Former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (Apr 30) compared the ongoing university protests in the country to the January 6 Capitol attack. He lamented that the pro-Palestine protesters at Columbia University could be treated leniently than the rioters who stormed the Capitol in 2021.

Former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (Apr 30) compared the ongoing university protests in the country to the January 6 Capitol attack. He lamented that the pro-Palestine protesters at Columbia University could be treated leniently than the rioters who stormed the Capitol in 2021. Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, spoke in the hallway outside a Manhattan courtroom where his criminal trial in hush money case is taking place. The former president questioned whether student demonstrators would be treated the same way as his supporters who attacked the Capitol on Jan 6. Also read: Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu, talks about Gaza aid, ceasefire and more The Gaza war began with the Hamas attack on October 7 that led to the deaths of about 1,170 people in Israel, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. In retaliation, Israel vowed to wipe out Hamas and launched an offensive that has killed at least 34,356 people in Gaza so far, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Palestinian militants also took some 250 hostages on October 7. Israel estimates 129 remain in Gaza, including 34 believed to be dead. Now, a truce deal is hanging by a thread, with Israel demanding their release, and Hamas asking for a complete ceasefire. The six-month-old war has deteriorated humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. People struggling for food, clean water, medicines, and other basic amenities. Fears are also looming over a possible invasion of Rafah, where more than one million people have sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment, which will be catastrophic. Also read: NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, dozens arrested Now, global calls are being made, urging both sides to finalise a hostage deal and ceasefire, which appears to be unlikely as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said to invade Rafah "with or without a deal". People around the world are showing frustration over both situations - hostages and the humanitarian crisis in the Strip, with top US campuses becoming centre-stage of demonstrations. The war has sparked anger and division among people. In US universities, some Jewish students feel targeted and abused while others have taken leading roles in demonstrations. Israel-Hamas war has put West Asia on the brink of a broader conflict, even fears of a nuclear threat, with recent escalation involving Iran, but the student protests over the Gaza war have turned into a new US political battleground. President Joe Biden is pushing hard for a truce, which he hopes would be the extinguisher to douse the flames of war besides serving as a much-needed force for his presidency. Otherwise, the university protests would most likely become a burning issue in the presidential elections, scheduled for later this year. One of the reasons why Secretary of State Antony Blinken is pressing for truce, while reiterating US opposition to an Israeli assault on the crowded Gaza city of Rafah. Trump and other prominent Republicans are not shying away from seizing the political opportunity the ongoing campus protests have provided. Watch: Why has Netanyahu failed to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza War so far? × Clashes erupt at UCLA campus The protests have intensified with clashes breaking out at pro-Palestinian demonstrations on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles on Wednesday (May 1), forcing police to take action. At UCLA, a tent encampment was set up last week. Local media reported that the clashes erupted between rival pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups. This comes as dozens of universities around the US, including Columbia University and New York City, struggle to contain similar protests. In a post on social platform X, LA police said, "At the request of UCLA, due to multiple acts of violence within the large encampment on their campus, the LAPD is responding to assist UCLA PD, and other law enforcement agencies, to restore order and maintain public safety." Authorities have also made dozens of arrests on campuses across the nation after skirmishes between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. The initial days of protests were peaceful, but they turned violent with an expansion of the size of the pro-Palestinian encampment at UCLA in recent days. The counter-protesters have become increasingly vocal and visible on the campus. In a report by the news agency Reuters, Mary Osako, who is UCLA's vice chancellor for UCLA strategic communications, said that chaos erupted when some demonstrators broke through a barrier that the school had set up to separate the two factions. Images and videos shared on social media showed protesters and counter-protesters clashing with sticks and tearing down metal barricades. Some were seen launching fireworks or hurling objects at each other in the dark, which lit up with laser pointers and bright flashlights. UCLA Chancellor Gene D Block warned ahead of clashes that protesters including "both members of the UCLA community and others unaffiliated with our campus" had set up a camp last week. "Many of the demonstrators, as well as counter-demonstrators who have come to the area, have been peaceful in their activism," Block wrote in a letter posted on the university website on Tuesday. "But the tactics of others have frankly been shocking and shameful. We have seen instances of violence. These incidents have put many on our campus, especially our Jewish students, in a state of anxiety and fear," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump compares campus protests to Jan 6 riots, as Biden pushes for Gaza truce to stave off political heat

The October 7th attack by Hamas snowballed into Israeli forces flattening Gaza and killing thousands of innocent civilians. The Israeli government has failed to bring back over hundreds who were taken hostage by Hamas. It is no surprise in this scenario that Israelis want Benjamin Netanyahu to resign. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: Poll reveals over half of Israelis want Netanyahu to step down

The American Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is in the state of Israel with some plans to discuss a truce deal and also for the increased flow of humanitarian Aid into the Gaza Strip. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Hamas to swiftly accept an Israeli proposal for a truce in the Gaza war and the release of Israeli hostages held.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu vows to invade Rafah amid truce talks, UN warns against Rafah assault

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Netanyahu vows to raid Rafah - Police clear Columbia's Hamilton Hall - Blinken in Israel to push for truce - US moves to reclassify Marijuana - South korea discusses joining AUKUS - Multiple Delhi-NCR schools recieve bomb threats

Netanyahu vows to raid Rafah | Multiple Delhi NCR schools receive bomb threats

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has arrived in Jordan to discuss ways to boost aid deliveries into Gaza. Cautious hopes are building for a truce deal in Gaza as Hamas is currently preparing to respond to a new framework proposed by Egyptian mediators. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Mediators build pressure on Israel, Hamas for ceasefire

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has arrived in Jordan the top American Diplomat will discuss ways to boost Aid deliveries into Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: US Secy of State Blinken to Hamas: Take 'Generous offer' by Israel

Israel war: US Secy of State Antony Blinken visits Jordan to push Gaza aid

After nearly seven months of Israel's war on Gaza, hopes for a long-awaited truce and hostage release agreement increased on Monday. According to his British counterpart, the proposal might result in the release of thousands of Palestinian detainees, and Washington's top diplomat expressed his "hopeful" acceptance of Hamas' offer.

Blinken's West Asia Trip: US Secy of State Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Gaza deal

The military of the United States has been constructing a temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza. The Pentagon said on Monday (Apr 29) that cost of the construction will cost Washington at least $320 million.

The military of the United States has been constructing a temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza. The Pentagon said on Monday (Apr 29) that cost of the construction will cost Washington at least $320 million. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told journalists, "That's about our rough estimate right now, approximately $320 million." Singh added, "That's an initial cost for the temporary pier." On Thursday, the Pentagon announced that construction of the pier had begun, saying it should be operational in early May and will humanitarian aid to Gaza. Once the pier is constructed, aid will be transported via commercial vessels to a floating platform miles off the Gaza coast. After that, it will be transferred to smaller vessels, brought to the pier and taken to land by truck for distribution. Also read: Hamas gets 40-day ceasefire offer amid airstrikes on Rafah by Israel Firstly, US President Joe Biden announced the plans for the pier in early March as Israel held up deliveries of assistance by ground. Meanwhile, the US Central Command and the Royal Jordanian Air Force conducted a combined humanitarian assistance airdrop into Northern Gaza on Sunday to provide relief to civilians in Gaza affected by the ongoing conflict, CENTCOM said. The US C-130's dropped over 25,000 Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) of humanitarian assistance in Northern Gaza, CENTCOM said, further adding that more than 13,080 meal equivalents of Jordanian food supplies were also delivered. Also read: Container ship en route to Jeddah reportedly targeted with missiles near Yemen: Ambrey Watch: Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Israel's new ceasefire deal × Humanitarian situation in Gaza The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen with a senior US administration official saying last week that the territory's entire population of 2.2 million people is facing food insecurity. The Israel-Hamas war started after the militant group's October 7 attack on southern Israel resulting in the deaths of about 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,488 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Temporary Gaza pier to boost aid deliveries will cost US at least $320 million

Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz said on Saturday (Apr 27) that if a deal is secured to release Israeli hostages held by Hamas, then a planned incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah could be suspended.

Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz said on Saturday (Apr 27) that if a deal is secured to release Israeli hostages held by Hamas, then a planned incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah could be suspended. During an interview with local Channel 12 television, Katz said, "The release of the hostages is the top priority for us." On being asked if the priority involved suspending a planned operation to eliminate Hamas battalions in the city of Rafah, Katz answered, "Yes." "If there will be a deal, we will suspend the operation," he further said. This comes after Hamas said that it was reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza City. A senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the Palestinian militant group was evaluating Israel's proposal, and "upon completion of its study, it will submit its response". The official didn't provide another detail on Israel's offer but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago. This development comes as Egypt increased its efforts to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region and calls to prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Watch: Pro-Palestinian protests spread across US college campuses × Meanwhile, Hezbollah's Deputy Secretary General Naim Qassem warns that full-scale war will not bring residents of northern Israel home. He said that it will end their presence there "once and for all". "[Defense Minister Yoav] Gallant threatens us that if we don’t stop the attacks, he will attack Lebanon to return the residents of the north to their homes," he said, in a statement quoted in Hebrew media. "I say to Gallant that this war will not only cause the Zionists to not return to their homes but is likely to end their presence in the northern occupied territories once and for all," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured, says Israeli foreign minister

Will the International Criminal Court issue an arrest warrant against Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli officials believe that the ICC could charge Netanyahu with violations related to the conflict with Hamas.

ICC to issue arrest warrant against Netanyahu? | International Court frowns on IDF assault

US State Secretary Antony Blinken is in Saudi Arabia to meet with government leaders and discuss efforts to reach an “immediate ceasefire agreement” between Israel and Hamas. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for Israel to do more even though there have been improvements in getting humanitarian Aid into Gaza Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: US Secy Antony Blinken reaches Saudi Arabia to ease Gaza war

While leaders are trying to achieve a breakthrough deal as they push for a ceasefire in Gaza but amidst the talks the plight of hostages remain uncertain. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured: Israeli Foreign Minister

Israel-Hamas War: Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages

Yemen's Houthi Rebels claimed they shot down another US military's MQ-9 reaper drone. The Houthis also aired footage of the unmanned aircraft claiming they had shot down the Predator with a surface-to-air missile. Watch in for more details!

Red Sea Crisis: Yemen's Houthi rebels claim they shot down MQ-9 reaper drone

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal push - Pro-Palestine protests across US - Campus protestors detained - Magnitude 6.5 quake off Indonesia

Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal push | Pro-Palestine protests across US

Amid massive University student protests across the US against Israel's war in Gaza Colombia University's president is in a renewed Wrangle. The University's oversight panel criticized the clamping down of pro Palestinian protests on campus. Watch in for more details!

Gaza protests in US universities: Columbia University extends deadline for protesters to leave

The Israeli military has massed dozens of tanks and armoured vehicles along its border with the southern Gaza strip in what appears to be a preparation for an invasion of the border city of Rafah. The tanks and armoured vehicles are stationed near Israel's Kerem Shalom crossing next to Rafah. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel masses dozens of tanks near Rafah border

The Israel-Hamas war began over 200 days ago. At this juncture, Israel is about to launch a deadly offensive in Rafah. While Israel's military intelligence chief quit over October 7 killings, cracks within Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet are growing by the day. Can the end of Netanyahu's term, cut short this brutal war?

Israel-Hamas war | Israel: Will deliver painful blows to Hamas

Israel-Hamas war | Gaza war horrors: 200 days & counting

Israel-Hamas war: Is Israel preparing for Rafah ground invasion?

Well tensions are running high on US college campuses, anti-Gaza war protests are spreading across universities nationwide. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war | US: Protests over Gaza war spreads to over a dozen campuses

China is hosting two Palestinian groups Fatah and Hamas reportedly in an attempt to help them resolve internal divisions. While China has not confirmed the reports it said Beijing backs an internal reconciliation among Palestinian factions through consultations. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war | China hosts two Palestinian factions: Reports

Hamas officials in the Gaza Strip claimed to have discovered mass graves with dozens of bodies at two&nbsp;hospitals, further alleging that Israeli forces are responsible for it. The officials reportedly recovered more bodies in the last 24 hours from what is believed to be one of at least three mass graves found at Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza.&nbsp;

As per reports, the Palestinian authorities reported finding scores of bodies in mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis this week and also at the Al Shifa site.&nbsp;

The Palestinian territory's Civil Defence agency said on Monday that health workers had uncovered more than 200 bodies of people killed and buried at Nasser Hospital. The authorities reportedly recovered 35 more bodies in the past day.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-photos-show-extent-of-damage-in-iran-during-alleged-israeli-attack-714281">Satellite photos show extent of damage in Iran during alleged Israeli attack</a>&nbsp;

Mahmud Bassal, who is a spokesman for Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence, told the news agency AFP that "civil defence crews are still recovering bodies from inside Nasser Medical Complex, and since Saturday bodies of nearly 200 martyrs have been retrieved".&nbsp;

The spokesman also said that several of the recovered bodies had decomposed.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Ismail al-Thawabta, who is the head of the Hamas government media office in Gaza, said that the figure was higher. He claimed that 283 bodies were found at the hospital. "We discovered mass graves inside Nasser Medical Complex" of people killed by "the occupation (Israeli) army," Thawabta told AFP.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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03 FEB 2024 - In this footage you see Palestinians digging a mass grave 50m east, at the other side of the building visible in the footage above. (VID 03) 
 
With this text: 
"The bodies of thirty martyrs were buried in the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis." 
 
31.3457065,…
— GeoConfirmed (@GeoConfirmed) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeoConfirmed/status/1782360907579892195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Call for international probe&nbsp;</h2>

The United Nations on Tuesday (Apr 23) called for an international probe into reports of mass graves. The world body said that war crimes may have been committed.&nbsp;

A spokesperson stated that UN rights chief Volker Turk said on Tuesday that he was "horrified" by the destruction of the Nasser and Al Shifa medical facilities.&nbsp;

Ravina Shamdasani, who is the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said: "We feel the need to raise the alarm because clearly there have been multiple bodies discovered."&nbsp;

The spokesperson further added that Turk said he had been horrified by the reported mass grave discoveries and the hospitals' destruction.&nbsp;

"Some of them had their hands tied, which of course indicates serious violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and these need to be subjected to further investigations," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

The hospitals were often targeted over more than six months of war in Gaza. Notably, hospitals are protected under international law. Israel has accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of using Gazan medical facilities as command centres and holding hostages abducted during its attack inside Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas officials in the Gaza Strip claimed to have discovered mass graves with dozens of bodies at two hospitals, further alleging that Israeli forces are responsible for it.

Hamas officials in the Gaza Strip claimed to have discovered mass graves with dozens of bodies at two hospitals, further alleging that Israeli forces are responsible for it. The officials reportedly recovered more bodies in the last 24 hours from what is believed to be one of at least three mass graves found at Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. As per reports, the Palestinian authorities reported finding scores of bodies in mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis this week and also at the Al Shifa site. The Palestinian territory's Civil Defence agency said on Monday that health workers had uncovered more than 200 bodies of people killed and buried at Nasser Hospital. The authorities reportedly recovered 35 more bodies in the past day. Also read: Satellite photos show extent of damage in Iran during alleged Israeli attack Mahmud Bassal, who is a spokesman for Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence, told the news agency AFP that "civil defence crews are still recovering bodies from inside Nasser Medical Complex, and since Saturday bodies of nearly 200 martyrs have been retrieved". The spokesman also said that several of the recovered bodies had decomposed. On the other hand, Ismail al-Thawabta, who is the head of the Hamas government media office in Gaza, said that the figure was higher. He claimed that 283 bodies were found at the hospital. "We discovered mass graves inside Nasser Medical Complex" of people killed by "the occupation (Israeli) army," Thawabta told AFP. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 03 FEB 2024 - In this footage you see Palestinians digging a mass grave 50m east, at the other side of the building visible in the footage above. (VID 03) With this text: "The bodies of thirty martyrs were buried in the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis." 31.3457065,… — GeoConfirmed (@GeoConfirmed) April 22, 2024 × Call for international probe The United Nations on Tuesday (Apr 23) called for an international probe into reports of mass graves. The world body said that war crimes may have been committed. A spokesperson stated that UN rights chief Volker Turk said on Tuesday that he was "horrified" by the destruction of the Nasser and Al Shifa medical facilities. Ravina Shamdasani, who is the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said: "We feel the need to raise the alarm because clearly there have been multiple bodies discovered." The spokesperson further added that Turk said he had been horrified by the reported mass grave discoveries and the hospitals' destruction. "Some of them had their hands tied, which of course indicates serious violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and these need to be subjected to further investigations," the spokesperson added. The hospitals were often targeted over more than six months of war in Gaza. Notably, hospitals are protected under international law. Israel has accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of using Gazan medical facilities as command centres and holding hostages abducted during its attack inside Israel on October 7. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Bodies ‘with hands tied’ recovered from mass graves in Gaza

Iranian state media on Friday (Apr 19) reported that Israel carried out a military strike inside the country - a move that has escalated tensions in the Middle East region. Israel hasn't claimed responsibility, but source-based media reports noted that Israel currently is assessing its effectiveness and the damage it caused.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, state media reported that Iran's air defence systems were activated in the cities of Isfahan and Tabriz. Explosions were heard close to a major military airbase near Isfahan, which is a city of historic and strategic importance.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What led to this escalation?</h2>

Recently, an attack levelled the five-storey consular annexe of the Iranian embassy in the Syrian capital and killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of whom were senior commanders. A few days after that, the Iranian army launched a major drone and missile attack on Israel in retaliation, with Tehran claiming that all objectives were achieved.&nbsp;

After the drone and missile attack, Mohammad Bagheri, the Iranian armed forces chief of staff, told state TV: "Operation Honest Promise... was completed successfully from last night to this morning and achieved all its objectives".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the current situation?</h2>

The latest alleged attack comes amid fears of major spillover of the ongoing war in Gaza between Israel and Iran-backed Palestinian militants looming over the region. Meanwhile, world leaders have again appealed for de-escalation and urged all parties to opt for diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts... a scenario that doesn't appear to happen.&nbsp;

The question is, why Isfahan was targeted? What's the significance of this city?&nbsp;

If Israel actually aimed at Isfahan, it could have been a signal or warning to tell the world that it could strike deep inside Iran. Especially, on targets such as Isfahan, which is an Iranian military airbase housing multiple squadrons of f-14 Tomcat fighter aircraft. Isfahan also has significant sites including military research and development facilities and bases. Natanz, a nearby city, is home to one of the country's nuclear enrichment sites.&nbsp;

The senior military officer in Isfahan, Brigadier General Siavash Mihandoost, told state TV that people had heard defence systems shooting at a target in the air, not an explosion on the ground.

Nuclear facilities in Isfahan were reported to be "completely secure", Tasnim said, and the UN's atomic watchdog confirmed "no damage" to Iran's nuclear sites.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Confusion over the attack?&nbsp;</h2>

So far, Israeli or Iranian officials have not given any reaction to the attack. Also, there's no clarity over the extent of the damage. But Iranian media aired conflicting reports, with Tasnim news agency, citing "informed sources," denying that Iran had been attacked from outside.&nbsp;

Tasnim said that "contrary to the rumours and claims" made in foreign media, "there are no reports of an attack from abroad on Iran's central city of Isfahan or any other part of the country".&nbsp;

Three Iranian officials told The New York Times that small drones carried out the attack, possibly launched from inside Iran. The officials also claimed that the radar systems had not detected unidentified aircraft entering Iranian airspace.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Fars news agency reported "three explosions" close to Qahjavarestan, near Isfahan airport and the 8th Shekari Army airbase. Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian, meanwhile, said "several" drones had been "successfully shot down".&nbsp;

Dalirian said on social media platform X there were "no reports of a missile attack".&nbsp;

The official IRNA news agency said that the "reports indicate there was no major damage or large explosions caused by the impact of any air threat".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving &nbsp;Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iranian state media on Friday (Apr 19) reported that Israel carried out a military strike inside the country - a move that has escalated tensions in the Middle East region.

Iranian state media on Friday (Apr 19) reported that Israel carried out a military strike inside the country - a move that has escalated tensions in the Middle East region. Israel hasn't claimed responsibility, but source-based media reports noted that Israel currently is assessing its effectiveness and the damage it caused. In the aftermath, state media reported that Iran's air defence systems were activated in the cities of Isfahan and Tabriz. Explosions were heard close to a major military airbase near Isfahan, which is a city of historic and strategic importance. Also read: US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran What led to this escalation? Recently, an attack levelled the five-storey consular annexe of the Iranian embassy in the Syrian capital and killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of whom were senior commanders. A few days after that, the Iranian army launched a major drone and missile attack on Israel in retaliation, with Tehran claiming that all objectives were achieved. After the drone and missile attack, Mohammad Bagheri, the Iranian armed forces chief of staff, told state TV: "Operation Honest Promise... was completed successfully from last night to this morning and achieved all its objectives". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan What's the current situation? The latest alleged attack comes amid fears of major spillover of the ongoing war in Gaza between Israel and Iran-backed Palestinian militants looming over the region. Meanwhile, world leaders have again appealed for de-escalation and urged all parties to opt for diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts... a scenario that doesn't appear to happen. The question is, why Isfahan was targeted? What's the significance of this city? If Israel actually aimed at Isfahan, it could have been a signal or warning to tell the world that it could strike deep inside Iran. Especially, on targets such as Isfahan, which is an Iranian military airbase housing multiple squadrons of f-14 Tomcat fighter aircraft. Isfahan also has significant sites including military research and development facilities and bases. Natanz, a nearby city, is home to one of the country's nuclear enrichment sites. The senior military officer in Isfahan, Brigadier General Siavash Mihandoost, told state TV that people had heard defence systems shooting at a target in the air, not an explosion on the ground. Nuclear facilities in Isfahan were reported to be "completely secure", Tasnim said, and the UN's atomic watchdog confirmed "no damage" to Iran's nuclear sites. Watch this report: × Confusion over the attack? So far, Israeli or Iranian officials have not given any reaction to the attack. Also, there's no clarity over the extent of the damage. But Iranian media aired conflicting reports, with Tasnim news agency, citing "informed sources," denying that Iran had been attacked from outside. Tasnim said that "contrary to the rumours and claims" made in foreign media, "there are no reports of an attack from abroad on Iran's central city of Isfahan or any other part of the country". Three Iranian officials told The New York Times that small drones carried out the attack, possibly launched from inside Iran. The officials also claimed that the radar systems had not detected unidentified aircraft entering Iranian airspace. Meanwhile, Fars news agency reported "three explosions" close to Qahjavarestan, near Isfahan airport and the 8th Shekari Army airbase. Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian, meanwhile, said "several" drones had been "successfully shot down". Dalirian said on social media platform X there were "no reports of a missile attack". The official IRNA news agency said that the "reports indicate there was no major damage or large explosions caused by the impact of any air threat". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

What’s the significance of Isfahan? Why did Israel ‘target’ this Iranian city?

Qatar Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Wednesday (Apr 17) told a Doha news conference that the nation is reassessing its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas after suffering criticism.&nbsp;

Al Thani said, "There is exploitation and abuse of the Qatari role."

He further added that Qatar had been the victim of "point-scoring" by "politicians who are trying to conduct election campaigns by slighting the State of Qatar".&nbsp;

The Qatari prime minister, who is also the foreign minister, said there was a "misuse of this mediation for narrow political interests, and this necessitated Qatar to undertake a full evaluation of this role".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-massive-response-if-israel-retaliates-as-uk-says-israelis-will-do-so-712300">Iran warns of ‘massive response’ if Israel retaliates as UK says Israelis will</a>&nbsp;

World leaders are calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.&nbsp;

The war is now spreading to other regions, escalating tensions in West Asia, especially after Iran's first-ever direct attack on its arch-foe Israel this weekend.

Qatar has been engaged in weeks of behind-the-scenes talks aiming to secure a truce in Gaza, in which the United States and Egypt have also assisted. But the latest comment from the Qatari &nbsp;PM has emerged as a major setback.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-targeting-refugee-camps-11-including-children-dead-after-airstrike-on-al-maghazi-refugee-camp-712191">Israel targeting refugee camps? 11, including children, dead in airstrike on Al-Maghazi refugee camp</a>&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Sheikh Mohammed said negotiations had stalled. The Qatari premier said, "We are going through a sensitive stage with some stalling, and we are trying as much as possible to address this stalling."&nbsp;

He said that Doha had "warned from the beginning of this war against the expansion of the circle of conflict, and today we see conflicts on different fronts".

"We constantly call on the international community to assume its responsibilities and stop this war," he added. He further said that the people of Gaza faced "siege and starvation" with humanitarian aid being used as a "tool for political blackmail".&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel vs Iran: Which country will the Arab nations support?

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<h2>Israel-Hamas war&nbsp;</h2>

The Israel-Hamas war began when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel that resulted in about 1,170 deaths, mostly civilians, as per Israeli official figures.

Israel's military has waged a retaliatory offensive against Hamas that has killed 33,899 people in Gaza, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Qatar Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Wednesday (Apr 17) told a Doha news conference that the nation is reassessing its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas after suffering criticism.

Qatar Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Wednesday (Apr 17) told a Doha news conference that the nation is reassessing its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas after suffering criticism. Al Thani said, "There is exploitation and abuse of the Qatari role." He further added that Qatar had been the victim of "point-scoring" by "politicians who are trying to conduct election campaigns by slighting the State of Qatar". The Qatari prime minister, who is also the foreign minister, said there was a "misuse of this mediation for narrow political interests, and this necessitated Qatar to undertake a full evaluation of this role". Also read: Iran warns of ‘massive response’ if Israel retaliates as UK says Israelis will World leaders are calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. The war is now spreading to other regions, escalating tensions in West Asia, especially after Iran's first-ever direct attack on its arch-foe Israel this weekend. Qatar has been engaged in weeks of behind-the-scenes talks aiming to secure a truce in Gaza, in which the United States and Egypt have also assisted. But the latest comment from the Qatari PM has emerged as a major setback. Also read: Israel targeting refugee camps? 11, including children, dead in airstrike on Al-Maghazi refugee camp Earlier in the day, Sheikh Mohammed said negotiations had stalled. The Qatari premier said, "We are going through a sensitive stage with some stalling, and we are trying as much as possible to address this stalling." He said that Doha had "warned from the beginning of this war against the expansion of the circle of conflict, and today we see conflicts on different fronts". "We constantly call on the international community to assume its responsibilities and stop this war," he added. He further said that the people of Gaza faced "siege and starvation" with humanitarian aid being used as a "tool for political blackmail". Watch: Israel vs Iran: Which country will the Arab nations support? × Israel-Hamas war The Israel-Hamas war began when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel that resulted in about 1,170 deaths, mostly civilians, as per Israeli official figures. Israel's military has waged a retaliatory offensive against Hamas that has killed 33,899 people in Gaza, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar reassessing its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas, says PM

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region.&nbsp;

The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves.&nbsp;

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-to-avoid-major-escalation-in-retaliatory-attack-israel-remains-on-high-alert-710328">Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack, Israel on 'high alert'</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Fear looms over&nbsp;Israel-Iran war&nbsp;</h2>

This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office.&nbsp;

Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-extends-tehran-flight-suspension-amid-middle-east-security-concerns-710165">Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Pentagon has given an "iron-clad" commitment to Israel's security against the Iranian threats.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said, "Echoing President Biden's unequivocal message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that they are keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas.&nbsp;

"Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said in comments released by his office following a visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Watch: Israeli jets hit Hezbollah military targets&nbsp;

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<h2>France also issued&nbsp;travel advisory&nbsp;</h2>

The French foreign ministry on Friday advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Iran's threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region.

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region. The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves. "They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added. Also read: Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack, Israel on 'high alert' Fear looms over Israel-Iran war This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office. Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. Also read: Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns Meanwhile, the Pentagon has given an "iron-clad" commitment to Israel's security against the Iranian threats. The Pentagon said, "Echoing President Biden's unequivocal message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that they are keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas. "Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said in comments released by his office following a visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel. Watch: Israeli jets hit Hezbollah military targets × France also issued travel advisory The French foreign ministry on Friday advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Iran's threats against its regional adversary. In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel till further notice

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10). The report coincided with Tehran's warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, also said on Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;

Suspected Israeli warplanes bombed Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital on April 1 in a strike that Iran said killed seven military advisers. It was seen as a major escalation.&nbsp;

"When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil. The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be," Khamenei said in a speech marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-extends-tehran-flight-suspension-amid-middle-east-security-concerns-710165">Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns</a>&nbsp;

The Bloomberg report cited people familiar with US and Israeli intelligence assessments, saying that Iran or its proxies could launch strikes.&nbsp;

The strike&nbsp;could involve high-precision missile&nbsp;and drone attacks&nbsp;at&nbsp;military and government sites in Israel with the source telling the media outlet that the strikes were a matter of when, not if.&nbsp;

In another report published by the Axios news site, Gen. Michael Kurilla, who is head of the US Central Command, was expected to visit Israel on Thursday. He will consult with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other officials to discuss the Iranian threat.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rwanda-genocide-envoy-mukangira-shares-personal-tale-of-loss-pays-homage-to-victims-710129">Rwanda genocide: Envoy Mukangira shares personal tale of loss, pays homage to victims in Delhi</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel and US fear Iran might attack Israel using missiles and&nbsp;drones&nbsp;

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Experts have raised concerns over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas spreading and entering&nbsp;adjacent regions as the situation in West Asia continues to escalate. The situation&nbsp;has therefore called for and immediate ceasefire.

While speaking about the direction and location from where the attack might come, the source said that US and Western intelligence have indicated an attack may not necessarily come from Israel's north, where Tehran's ally Hezbollah in Lebanon is located.&nbsp;

US President also weighed in as he said on Wednesday, "We also want to address the Iranian threat to launch a significant - they're threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel. As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again, iron-clad - all we can to protect Israel's security."&nbsp;

As per the report, Israel appears to have knowledge of such potential attack, with&nbsp;Foreign Minister of Israel Katz saying on Wednesday that his country will respond if Iran attacks from its own soil.&nbsp;

"If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran," Katz said in a post on the social media platform X.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10).

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10). The report coincided with Tehran's warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, also said on Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. Suspected Israeli warplanes bombed Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital on April 1 in a strike that Iran said killed seven military advisers. It was seen as a major escalation. "When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil. The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be," Khamenei said in a speech marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Also read: Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns The Bloomberg report cited people familiar with US and Israeli intelligence assessments, saying that Iran or its proxies could launch strikes. The strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel with the source telling the media outlet that the strikes were a matter of when, not if. In another report published by the Axios news site, Gen. Michael Kurilla, who is head of the US Central Command, was expected to visit Israel on Thursday. He will consult with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other officials to discuss the Iranian threat. Also read: Rwanda genocide: Envoy Mukangira shares personal tale of loss, pays homage to victims in Delhi Watch: Israel and US fear Iran might attack Israel using missiles and drones × Experts have raised concerns over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas spreading and entering adjacent regions as the situation in West Asia continues to escalate. The situation has therefore called for and immediate ceasefire. While speaking about the direction and location from where the attack might come, the source said that US and Western intelligence have indicated an attack may not necessarily come from Israel's north, where Tehran's ally Hezbollah in Lebanon is located. US President also weighed in as he said on Wednesday, "We also want to address the Iranian threat to launch a significant - they're threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel. As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again, iron-clad - all we can to protect Israel's security." As per the report, Israel appears to have knowledge of such potential attack, with Foreign Minister of Israel Katz saying on Wednesday that his country will respond if Iran attacks from its own soil. "If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran," Katz said in a post on the social media platform X. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

US warns of major Iranian strikes on Israel, raises concerns of war escalating

Reports suggest Hamas has stated it lacks the ability to locate 40 hostages needed for a ceasefire deal. Watch in for more details!

Israel War | Hamas says it lacks ability to locate 40 hostages: Report

Israel War: Hamas says it lacks ability to locate 40 hostages needed for a ceasefire deal

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - US extends 'ironclad' support to Israel - Russia urges citizens not to travel to West Asia - Sunak spent over $2 mn on focus groups - Louisiana: Tornado rips through slidell - Hong Kong to launch bitcoin ETFs

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