafah, on the Egyptian border, "need to be protected" as Israel has been planning a ground incursion. It was the first face-to-face meeting of Biden and Abdullah since the October 7 attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Jordan king warn against indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion in Rafah

Several officials in Israel's finance ministry said Israel will need to issue a record number of bonds this year to finance its war in Gaza. However, Israel's bond issue plan got more complicated after the country's credit rating was downgraded for the first time ever.

Moody's downgrade to hit Israel's costs

Britain imposed sanctions on four Israeli nationals on Monday, saying they were extremist settlers who had violently attacked Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The measures impose strict financial and travel restrictions on the four individuals, who Britain said were involved in "egregious abuses of human rights".

Israel-Hamas war | UK announces sanctions against 4 extremist Israelis in West Bank

<p>United States President Joe Biden&nbsp;told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 11)&nbsp;that&nbsp;Israel should not proceed with a military operation in Gaza's Rafah&nbsp;without a plan to ensure the safety of around one million people taking shelter there, said the White House.</p>

<p>The conversation came shortly after Netanyahu, on Sunday&nbsp;said that he has not spoken to&nbsp;Biden since he called Israel’s military operations “over the top” last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Biden and Netanyahu talk about?</strong></h2>

<p>The US president&nbsp;reaffirmed the shared goal of defeating the Palestinian militant group Hamas and&nbsp;ensuring the long-term security of Israel but also called for&nbsp;"urgent and specific steps" to increase the amount of&nbsp;humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians trapped in Gaza, said the White House in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aid agencies in Gaza's&nbsp;Rafah have warned that a military operation in the area&nbsp;located in the southern part of Gaza on the border with Egypt&nbsp;would be&nbsp;catastrophic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-matter-of-months-netanyahu-says-about-israels-victory-amid-war-in-gaza-687991">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas’ ceasefire deal, vows to fight until ‘total victory’</a></strong></p>

<p>"Biden told Netanyahu&nbsp;that a military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible and executable plan for ensuring the safety of and support for the more than one million people sheltering there," the White House said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders also discussed the&nbsp;ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages taken by Hamas and both&nbsp;agreed to remain in close contact.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Over the top’</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview, earlier on&nbsp;Sunday, the Israeli PM said that he has not spoken to the US president since he suggested Israel’s military response in Gaza has been “over the top” last week and is seeking a “sustained pause in the fighting” to help Palestinians in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I appreciate President Biden’s support for Israel since the beginning of the war. I don’t know exactly what he meant by that,” said Netanyahu in a recent interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN says Palestinian civilians in Rafah require protection</strong></p>

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<p>Netanyahu’s remarks come days after Biden, on Thursday (Feb 8), said, “I’m of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also spoke about how he has been pushing for a deal to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and a temporary pause in fighting to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire,” Biden told reporters at the White House. He added, “There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it’s gotta stop.”</p>

<p>The remarks were seen as the sharpest criticism of Israel’s response to Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel which sparked the war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Biden administration’s support for Israel amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave has led to weeks of protests across the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-says-no-ties-with-israel-until-palestinian-state-is-recognised-687938">Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised'</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, the US president has been a staunch supporter of Israel, but the recent remarks mark a shift in the rhetoric of the Biden administration which has long supported Israel’s right to defend itself.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden’s mounting frustration with Netanyahu?</strong></h2>

<p>A report by the Washington Post, on Sunday, citing several people familiar with discussions between Biden and his top aides said they are closer to a “breach” with Netanyahu than at any time since the beginning of the war.</p>

<p>According to the report, the US president no longer views the Israeli PM as a ‘productive partner’ who can be ‘influenced even in private’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, ‘mounting frustration’ with Netanyahu has prompted some of Biden’s aides to urge him to be more publicly critical of the Israeli PM, reported the WaPo, citing six people familiar with the conversations&nbsp;who spoke on&nbsp;condition of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just last week, on Wednesday (Feb 7), Netanyahu rejected Hamas’ latest offer for a ceasefire and insisted that the country’s total victory in Gaza is within reach, a move that reportedly angered US officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rejection also came after the Israeli PM held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who was in the midst of his 5th visit to the region to negotiate the&nbsp;new peace agreement which was turned down by Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


United States President Joe Biden told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 11) that Israel should not proceed with a military operation in Gaza's Rafah without a plan to ensure the safety of around one million people taking shelter there, said the White House.

United States President Joe Biden told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 11) that Israel should not proceed with a military operation in Gaza's Rafah without a plan to ensure the safety of around one million people taking shelter there, said the White House. The conversation came shortly after Netanyahu, on Sunday said that he has not spoken to Biden since he called Israel’s military operations “over the top” last week. What did Biden and Netanyahu talk about? The US president reaffirmed the shared goal of defeating the Palestinian militant group Hamas and ensuring the long-term security of Israel but also called for "urgent and specific steps" to increase the amount of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians trapped in Gaza, said the White House in a statement. The aid agencies in Gaza's Rafah have warned that a military operation in the area located in the southern part of Gaza on the border with Egypt would be catastrophic. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas’ ceasefire deal, vows to fight until ‘total victory’ "Biden told Netanyahu that a military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible and executable plan for ensuring the safety of and support for the more than one million people sheltering there," the White House said. The two leaders also discussed the ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages taken by Hamas and both agreed to remain in close contact. ‘Over the top’ In an interview, earlier on Sunday, the Israeli PM said that he has not spoken to the US president since he suggested Israel’s military response in Gaza has been “over the top” last week and is seeking a “sustained pause in the fighting” to help Palestinians in Gaza. “I appreciate President Biden’s support for Israel since the beginning of the war. I don’t know exactly what he meant by that,” said Netanyahu in a recent interview. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: UN says Palestinian civilians in Rafah require protection Netanyahu’s remarks come days after Biden, on Thursday (Feb 8), said, “I’m of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top.” He also spoke about how he has been pushing for a deal to normalise ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and a temporary pause in fighting to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas. “I’m pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire,” Biden told reporters at the White House. He added, “There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it’s gotta stop.” The remarks were seen as the sharpest criticism of Israel’s response to Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel which sparked the war in Gaza. The Biden administration’s support for Israel amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave has led to weeks of protests across the US. ALSO READ | Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised' Notably, the US president has been a staunch supporter of Israel, but the recent remarks mark a shift in the rhetoric of the Biden administration which has long supported Israel’s right to defend itself. Biden’s mounting frustration with Netanyahu? A report by the Washington Post, on Sunday, citing several people familiar with discussions between Biden and his top aides said they are closer to a “breach” with Netanyahu than at any time since the beginning of the war. According to the report, the US president no longer views the Israeli PM as a ‘productive partner’ who can be ‘influenced even in private’. Therefore, ‘mounting frustration’ with Netanyahu has prompted some of Biden’s aides to urge him to be more publicly critical of the Israeli PM, reported the WaPo, citing six people familiar with the conversations who spoke on condition of anonymity. Just last week, on Wednesday (Feb 7), Netanyahu rejected Hamas’ latest offer for a ceasefire and insisted that the country’s total victory in Gaza is within reach, a move that reportedly angered US officials. The rejection also came after the Israeli PM held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who was in the midst of his 5th visit to the region to negotiate the new peace agreement which was turned down by Netanyahu. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Biden warns Netanyahu against Rafah operation, urges protection of civilians

<p>Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city.</p>

<h2><strong>Strikes kill 100</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worried-about-border-situation-egypt-issues-ultimatum-to-hamas-to-reach-ceasefire-agreement-689393">Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal</a></strong></p>

<p>It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group&nbsp;said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people.</p>

<p>As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault</strong></p>

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<p>The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Rescue operation</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli ministry,&nbsp;as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation.</p>

<p>In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-economy-poised-for-recovery-despite-moodys-downgrade-says-bank-of-israel-governor-689496">Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor</a></strong></p>

<p>The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said.</p>

<p>In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time."</p>

<p>"They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said.</p>

<p>He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired.</p>

<p>"Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12).

Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city. Strikes kill 100 In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100". Also read | Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people. As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault × The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added. Rescue operation The Israeli ministry, as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation. In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak". Also read | Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said. In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time." "They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said. He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired. "Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari. (With inputs from agencies)

Overnight airstrikes kill ‘around 100’ in Rafah; Israel rescues two hostages

A series of Israeli air strikes on the southern Gaza town of Rafah have killed at least 67 people. As per Gaza officials of strikes hit 14 homes and three mosques in different parts of Rafah mediators held new talks in Cairo for a paus in the fighting and he release of around 130 hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: At least 67 killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza's Rafah; 14 homes & 3 mosques hit

Israel Prime Minister Nathany who is facing calls for early elections and mounting protests over his administration failure to bring home the hostages.

Israel protesters call for early polls, thinks Gantz most suitable PM candidate

<p>Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza. The military alleges that this discovery provides new evidence of Hamas exploiting the UN relief agency's infrastructure for Palestinians.</p>

<p>Amid a crisis for UNRWA, which faces funding freezes from several donor countries, the Israeli army took reporters from foreign news outlets on a guided tour of the passages. The agency is under internal investigation following Israel's claims that some of its staff doubled as Hamas operatives.</p>

<h2><strong>What does Hamas tunnel under UN agency's headquarter look like?</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel, measuring 700 meters in length and 18 meters deep, was explored by journalists in a closely escorted trip. Reporters descended into the concrete-lined passage from a shaft near a school on the outskirts of the UN compound. The tour revealed side-rooms, including an office space with emptied steel safes, a tiled toilet, a chamber with computer servers, and another filled with industrial battery stacks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-threatens-catastrophe-if-israel-strikes-rafah-688986">Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000</a></strong></p>

<p>An army lieutenant-colonel leading the tour said that the tunnel was used as a central command for Hamas intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"UNRWA ... does not have the military and security expertise nor the capacity to undertake military inspections of what is or might be under its premises," said the lieutenant-colonel.</p>

<p>"In the past, whenever (a) suspicious cavity was found close to or under UNRWA premises, protest letters were promptly filed to parties to the conflict, including both the de facto authorities in Gaza (Hamas) and the Israeli authorities," he added.</p>

<p>Speaking further he said, the underground facility played a key role in directing combat activities.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These findings were found within <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a> facilities:<br />
<br />
Acting on ISA intelligence, the forces discovered a tunnel shaft near an UNRWA school, leading to an underground terrorist tunnel beneath UNRWA's main headquarters. The forces found electrical infrastructure inside the tunnel… <a href="https://t.co/n5EWJpyI4o">pic.twitter.com/n5EWJpyI4o</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1756378191415951666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>UNRWA, employing 13,000 people in Gaza and providing crucial aid and services, countered the Israeli findings. The agency claimed to have vacated the headquarters on October 12, shortly after the war began, and expressed its inability to confirm or comment on the military's discovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | US suspends funding to UNRWA</strong></p>

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<p>UNRWA supporters argue its crucial role in aiding Palestinians, while Israel contends the agency is influenced by Hamas and calls for its replacement.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel's location under the UNRWA headquarters raises questions about the organisation's involvement, with Israel asserting that Hamas operates within civilian facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lack of cellphone reception in the tunnel made geolocation impossible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Journalists were required to deposit personal items in a bucket, lowered into a vertical hole on the headquarters' grounds, before embarking on the tunnel tour. The Israeli military imposed restrictions on capturing military intelligence, maps, or specific equipment during the trip, underlining the sensitivity of the situation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza.

Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza. The military alleges that this discovery provides new evidence of Hamas exploiting the UN relief agency's infrastructure for Palestinians. Amid a crisis for UNRWA, which faces funding freezes from several donor countries, the Israeli army took reporters from foreign news outlets on a guided tour of the passages. The agency is under internal investigation following Israel's claims that some of its staff doubled as Hamas operatives. What does Hamas tunnel under UN agency's headquarter look like? The tunnel, measuring 700 meters in length and 18 meters deep, was explored by journalists in a closely escorted trip. Reporters descended into the concrete-lined passage from a shaft near a school on the outskirts of the UN compound. The tour revealed side-rooms, including an office space with emptied steel safes, a tiled toilet, a chamber with computer servers, and another filled with industrial battery stacks. Also read | Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000 An army lieutenant-colonel leading the tour said that the tunnel was used as a central command for Hamas intelligence. "UNRWA ... does not have the military and security expertise nor the capacity to undertake military inspections of what is or might be under its premises," said the lieutenant-colonel. "In the past, whenever (a) suspicious cavity was found close to or under UNRWA premises, protest letters were promptly filed to parties to the conflict, including both the de facto authorities in Gaza (Hamas) and the Israeli authorities," he added. Speaking further he said, the underground facility played a key role in directing combat activities. These findings were found within @UNRWA facilities: Acting on ISA intelligence, the forces discovered a tunnel shaft near an UNRWA school, leading to an underground terrorist tunnel beneath UNRWA's main headquarters. The forces found electrical infrastructure inside the tunnel… pic.twitter.com/n5EWJpyI4o — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 10, 2024 × UNRWA, employing 13,000 people in Gaza and providing crucial aid and services, countered the Israeli findings. The agency claimed to have vacated the headquarters on October 12, shortly after the war began, and expressed its inability to confirm or comment on the military's discovery. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | US suspends funding to UNRWA × UNRWA supporters argue its crucial role in aiding Palestinians, while Israel contends the agency is influenced by Hamas and calls for its replacement. What does it mean? The tunnel's location under the UNRWA headquarters raises questions about the organisation's involvement, with Israel asserting that Hamas operates within civilian facilities. The lack of cellphone reception in the tunnel made geolocation impossible. Journalists were required to deposit personal items in a bucket, lowered into a vertical hole on the headquarters' grounds, before embarking on the tunnel tour. The Israeli military imposed restrictions on capturing military intelligence, maps, or specific equipment during the trip, underlining the sensitivity of the situation. (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.

Video: Israel shows what it claims as Hamas tunnel network below UN agency's Gaza headquarters

12 days after being missing following an Israeli shelling off a family car, the body of the 6-year-old Hind Rajab has been found along with the bodies of five of her family members.

Missing 6-year-old girl Hind Rajab found dead in Gaza weeks after repeated calls for help

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan for the evacuation of the population of the southern Gaza city of Rafah ahead of an expected ground invasion.

Palestinians brace for Rafah assault as Netanyahu orders military to plan evacuations from Rafah

Israel-Palestine war: 3 senior Rafah police officials killed in latest Israeli strike

There is anger on the streets of Israel as frustrated demonstrators called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to do more to get the hostages out of Gaza and nearby towns.

Israel: Thousands protest and voice demands at Tel Aviv's Habima Square; demand release of hostages

Israel strikes reaps destruction on Rafah | 117 killed & 150 injured in last 24 hours in Rafah

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan for the evacuation of the population of the southern Gaza city of Rafah ahead of an expected ground invasion. EU and UN express concern over Rafah ground attack. US has warned Israel an invasion of Rafah would be a disaster. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Leaders warn of 'Catastrophe' | Egypt warns of scrapping peace treaty

Israel: Protests against Neyantahu; Tel Aviv, Kfar Saba rocked by agitations

12 days after being missing following an Israeli shelling off a family car, the body of the 6-year-old Hind Rajab has been found along with the bodies of five of her family members. Rajab was fleeing the city in car with her family when killed. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Missing girl Hind Rajab found dead in Gaza weeks after repeated calls for help

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed his military to prepare to evacuate an estimated 1.3 million people in the city. This comes ahead of a looming ground offensive in Gaza's southern border city of Rafah.

Israel-Hamas war: One million palestinians trapped in Rafah

<p>Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-israeli-hostages-plead-with-netanyahu-to-push-for-ceasefire-deal-688786">Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal</a></strong></p>

<p>The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes.</p>

<h2><strong>Antisemitism online</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online.</p>

<p>On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful."</p>

<p>In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow&nbsp;people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-possible-offensive-netanyahu-orders-plan-for-rafah-evacuation-688806">Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation</a></strong></p>

<p>"While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people."</p>

<p>"Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'"</p>

<h2><strong>People against the move</strong></h2>

<p>However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war.</p>

<p>Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race."</p>

<p>"As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic. Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'. Also read | Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes. Antisemitism online Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online. On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful." In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality. Also read | Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation "While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people." "Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'" People against the move However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war. Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race." "As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion." (With inputs from agencies)

Meta considers removing posts with word 'zionist'. Here's why

Israel's ongoing war with hamas has led to the country receiving its first-ever sovereign downgrade. Credit rating firm moody's has lowered Israel's rating as the war in Gaza takes a toll on Israel's finances. Israel's sovereign credit rating has been cut by one notch, from a1 to a2.

Moody's downgrades Israel's rating

Israel pounds Gaza's Rafah city; IDF strikes Hezbollah targets in Lebanon

<p>The Israeli Army has been accused of deliberately targeting a rescue operation in besieged Gaza that resulted in the death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl. Her dead body was recovered on Saturday (Feb 10), surrounded by corpses of her family members and two ambulance workers.</p>

<h2><strong>Allegations by Red Crescent Society</strong></h2>

<p>The Palestine Red Crescent Society earlier released audio clips that recorded the girl, named Hind Rajab, pleading with rescuers to “come and get me.” “I’m so scared, please come,” she was heard saying in another audio clip, released some 12 days ago.</p>

<p>Following the call, the survivors reportedly dispatched an ambulance to the area after deciding it was safe to do so. The ambulance had two crews - Youssef Zeino and Ahmed Al-Madhoon.</p>

<p>However, contact with the ambulance and Hind was soon lost after the team came under an alleged attack by the Israeli Army. “The occupation deliberately targeted the Red Crescent crew despite prior coordination to allow the ambulance to arrive at the site to rescue Hind,” the Red Crescent said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Antony Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu for talks on Gaza truce plan</strong></p>

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<p>Family members of Hind Rajab found the girl’s dead body, along with those of her uncle and aunt and their three children, still in a car near a roundabout in the Tel al-Hawa suburb of Gaza City, the official Palestinian WAFA news agency reported.</p>

<p>Another of Hind’s uncles, Sameeh Hamadeh, said the car was peppered with bullet holes.</p>

<h2><strong>28,000 people killed in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>The war between Hamas and Israel began on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2W6QGh6CIc_Y66mCE8kvV_" data-ved="2ahUKEwjVraPs4KCEAxVvwjgGHQRRBDEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-destruction-to-make-gaza-buffer-zone-a-war-crime-un-688365" jsname="YKoRaf">Israeli destruction to make Gaza `buffer zone` a `war crime`: UN</a></strong></p>

<p>The Israeli military has since launched a brutal retaliatory campaign in the enclave, marked with intense bombardment and targeting of Hamas infrastructure. Israeli’s contentious actions in Gaza have killed nearly 28,000 people so far, according to Gaza health authorities.</p>

<p>During the war, the Israeli military has said it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties. It has faced strong international criticism over the toll of dead and injured.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli Army has been accused of deliberately targeting a rescue operation in besieged Gaza that resulted in the death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl. Her dead body was recovered on Saturday (Feb 10), surrounded by corpses of her family members and two ambulance workers.

The Israeli Army has been accused of deliberately targeting a rescue operation in besieged Gaza that resulted in the death of a six-year-old Palestinian girl. Her dead body was recovered on Saturday (Feb 10), surrounded by corpses of her family members and two ambulance workers. Allegations by Red Crescent Society The Palestine Red Crescent Society earlier released audio clips that recorded the girl, named Hind Rajab, pleading with rescuers to “come and get me.” “I’m so scared, please come,” she was heard saying in another audio clip, released some 12 days ago. Following the call, the survivors reportedly dispatched an ambulance to the area after deciding it was safe to do so. The ambulance had two crews - Youssef Zeino and Ahmed Al-Madhoon. However, contact with the ambulance and Hind was soon lost after the team came under an alleged attack by the Israeli Army. “The occupation deliberately targeted the Red Crescent crew despite prior coordination to allow the ambulance to arrive at the site to rescue Hind,” the Red Crescent said in a statement. Watch: Antony Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu for talks on Gaza truce plan × Family members of Hind Rajab found the girl’s dead body, along with those of her uncle and aunt and their three children, still in a car near a roundabout in the Tel al-Hawa suburb of Gaza City, the official Palestinian WAFA news agency reported. Another of Hind’s uncles, Sameeh Hamadeh, said the car was peppered with bullet holes. 28,000 people killed in Gaza The war between Hamas and Israel began on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies. Also read: Israeli destruction to make Gaza `buffer zone` a `war crime`: UN The Israeli military has since launched a brutal retaliatory campaign in the enclave, marked with intense bombardment and targeting of Hamas infrastructure. Israeli’s contentious actions in Gaza have killed nearly 28,000 people so far, according to Gaza health authorities. During the war, the Israeli military has said it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties. It has faced strong international criticism over the toll of dead and injured. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl

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