Qatar is pushing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, amid pressure on Netanyahu to bring the hostages home. What are the non-negotiables that have forced the two sides into a deadlock?

Israel-Hamas hostage deal remains precarious

Following top court's verdict against Israel on accusations of genocide, the country has raised an alarm over claims of humanitarian volunteers having links to Hamas' attack on October 7. How has the West reacted to these accusations? And what impact does it have on Gaza's starving civilians.

Breaking down ICJ's verdict on Israel & UNRWA accusations of Hamas link

In the troubled waters of the Red Sea, the Indian navy is actively helping ships in distress. The Indian navy warships have led multiple efforts to rescue merchant vessels attacked by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.

Indian Navy rescues another Iranian-flagged vessel

Latest in Israel-Hamas war: Israel claims success in Khan Younis. US to punish those accused of settler violence in West bank. According to reports Hamas may demand some changes in the existing proposal. The new ceasefire proposal provides for 40 day pause in fighting. Hamas to release remaining hostages if truce comes into effect. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel claims success in Khan Younis

Thousands of Arabs and pro-Palestinian supporters have boycotted major U.S. firms, over their alleged backing of Israel's military actions in Gaza. How are local companies making use of this social wave?

How West Asian businesses are capitalising on boycott of American manufacturers

Man takes seven people hostage at Procter & Gamble factory. Police secures release of all hostages. Authorities say all hostages released unharmed. Watch to know more!

Turkey: Man takes seven people hostage at Procter & Gamble factory

The Biden administration has warned that the United States will have a multi-tiered response to the deadly attack in Jordan that killed US troops. Washington has blamed the attack - the first one to kill US troops in the Middle East since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October - on Iran-backed militants.

US blames Iran-backed group for drone strike in Jordan

In the latest development from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Qatar on Thursday (Feb 1) revealed that the Palestinian militant group has given "initial positive confirmation" to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages.

"The meeting in Paris succeeded in consolidating the proposals...," Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said of talks Qatari, US, Israeli and Egyptian officials had on Sunday.

"That proposal has been approved by the Israeli side and now we have an initial positive confirmation from the Hamas&nbsp;side."

Ansari stated that there were hopes of "good news" about a new pause in the fighting "in the next couple of weeks".

However, the Hamas group stated that there was no consensus yet on the proposed plan.

"There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet, the factions have important observations, and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the news agency AFP quoted a source close to Hamas as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-order-targets-jewish-settler-violence-in-west-bank-netanyahu-reacts-686127">Biden's order targets Jewish settler violence in West Bank, Netanyahu reacts</a>

The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman said there was "still a very tough road in front of us".

"We are optimistic because both sides now agreed to the premise that would lead to a next pause," said Ansari.

"We're hopeful that in the next couple of weeks, we'll be able to share good news about that," he added.

On Sunday, mediators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the Gaza war and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review.

Qatar has played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November.&nbsp;

Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives.

The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.&nbsp;

The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the latest development from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Qatar on Thursday (Feb 1) revealed that the Palestinian militant group has given "initial positive confirmation" to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages.

In the latest development from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, Qatar on Thursday (Feb 1) revealed that the Palestinian militant group has given "initial positive confirmation" to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages. "The meeting in Paris succeeded in consolidating the proposals...," Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said of talks Qatari, US, Israeli and Egyptian officials had on Sunday. "That proposal has been approved by the Israeli side and now we have an initial positive confirmation from the Hamas side." Ansari stated that there were hopes of "good news" about a new pause in the fighting "in the next couple of weeks". However, the Hamas group stated that there was no consensus yet on the proposed plan. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet, the factions have important observations, and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the news agency AFP quoted a source close to Hamas as saying. Also read: Biden's order targets Jewish settler violence in West Bank, Netanyahu reacts The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman said there was "still a very tough road in front of us". "We are optimistic because both sides now agreed to the premise that would lead to a next pause," said Ansari. "We're hopeful that in the next couple of weeks, we'll be able to share good news about that," he added. On Sunday, mediators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the Gaza war and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review. Qatar has played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November. Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives. The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar

An overwhelming majority of the Palestinians in the Gaza strip are descendants of refugees. And these descendants of refugees have been turned into refugees all over again. The Israel-Gaza war that has dragged on for more than 119 days now has sparked a humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza strip. At this moment tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza strip, and an overwhelming 70% of those are said to young women and children. But the plight of those who are caught in this Israeli offensive is beyond what words can describe. In the biting cold of the winter, a huge number of the displaced Palestinians who have now been rendered homeless are living in tents. The humanitarian aid that is being allowed into the Gaza strip has been described as a drop in the ocean. And starvation, chronic hunger and disease has now become the reality of Gaza. Mohammed Saleh gets you more details

Starvation grips Gaza's Children as Israeli continues with deadly offensive

Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza. UN Palestinian aid agency warns cuts may force shutdown. UNRWA could shut down by end of February. The UNRWA warns of shutdown as countries pull out support. Watch to know more!

UNRWA Crisis: Israel demands UNRWA be stripped of authority in Gaza

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking&nbsp;during a visit to Lebanon, he&nbsp;said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.

<h2>Terms and conditions applied</h2>

The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process."

"It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gives-initial-positive-confirmation-on-truce-plan-says-qatar-686142">Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar</a>

"What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own."

However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza.&nbsp;

"You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seven-hostages-rescued-as-turkish-police-detain-gunman-protesting-gaza-war-at-procter-gamble-factory-686155">Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter &amp; Gamble factory</a>

The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region."

<h2>International support for two-state</h2>

Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement.

Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood.

Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/red-sea-crisis-us-military-says-it-downed-houthi-missiles-in-red-sea-686198/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo".

As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire.

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking during a visit to Lebanon, he said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Terms and conditions applied The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process." "It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron. Also read | Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar "What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own." However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza. "You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire". Also read | Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter & Gamble factory The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region." International support for two-state Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement. Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood. Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo". As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain could officially recognise a Palestinian state after cease-fire, says top UK diplomat

The Health Ministry in Gaza revealed that Nasser and Al-Amal hospitals in the southern city of Khan Younis are facing a critical humanitarian situation, with both facilities having run out of food.

Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza

The international court of justice delivered a much-anticipated judgment in the genocide case levelled by South Africa against Israel. The court ruled that Israel must prevent genocidal acts in the besieged strip but stopped short of ordering an immediate ceasefire.

South Africa corners Israel over war in Gaza, former says 'Israeli actions plausibly genocidal'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that the UN agency for Palestinian refugees has been “totally infiltrated” by the Hamas terror group, after several countries suspended funding after Israeli accused UNRWA staffers of having participated in the October 7 massacre.

Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA is 'totally infiltered by Hamas'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Hamas has totally infiltrated the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. This comes after several countries suspended funding over Israeli claims that 12 UNRWA staffers participated in the October 7 attack.

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA’s mission must be terminated

The US’ response to the drone attack in Jordan that killed and wounded US service members on Sunday is likely to be more powerful than previous American retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria, though the Pentagon and White House are being careful not to telegraph the administration’s plans.

US base drone attack: Joe Biden under pressure over death of three US soldiers in Jordan

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding.&nbsp;

The step was taken after Israel claimed that the agency’s staff had been involved in the October 7 Hamas attacks, which raised concerns across the world and forced the UN to investigate the issue.&nbsp;

The pause in the funding was confirmed by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller, which was originally scheduled for delivery in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;

The US last week had announced that it is temporarily suspending the funding after reports emerged of UNRWA staff having potential links with the Hamas attacks.&nbsp;

The total impact of the pause is likely to depend on the amount which was authorised by Congress for the current fiscal year.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-alleges-nearly-190-un-staff-doubled-as-hamas-or-islamic-jihad-militants-report-684977">&nbsp;Israel alleges nearly 190 UN staff doubled up as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants: Report</a>

As per Miller, the US has till now provided around USD 121 million worth of funds to UNRWA in the current fiscal year.&nbsp;

He further stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation into the allegations made against UNRWA and acknowledged the important role it has played in providing humanitarian support, which includes education, food relief and healthcare to Gaza's population.

The US and 34 other donor nations are set to hold a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday (Jan 30).&nbsp;

<h2>Halting funds to UN refugee agency will be ‘catastrophic’: UN bodies</h2>

In a joint statement, the heads of multiple UN bodies on Wednesday (Jan 31) said that cutting off funding to the UNRWA will have "catastrophic consequences" for war-torn Gaza.

Watch:&nbsp;UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany &amp; other European nations suspend funding&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unrwa-crisis-after-us-germany-other-european-nations-suspend-funding-world-news-wion-685082/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Withdrawing funds from UNRWA is perilous and would result in the collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza, with far-reaching humanitarian and human rights consequences in the occupied Palestinian territory and across the region," read a statement by&nbsp;the Inter-Agency Standing Committee which comprises&nbsp;heads of different UN organisations.&nbsp;

<h2>UN agency allowed Hamas to use infrastructure for ‘military activity’, alleges Israel</h2>

Israel on Wednesday (Jan 31) further accused UNRWA of allowing the militant group Hamas to use its infrastructure in the Gaza Strip to carry out military activity.

“UNRWA is a front for Hamas. It has been fundamentally compromised in three main ways: hiring terrorists on a massive scale, letting its infrastructure be used for Hamas military activity and relying on Hamas for aid distribution in the Gaza Strip,” said government spokesman Eylon Levy, in a video statement.

Levy further alleged that 10 per cent of UNRWA employees are members of Islamic Jihad militant groups or Hamas in Gaza. “It is not a neutral organisation,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding.

In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding. The step was taken after Israel claimed that the agency’s staff had been involved in the October 7 Hamas attacks, which raised concerns across the world and forced the UN to investigate the issue. The pause in the funding was confirmed by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller, which was originally scheduled for delivery in the weeks ahead. The US last week had announced that it is temporarily suspending the funding after reports emerged of UNRWA staff having potential links with the Hamas attacks. The total impact of the pause is likely to depend on the amount which was authorised by Congress for the current fiscal year. Also read: Israel alleges nearly 190 UN staff doubled up as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants: Report As per Miller, the US has till now provided around USD 121 million worth of funds to UNRWA in the current fiscal year. He further stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation into the allegations made against UNRWA and acknowledged the important role it has played in providing humanitarian support, which includes education, food relief and healthcare to Gaza's population. The US and 34 other donor nations are set to hold a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday (Jan 30). Halting funds to UN refugee agency will be ‘catastrophic’: UN bodies In a joint statement, the heads of multiple UN bodies on Wednesday (Jan 31) said that cutting off funding to the UNRWA will have "catastrophic consequences" for war-torn Gaza. Watch: UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany & other European nations suspend funding "Withdrawing funds from UNRWA is perilous and would result in the collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza, with far-reaching humanitarian and human rights consequences in the occupied Palestinian territory and across the region," read a statement by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee which comprises heads of different UN organisations. UN agency allowed Hamas to use infrastructure for ‘military activity’, alleges Israel Israel on Wednesday (Jan 31) further accused UNRWA of allowing the militant group Hamas to use its infrastructure in the Gaza Strip to carry out military activity. “UNRWA is a front for Hamas. It has been fundamentally compromised in three main ways: hiring terrorists on a massive scale, letting its infrastructure be used for Hamas military activity and relying on Hamas for aid distribution in the Gaza Strip,” said government spokesman Eylon Levy, in a video statement. Levy further alleged that 10 per cent of UNRWA employees are members of Islamic Jihad militant groups or Hamas in Gaza. “It is not a neutral organisation,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas

Militant group Hamas says it is studying a new proposal for a three-stage truce deal and ceasefire, in what seems to be the most serious peace initiative in months. Watch in the report for more details!

Hamas studies new ceasefire proposal | New proposal pitches six-week ceasefire

Israeli Special Forces dressed as civilians and medical staff, infilitrated a hospital in the occupied West Bank. The forces killed three people, they claimed as 'Hamas terrorists'.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli troops, disguised as doctors, raid West Bank hospital

On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.&nbsp;

Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States.&nbsp;

Singh said,&nbsp;"In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks."

But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know.

<h2>Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more&nbsp;</h2>

As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq.&nbsp;

"Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-william-rivers-kennedy-sanders-and-breonna-moffett-the-us-soldiers-killed-in-jordan-685084">Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan?</a>

It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.

Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs.

<h2>Kataib Hezbollah — Leader</h2>

The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi&nbsp;was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985.

As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles.

Watch |&nbsp;Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-crisis-three-us-soldiers-killed-34-injured-in-drone-strike-in-jordan-684934/embed" width="560"></iframe>

However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020.

<h2>Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology</h2>

Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias.&nbsp;

According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology."

On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers-killed-684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a>

It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States.

The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion.

Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria.

Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters.

Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces.&nbsp;

In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.

On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more. Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States. Singh said, "In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks." But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know. Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. "Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide. Also read | Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan? It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia. Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs. Kataib Hezbollah — Leader The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985. As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles. Watch | Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020. Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias. According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology." On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq." Also read | Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States. The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion. Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria. Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters. Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces. In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: EU to grant more financial aid to Ukraine?, Another Israel-Hamas truce in works, EU to continue essential aid to UNRWA, Russian onslaught continues.

EU to grant more financial aid to Ukraine? | Another Israel-Hamas truce in works

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that it has been flooding tunnels in Gaza with large volumes of water in its effort to attack the terrorist infrastructure of Hamas. Watch in this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: IDF confirms flooding Hamas tunnels in Gaza with seawater

Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants.&nbsp;

The allegations made by Israel against the UN Palestinian aid agency’s staff members for being involved in the October 7 attack have led to multiple countries halting funds for the UN agency. As reported by Reuters, the dossier contains names and pictures of 11 staff members who are facing the allegations.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday said that the international organisation has not received a copy of the dossier formally.

Israel has been accused by the Palestinians of falsifying information with the aim of tarnishing UNRWA, which they claimed has fired some staffers and has been investigating the allegations.

<h2>11 staff member&nbsp;names and pictures published in&nbsp;dossier</h2>

The dossier claimed that one among the 11 staff members whose names and pictures have been published is a school counsellor who is facing allegations of helping the son of one of the members&nbsp;in abducting a woman when Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 and kidnapped 253.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers-killed-684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a>

Meanwhile, another UNRWA social worker has been accused of being in some ways involved in the transfer of slain Israeli soldiers' corpses to Gaza and of carrying out coordination with the movements of pick-up trucks&nbsp;which were used for weapon supplies and by the raiders.

In the dossier, a third Palestinian has been accused of participating in a rampage in the Israeli border village Beeri, where one-tenth of residents were killed.&nbsp;

Another staff member is facing accusations of participating in an attack on Reim, which is a site where more than 360 revellers - who were part of a rave party - died and also the place where an army base was overrun.

Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini needs to resign.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US, Israel, Qatar officials meet in Paris for Gaza ceasefire talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-israel-qatar-officials-meet-in-paris-for-gaza-ceasefire-talks-684867/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"UNRWA employees participated in the massacre of October 7. Lazzarini should draw conclusions and resign," he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel has been accused by Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh of launching a "premeditated political attack" on the agency.

<h2>UNRWA&nbsp;'extremely desperate' as&nbsp;funding is halted</h2>

Amid more countries halting funding to the UN agency operating in Gaza, UNRWA claimed while speaking to BBC that it is "extremely desperate" and that "the humanitarian needs in Gaza are growing by the hour".

A UNRWA spokesperson said that if they failed to resume funding, the agency would not be able to continue its operations after the end of February.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants.

Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants. The allegations made by Israel against the UN Palestinian aid agency’s staff members for being involved in the October 7 attack have led to multiple countries halting funds for the UN agency. As reported by Reuters, the dossier contains names and pictures of 11 staff members who are facing the allegations. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday said that the international organisation has not received a copy of the dossier formally. Israel has been accused by the Palestinians of falsifying information with the aim of tarnishing UNRWA, which they claimed has fired some staffers and has been investigating the allegations. 11 staff member names and pictures published in dossier The dossier claimed that one among the 11 staff members whose names and pictures have been published is a school counsellor who is facing allegations of helping the son of one of the members in abducting a woman when Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 and kidnapped 253. Also read: Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement Meanwhile, another UNRWA social worker has been accused of being in some ways involved in the transfer of slain Israeli soldiers' corpses to Gaza and of carrying out coordination with the movements of pick-up trucks which were used for weapon supplies and by the raiders. In the dossier, a third Palestinian has been accused of participating in a rampage in the Israeli border village Beeri, where one-tenth of residents were killed. Another staff member is facing accusations of participating in an attack on Reim, which is a site where more than 360 revellers - who were part of a rave party - died and also the place where an army base was overrun. Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini needs to resign. Watch: US, Israel, Qatar officials meet in Paris for Gaza ceasefire talks "UNRWA employees participated in the massacre of October 7. Lazzarini should draw conclusions and resign," he said. Meanwhile, Israel has been accused by Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh of launching a "premeditated political attack" on the agency. UNRWA 'extremely desperate' as funding is halted Amid more countries halting funding to the UN agency operating in Gaza, UNRWA claimed while speaking to BBC that it is "extremely desperate" and that "the humanitarian needs in Gaza are growing by the hour". A UNRWA spokesperson said that if they failed to resume funding, the agency would not be able to continue its operations after the end of February. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel alleges nearly 190 UN staff doubled up as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants: Report

Antony Blinken to be in Israel for his sixth visit since the October 7 attack. US Secretary of state Antony Blinken will be in Israel from February 3 to February 5. Blinken says ‘real hope’ for new hostage deal. Secretary of state adds, the latest proposal to release hostages in Gaza is 'strong' and 'compelling'.

Antony Blinken sees 'real hope' for Gaza hostage deal

Hamas militants have a variety of home-made or smuggled rockets at their disposal. Now, Israeli military has realised it has been arming Hamas all this time. Here's how the militants are re-purposing Israeli munitions, and Hamas' patchwork of weapons built by Iran, China, Russia and North Korea.

How Israel has been arming Hamas all this while | Weapons from China, Russia, North Korea, Bulgaria

As international mediators push for ceasefire in Gaza. Israel has alleged that over 190 UN staff members doubled as militants.

Israel-Hamas War: Hostage release proposal looks strong, says Blinken | WION Dispatch

Israel-Hamas war: Who builds weapons that Hamas fighters use?

After the US, Australia, UK, Japan & Germany; New Zealand joins the list of countries that have suspended their funding to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees. The UN agency, considered a lifeline for two million people in the besieged enclave has suffered funding cuts after several of its staff were accused of involvement in the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

UNRWA Crisis: Funding paused until allegations investigated, says New Zealand PM

Israel accuses UNRWA workers linked to Hamas' Oct 7 attack. Several key donor countries to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees have halted their funding, following accusations by Israel that several UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas's October 7 attack. The claims surface after ICJ orders Israel to prevent genocide in Gaza. The European Union to investigate UNRWA funding amid Israel's claims. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: EU calls for audit of UNRWA funding

After the US, Australia, UK, Japan & Germany; New Zealand joins the list of countries that have suspended their funding to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees.The UN agency, considered a lifeline for two million people in the besieged enclave has suffered funding cuts after several of its staff were accused of involvement in the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany & other European nations suspend funding | World News | WION

hamas

Hamas, News on Hamas, stories on Hamas, articles on Hamas, Hamas stories at Wion, Hamas news, Hamas latest news