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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israel-Hamas war: Satellite images show construction of wall on Egypt-Rafah border

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

Israel-Gaza: Why are children paying the price of Netanyahu's war

Out of the 99 journalists killed in 2023, 77 lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war, the Committee to Protect Journalists said on Thursday (Feb 15), according to AFP.

The CPJ stated that the conflict made these 12 months the deadliest for the media industry.

It said that the number of deaths of the reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year had the war not broken between the two sides.

However, it added that the fatalities were stable in Somalia and the Philippines.

"In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," the CPJ said.

This is the highest-ever death toll reported since the year 2015 and also an increase of approximately 44 per cent on 2022's figures.

"In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," the CPJ said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-builds-wall-deploys-tanks-on-gaza-border-to-prevent-refugee-influx-report-690935">Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report</a>

<h2>72 out of 77 journalists killed in war were Palestinians</h2>

The New York-based press freedom organisation highlighted that out of the 77 journalists killed in the Israel-Hamas war, 72 were Palestinians.

Three Lebanese and two Israelis were also killed.

"Journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines," said CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg.&nbsp;

"The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond. Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world,"&nbsp;Ginsberg further said.

Earlier, on Feb 7, the organisation said that the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict had risen to 85.&nbsp;

CPJ has called it "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces, and said that it was investigating if the journalists who lost their lives in the war were deliberately targeted by Israeli soldiers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Out of the 99 journalists killed in 2023, 77 lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war, the Committee to Protect Journalists said on Thursday (Feb 15), according to AFP.

Out of the 99 journalists killed in 2023, 77 lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war, the Committee to Protect Journalists said on Thursday (Feb 15), according to AFP. The CPJ stated that the conflict made these 12 months the deadliest for the media industry. It said that the number of deaths of the reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year had the war not broken between the two sides. However, it added that the fatalities were stable in Somalia and the Philippines. "In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," the CPJ said. This is the highest-ever death toll reported since the year 2015 and also an increase of approximately 44 per cent on 2022's figures. "In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," the CPJ said. Also read: Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report 72 out of 77 journalists killed in war were Palestinians The New York-based press freedom organisation highlighted that out of the 77 journalists killed in the Israel-Hamas war, 72 were Palestinians. Three Lebanese and two Israelis were also killed. "Journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines," said CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg. "The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond. Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," Ginsberg further said. Earlier, on Feb 7, the organisation said that the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict had risen to 85. CPJ has called it "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces, and said that it was investigating if the journalists who lost their lives in the war were deliberately targeted by Israeli soldiers. (With inputs from agencies)

77 of 99 journalists killed in 2023 lost their lives in Israel-Hamas war: Report

UN officials on Friday (Feb 16) said thousands of Palestinians are fleeing the southern Gazan city of Rafah as intense Israeli bombardment continues. The statement from the UN came as airstrikes on Rafah killed at least 13 people overnight, according to hospital officials.

It is speculated that 1.4 million people have made their way to Rafah after being displaced from other territories. Hundreds of thousands are living in sprawling tent camps.

Speaking to reporters, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said people were moving in large numbers towards Deir al-Balah, which is roughly 16 kilometres (10 miles) north of Rafah.

“In Rafah, humanitarian conditions have become increasingly severe, with continued reports of people stopping aid trucks to take food,” he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians

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“Vulnerable segments of the population include children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions, are particularly susceptible to the risk of malnutrition,” he added.

Dujarric added that the Israeli military campaign has severely hindered the delivery of aid to the besieged territory.

<h2>Israel’s stance</h2>

Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind.

On allegations of genocide, Israel strongly denies the claims by Hamas and Gazan authorities. Israel says it only targets Hamas militants and does all to spare civilians. The Jewish nation also claims that Hamas’ tactic of embedding in civilian areas makes it difficult to avoid civilian casualties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1xkHOwadCjviWRnLHnh0Wy" data-ved="2ahUKEwiC6LXfrLKEAxXL7zgGHdgJAm8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shame-on-him-israel-slams-un-aid-chief-after-he-says-hamas-not-terrorist-group-for-us-691165" jsname="YKoRaf">`Shame on him`, Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’</a>

The number of Palestinians killed during the war in Gaza has surpassed 28,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.

<h2>UN court rejects motion against Rafah offensive</h2>

Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday dismissed a motion brought by South Africa to impose urgent measures to safeguard Rafah.

The top UN court said in a statement that the “perilous situation” in Rafah “demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures" that it ordered on January 26.

However, the court warned that Israel “remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention.”

(With inputs from agencies)

UN officials on Friday (Feb 16) said thousands of Palestinians are fleeing the southern Gazan city of Rafah as intense Israeli bombardment continues. The statement from the UN came as airstrikes on Rafah killed at least 13 people overnight, according to hospital officials.

UN officials on Friday (Feb 16) said thousands of Palestinians are fleeing the southern Gazan city of Rafah as intense Israeli bombardment continues. The statement from the UN came as airstrikes on Rafah killed at least 13 people overnight, according to hospital officials. It is speculated that 1.4 million people have made their way to Rafah after being displaced from other territories. Hundreds of thousands are living in sprawling tent camps. Speaking to reporters, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said people were moving in large numbers towards Deir al-Balah, which is roughly 16 kilometres (10 miles) north of Rafah. “In Rafah, humanitarian conditions have become increasingly severe, with continued reports of people stopping aid trucks to take food,” he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians × “Vulnerable segments of the population include children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions, are particularly susceptible to the risk of malnutrition,” he added. Dujarric added that the Israeli military campaign has severely hindered the delivery of aid to the besieged territory. Israel’s stance Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind. On allegations of genocide, Israel strongly denies the claims by Hamas and Gazan authorities. Israel says it only targets Hamas militants and does all to spare civilians. The Jewish nation also claims that Hamas’ tactic of embedding in civilian areas makes it difficult to avoid civilian casualties. Also read: `Shame on him`, Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’ The number of Palestinians killed during the war in Gaza has surpassed 28,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. UN court rejects motion against Rafah offensive Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday dismissed a motion brought by South Africa to impose urgent measures to safeguard Rafah. The top UN court said in a statement that the “perilous situation” in Rafah “demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures" that it ordered on January 26. However, the court warned that Israel “remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli military campaign intensifies

Israel-Palestine war: Egypt says it will not accept refugees from Gaza

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

Israel-Hamas War: Israel urges removal of Hezbollah fighters from border

The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us."

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.”

Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government.

“It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added.

“If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview.

After facing the backlash, he took to&nbsp;social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview.&nbsp;

"Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X.

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Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council. 
 
This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along.
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNReliefChief/status/1758177347969106311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added.

Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-due-to-lack-of-medical-hospital-in-israel-raided-gaza-hospital-says-hamas-run-health-ministry-690999">Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry</a>

“As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added.

<h2>'Shame on him'</h2>

Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”.

Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.”

“We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.”&nbsp;

Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.”

“The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us.

The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us." UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.” Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government. “It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added. “If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview. After facing the backlash, he took to social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview. "Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X. Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council. This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along. — Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) February 15, 2024 × "This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added. Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.” Also read: Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry “As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added. 'Shame on him' Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”. Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.” “We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.” Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.” “The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read. (With inputs from agencies)

'Shame on him': Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade.

<h2>Highest toll</h2>

As per the organisation, this is the highest toll since 2015, an approximate 44 per cent increase on the previous year's (2022) figures.

The CPJ, as cited by the news agency AFP, said that if not for the conflict in the Middle East, the killing of reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-claims-to-have-killed-hezbollah-commander-in-lebanon-strike-690703">Israel army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike</a>

"In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," it said in a statement.

CPJ said that of the 77 journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas war, a vast majority — 72 of them — were Palestinians. Of the remaining five, three were Lebanese and two were Israelis.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza

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<h2>Bearing witness on the frontlines</h2>

In a statement, CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg remarked that "journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines."&nbsp;

"The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond."&nbsp;

"Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-prefers-joe-bidens-presidency-over-trump-in-white-house-690509">Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House</a>

While CPJ figures put the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict at 77, as per data released on February 7&nbsp;by the New York-based press freedom organisation, the death toll has risen to 85.

CPJ previously labelled the deaths "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces. It is reportedly investigating the deaths of a dozen journalists killed during the Gaza war, looking into whether their deaths constitute a "war crime" — if they were deliberately killed by Israeli forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

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

Families of hostages urge ICJ to arrest Hamas leaders

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

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

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

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

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

An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.

On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire.

While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah.

An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports.

"The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-probes-deadly-strikes-in-gaza-and-reported-use-of-white-phosphorus-in-lebanon-report-690361">US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report</a>

Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family.

The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13.

The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters.

The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel". 
&nbsp; 
It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh.

Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on 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)&nbsp;

An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.

An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah. An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports. "The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Also read: US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family. The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13. The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters. The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel". It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh. Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on 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)

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill 9 amid concerns over cross-border escalation

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

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

Israeli troops launch raid on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza. Staff say one person killed and eight injured in attack as un aid chief warns Rafah offensive could cause refugee exodus into Egypt. To know more watch this interview with the Senior fellow of National Security Institute, Morgan Lorraine Vina.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel claims Nasser hospital being used by Hamas militants

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

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

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

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

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports&nbsp;on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to&nbsp;the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-attacks-disrupt-red-sea-shipping-houthi-leader-claims-real-victory-688428">As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory'</a>

"Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added.

<h2>Is Israel to blame?</h2>

The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT).

"Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement.

While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency)&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes.

Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after&nbsp;Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel&nbsp;has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP.

Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

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