Protests erupted across Israel on August 17, 2025, as families of hostages and supporters staged a nationwide strike, demanding the government take urgent action to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and to halt military operations in the region.

Israel-Gaza war: Israel's highways seized by massive hostage release protests

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting.He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-want-everyone-both-living-and-fallen-netanyahu-says-partial-hostage-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-is-behind-us-1755025818107">'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’</a><h2>Why are families of hostages angry?</h2>Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home.“Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added.They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.”<h2>What triggered the general strike?</h2>The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages.According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.”<h2>What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza?</h2>Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security.<h2>How many hostages remain in Gaza?</h2>Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.

Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticised nationwide protests on Sunday (August 17) that called for an end to the Gaza war, accusing demonstrators of giving Hamas more leverage in ongoing talks. “Those who call today for ending the war without defeating Hamas are not only hardening Hamas’s position and distancing the release of our hostages, they are also ensuring that the atrocities of October 7 will repeat themselves again and again,” Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. He added, “To make progress on the release of our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel, we must complete the mission and defeat Hamas.” Also read: 'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’ Why are families of hostages angry? Netanyahu’s comments sparked outrage among families of those held captive in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the majority of relatives, accused the prime minister of misleading the public and blocking deals that could have brought their loved ones home. “Netanyahu, for 22 months the hostages are languishing in Gaza, on your watch,” the group said in a statement. “Instead of deceiving the public, disseminating spin and slandering the families of hostages, bring our loved ones back in a deal and end the war,” he added. They further charged that “today everyone in Israel already knows that there were many opportunities to bring the hostages back. The one who torpedoed, rejected and avoided [a deal] is the one who raised the price.” What triggered the general strike? The strike was led by the October Council, which includes survivors of the Hamas attack and families of those killed or kidnapped on 7 October. The group is demanding an immediate end to the war, accountability from Israel’s leadership, and the safe return of the hostages. According to the Hostages Forum, “hundreds of thousands” joined the demonstrations, while “thousands of big and small business closed their doors to allow their workers to join the clear call: solidarity, mutual responsibility and bringing our loved ones back.” What is Netanyahu’s position on Gaza? Netanyahu insists that Hamas must be defeated and disarmed before any ceasefire can be agreed. He said Hamas wants Israel to completely withdraw from Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor on the border with Egypt, which he argued would allow the group to “regroup, rearm, and attack us again.” The prime minister said that he remained “determined to implement” a security cabinet decision to push forward with the IDF’s operation in Gaza City, which he described as essential for Israel’s long-term security. How many hostages remain in Gaza? Fifty hostages are still being held, 49 from the 251 taken on 7 October and the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014. Officials believe 28 of them are dead, 20 are alive, and there are serious concerns about the condition of two others. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied claims that he turned down ceasefire offers that could have secured their release, insisting that Hamas has made unreasonable demands and abandoned negotiations.

Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned anti-war protests, claiming they strengthen Hamas and hinder hostage negotiations. He insisted that defeating Hamas is essential to prevent future attacks and ensure Gaza is no longer a threat.

'October 7 will repeat': Netanyahu says Israelis calling to end war are 'strengthening Hamas' amid backlash from hostage families

As Prime Minister Netanyahu advances a new Gaza offensive, opposition groups escalate calls for a nationwide strike, deepening Israel’s political and social rifts.


Netanyahu pushes new Gaza offensive amid deep domestic divide 

The Israel Defense Forces have greenlit a fresh Gaza offensive plan, signalling a likely escalation as the military readies for expanded operations amid rising regional tensions.


Israel Defense Forces Vows to Press On Until Every Hostage is Freed and Hamas is Defeated

Heavy Israeli airstrikes have pounded Gaza City, leaving destruction in their wake, as children are seen scrambling for books and pens amid the rubble. Watch to know more!

Netanyahu's Gaza Offensive Angers New Zealand PM, Opposition MPs Demand Sanctions On Israel

Heavy Israeli airstrikes have pounded Gaza City, leaving destruction in their wake, as children are seen scrambling for books and pens amid the rubble. Watch to know more!


Pressure Mounts On Netanyahu Amid Ongoing Starvation Crisis In Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will “allow” Gazans to leave amid the ongoing Israel–Gaza war. The announcement comes as the conflict intensifies and global pressure mounts for civilian safety.

Israel-Gaza War: Netanyahu Pushes For Palestinians' Departure As Egypt Seeks 60-day Truce

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he believes the chance of securing a partial ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas is now “behind us.” Speaking to i24 News, Netanyahu referred to US President Donald Trump’s remarks a day earlier, in which Trump said Hamas was not ready for an agreement. “You heard President Trump,” Netanyahu said when asked if a partial deal was still possible. “I think it’s behind us.” The prime minister said Israel had made “all kinds of attempts” but accused Hamas of “leading us astray.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impossible-to-talk-about-ukraine-without-ukraine-zelensky-warns-unjust-peace-would-let-russia-grab-more-land-1755016291581">'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land</a><h2>Netanyahu insists on full hostage return</h2>Netanyahu appeared to reference a previous proposal that would have freed 10 living hostages and returned the bodies of 18 others. “In any case, a lot of hostages, both living and dead, will remain in their hands,” he said. “I want everyone, both the living and the fallen.”<h2>Egypt pushes to revive 60-day ceasefire plan</h2>Netanyahu’s comments came soon after Egypt announced it was working to revive a 60-day ceasefire and hostage release plan in Gaza. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that Cairo is coordinating with Qatar and the United States to advance the proposal.“The main objective is to go back to the original proposal, to have a ceasefire for 60 days, with the release of some hostages and some Palestinian detainees, and the flow of humanitarian and medical assistance to Gaza without restrictions, without conditions,” he said during a press conference in Cairo. “We are talking with Hamas, with the Israelis and pushing for a deal” based on a recent US plan, he added.<h2>Talks hit deadlock last month</h2>Negotiations in Doha last month ran for more than two weeks but ended without progress. Both Israel and the US withdrew their delegations, accusing Hamas of making unacceptable demands.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said prospects for a partial ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas are over, insisting on the return of all hostages, and accusing Hamas of misleading negotiation efforts.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he believes the chance of securing a partial ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas is now “behind us.” Speaking to i24 News, Netanyahu referred to US President Donald Trump’s remarks a day earlier, in which Trump said Hamas was not ready for an agreement. “You heard President Trump,” Netanyahu said when asked if a partial deal was still possible. “I think it’s behind us.” The prime minister said Israel had made “all kinds of attempts” but accused Hamas of “leading us astray.” Also read: 'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land Netanyahu insists on full hostage return Netanyahu appeared to reference a previous proposal that would have freed 10 living hostages and returned the bodies of 18 others. “In any case, a lot of hostages, both living and dead, will remain in their hands,” he said. “I want everyone, both the living and the fallen.” Egypt pushes to revive 60-day ceasefire plan Netanyahu’s comments came soon after Egypt announced it was working to revive a 60-day ceasefire and hostage release plan in Gaza. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that Cairo is coordinating with Qatar and the United States to advance the proposal. “The main objective is to go back to the original proposal, to have a ceasefire for 60 days, with the release of some hostages and some Palestinian detainees, and the flow of humanitarian and medical assistance to Gaza without restrictions, without conditions,” he said during a press conference in Cairo. “We are talking with Hamas, with the Israelis and pushing for a deal” based on a recent US plan, he added. Talks hit deadlock last month Negotiations in Doha last month ran for more than two weeks but ended without progress. Both Israel and the US withdrew their delegations, accusing Hamas of making unacceptable demands.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said prospects for a partial ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas are over, insisting on the return of all hostages, and accusing Hamas of misleading negotiation efforts.

'I want everyone, both living and fallen': Netanyahu says partial hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas ‘is behind us’

After an Israeli strike killed a journalist in the Gaza Strip working for a prominent media organisation, the military spokesperson, &nbsp;Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, alleged on Monday (August 11) that he was an "active member" of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;Shoshani took to X and said, "Prior to the strike, we obtained current intelligence indicating that [Anas] al-Sharif was an active Hamas military wing operative at the time of his elimination. In addition, he received a salary from the Hamas terror group and terrorist supporters, Al-Jazeera, at the same time."&nbsp;The Israeli official claimed that Sharif was “the head of a Hamas terrorist cell and advanced rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF troops."&nbsp;"Intelligence and documents from Gaza, including rosters, terrorist training lists and salary records, prove he was a Hamas operative integrated into Al Jazeera,” the IDF said on X. It also shared a screenshot of a list made by the Israeli army which mentioned Sharif's name.&nbsp;The document claimed that the killed journalist joined Hamas on December 3, 2013, where he served as a commander of a rocket-launching squad in northern Gaza. &nbsp;The army even claimed that Sharif’s military ID number was 305342.&nbsp;In his Monday post, Shoshani wrote that the documents the army published in October are “only a small, declassified portion of our intelligence on al-Sharif leading up to the strike.”&nbsp;“This information was obtained during ground operations in Gaza at two separate locations,” he added. This was after the IDF launched a strike on Sunday and said Sharif was a “terrorist operating under the guise of a journalist.”&nbsp;As per UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, "At least 242 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the war began. Journalists and media workers must be respected, they must be protected, and they must be allowed to carry out their work freely, free from fear and free from harassment."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Important clarification on Anas al-Sharif 🚨 Prior to the strike, we obtained current intelligence indicating that Sharif was an active Hamas military wing operative at the time of his elimination. In addition, he received a salary from the Hamas terror group and terrorist…&mdash; LTC Nadav Shoshani (@LTC_Shoshani) <a href="https://twitter.com/LTC_Shoshani/status/1955011765454139556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israel claimed that Sharif was the head of a Hamas terrorist cell and advanced rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF troops.

After an Israeli strike killed a journalist in the Gaza Strip working for a prominent media organisation, the military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, alleged on Monday (August 11) that he was an "active member" of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Shoshani took to X and said, "Prior to the strike, we obtained current intelligence indicating that [Anas] al-Sharif was an active Hamas military wing operative at the time of his elimination. In addition, he received a salary from the Hamas terror group and terrorist supporters, Al-Jazeera, at the same time." The Israeli official claimed that Sharif was “the head of a Hamas terrorist cell and advanced rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF troops." "Intelligence and documents from Gaza, including rosters, terrorist training lists and salary records, prove he was a Hamas operative integrated into Al Jazeera,” the IDF said on X. It also shared a screenshot of a list made by the Israeli army which mentioned Sharif's name. The document claimed that the killed journalist joined Hamas on December 3, 2013, where he served as a commander of a rocket-launching squad in northern Gaza. The army even claimed that Sharif’s military ID number was 305342. In his Monday post, Shoshani wrote that the documents the army published in October are “only a small, declassified portion of our intelligence on al-Sharif leading up to the strike.” “This information was obtained during ground operations in Gaza at two separate locations,” he added. This was after the IDF launched a strike on Sunday and said Sharif was a “terrorist operating under the guise of a journalist.” As per UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, "At least 242 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the war began. Journalists and media workers must be respected, they must be protected, and they must be allowed to carry out their work freely, free from fear and free from harassment."

Israel claimed that Sharif was “the head of a Hamas terrorist cell and advanced rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF troops."

'Rosters, salary records prove that...': IDF claims killed journalist was a terrorist, receiving salary from Hamas

After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP.&nbsp;Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able.Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’</h2>&nbsp;Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.”&nbsp;“They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.”This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted.&nbsp;“The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said.&nbsp;<h2>‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’</h2>&nbsp;He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow.&nbsp;“If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.&nbsp;&nbsp;Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said.&nbsp;He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.

After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP. Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able. Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said. ‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’ Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.” “They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.” This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted. “The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said. ‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’ He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow. “If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war. The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages. Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said. He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.

Hamas accuses Netanyahu of reeling out ‘series of lies’ in Gaza press conference

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied accusations that his government is starving Gaza’s civilian population, saying that only hostages held by Hamas are being deliberately deprived of food. Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu claimed the media had relied on Hamas-provided figures and “distorted” the reality on the ground. He criticised images of “fake starving children”, including one used on the front page of the New York Times. He also drew a historical comparison, saying, “Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-best-way-to-end-war-netanyahu-says-he-doesn-t-want-to-occupy-gaza-as-israel-prepares-short-timeline-offensive-1754837171195">'Best way to end war': Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares short-timeline offensive</a><h2>Plans to expand humanitarian aid routes</h2>Netanyahu said he was in discussions with the United States about “additional measures” to boost humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza. The territory is experiencing severe food shortages due to Israel’s blockade and ongoing restrictions.“In the meantime, what we are doing, as I said, is designate safe quarters, expand the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution points and they are trying to bring in more resources, hope to recruit some international organisations, maybe, god willing, the UN if they ever decide to actually do something for the Palestinian people that does not go through Hamas,” he said. He added that Israel is looking to increase airdrops of supplies, though he stressed that ground routes remain more effective for delivering aid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-demilitarisation-security-zone-hamas-surrender-netanyahu-reveals-five-point-plan-for-gaza-after-the-war-1754835330233">'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war</a><h2>Hamas accused of stealing supplies</h2>Netanyahu again blamed Hamas for the crisis, accusing the group of stealing aid intended for civilians. He showed an image of what he said were tonnes of uncollected supplies in Gaza, brought in through the Kerem Shalom crossing.He outlined a three-step plan to improve aid distribution:1. Creating safe corridors for humanitarian delivery.2. Increasing GHF-run distribution points.3. Expanding airdrops by Israeli forces and partner countries.<h2>Safe zones for civilians</h2>Netanyahu reiterated that civilians would be allowed to leave combat areas and move to designated safe zones where they would receive food, water and medical care. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said, adding that “hundreds of trucks” have entered Gaza and millions of messages have been sent to warn residents to avoid danger.

Prime Minister Netanyahu denied claims of starving Gaza’s civilians, blaming media distortion and Hamas. He announced plans to expand aid routes, including safe quarters, increased distribution points, and potential international cooperation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied accusations that his government is starving Gaza’s civilian population, saying that only hostages held by Hamas are being deliberately deprived of food. Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu claimed the media had relied on Hamas-provided figures and “distorted” the reality on the ground. He criticised images of “fake starving children”, including one used on the front page of the New York Times. He also drew a historical comparison, saying, “Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification.” Also read: 'Best way to end war': Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares short-timeline offensive Plans to expand humanitarian aid routes Netanyahu said he was in discussions with the United States about “additional measures” to boost humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza. The territory is experiencing severe food shortages due to Israel’s blockade and ongoing restrictions. “In the meantime, what we are doing, as I said, is designate safe quarters, expand the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution points and they are trying to bring in more resources, hope to recruit some international organisations, maybe, god willing, the UN if they ever decide to actually do something for the Palestinian people that does not go through Hamas,” he said. He added that Israel is looking to increase airdrops of supplies, though he stressed that ground routes remain more effective for delivering aid. Also read: 'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war Hamas accused of stealing supplies Netanyahu again blamed Hamas for the crisis, accusing the group of stealing aid intended for civilians. He showed an image of what he said were tonnes of uncollected supplies in Gaza, brought in through the Kerem Shalom crossing. He outlined a three-step plan to improve aid distribution: 1. Creating safe corridors for humanitarian delivery. 2. Increasing GHF-run distribution points. 3. Expanding airdrops by Israeli forces and partner countries. Safe zones for civilians Netanyahu reiterated that civilians would be allowed to leave combat areas and move to designated safe zones where they would receive food, water and medical care. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said, adding that “hundreds of trucks” have entered Gaza and millions of messages have been sent to warn residents to avoid danger.

Prime Minister Netanyahu denied claims of starving Gaza’s civilians, blaming media distortion and Hamas. He announced plans to expand aid routes, including safe quarters, increased distribution points, and potential international cooperation.

‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution

Israel’s security cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal for the “defeat of Hamas” after an hours-long meeting. In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said on Friday (Aug 8) that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will prepare to take over Gaza City and provide humanitarian aid to starving civilians in the territory.&nbsp;“The Political-Security Cabinet approved the Prime Minister’s proposal for the defeat of Hamas. The IDF will prepare to take control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to the civilian population outside the combat zones,” Netanyahu’s office said on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">הקבינט המדיני-ביטחוני אישר את הצעת ראש הממשלה להכרעת החמאס. צה&quot;ל ייערך להשתלטות על העיר עזה תוך אספקת סיוע הומניטרי לאוכלוסייה האזרחית מחוץ לאזורי הלחימה.&mdash; ראש ממשלת ישראל (@IsraeliPM_heb) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM_heb/status/1953645399891120210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The statement added that the majority of the cabinet members believed that the “alternative plan” presented to them would not achieve “the defeat of Hamas nor the return of the hostages.”&nbsp;While the statement did not elaborate on the alternative plan presented to the security cabinet, it likely refers to the proposal presented by IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who has opposed the Israeli prime minister’s plans over humanitarian concerns and risking the lives of the hostages.&nbsp;Despite his plans for taking over the territory, Netanyahu said that his country has no intention of annexing Gaza. “We want Gaza to be taken over by a governing body. No plans to annexe Gaza.” He added that rather than occupation, Israel aims to establish a “defence parameter around Gaza” to ensure security without territorial expansion.&nbsp;The majority of cabinet members also backed five principles for ending the war with Hamas: 1. Disarming Hamas of its weapons. 2. Return of all hostages - both the living and the deceased. 3. Demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip. 4. Israeli security control over the Gaza Strip. 5. Establishment of an alternative civilian administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority.&nbsp;Meanwhile, protests have erupted across the country as Israelis accuse the government of continuing the war for political gains. However, Netanyahu has pushed for a complete takeover of Gaza despite international and domestic pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch | Israel-Gaza War: Netanyahu Rules Out Annexing Gaza, Blames Hamas for Humanitarian Crisis&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-netanyahu-rules-out-annexing-gaza-blames-hamas-for-humanitarian-crisis-1754578756109/embed

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said on Friday (Aug 8) that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will prepare to take over Gaza City and provide humanitarian aid to starving civilians in the territory.

Israel’s security cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal for the “defeat of Hamas” after an hours-long meeting. In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said on Friday (Aug 8) that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will prepare to take over Gaza City and provide humanitarian aid to starving civilians in the territory. “The Political-Security Cabinet approved the Prime Minister’s proposal for the defeat of Hamas. The IDF will prepare to take control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to the civilian population outside the combat zones,” Netanyahu’s office said on X.

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said on Friday (Aug 8) that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will prepare to take over Gaza City and provide humanitarian aid to starving civilians in the territory.

Netanyahu’s proposal to take over Gaza City gets final cabinet approval: What’s next in Israel-Hamas war?

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately sabotaging Gaza ceasefire negotiations by pushing forward with plans to take full military control of the Strip. In a statement, the group said Netanyahu’s latest comments to Fox News revealed his true aim, to block a deal, sacrifice Israeli hostages, and serve his “personal interests and extremist ideological agendas.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-pushes-to-leave-out-illegal-undocumented-immigrants-from-census-1754588689356">Can Trump order a new census? US president pushes to leave out ‘illegal' undocumented immigrants</a>Hamas called Netanyahu a “war criminal wanted by the International Criminal Court” and described his actions as “a clear reversal of the course of negotiations.” “What the war criminal Netanyahu is planning is to continue his approach of genocide and displacement by committing more crimes against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip,” the group said.“Netanyahu’s plans to expand the aggression confirm beyond a shadow of a doubt that he seeks to get rid of his prisoners and sacrifice them to serve his personal interests,” it added. Hamas warned that any expanded aggression would “not be a walk in the park” and urged the international community and Arab states to act. “We call on Arab and Islamic countries and the international community to condemn and reject these dangerous statements, and to take urgent action to halt the aggression and end the occupation,” Hamas said.<h2>What did Netanyahu say?</h2>Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu said Israel intends to take control of the entire 26-mile Gaza Strip, but does not plan to govern it long-term. “We intend to,” he said when asked directly whether Israel would seize full control, adding, “We don’t want to keep it. We want to have a security perimeter. We don’t want to govern it. We don’t want to be there as a governing body.” The comments were made just before Israel’s security cabinet was expected to meet.<h2>Why is this controversial?</h2>Hamas claims Netanyahu’s remarks reveal why he pulled out of the latest round of ceasefire negotiations, even though, according to them, both sides were “close to a final agreement.” Their statement said his strategy was a continuation of “genocide and displacement” under the guise of security.

Hamas accused Netanyahu of sabotaging Gaza ceasefire talks to serve personal and ideological goals, calling him a war criminal and blaming him for prolonging war, genocide, and displacement in Gaza.

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately sabotaging Gaza ceasefire negotiations by pushing forward with plans to take full military control of the Strip. In a statement, the group said Netanyahu’s latest comments to Fox News revealed his true aim, to block a deal, sacrifice Israeli hostages, and serve his “personal interests and extremist ideological agendas.” Also read: Can Trump order a new census? US president pushes to leave out ‘illegal' undocumented immigrants Hamas called Netanyahu a “war criminal wanted by the International Criminal Court” and described his actions as “a clear reversal of the course of negotiations.” “What the war criminal Netanyahu is planning is to continue his approach of genocide and displacement by committing more crimes against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip,” the group said. “Netanyahu’s plans to expand the aggression confirm beyond a shadow of a doubt that he seeks to get rid of his prisoners and sacrifice them to serve his personal interests,” it added. Hamas warned that any expanded aggression would “not be a walk in the park” and urged the international community and Arab states to act. “We call on Arab and Islamic countries and the international community to condemn and reject these dangerous statements, and to take urgent action to halt the aggression and end the occupation,” Hamas said. What did Netanyahu say? Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu said Israel intends to take control of the entire 26-mile Gaza Strip, but does not plan to govern it long-term. “We intend to,” he said when asked directly whether Israel would seize full control, adding, “We don’t want to keep it. We want to have a security perimeter. We don’t want to govern it. We don’t want to be there as a governing body.” The comments were made just before Israel’s security cabinet was expected to meet. Why is this controversial? Hamas claims Netanyahu’s remarks reveal why he pulled out of the latest round of ceasefire negotiations, even though, according to them, both sides were “close to a final agreement.” Their statement said his strategy was a continuation of “genocide and displacement” under the guise of security.

Hamas accused Netanyahu of sabotaging Gaza ceasefire talks to serve personal and ideological goals, calling him a war criminal and blaming him for prolonging war, genocide, and displacement in Gaza.

'War criminal': Hamas accuses Netanyahu of sabotaging Gaza ceasefire and planning ‘genocide’

Hamas on Sunday (Aug 3) said that Israeli hostages held in Gaza will not receive "special privileges" in food or care, insisting they eat the same rations as fighters and civilians amid worsening starvation across the besieged territory. The statement from the Al-Qassam Brigades, the group's armed wing, came as Israel appealed to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for help following the release of distressing videos showing two hostages — Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David — appearing skeletal and weak. "(Hamas) does not intentionally starve the captives, but they eat the same food our fighters and the general public eat," the group said, blaming Israel's blockade and war for widespread deprivation. "They will not receive any special privileges amid the crime of starvation and siege", it added.<h2>'Harrowing videos' of Israeli hostages disturb the world</h2>On Sunday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu urged the ICRC to help the hostages held in Gaza. Netanyahu's office in a statement said that he spoke to the ICRC regional coordinator Julien Lerisson, and "requested his involvement in providing food to our hostages and... immediate medical treatment". The ICRC said it was "appalled by the harrowing videos" and reiterated its demand for "access to hostages." In response, Hamas said it would allow the ICRC access — but only if humanitarian corridors for food and aid were opened "across all areas of the Gaza Strip." Aid groups and UN agencies say Israel's restrictions have choked off life-saving supplies, while some convoys have been overrun or looted amid lawlessness and desperation.The group insisted that it did "not intentionally starve" the Israeli hostages but that they would not get any special food privileges "amid the crime of starvation and siege" in Gaza.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-netanyahu-condemns-conditions-of-hostages-says-he-wants-to-free-them-1754274570238/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-netanyahu-condemns-conditions-of-hostages-says-he-wants-to-free-them-1754274570238/embed</a><h2>Hamas's shocking hostage video</h2>In recent days, Hamas has released three hostage videos showing Israeli hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David, who have been held in Gaza since October 7, 2023. Both the hostages appear weak, gaunt, and skeletal in the videos. Their emancipated condition has intensified pressure on Netanyahu's government to secure a truce and bring the captives home. In one clip, David is seen digging what he says is his own grave — a moment that triggered public fury across Israel. On Saturday, Netanyahu’s office said he spoke with the families of the hostages and was "profoundly shocked" by the videos. "The efforts to return all our hostages are ongoing," the statement said.

Blaming Israel for the starvation of the Gaza public and hostages, Hamas said it “does not intentionally starve the captives, but they eat the same food our fighters and the general public eat.”

Hamas on Sunday (Aug 3) said that Israeli hostages held in Gaza will not receive "special privileges" in food or care, insisting they eat the same rations as fighters and civilians amid worsening starvation across the besieged territory. The statement from the Al-Qassam Brigades, the group's armed wing, came as Israel appealed to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for help following the release of distressing videos showing two hostages — Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David — appearing skeletal and weak. "(Hamas) does not intentionally starve the captives, but they eat the same food our fighters and the general public eat," the group said, blaming Israel's blockade and war for widespread deprivation. "They will not receive any special privileges amid the crime of starvation and siege", it added. 'Harrowing videos' of Israeli hostages disturb the world On Sunday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu urged the ICRC to help the hostages held in Gaza. Netanyahu's office in a statement said that he spoke to the ICRC regional coordinator Julien Lerisson, and "requested his involvement in providing food to our hostages and... immediate medical treatment". The ICRC said it was "appalled by the harrowing videos" and reiterated its demand for "access to hostages." In response, Hamas said it would allow the ICRC access — but only if humanitarian corridors for food and aid were opened "across all areas of the Gaza Strip." Aid groups and UN agencies say Israel's restrictions have choked off life-saving supplies, while some convoys have been overrun or looted amid lawlessness and desperation. The group insisted that it did "not intentionally starve" the Israeli hostages but that they would not get any special food privileges "amid the crime of starvation and siege" in Gaza. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-netanyahu-condemns-conditions-of-hostages-says-he-wants-to-free-them-1754274570238/embed Hamas's shocking hostage video In recent days, Hamas has released three hostage videos showing Israeli hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David, who have been held in Gaza since October 7, 2023. Both the hostages appear weak, gaunt, and skeletal in the videos. Their emancipated condition has intensified pressure on Netanyahu's government to secure a truce and bring the captives home. In one clip, David is seen digging what he says is his own grave — a moment that triggered public fury across Israel. On Saturday, Netanyahu’s office said he spoke with the families of the hostages and was "profoundly shocked" by the videos. "The efforts to return all our hostages are ongoing," the statement said.

Blaming Israel for the starvation of the Gaza public and hostages, Hamas said it “does not intentionally starve the captives, but they eat the same food our fighters and the general public eat.”

'They eat the same food as general public': Hamas insists hostages won't get 'special privileges' as skeletal Israeli captives shock the world

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (August 3) urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to take immediate action to provide food and medical care to Israeli hostages held in Gaza, as he accused Hamas of spreading a "lie of starvation" to the world.This comes a day after Hamas released a video of an Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, as they hold him hostage in a tunnel in Gaza. David's family stressed that their son is deliberately and "cynically starved in the Hamas tunnels in Gaza — a living skeleton buried alive".Netanyahu, today, while speaking to Julien Lerisson, head of the Red Cross delegation in the region, accused Hamas of spreading "a lie of starvation to the world, while the real starvation is being inflicted on the hostages, who are suffering brutal physical and psychological abuse.”“The world cannot remain indifferent in the face of images that recall Nazi crimes,” he said.Netanyahu further called on the international committee to denounce Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The Israeli PM further asked them to stop all direct and indirect support for the groups, arguing that their actions are a clear violation of international law and the Geneva Conventions.David's family, on Saturday, said that their son only has a few days to live in this condition, adding, "Hamas is using our son, Evyatar, as a living experiment in a disgusting hunger campaign."In the heartbreaking video, the hostage is seen crossing off dates on a calendar on the tunnel's wall. The family of Evyatar David stressed that they are forced to witness their beloved son in this condition.At the end of the video, David is seen digging his own grave, as he urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to worry about him and other hostages. &nbsp;While digging, he said that he is feeling “weaker and weaker” by the day, and heading toward death.The family further urged Israel and the international community to ensure that David receives food and is released from Hamas' captivity. "Israel and the international community must oppose Hamas’s cruelty and ensure that our Evyatar immediately receives proper nutrition."

Netanyahu, today, while speaking to Julien Lerisson, head of the Red Cross delegation in the region, accused Hamas of spreading "a lie of starvation to the world, while the real starvation is being inflicted on the hostages. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (August 3) urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to take immediate action to provide food and medical care to Israeli hostages held in Gaza, as he accused Hamas of spreading a "lie of starvation" to the world. This comes a day after Hamas released a video of an Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, as they hold him hostage in a tunnel in Gaza. David's family stressed that their son is deliberately and "cynically starved in the Hamas tunnels in Gaza — a living skeleton buried alive". Netanyahu, today, while speaking to Julien Lerisson, head of the Red Cross delegation in the region, accused Hamas of spreading "a lie of starvation to the world, while the real starvation is being inflicted on the hostages, who are suffering brutal physical and psychological abuse.” “The world cannot remain indifferent in the face of images that recall Nazi crimes,” he said. Netanyahu further called on the international committee to denounce Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The Israeli PM further asked them to stop all direct and indirect support for the groups, arguing that their actions are a clear violation of international law and the Geneva Conventions. David's family, on Saturday, said that their son only has a few days to live in this condition, adding, "Hamas is using our son, Evyatar, as a living experiment in a disgusting hunger campaign." In the heartbreaking video, the hostage is seen crossing off dates on a calendar on the tunnel's wall. The family of Evyatar David stressed that they are forced to witness their beloved son in this condition. At the end of the video, David is seen digging his own grave, as he urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to worry about him and other hostages. While digging, he said that he is feeling “weaker and weaker” by the day, and heading toward death. The family further urged Israel and the international community to ensure that David receives food and is released from Hamas' captivity. "Israel and the international community must oppose Hamas’s cruelty and ensure that our Evyatar immediately receives proper nutrition."

Netanyahu, today, while speaking to Julien Lerisson, head of the Red Cross delegation in the region, accused Hamas of spreading "a lie of starvation to the world, while the real starvation is being inflicted on the hostages.&nbsp;

'Hamas spreading lie of starvation': Netanyahu urges Red Cross Committee to provide food to Israeli hostages amid 'brutal abuse'

As US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff visited war-torn Gaza, Hamas condemned Trump envoy's visit to the site operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Fund, calling it a "pre-arranged theatrical performance". However, the terror group also vowed not to disarm as long as the occupation exists and until there is a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.&nbsp;This comes hours after Witkoff told the families of hostages that Hamas has said it is ready to demilitarise. The Palestinian militant group said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-is-humanitarian-with-big-heart-us-president-to-approve-new-gaza-aid-plan-after-witkoff-and-huckabee-visit-strip-1753997177197">Also read: 'Trump is humanitarian with big heart': US President to approve new Gaza aid plan after Witkoff and Huckabee visit Strip</a>&nbsp;"Witkoff’s visit was nothing more than a pre-arranged theatrical performance aimed at misleading public opinion, polishing the image of the occupation, and providing it with political cover for managing starvation and continuing the systematic killing of children and unarmed civilians from our people in the Gaza Strip," Hamas stated.<h2>'American administration partner in crime'</h2>The Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed further, saying that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;“The American administration is a full partner in the crime of starvation and genocide taking place in plain sight of the entire world,” it said.&nbsp;It further said that Witkoff’s misleading statements, along with the broadcast of propaganda images "attempting to portray the aid distribution as peaceful", are contradicted by the facts on the ground where he stood.&nbsp;“We call on the American administration to bear its historical responsibility by lifting the cover from the crime of the century in Gaza and moving towards a ceasefire agreement that leads to ending the aggression and the withdrawal of the occupation army," Hamas stated.&nbsp;Hamas further stressed that it won't disarm, vowing to continue its violent struggle "as long as the occupation exists".

Palestinian militant group Hamas said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation, adding that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.

As US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff visited war-torn Gaza, Hamas condemned Trump envoy's visit to the site operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Fund, calling it a "pre-arranged theatrical performance". However, the terror group also vowed not to disarm as long as the occupation exists and until there is a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. This comes hours after Witkoff told the families of hostages that Hamas has said it is ready to demilitarise. The Palestinian militant group said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation. Also read: 'Trump is humanitarian with big heart': US President to approve new Gaza aid plan after Witkoff and Huckabee visit Strip "Witkoff’s visit was nothing more than a pre-arranged theatrical performance aimed at misleading public opinion, polishing the image of the occupation, and providing it with political cover for managing starvation and continuing the systematic killing of children and unarmed civilians from our people in the Gaza Strip," Hamas stated. 'American administration partner in crime' The Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed further, saying that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza. “The American administration is a full partner in the crime of starvation and genocide taking place in plain sight of the entire world,” it said. It further said that Witkoff’s misleading statements, along with the broadcast of propaganda images "attempting to portray the aid distribution as peaceful", are contradicted by the facts on the ground where he stood. “We call on the American administration to bear its historical responsibility by lifting the cover from the crime of the century in Gaza and moving towards a ceasefire agreement that leads to ending the aggression and the withdrawal of the occupation army," Hamas stated. Hamas further stressed that it won't disarm, vowing to continue its violent struggle "as long as the occupation exists".

Palestinian militant group Hamas said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation, adding that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.

'Trump admin full partner in crime of genocide': Hamas slams envoy Witkoff's visit to Gaza amid starvation crisis

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa has said Hamas must give up its weapons and control over Gaza if peace and stability are to return to the region. Speaking at a UN conference in New York focused on the two-state solution, Mustafa said, “Israel must withdraw completely from the Gaza Strip and Hamas must relinquish its control over the strip and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-slap-in-the-face-us-slams-france-s-ill-timed-push-for-palestinian-state-stays-silent-on-saudi-role-1753732747512">‘A slap in the face’: US slams France’s ‘ill-timed’ push for Palestinian state, stays silent on Saudi role</a><h2>France backs two-state plan, Israel and US push back</h2>France, co-chairing the three-day conference alongside Saudi Arabia, said there is “no alternative” to a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. “Only a political, two-state solution will help respond to the legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security. There is no alternative,” said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.France’s push comes just days after President Emmanuel Macron said he would formally recognise a Palestinian state in September, a move that has drawn criticism from both Israel and the United States. Barrot added that other Western nations are expected to announce their support for Palestinian statehood during the summit, although he did not name them.<h2>Palestinian Authority seeks international support</h2>Mustafa used the platform to urge global powers to back Palestinian statehood and called for an international force to help make that a reality. “All states have a responsibility to act now,” he said, adding that any peace process must include Hamas stepping aside in Gaza and disarming.<h2>France wants UK to follow, but Starmer hesitates</h2>France is also hoping that the UK will join its call for recognising Palestine. More than 200 British MPs expressed support last week, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer said such recognition “must be part of a wider plan.”<h2>Guterres: Two-state solution further away than ever</h2>UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the meeting that hopes for a two-state solution are fading fast. “The two-state solution is farther than ever before,” he said, pointing to the 21-month war in Gaza, expansion of Israeli settlements, and comments from Israeli officials about plans to annex occupied land. At least 142 out of 193 UN member states already recognise the Palestinian state, originally declared in 1988.<h2>Saudi Arabia calls on Trump to step in</h2>Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud said US President Donald Trump could help end the Gaza war and restart talks for a two-state solution. However, he added that Riyadh has no intention of normalising ties with Israel for now. Despite Saudi Arabia’s involvement, the US dismissed the event as a “publicity stunt.” The State Department said it was “unproductive and ill-timed” and would only make peace efforts harder.<h2>Jordan warns of rising tensions on the ground</h2>Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi also spoke at the conference, warning of increasing threats due to Israeli “settlements, land confiscation, and) encroachments on the holy sites.”Israel chose to boycott the&nbsp;event&nbsp;entirely.

Palestinian PM Mohammad Mustafa stated Hamas must disarm and relinquish Gaza control, while Israel should fully withdraw, for peace and stability, during a UN conference on the two-state solution.

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa has said Hamas must give up its weapons and control over Gaza if peace and stability are to return to the region. Speaking at a UN conference in New York focused on the two-state solution, Mustafa said, “Israel must withdraw completely from the Gaza Strip and Hamas must relinquish its control over the strip and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority.” Also read: ‘A slap in the face’: US slams France’s ‘ill-timed’ push for Palestinian state, stays silent on Saudi role France backs two-state plan, Israel and US push back France, co-chairing the three-day conference alongside Saudi Arabia, said there is “no alternative” to a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. “Only a political, two-state solution will help respond to the legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security. There is no alternative,” said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. France’s push comes just days after President Emmanuel Macron said he would formally recognise a Palestinian state in September, a move that has drawn criticism from both Israel and the United States. Barrot added that other Western nations are expected to announce their support for Palestinian statehood during the summit, although he did not name them. Palestinian Authority seeks international support Mustafa used the platform to urge global powers to back Palestinian statehood and called for an international force to help make that a reality. “All states have a responsibility to act now,” he said, adding that any peace process must include Hamas stepping aside in Gaza and disarming. France wants UK to follow, but Starmer hesitates France is also hoping that the UK will join its call for recognising Palestine. More than 200 British MPs expressed support last week, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer said such recognition “must be part of a wider plan.” Guterres: Two-state solution further away than ever UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the meeting that hopes for a two-state solution are fading fast. “The two-state solution is farther than ever before,” he said, pointing to the 21-month war in Gaza, expansion of Israeli settlements, and comments from Israeli officials about plans to annex occupied land. At least 142 out of 193 UN member states already recognise the Palestinian state, originally declared in 1988. Saudi Arabia calls on Trump to step in Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud said US President Donald Trump could help end the Gaza war and restart talks for a two-state solution. However, he added that Riyadh has no intention of normalising ties with Israel for now. Despite Saudi Arabia’s involvement, the US dismissed the event as a “publicity stunt.” The State Department said it was “unproductive and ill-timed” and would only make peace efforts harder. Jordan warns of rising tensions on the ground Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi also spoke at the conference, warning of increasing threats due to Israeli “settlements, land confiscation, and) encroachments on the holy sites.” Israel chose to boycott the event entirely.

Palestinian PM Mohammad Mustafa stated Hamas must disarm and relinquish Gaza control, while Israel should fully withdraw, for peace and stability, during a UN conference on the two-state solution.

'Hamas must relinquish control': Palestinian PM calls on Hamas to surrender, disarm as France two-state solution for Israel, Palestine at UN

Just days after the US State Department claimed widespread theft of US-funded humanitarian aid by Hamas, an internal US government review has found no evidence to back the allegations. An analysis by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) into 156 incidents of waste, fraud and abuse between October 2023 and May 2025 "found no affiliations" with any sanctioned groups or foreign terrorist organisations.<h2>Hamas and the saga of humanitarian aid theft &nbsp;</h2>The Donald Trump administration has repeatedly claimed that the militant group Hamas was behind the widespread theft of humanitarian aid in Gaza. In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department touted the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a private US and Israel-backed organisation, as the only way to send aid into Gaza. "We want to see as much aid getting into Gaza as possible in a way that is not being looted by Hamas, and this mechanism, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, has been a way to do that," said State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott. "We're calling for additional support of that foundation to deliver that aid," he added.However, the internal US government review by USAID found that there was only a small amount – less than one per cent – misdirection of USAID-funded aid in Gaza. Citing a person in the know, CNN reports that "There was no indication that there was a systemic loss due to Hamas interference or theft or diversion".The findings were presented to US State Department's Middle East bureau, as well as people working on humanitarian aid and the USAID Office of the Inspector General. However, as per the CNN report, it was not clear if the findings have been relayed to the State Department leadership. While the USAID ceased its operations on July 1, the watchdog still remains operational.

An internal US government review by USAID found that there was only a small amount – less than one per cent – misdirection of USAID-funded aid in Gaza. Reports that "There was no indication that there was a systemic loss due to Hamas interference or theft or diversion".

Just days after the US State Department claimed widespread theft of US-funded humanitarian aid by Hamas, an internal US government review has found no evidence to back the allegations. An analysis by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) into 156 incidents of waste, fraud and abuse between October 2023 and May 2025 "found no affiliations" with any sanctioned groups or foreign terrorist organisations. Hamas and the saga of humanitarian aid theft The Donald Trump administration has repeatedly claimed that the militant group Hamas was behind the widespread theft of humanitarian aid in Gaza. In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department touted the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a private US and Israel-backed organisation, as the only way to send aid into Gaza. "We want to see as much aid getting into Gaza as possible in a way that is not being looted by Hamas, and this mechanism, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, has been a way to do that," said State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott. "We're calling for additional support of that foundation to deliver that aid," he added. However, the internal US government review by USAID found that there was only a small amount – less than one per cent – misdirection of USAID-funded aid in Gaza. Citing a person in the know, CNN reports that "There was no indication that there was a systemic loss due to Hamas interference or theft or diversion". The findings were presented to US State Department's Middle East bureau, as well as people working on humanitarian aid and the USAID Office of the Inspector General. However, as per the CNN report, it was not clear if the findings have been relayed to the State Department leadership. While the USAID ceased its operations on July 1, the watchdog still remains operational.

An internal US government review by USAID found that there was only a small amount – less than one per cent – misdirection of USAID-funded aid in Gaza. Reports that "There was no indication that there was a systemic loss due to Hamas interference or theft or diversion".

US review finds no evidence Hamas stole humanitarian aid in Gaza: Report

US President Donald Trump, who is on his way to Scotland to inaugurate his family business’s new golf course in Aberdeenshire addressed the reporters. He said, “Hamas didn't really want to make a deal. I think they want to die. They're gonna have to finish the job. They're gonna have to fight and they're gonna have to clean it up. You're gonna have to get rid of it.”&nbsp;Trump made the comments to reporters at the White House a day after his Middle East peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, said the Trump administration had decided to bring its negotiating team home for consultations following Hamas' latest proposal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-cost-of-progress-microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-says-in-memo-progress-isn-t-linear-it-s-dynamic-1753448882219">The cost of progress? Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says in memo, 'Progress isn't linear. It's dynamic'</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is going to Scotland as his family business gets ready for the August 13 opening of a new golf course in Aberdeenshire that is advertised as “the greatest 36 holes in golf.” While in the United Kingdom, Trump will meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade, he has said a meeting which will occur at “probably one of my properties”.&nbsp;Using this week’s presidential overseas trip— with its extensive entourage of aides, White House and support staff, Secret Service agents, and journalists — to assist in displaying Trump-brand golf resorts is an example of how the president has become more at ease mixing his governing agenda with selling his family business interests.&nbsp;Trump, on being asked over the Epstein Files, he said, "You ought to be talking about Bill Clinton. Who went to the island 28 times. I never went to the island.". The US president also dismissed the decision by France's Emmanuel Macron to recognise a Palestinian state as pointless. “He's a very good guy, I like him, but that statement doesn't carry weight.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georges-abdallah-the-longest-prisoner-of-israeli-palestinian-conflict-freed-by-france-after-41-years-1753441947489">Georges Abdallah, 'the longest prisoner of Israeli-Palestinian conflict', freed by France after 41 years</a>

Hamas didnt want to make Gaza ceasefire deal I think they want to says Trump

US President Donald Trump, who is on his way to Scotland to inaugurate his family business’s new golf course in Aberdeenshire addressed the reporters. He said, “Hamas didn't really want to make a deal. I think they want to die. They're gonna have to finish the job. They're gonna have to fight and they're gonna have to clean it up. You're gonna have to get rid of it.” Trump made the comments to reporters at the White House a day after his Middle East peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, said the Trump administration had decided to bring its negotiating team home for consultations following Hamas' latest proposal. Also Read: The cost of progress? Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says in memo, 'Progress isn't linear. It's dynamic' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is going to Scotland as his family business gets ready for the August 13 opening of a new golf course in Aberdeenshire that is advertised as “the greatest 36 holes in golf.” While in the United Kingdom, Trump will meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade, he has said a meeting which will occur at “probably one of my properties”. Using this week’s presidential overseas trip— with its extensive entourage of aides, White House and support staff, Secret Service agents, and journalists — to assist in displaying Trump-brand golf resorts is an example of how the president has become more at ease mixing his governing agenda with selling his family business interests. Trump, on being asked over the Epstein Files, he said, "You ought to be talking about Bill Clinton. Who went to the island 28 times. I never went to the island.". The US president also dismissed the decision by France's Emmanuel Macron to recognise a Palestinian state as pointless. “He's a very good guy, I like him, but that statement doesn't carry weight.” Also Read: Georges Abdallah, 'the longest prisoner of Israeli-Palestinian conflict', freed by France after 41 years

Prior to leaving for Scotland to inaugurate his family business’s new golf course in Aberdeenshire, US President Donald Trump addressed the reporters and said that Hamas doesn't want to make Gaza ceasefire deal

'Hamas didn’t want to make Gaza ceasefire deal, I think they want to...', says Trump

The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of blocking progress in talks for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. Negotiators from both sides have been holding indirect talks in Qatar since July 6. They are trying to agree on a 60-day truce that would include the release of 10 hostages. But after nearly two weeks, there has been no deal. Both Israel and Hamas are blaming each other for not compromising.&nbsp;Israel wants Hamas to be dismantled as a military threat. On the other hand, Hamas wants clear promises for lasting peace, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and more humanitarian aid allowed in.On Friday (July 18), Abu Obaida, the spokesman for Hamas’s armed wing (the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades), said in a video statement that Hamas had offered a full deal to release all hostages at once. But he said Israel rejected the offer and warned that if Israel continues to resist, Hamas may withdraw its current offer to release 10 hostages.&nbsp;Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday that the talks are still in the early stages. He denied claims of a deadlock and said there’s no fixed deadline to reach an agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would consider talks for a long-term ceasefire, but only after a temporary truce is in place.&nbsp;The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,219 people — mostly civilians — and taking 251 hostages. According to the Israeli military, 49 hostages are still in Gaza, including 27 who are believed to be dead. In response, Israel launched military strikes that have killed 58,667 Palestinians — mostly civilians — according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza. The United Nations considers these figures to be reliable.

Hamas armed wing says Israel blocking ceasefire and hostage release talks

The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of blocking progress in talks for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. Negotiators from both sides have been holding indirect talks in Qatar since July 6. They are trying to agree on a 60-day truce that would include the release of 10 hostages. But after nearly two weeks, there has been no deal. Both Israel and Hamas are blaming each other for not compromising. Israel wants Hamas to be dismantled as a military threat. On the other hand, Hamas wants clear promises for lasting peace, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and more humanitarian aid allowed in. On Friday (July 18), Abu Obaida, the spokesman for Hamas’s armed wing (the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades), said in a video statement that Hamas had offered a full deal to release all hostages at once. But he said Israel rejected the offer and warned that if Israel continues to resist, Hamas may withdraw its current offer to release 10 hostages. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday that the talks are still in the early stages. He denied claims of a deadlock and said there’s no fixed deadline to reach an agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would consider talks for a long-term ceasefire, but only after a temporary truce is in place. The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,219 people — mostly civilians — and taking 251 hostages. According to the Israeli military, 49 hostages are still in Gaza, including 27 who are believed to be dead. In response, Israel launched military strikes that have killed 58,667 Palestinians — mostly civilians — according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza. The United Nations considers these figures to be reliable.

Negotiators from both sides have been in indirect talks in Qatar since July 6 to try to agree on a 60-day ceasefire in the conflict, which would see 10 captives freed

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 4) said that a decision by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on a “final proposal” for a ceasefire with Israel in Gaza will become clear in the next 24 hours&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-trump-speak-on-phone-discuss-escalating-russian-strikes-supply-of-air-defence-1751638033395">Zelensky, Trump discuss Russian strikes, ‘opportunities’ in air defence in phone call</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751638817079.jpg?rect=(272,0,1280,960)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Zelensky, Trump discuss Russian strikes, ‘opportunities’ in air defence in phone call"></figure>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday, and the two leaders discussed the Russian strikes on Ukraine and the supply of air defence to Kyiv. The Presidential Office head in Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, said, “A very important and meaningful conversation between the presidents. All the details—coming soon.” Yermak called the conversation “important and productive.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-close-to-finalising-ceasefire-in-gaza-trump-says-decision-on-peace-proposal-by-hamas-likely-in-24-hrs-1751627196633">Israel-Hamas close to finalising ceasefire in Gaza? Trump says decision on peace proposal by Hamas likely in 24 hrs</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751627652504.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Israel-Hamas close to finalising ceasefire in Gaza? Trump says decision on peace proposal by Hamas likely in 24 hrs"></figure>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 4) said that a decision by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on a “final proposal” for a ceasefire with Israel in Gaza will become clear in the next 24 hours, reported Reuters. On being asked by the press whether Israel had accepted the conditions required to finalise a 60-day ceasefire with Hamas, Trump said, “We’ll see what happens, we are going to know over the next 24 hours.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-russia-using-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine-dutch-defence-minister-alleges-widespread-use-of-banned-munitions-1751625925536">Is Russia using chemical weapons in Ukraine? 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Dutch and German intelligence agencies on Friday (Jul 4) alleged that they have gathered evidence on the use of banned weapons, including dropping a choking agent from drones to drive soldiers out of trenches so they can be shot.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-oil-executive-mysteriously-found-dead-after-falling-from-window-1751640250326">Top Russian oil executive mysteriously found dead after falling from window</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751640283090.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Top Russian oil executive mysteriously found dead after falling from window"></figure>&nbsp;Andrey Badalov, Vice President of Transneft, has died after allegedly falling from a window at his residence in a Moscow suburb in an apparent suicide case, state media reported on Friday (Jul 4). The company confirmed the death of the 62-year-old, but did not mention the circumstances. Law enforcement officials told the state-run TASS news agency that Badalov’s body was discovered at the bottom of a residential building on Rublyovskoye highway.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill-will-skyrocket-national-debt-in-us-as-claimed-by-elon-musk-1751587948414">'AMERICA IS GOING BANKRUPT': How Trump’s 'Big Beautiful Bill' will skyrocket national debt in US - as claimed by Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751590530638.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'AMERICA IS GOING BANKRUPT': How Trump’s 'Big Beautiful Bill' will skyrocket national debt in US - as claimed by Elon Musk"></figure>&nbsp;United States President Donald Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has been passed by the US House. 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It is the Debt Slavery Bill.” He also said, "America is going bankrupt extremely quickly, but everyone seems to be whistling past the graveyard."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-law-student-alleges-molestation-by-kolkata-gangrape-accused-monojit-mishra-1751631332489">Another law student alleges molestation by Kolkata gangrape accused Monojit Mishra</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751633479353.jpg?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Another law student alleges molestation by Kolkata gangrape accused Monojit Mishra"></figure>&nbsp;Another student of the law college has come out with allegations of molestation against Monojit Mishra, the main accused in last month’s gang rape case at South Calcutta Law College. The student, who is in her second year of a law degree, told a TV channel that college alumnus Monojit Mishra, who is referred to as ‘Mango dada’ in his influence groups, molested and threatened her two years ago.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-bomb-lady-the-woman-who-made-bunker-buster-bombs-possible-used-by-us-to-strike-iran-s-nuclear-facilities-1751639661770">The Bomb Lady: Woman who made 'Bunker Buster' bombs possible—Used by US to strike Iran's nuclear facilities</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751640534711.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="The Bomb Lady: Woman who made 'Bunker Buster' bombs possible—Used by US to strike Iran's nuclear facilities"></figure>&nbsp;As the United States dropped 14 bunker buster bombs deployed on the 'B-2 stealth bombers' on Iran's nuclear facilities during the 12-day Israel-Iran war, a former Vietnam War refugee Anh Duong looked at the weapon's technical details as she sensed a familiarity.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-exits-pakistan-after-25-years-countrys-ex-president-warns-of-economic-fallout-1751629748089">Microsoft exits Pakistan after 25 years, country's ex-president warns of economic fallout</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751631174006.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Microsoft exits Pakistan after 25 years, country's ex-president warns of economic fallout"></figure>&nbsp;Global tech firm Microsoft has ceased operations in Pakistan after 25 years, according to its founding country head. Jawwad Rehman, who launched Microsoft in the country in 2000, revealed the closure on LinkedIn, writing, “Today, I learned that Microsoft is officially closing its operations in Pakistan. The last few remaining employees were formally informed and just like that, an era ends...” The company has not made any formal public statement on the matter.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/metro-in-dino-movie-review-anurag-basu-s-modern-love-story-breaks-the-clutter-konkona-sen-sharma-pankaj-tripathi-shine-1751628428920">Metro…In Dino movie review: Anurag Basu’s modern love story breaks the clutter, Konkona Sen Sharma -Pankaj Tripathi shine</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751629625322.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Metro…In Dino movie review: Anurag Basu’s modern love story breaks the clutter, Konkona Sen Sharma -Pankaj Tripathi shine"></figure>&nbsp;The heart has been craving for a good old love story amid heavy actioners that Bollywood has been churning out for some time now. Amid the clutter of Pan-India gruesome bloodied action thrillers and sappy family dramas that the viewers have been fed the past few years, Anurag Basu's Metro...In Dino manages to break the clutter with a fresh take on the oldest emotion in the universe -Love.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/loudmouth-carlsen-humbled-after-loss-to-presumably-weaker-gukesh-in-grand-chess-tour-1751626539348">Loudmouth Carlsen humbled after loss to 'presumably weaker' Gukesh in Grand Chess Tour</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250704/image-1751626907095.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Loudmouth Carlsen humbled after loss to 'presumably weaker' Gukesh in Grand Chess Tour"></figure>&nbsp;Magnus Carlsen was left embarrassed at SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in the Grand Chess Tour after losing to reigning world champion and Indian chess star D. Gukesh. Carlsen, who had an infamous incident with Gukesh recently at Norway Chess, had questioned the world champion's abilities in rapid and blitz format and had said in a chat with organisers: “Gukesh hasn’t done anything to indicate that he’s going to do well in such a tournament.” Carlsen's statement, however, proven wrong as Gukesh beat Carlsen in round 6 of the rapid format and now leads the points table with 10 points from five wins in a row.

Stay updated with our top stories from around the world, offering you a comprehensive overview of today's most impactful news and events.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday. US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 4) said that a decision by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on a “final proposal” for a ceasefire with Israel in Gaza will become clear in the next 24 hours Click on the headlines for more Zelensky, Trump discuss Russian strikes, ‘opportunities’ in air defence in phone call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday, and the two leaders discussed the Russian strikes on Ukraine and the supply of air defence to Kyiv. The Presidential Office head in Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, said, “A very important and meaningful conversation between the presidents. All the details—coming soon.” Yermak called the conversation “important and productive.” Israel-Hamas close to finalising ceasefire in Gaza? Trump says decision on peace proposal by Hamas likely in 24 hrs US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 4) said that a decision by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on a “final proposal” for a ceasefire with Israel in Gaza will become clear in the next 24 hours, reported Reuters. On being asked by the press whether Israel had accepted the conditions required to finalise a 60-day ceasefire with Hamas, Trump said, “We’ll see what happens, we are going to know over the next 24 hours.” Is Russia using chemical weapons in Ukraine? Dutch defence minister alleges ‘widespread’ use of banned munitions Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans has called for intensified sanctions against Russia, claiming “widespread” use of chemical weapons by Moscow in Ukraine. Dutch and German intelligence agencies on Friday (Jul 4) alleged that they have gathered evidence on the use of banned weapons, including dropping a choking agent from drones to drive soldiers out of trenches so they can be shot. Top Russian oil executive mysteriously found dead after falling from window Andrey Badalov, Vice President of Transneft, has died after allegedly falling from a window at his residence in a Moscow suburb in an apparent suicide case, state media reported on Friday (Jul 4). The company confirmed the death of the 62-year-old, but did not mention the circumstances. Law enforcement officials told the state-run TASS news agency that Badalov’s body was discovered at the bottom of a residential building on Rublyovskoye highway. 'AMERICA IS GOING BANKRUPT': How Trump’s 'Big Beautiful Bill' will skyrocket national debt in US - as claimed by Elon Musk United States President Donald Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has been passed by the US House. Even as Trump celebrates the victory at a rally called ‘America250’ at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, the bill has been accused of raising the national debt ceiling in United States. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the bill could add $2.4 to $3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. Trump's former ‘buddy’ Elon Musk has also warned about it and said, “This spending bill contains the largest increase in the debt ceiling in US history! It is the Debt Slavery Bill.” He also said, "America is going bankrupt extremely quickly, but everyone seems to be whistling past the graveyard." Another law student alleges molestation by Kolkata gangrape accused Monojit Mishra Another student of the law college has come out with allegations of molestation against Monojit Mishra, the main accused in last month’s gang rape case at South Calcutta Law College. The student, who is in her second year of a law degree, told a TV channel that college alumnus Monojit Mishra, who is referred to as ‘Mango dada’ in his influence groups, molested and threatened her two years ago. The Bomb Lady: Woman who made 'Bunker Buster' bombs possible—Used by US to strike Iran's nuclear facilities As the United States dropped 14 bunker buster bombs deployed on the 'B-2 stealth bombers' on Iran's nuclear facilities during the 12-day Israel-Iran war, a former Vietnam War refugee Anh Duong looked at the weapon's technical details as she sensed a familiarity. Microsoft exits Pakistan after 25 years, country's ex-president warns of economic fallout Global tech firm Microsoft has ceased operations in Pakistan after 25 years, according to its founding country head. Jawwad Rehman, who launched Microsoft in the country in 2000, revealed the closure on LinkedIn, writing, “Today, I learned that Microsoft is officially closing its operations in Pakistan. The last few remaining employees were formally informed and just like that, an era ends...” The company has not made any formal public statement on the matter. Metro…In Dino movie review: Anurag Basu’s modern love story breaks the clutter, Konkona Sen Sharma -Pankaj Tripathi shine The heart has been craving for a good old love story amid heavy actioners that Bollywood has been churning out for some time now. Amid the clutter of Pan-India gruesome bloodied action thrillers and sappy family dramas that the viewers have been fed the past few years, Anurag Basu's Metro...In Dino manages to break the clutter with a fresh take on the oldest emotion in the universe -Love. Loudmouth Carlsen humbled after loss to 'presumably weaker' Gukesh in Grand Chess Tour Magnus Carlsen was left embarrassed at SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in the Grand Chess Tour after losing to reigning world champion and Indian chess star D. Gukesh. Carlsen, who had an infamous incident with Gukesh recently at Norway Chess, had questioned the world champion's abilities in rapid and blitz format and had said in a chat with organisers: “Gukesh hasn’t done anything to indicate that he’s going to do well in such a tournament.” Carlsen's statement, however, proven wrong as Gukesh beat Carlsen in round 6 of the rapid format and now leads the points table with 10 points from five wins in a row.

Stay updated with our top stories from around the world, offering you a comprehensive overview of today's most impactful news and events.

Top 10 world news: Zelensky, Trump discuss Russian strikes; Hamas decision on peace proposal likely in 24 hrs, and more

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Saturday (June 29) said that they killed one of the founders of Hamas and the planner of the October 7 terror attack, in an airstrike in Gaza City last night. Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa was also one of the founders of Hamas’ military wing.Issa was killed in a strike in the Sabra neighbourhood of Gaza City, according to the Israeli military.The IDF shared a post on X, announcing his elimination, further vowing that Israel will continue to eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 onslaught.<h2>Who was he?</h2>Issa led Hamas’ force build-up, training, and planned the October 7 massacre. As Head of combat support, he advanced aerial and naval attacks against Israelis, the Israeli Defence Forces said.He was the central source of knowledge and one of the last senior Hamas operatives who held high-level positions before October 7 and remained in the Gaza Strip.Moreover, Issa also led Hamas's force build-up efforts in the Gaza Strip, and served as head of the training division, and was a member of Hamas's general military council, according to the ministry's statement. “Issa played a significant role in planning and executing the murderous massacre on October 7," the military added.Even during the war, including in recent days, he served as head of combat support, "advancing terror plans from the air and sea against Israeli civilians and IDF troops operating in the Gaza Strip."“Alongside advancing these plans, Issa worked to rebuild Hamas’s arrays that were damaged during the war,” it stressed.Moreover, the Israeli military vowed to continue to locate and eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre.Earlier on Friday, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer accused Hamas of looting aid entering Gaza, adding that the Palestinian militant group is “on its last legs”. He also said that Iran’s nuclear programme had been “set back by many years” following the US and Israeli strikes.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The IDF shared a post on X, announcing his elimination, further vowing that Israel will continue to eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 onslaught.

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Saturday (June 29) said that they killed one of the founders of Hamas and the planner of the October 7 terror attack, in an airstrike in Gaza City last night. Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa was also one of the founders of Hamas’ military wing. Issa was killed in a strike in the Sabra neighbourhood of Gaza City, according to the Israeli military. The IDF shared a post on X, announcing his elimination, further vowing that Israel will continue to eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 onslaught. Who was he? Issa led Hamas’ force build-up, training, and planned the October 7 massacre. As Head of combat support, he advanced aerial and naval attacks against Israelis, the Israeli Defence Forces said. He was the central source of knowledge and one of the last senior Hamas operatives who held high-level positions before October 7 and remained in the Gaza Strip. Moreover, Issa also led Hamas's force build-up efforts in the Gaza Strip, and served as head of the training division, and was a member of Hamas's general military council, according to the ministry's statement. “Issa played a significant role in planning and executing the murderous massacre on October 7," the military added. Even during the war, including in recent days, he served as head of combat support, "advancing terror plans from the air and sea against Israeli civilians and IDF troops operating in the Gaza Strip." “Alongside advancing these plans, Issa worked to rebuild Hamas’s arrays that were damaged during the war,” it stressed. Moreover, the Israeli military vowed to continue to locate and eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre. Earlier on Friday, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer accused Hamas of looting aid entering Gaza, adding that the Palestinian militant group is “on its last legs”. He also said that Iran’s nuclear programme had been “set back by many years” following the US and Israeli strikes.

The IDF shared a post on X, announcing his elimination, further vowing that Israel will continue to eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 onslaught.

ELIMINATED: Hamas Oct 7 massacre planner Hakem al-Issa killed in Israeli airstrike - Who was he?

A senior Hamas official told AFP on Wednesday (Jun 25) that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group have “intensified in recent hours” with mediator countries. “Our communications with the brother mediators in Egypt and Qatar have not stopped and have intensified in recent hours,” Taher al-Nunu said. He added that the group had “not yet received any new proposals” to reach an agreement to end the war, which has been going on for 21 months. Hours earlier, US President Donald Trump also suggested that progress was being made in the discussions.&nbsp;Trump on Wednesday said that he believes “great progress” was being made in the negotiations to bring the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to an end. “I think great progress is being made on Gaza, I think because of this attack that we made,” said Trump. The US president also suggested that the US strikes on Iran amid the recent tensions in the Middle East could have a positive impact in the region.&nbsp;After the ceasefire was announced between Israel and Iran on Tuesday (Jun 24) following 12 days of conflict, the Israeli military chief said that Tel Aviv’s focus will now shift back to Gaza and fighting against Hamas.&nbsp;“Now the focus shifts back to Gaza — to bring the hostages home and to dismantle the Hamas regime,” chief of staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said in a statement.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the Israeli army said that seven of its soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza as the conflict with the Palestinian militant group continues. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was a “very difficult day” after the incident.&nbsp;“It is a very difficult day for the people of Israel,” Netanyahu wrote on X. “Our heroic combattants fell in the battle to defeat Hamas and free our hostages in the south of the Gaza Strip.”&nbsp;Since the war began after the October 7, 2023, attack in Israel, more than 1,219 people have been killed, while 251 were taken hostage by Hamas – 49 of whom are still being held in Gaza, including 27 of whom have died. Following Israel’s retaliation, 56,077 people have been killed in Gaza, according to its health ministry.

Trump on Wednesday said that he believes “great progress” was being made in the negotiations to bring the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to an end.

A senior Hamas official told AFP on Wednesday (Jun 25) that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group have “intensified in recent hours” with mediator countries. “Our communications with the brother mediators in Egypt and Qatar have not stopped and have intensified in recent hours,” Taher al-Nunu said. He added that the group had “not yet received any new proposals” to reach an agreement to end the war, which has been going on for 21 months. Hours earlier, US President Donald Trump also suggested that progress was being made in the discussions. Trump on Wednesday said that he believes “great progress” was being made in the negotiations to bring the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to an end. “I think great progress is being made on Gaza, I think because of this attack that we made,” said Trump. The US president also suggested that the US strikes on Iran amid the recent tensions in the Middle East could have a positive impact in the region. After the ceasefire was announced between Israel and Iran on Tuesday (Jun 24) following 12 days of conflict, the Israeli military chief said that Tel Aviv’s focus will now shift back to Gaza and fighting against Hamas. “Now the focus shifts back to Gaza — to bring the hostages home and to dismantle the Hamas regime,” chief of staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said in a statement. On Wednesday, the Israeli army said that seven of its soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza as the conflict with the Palestinian militant group continues. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was a “very difficult day” after the incident. “It is a very difficult day for the people of Israel,” Netanyahu wrote on X. “Our heroic combattants fell in the battle to defeat Hamas and free our hostages in the south of the Gaza Strip.” Since the war began after the October 7, 2023, attack in Israel, more than 1,219 people have been killed, while 251 were taken hostage by Hamas – 49 of whom are still being held in Gaza, including 27 of whom have died. Following Israel’s retaliation, 56,077 people have been killed in Gaza, according to its health ministry.

Trump on Wednesday said that he believes “great progress” was being made in the negotiations to bring the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to an end.

Gaza ceasefire talks ‘intensified,’ says Hamas as Trump believes ‘great progress being made’

Israeli fighter jets claimed to kill October 7 attack mastermind Saeed Izadi, head of the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force, on June 21 (Saturday). Israel and Iran continue to attack each other's region as the war enters into the second week.The IAF fighter jets carried out the operation overnight and killed the October 7 mastermind, while he was hiding in the city of Qom."Overnight, IAF fighter jets, with precise guidance from the Intelligence Directorate, eliminated Saeed Izadi, the Commander of the Palestine Corps in the Quds Force. We eliminated him while he was in a hideout in the city of Qom, in the heart of Iran," IDF Spokesperson, BG Effie Defrin said on Saturday during a briefing.

The hiding place where Said Izadi was killed

He added that Izaadi's location was revealed following a concentrated intelligence effort, while also showing the picture of his hideout.<h2>How did they kill him?</h2>The Israeli forces have been continuously tracking him for the past days, IDF Spokesperson, BG Effie Defrin said, adding that they completed the operation overnight.Izaadi invested great effort in advancing the ideology and objectives of the extremist Iranian regime. "He was one of the few founders and chief orchestrators of the plan to annihilate the State of Israel—alongside Yahya Sinwar, Mohammad Deif, and other murderous terrorists."The spokesperson stressed that Izaadi was one of the "key orchestrators" of the brutal October 7 terror attack and was one of the few who knew about the attack before it was executed.“In his role, he coordinated military efforts between the Iranian regime and Hamas in Lebanon and Gaza. He facilitated terrorist activity and managed budgets transferred directly from Iran to Hamas in Gaza,” the spokesperson said.Moreover, Izadi was the main link between the Iranian regime and Hamas. “The blood of many Israelis is on his hands.” We will continue to pursue the orchestrators of October 7th—every last one of them, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

The IAF fighter jets carried out the operation overnight and killed the October 7 mastermind, while he was hiding in the city of Qom.

Israeli fighter jets claimed to kill October 7 attack mastermind Saeed Izadi, head of the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force, on June 21 (Saturday). Israel and Iran continue to attack each other's region as the war enters into the second week. The IAF fighter jets carried out the operation overnight and killed the October 7 mastermind, while he was hiding in the city of Qom. "Overnight, IAF fighter jets, with precise guidance from the Intelligence Directorate, eliminated Saeed Izadi, the Commander of the Palestine Corps in the Quds Force. We eliminated him while he was in a hideout in the city of Qom, in the heart of Iran," IDF Spokesperson, BG Effie Defrin said on Saturday during a briefing.

The IAF fighter jets carried out the operation overnight and killed the October 7 mastermind, while he was hiding in the city of Qom.

How Israel killed Hamas' October 7 mastermind Saeez Izadi - Image REVEALS his Iran's hideout

Israel on Saturday (Jun 21) claimed that it had killed Saeed Izadi, head of the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force, in a precision missile strike on an apartment in the city of Qom. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, in a statement, declared that Izadi has been eliminated. The killing marks the latest elimination of Iranian high-level commanders by Israel. Calling it a "major achievement" and retribution for the October 7 attack, Katz said that Izadi "funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre".<h2>Who was Mohammad Saeed Izadi?</h2>Izadi was the commander of the Palestine Corps within the IRGC’s elite Quds Force. He is believed to be the lead in overseeing Iran s operational and logistical support to Palestinian militant groups, primarily Hamas and PIJ.As per the Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Centre, Izadi led efforts to smuggle weapons, provide funding, and train terror groups in Gaza and the West Bank.He is also believed to be responsible for strengthening coordination between Palestinian factions and Hezbollah, as well as the former Assad regime in Syria.Mohammad Saeed Izadi, as per reports, was a key figure in Iran's support for Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). He reportedly helped arm and finance the groups ahead of Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel."He funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre," said Katz.The Israeli defence minister said that Izadi's elimination was "a major achievement for Israeli intelligence and the Air Force," and added that it was "justice for the murdered and the hostages.""Israel's long arm will reach all its enemies," he vowed.Israeli intelligence agencies have long accused Izadi of coordinating multi-front assaults on Israel involving Hamas, Hezbollah, and Syrian proxies. This comes as Israel reportedlylaunched a series of strikes on Iran’s nuclear site in Isfahan early Saturday. Citing a security official, Iranian state-linked Fars news agency reported that multiple attacks were carried out, with most of the blasts linked to Iranian air defence systems intercepting incoming threats. As per the report, there was no leakage of hazardous materials and no risk to public safety.&nbsp;

Calling it a "major achievement" and retribution for the October 7 attack, Katz said that Izadi "funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre".

Israel on Saturday (Jun 21) claimed that it had killed Saeed Izadi, head of the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force, in a precision missile strike on an apartment in the city of Qom. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, in a statement, declared that Izadi has been eliminated. The killing marks the latest elimination of Iranian high-level commanders by Israel. Calling it a "major achievement" and retribution for the October 7 attack, Katz said that Izadi "funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre". Who was Mohammad Saeed Izadi? Izadi was the commander of the Palestine Corps within the IRGC’s elite Quds Force. He is believed to be the lead in overseeing Iran s operational and logistical support to Palestinian militant groups, primarily Hamas and PIJ. As per the Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Centre, Izadi led efforts to smuggle weapons, provide funding, and train terror groups in Gaza and the West Bank. He is also believed to be responsible for strengthening coordination between Palestinian factions and Hezbollah, as well as the former Assad regime in Syria. Mohammad Saeed Izadi, as per reports, was a key figure in Iran's support for Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). He reportedly helped arm and finance the groups ahead of Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. "He funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre," said Katz. The Israeli defence minister said that Izadi's elimination was "a major achievement for Israeli intelligence and the Air Force," and added that it was "justice for the murdered and the hostages." "Israel's long arm will reach all its enemies," he vowed. Israeli intelligence agencies have long accused Izadi of coordinating multi-front assaults on Israel involving Hamas, Hezbollah, and Syrian proxies. This comes as Israel reportedlylaunched a series of strikes on Iran’s nuclear site in Isfahan early Saturday. Citing a security official, Iranian state-linked Fars news agency reported that multiple attacks were carried out, with most of the blasts linked to Iranian air defence systems intercepting incoming threats. As per the report, there was no leakage of hazardous materials and no risk to public safety.

Calling it a "major achievement" and retribution for the October 7 attack, Katz said that Izadi "funded and armed Hamas ahead of the October 7 massacre".

Who was Mohammed Izadi? Israel claims top IRGC commander who armed Hamas for Oct 7 attack, eliminated in Qom airstrike

Former movie mogul Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of sexual assault on Wednesday. In West Asia, the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured. In Several parts of the United States people are gearing up for the "No Kings" protest on Saturday (June 14). In India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a seven-day warning for the state as “widespread” rain is predicted in several districts of the state until June 17.Click on the headlines to read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/harvey-weinstein-found-guilty-in-new-york-sex-crimes-retrial-no-verdict-on-rape-1749673776358">Harvey Weinstein found guilty in New York sex crimes retrial, no verdict on rape</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250612/image-1749673850013.jpg?rect=(0,58,908,682)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Harvey Weinstein found guilty in New York sex crimes retrial, no verdict on rape"></figure>Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of one sexual assault on Wednesday (Jun 11) at his retrial. The Former movie mogul was found not guilty of another, while has not reached a verdict on a rape charge after hearing testimony from his alleged victims.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-members-of-gaza-humanitarian-foundation-killed-in-hamas-attack-says-us-backed-aid-group-1749692342499">Five members of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation killed in Hamas attack, says US-backed aid group</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250612/image-1749692649233.jpg?rect=(0,57,910,682)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Five members of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation killed in Hamas attack, says US-backed aid group"></figure>The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-45-million-dictator-style-military-parade-in-washington-dc-will-be-met-by-no-kings-protest-1749699193307">Ode to Army or birthday hoopla? 'No Kings' protests to greet $45 million 'dictator-style' parade in Washington DC</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250612/image-1749700004674.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Ode to Army or birthday hoopla? 'No Kings' protests to greet $45 million 'dictator-style' parade in Washington DC"></figure>Several parts of the United States are gearing up for the "No Kings" protest on Saturday (June 14). The White House is hosting a military parade in Washington DC, supposedly to celebrate the 250-year anniversary of the US Army. However, it is the same day President Donald Trump celebrates his birthday. So, it is being perceived as a dictator-style parade that Trump is throwing for himself.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-rains-imd-issues-7-day-warning-for-widespread-rainfall-across-state-1749694124550">Karnataka rains: IMD issues 7-day warning for ‘widespread’ rainfall across state</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250612/image-1749694345401.jpg?rect=(0,270,3157,2363)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Karnataka rains: IMD issues 7-day warning for ‘widespread’ rainfall across state"></figure>After a brief pause of nearly two weeks, the southwest monsoon has once again become active, lashing several parts of Karnataka with heavy rainfall in the early hours of Thursday (Jun 12). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a seven-day warning for the state as “widespread” rain is predicted in several districts of the state until June 17.Meghalaya Court remands all 5 key accused in Raja Raghuvanshi murder case

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldDNA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldDNA</a> | Meghalaya Court remands all 5 key accused, including Sonam Raghuvanshi, to 8 days in police custody in connection to Raja Raghuvanshi murder case<a href="https://twitter.com/ShivanChanana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivanChanana</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/JyotsnaKumar13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JyotsnaKumar13</a> bring you this report <a href="https://t.co/oUAPTfAI0p">pic.twitter.com/oUAPTfAI0p</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1933021442372997178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief

Former movie mogul Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of sexual assault on Wednesday. In West Asia, the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured. In Several parts of the United States people are gearing up for the "No Kings" protest on Saturday (June 14). In India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a seven-day warning for the state as “widespread” rain is predicted in several districts of the state until June 17. Click on the headlines to read more Harvey Weinstein found guilty in New York sex crimes retrial, no verdict on rape Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of one sexual assault on Wednesday (Jun 11) at his retrial. The Former movie mogul was found not guilty of another, while has not reached a verdict on a rape charge after hearing testimony from his alleged victims. Five members of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation killed in Hamas attack, says US-backed aid group The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured. Ode to Army or birthday hoopla? 'No Kings' protests to greet $45 million 'dictator-style' parade in Washington DC Several parts of the United States are gearing up for the "No Kings" protest on Saturday (June 14). The White House is hosting a military parade in Washington DC, supposedly to celebrate the 250-year anniversary of the US Army. However, it is the same day President Donald Trump celebrates his birthday. So, it is being perceived as a dictator-style parade that Trump is throwing for himself. Karnataka rains: IMD issues 7-day warning for ‘widespread’ rainfall across state After a brief pause of nearly two weeks, the southwest monsoon has once again become active, lashing several parts of Karnataka with heavy rainfall in the early hours of Thursday (Jun 12). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a seven-day warning for the state as “widespread” rain is predicted in several districts of the state until June 17. Meghalaya Court remands all 5 key accused in Raja Raghuvanshi murder case

Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief

Morning news brief: Harvey Weinstein found guilty, Five members of GHF killed in Hamas attack and more

The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured.&nbsp;The group said in a statement that around 10 pm local time (1900 GMT) "a bus carrying more than two dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team... were brutally attacked by Hamas."&nbsp;"We are still gathering facts, but what we know is devastating: there are at least five fatalities, multiple injuries, and fear that some of our team members may have been taken hostage," the statement read.&nbsp;In an email to AFP the group said all the passengers on the bus were Palestinian and all were aid workers. They were en route to GHF's distribution center in the area west of Khan Younis.&nbsp;"We condemn this heinous and deliberate attack in the strongest possible terms," the group said in its statement. "These were aid workers. Humanitarians. Fathers, brothers, sons and friends, who were risking their lives every day to help others."&nbsp;An officially private effort with opaque funding and backed by Israel, GHF began operations on May 26 after Israel completely cut off supplies into Gaza for more than two months, sparking warnings of mass famine.&nbsp;But GHF's first week of operations, in which it said it had distributed more than seven million meals' worth of food, has been marred by criticism.&nbsp;The Israeli military faces allegations of shooting into crowds of civilians rushing to pick up aid packages near GHF sites.&nbsp;Israeli authorities and the GHF -- which uses contracted US security -- denied any such incident took place.&nbsp;The United Nations and major aid groups have refused to cooperate with the foundation over concerns it was designed to cater to Israeli military objectives.

The group said in a statement that around 10 pm local time (1900 GMT) "a bus carrying more than two dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team... were brutally attacked by Hamas."

The US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on Wednesday accused militant group Hamas of attacking a bus carrying its staffers to an aid distribution center, saying at least five people were killed and multiple others injured. The group said in a statement that around 10 pm local time (1900 GMT) "a bus carrying more than two dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team... were brutally attacked by Hamas." "We are still gathering facts, but what we know is devastating: there are at least five fatalities, multiple injuries, and fear that some of our team members may have been taken hostage," the statement read. In an email to AFP the group said all the passengers on the bus were Palestinian and all were aid workers. They were en route to GHF's distribution center in the area west of Khan Younis. "We condemn this heinous and deliberate attack in the strongest possible terms," the group said in its statement. "These were aid workers. Humanitarians. Fathers, brothers, sons and friends, who were risking their lives every day to help others." An officially private effort with opaque funding and backed by Israel, GHF began operations on May 26 after Israel completely cut off supplies into Gaza for more than two months, sparking warnings of mass famine. But GHF's first week of operations, in which it said it had distributed more than seven million meals' worth of food, has been marred by criticism. The Israeli military faces allegations of shooting into crowds of civilians rushing to pick up aid packages near GHF sites. Israeli authorities and the GHF -- which uses contracted US security -- denied any such incident took place. The United Nations and major aid groups have refused to cooperate with the foundation over concerns it was designed to cater to Israeli military objectives.

The group said in a statement that around 10 pm local time (1900 GMT) "a bus carrying more than two dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team... were brutally attacked by Hamas."

Five members of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation killed in Hamas attack, says US-backed aid group

Yasser Abu Shabab profile: Depending on where you look, &nbsp;Yasser Abu Shabab is described as a gangster, drug trafficker, traitor of the Palestinian cause, or a collaborator of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) in its fight against Hamas in Gaza. &nbsp;He is a school dropout, and was once jailed by Hamas for drug trafficking. With the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly acknowledging the arming of anti-Hamas militia in Gaza, Abu Shabab and his group the Popular Forces, also known as the Anti-Terror Service, are suddenly in the limelight.&nbsp;Here is what you didn't know about Abu Shabab. &nbsp;<h2>Who is Yasser Abu Shabab, the leader of militants armed by Israel in Gaza? &nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;As per a profile on the Israeli think tank INSS or Institute for National Security Studies, Abu Shabab is a member of Gaza’s powerful Tarabin tribe and the newly minted leader of pro-Israel militia called the Popular Forces, also known as the Anti-Terror Service or Anti-Terror Front.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shabab was previously involved in arms smuggling and drug trafficking, according to the think tank.&nbsp;He is reported to have had ties in the past with the Islamic State terror group, but later rejected their ideology.&nbsp;&nbsp;His tribe has disavowed him in late 2024, when his group of around 300 fighters joined forces with IDF.&nbsp;Shabab is among the top targets for assassination in the hit list of Hamas, which has tried and failed to kill him, twice. &nbsp;<h2>What is the Popular Forces militia?</h2>&nbsp; The Popular Forces militia is an Israeli-backed and allegedly Islamic State-linked Palestinian armed group active in the Rafah region of Gaza. Led by Abu Shabab, it consists of up to 300 members, including former Palestinian security personnel.&nbsp;Variously described as a clan, gang, or vigilante group, Popular Forces work alongside Israeli forces.&nbsp;While the Israeli side says they are helping protect humanitarian aid from Hamas interference, Hamas has accused the Popular Forces of looting the aid, particularly in Rafah.&nbsp;&nbsp;Popular Forces reportedly drove out Hamas forces from eastern Rafah. They control territory and aid routes near the Egypt-Gaza border. Their success has led to an experimental food distribution project in eastern Rafah. This model mirrors the US strategy with the Syrian Democratic Forces or SDF in Syria.&nbsp;While one set of reports say the group had looted humanitarian aid, the Popular Forces insist they are protecting the aid and the civilians from Hamas, which it described as aid thieves.&nbsp;It has been reported that Israel gave weapons and equipment to Abu Shabab's group in 2025.&nbsp;<h2>Abu Shabab's links with the Palestinian Authority</h2> Some reports claimed that the Palestinian Authority (PA), which is also opposed to Hamas, is helping in the militia recruitment of Abu Shabab's group, but others, citing PA spokespersons, said there's no such cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Abu Shabab was reportedly involved in the past with Fatah - the armed wing of PA.&nbsp;According to some observers, it is expected that he could help in the eventual reintegration of PA forces into Gaza, as tribes begin to assume governance roles during Israel’s operations against Hamas.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Abu Shabab had a shady past of drug trafficking, was jailed by Hamas &nbsp;</h2>Born on 19 December 1993, Abu Shabab is from the Bedouin tribe of Tarabin in Rafah.&nbsp;During the war in Gaza following the October 2023 Hamas terror attack on Israel, Abu Shabab emerged as an opposition figure to Hamas.&nbsp;Since dropping out of school, he trafficked drugs such as hashish and psychoactive narcotics. There are also accounts of his cigarette and drug smuggling from Egypt and Israel into the Gaza Strip, including through tunnels.&nbsp;He had been jailed in Gaza for alleged drug trafficking and theft and &nbsp;released when the Israel-Hamas war began.&nbsp;His clan was accused of looting aid trucks such as the Kerem Shalom aid convoy pillage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently, he controls eastern Rafah, according to reports.

Depending on where you look,  Yasser Abu Shabab is described as a gangster, drug trafficker, traitor of the Palestinian cause, or a collaborator of the Israeli Defence Forces in its fight against Hamas in Gaza.

Yasser Abu Shabab profile: Depending on where you look, Yasser Abu Shabab is described as a gangster, drug trafficker, traitor of the Palestinian cause, or a collaborator of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) in its fight against Hamas in Gaza. He is a school dropout, and was once jailed by Hamas for drug trafficking. With the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly acknowledging the arming of anti-Hamas militia in Gaza, Abu Shabab and his group the Popular Forces, also known as the Anti-Terror Service, are suddenly in the limelight. Here is what you didn't know about Abu Shabab. Who is Yasser Abu Shabab, the leader of militants armed by Israel in Gaza? As per a profile on the Israeli think tank INSS or Institute for National Security Studies, Abu Shabab is a member of Gaza’s powerful Tarabin tribe and the newly minted leader of pro-Israel militia called the Popular Forces, also known as the Anti-Terror Service or Anti-Terror Front. Shabab was previously involved in arms smuggling and drug trafficking, according to the think tank. He is reported to have had ties in the past with the Islamic State terror group, but later rejected their ideology. His tribe has disavowed him in late 2024, when his group of around 300 fighters joined forces with IDF. Shabab is among the top targets for assassination in the hit list of Hamas, which has tried and failed to kill him, twice. What is the Popular Forces militia? The Popular Forces militia is an Israeli-backed and allegedly Islamic State-linked Palestinian armed group active in the Rafah region of Gaza. Led by Abu Shabab, it consists of up to 300 members, including former Palestinian security personnel. Variously described as a clan, gang, or vigilante group, Popular Forces work alongside Israeli forces. While the Israeli side says they are helping protect humanitarian aid from Hamas interference, Hamas has accused the Popular Forces of looting the aid, particularly in Rafah. Popular Forces reportedly drove out Hamas forces from eastern Rafah. They control territory and aid routes near the Egypt-Gaza border. Their success has led to an experimental food distribution project in eastern Rafah. This model mirrors the US strategy with the Syrian Democratic Forces or SDF in Syria. While one set of reports say the group had looted humanitarian aid, the Popular Forces insist they are protecting the aid and the civilians from Hamas, which it described as aid thieves. It has been reported that Israel gave weapons and equipment to Abu Shabab's group in 2025. Abu Shabab's links with the Palestinian Authority Some reports claimed that the Palestinian Authority (PA), which is also opposed to Hamas, is helping in the militia recruitment of Abu Shabab's group, but others, citing PA spokespersons, said there's no such cooperation. Abu Shabab was reportedly involved in the past with Fatah - the armed wing of PA. According to some observers, it is expected that he could help in the eventual reintegration of PA forces into Gaza, as tribes begin to assume governance roles during Israel’s operations against Hamas. Abu Shabab had a shady past of drug trafficking, was jailed by Hamas Born on 19 December 1993, Abu Shabab is from the Bedouin tribe of Tarabin in Rafah. During the war in Gaza following the October 2023 Hamas terror attack on Israel, Abu Shabab emerged as an opposition figure to Hamas. Since dropping out of school, he trafficked drugs such as hashish and psychoactive narcotics. There are also accounts of his cigarette and drug smuggling from Egypt and Israel into the Gaza Strip, including through tunnels. He had been jailed in Gaza for alleged drug trafficking and theft and released when the Israel-Hamas war began. His clan was accused of looting aid trucks such as the Kerem Shalom aid convoy pillage. Currently, he controls eastern Rafah, according to reports.

With the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly acknowledging the arming of anti-Hamas militia in Gaza, Abu Shabab and his group the Popular Forces, also known as the Anti-Terror Service, are suddenly in the limelight

Drug trafficker, traitor, gangster: What you didn't know about Yasser Abu Shabab, the anti-Hamas clan leader helping Israel in Gaza

The family of an Israeli soldier shared a video of their son's brutal capture during the October 7 attacks, showing how he was pulled from his tank and captured by the terror group.The mother of Israeli soldier said that she decided to publish the video because she fears that her son has been "left behind", adding that she wants the public to know that he is in a critical situation. &nbsp;Matan Angrest, the Israeli soldier was seen surrounded by a dozen men atop the turret of an Israeli tank. The faces of those men were blurred, then lower Angrest, head first, off the tank into the arms of Palestinian militants, who barely catch him.Angrest's body was limp and tumbles forward as he is tossed off the side of the tank. Moreover, it was unclear whether he was conscious in the video.According to the Israeli government, Angrest is one of 55 hostages still held by Hamas and one of 20 still believed to be alive.In the video, one man was seen kicking Angrest before he is thrown off the tank. Followed by, another man was seen slapping Angrest as he falls to the floor.Anat Angrest, mother of the Israeli soldier, further compared Israel's Netanyahu government to US President Donald Trump's administration, saying that she is feeling a big gap.“I don’t feel the commitment of the government for Matan as an Israeli soldier like I felt the commitment of Trump to American citizens – a big gap,” Anat Angrest said.“If the government wants soldiers to still serve her, she has to worry about the soldiers and bring them home like the other citizens," she added while sharing her ordeal.Her husband watched the video months ago, but Anat watched it for the first time on Sunday.“For me as a mother, it’s the hardest thing to watch – to know about my son. Every mother knows that her kid from the first cry of a baby, we are worried about our children,” the mother said. “It’s the hardest situation for me as a mother.”The family further stressed that their son is suffering from chronic asthma, has untreated burns and has suffered infections during his captivity.Last month, Keith Siegel, the American-Israeli hostage who was released in February, told CNN that he was extremely concerned for Angrest’s physical and mental well-being as the two were held together for more than two months.The mother of Israeli soldier said that her family did not release the video for months at the urging of the Israeli military, but now she feels that she has no choice.“We were quiet about it for a year and a half, but we understood that our quiet is very comfortable to leave Matan behind,” she said.

In the video, one man was seen kicking Angrest before he is thrown off the tank. Followed by, another man was seen slapping Angrest as he falls to the floor.

The family of an Israeli soldier shared a video of their son's brutal capture during the October 7 attacks, showing how he was pulled from his tank and captured by the terror group. The mother of Israeli soldier said that she decided to publish the video because she fears that her son has been "left behind", adding that she wants the public to know that he is in a critical situation. Matan Angrest, the Israeli soldier was seen surrounded by a dozen men atop the turret of an Israeli tank. The faces of those men were blurred, then lower Angrest, head first, off the tank into the arms of Palestinian militants, who barely catch him. Angrest's body was limp and tumbles forward as he is tossed off the side of the tank. Moreover, it was unclear whether he was conscious in the video. According to the Israeli government, Angrest is one of 55 hostages still held by Hamas and one of 20 still believed to be alive. In the video, one man was seen kicking Angrest before he is thrown off the tank. Followed by, another man was seen slapping Angrest as he falls to the floor. Anat Angrest, mother of the Israeli soldier, further compared Israel's Netanyahu government to US President Donald Trump's administration, saying that she is feeling a big gap. “I don’t feel the commitment of the government for Matan as an Israeli soldier like I felt the commitment of Trump to American citizens – a big gap,” Anat Angrest said. “If the government wants soldiers to still serve her, she has to worry about the soldiers and bring them home like the other citizens," she added while sharing her ordeal. Her husband watched the video months ago, but Anat watched it for the first time on Sunday. “For me as a mother, it’s the hardest thing to watch – to know about my son. Every mother knows that her kid from the first cry of a baby, we are worried about our children,” the mother said. “It’s the hardest situation for me as a mother.” The family further stressed that their son is suffering from chronic asthma, has untreated burns and has suffered infections during his captivity. Last month, Keith Siegel, the American-Israeli hostage who was released in February, told CNN that he was extremely concerned for Angrest’s physical and mental well-being as the two were held together for more than two months. The mother of Israeli soldier said that her family did not release the video for months at the urging of the Israeli military, but now she feels that she has no choice. “We were quiet about it for a year and a half, but we understood that our quiet is very comfortable to leave Matan behind,” she said.

In the video, one man was seen kicking Angrest before he is thrown off the tank. Followed by, another man was seen slapping Angrest as he falls to the floor.

'A BIG GAP': Mother of Israeli soldier compares Netanyahu govt to Trump admin after sharing video of his brutal capture by Hamas terrorists

The lead negotiator of Palestinian militant Hamas said on Thursday (Jun 5) that the group was ready for a new round of negotiations to reach a permanent ceasefire with Israel in Gaza.&nbsp;“We reaffirm that we are ready for a new, serious round of negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent ceasefire agreement,” lead Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya said in a televised speech, according to AFP. He added that Hamas was in contact with the mediators.&nbsp;Earlier on May 30, US President Donald Trump said that he believed an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas was “very close”.&nbsp;Last month, ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas seemed to progress following discussions mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. However, both sides accused each other of scuppering a US-backed proposal.&nbsp;Hayya reiterated Hamas’s stance that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shouldered the blame for the impasse. He added that his moves were not aimed at rejecting Witkoff’s latest proposal but to submit demands for a guarantee of a non-resumption of hostilities following any hostage release by the group.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel has maintained that it does not prevent Gazans from collecting aid. But following an incident on Tuesday (Jun 3), army spokesperson Effie Defrin said that soldiers had fired towards suspects who “were approaching in a way that endangered” the troops. The incident was under investigation, he added.&nbsp;<h2>Hostage bodies return to Israel</h2>&nbsp;On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the bodies of two Israeli-Americans killed on October 7, Judy Weinstein Haggai and Gad Haggai, had been recovered and returned to Israel after a “special operation” in Gaza.&nbsp;Responding to this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said their return was “a stark reminder of the enduring cruelty” faced by families of hostages that still remain in Gaza.&nbsp;During the October 2023 attack, Hamas abducted 251 hostages, 55 of whom still remain in Gaza, including 32 who have died, according to AFP.

Earlier on May 30, US President Donald Trump said that he believed an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas was “very close”.

The lead negotiator of Palestinian militant Hamas said on Thursday (Jun 5) that the group was ready for a new round of negotiations to reach a permanent ceasefire with Israel in Gaza. “We reaffirm that we are ready for a new, serious round of negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent ceasefire agreement,” lead Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya said in a televised speech, according to AFP. He added that Hamas was in contact with the mediators. Earlier on May 30, US President Donald Trump said that he believed an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas was “very close”. Last month, ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas seemed to progress following discussions mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. However, both sides accused each other of scuppering a US-backed proposal. Hayya reiterated Hamas’s stance that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shouldered the blame for the impasse. He added that his moves were not aimed at rejecting Witkoff’s latest proposal but to submit demands for a guarantee of a non-resumption of hostilities following any hostage release by the group. Meanwhile, Israel has maintained that it does not prevent Gazans from collecting aid. But following an incident on Tuesday (Jun 3), army spokesperson Effie Defrin said that soldiers had fired towards suspects who “were approaching in a way that endangered” the troops. The incident was under investigation, he added. Hostage bodies return to Israel On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the bodies of two Israeli-Americans killed on October 7, Judy Weinstein Haggai and Gad Haggai, had been recovered and returned to Israel after a “special operation” in Gaza. Responding to this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said their return was “a stark reminder of the enduring cruelty” faced by families of hostages that still remain in Gaza. During the October 2023 attack, Hamas abducted 251 hostages, 55 of whom still remain in Gaza, including 32 who have died, according to AFP.

Earlier on May 30, US President Donald Trump said that he believed an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas was “very close”.

Hamas says ready for ‘serious’ talks with Israel to reach ‘permanent ceasefire’ in Gaza

Israel Defense Forces on Saturday (May 31) confirmed to have eliminated Hamas chief Mohammed Sinwar in an airstrike earlier in the month after assassinating his elder brother Yahya Sinwar in October 24.&nbsp;The IDF has succeeded in eliminating successive heads of Hamas, inflicting a severe blow to the military command of the extremist group since assassinating Ismail Haniyeh in July 2024.&nbsp;After the extermination of the Sinwar brothers, the man now emerging as the de facto military leader of Hamas in Gaza is Izz al-Din al-Haddad, who has an extensive background in military and intelligence operations.&nbsp;Known by several aliases like “Abu Suhaib” and “the Ghost of the al-Qassam Brigades”, al-Haddad has succeeded in evading Israel’s most intensive manhunts and is now believed to hold authority over hostages, military operations, and key decisions on ceasefire negotiations.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Izz al-Din al-Haddad?</h2>&nbsp;Al-Haddad has risen in the Hamas ranks over a long time after having started as a company-level commander in the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.He was then assigned charge of a battalion and, over time, commanded a total of six battalions and a special forces unit.After the killing of Bassem Issa in 2021, al-Haddad was appointed commander of the Gaza Brigade, one of the most critical posts within the armed wing. In June 2024, he was reportedly designated as the overall commander for northern Gaza.After the death of Yahya Sinwar, al-Haddad assumed responsibility for two major regional commands and 14 battalions and was sharing command of the Gaza Strip with Mohammed Sinwar.&nbsp;<h2>Izz al-Din al-Haddad’s role in Oct 7 attacks</h2>&nbsp;The night before the attack, al-Haddad reportedly convened a secret meeting with senior commanders where he distributed a document that outlined the mission’s core objectives: the mass abduction of Israeli soldiers to be transported into Gaza, real-time documentation of the assault and the capture of border-adjacent Israeli communities, says a Ynet News report.In an interview to Al Jazeera, Al-Haddad defended Hamas’s actions on October 7 by claiming to have discovered Israeli military plans for a major Gaza operation.&nbsp;<h2>How has al-Haddad survived Israeli attacks?</h2>&nbsp;Al-Haddad has been a target of the Israeli military for a long time, but has survived at least six assassination attempts, with attacks dating back to 2008. Israeli airstrikes targeted his residence in 2008, 2012, 2021 and 2023.Three more targeted operations have been attempted to eliminate him since the war began, but each time he managed to flee and evade death.Intelligence sources say al-Haddad is very guarded about his whereabouts and movements, frequently shifts locations and maintains tight security protocols, relying only on a select few in his inner circle.The extreme caution has helped him survive, even as Israel has placed a $750,000 bounty on information leading to his capture or death.&nbsp;His eldest son, Suhaib, and grandson were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on January 17, 2025. In April 2025, his second son was also killed in an Israeli operation.&nbsp;Reports say that the Sinwar brothers trusted al-Haddad following their years of collaboration in intelligence operations and armed strategy. The closeness he enjoyed with the Sinwar brothers positioned him as a natural successor once the IDF started eliminating senior Hamas figures.

Known by several aliases like “Abu Suhaib” and “the Ghost of the al-Qassam Brigades”, al-Haddad has succeeded in evading Israel’s most intensive manhunts and is now believed to hold authority over hostages, military operations, and key decisions on ceasefire negotiations.

Israel Defense Forces on Saturday (May 31) confirmed to have eliminated Hamas chief Mohammed Sinwar in an airstrike earlier in the month after assassinating his elder brother Yahya Sinwar in October 24. The IDF has succeeded in eliminating successive heads of Hamas, inflicting a severe blow to the military command of the extremist group since assassinating Ismail Haniyeh in July 2024. After the extermination of the Sinwar brothers, the man now emerging as the de facto military leader of Hamas in Gaza is Izz al-Din al-Haddad, who has an extensive background in military and intelligence operations. Known by several aliases like “Abu Suhaib” and “the Ghost of the al-Qassam Brigades”, al-Haddad has succeeded in evading Israel’s most intensive manhunts and is now believed to hold authority over hostages, military operations, and key decisions on ceasefire negotiations. Who is Izz al-Din al-Haddad? Al-Haddad has risen in the Hamas ranks over a long time after having started as a company-level commander in the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. He was then assigned charge of a battalion and, over time, commanded a total of six battalions and a special forces unit. After the killing of Bassem Issa in 2021, al-Haddad was appointed commander of the Gaza Brigade, one of the most critical posts within the armed wing. In June 2024, he was reportedly designated as the overall commander for northern Gaza. After the death of Yahya Sinwar, al-Haddad assumed responsibility for two major regional commands and 14 battalions and was sharing command of the Gaza Strip with Mohammed Sinwar. Izz al-Din al-Haddad’s role in Oct 7 attacks The night before the attack, al-Haddad reportedly convened a secret meeting with senior commanders where he distributed a document that outlined the mission’s core objectives: the mass abduction of Israeli soldiers to be transported into Gaza, real-time documentation of the assault and the capture of border-adjacent Israeli communities, says a Ynet News report. In an interview to Al Jazeera, Al-Haddad defended Hamas’s actions on October 7 by claiming to have discovered Israeli military plans for a major Gaza operation. How has al-Haddad survived Israeli attacks? Al-Haddad has been a target of the Israeli military for a long time, but has survived at least six assassination attempts, with attacks dating back to 2008. Israeli airstrikes targeted his residence in 2008, 2012, 2021 and 2023. Three more targeted operations have been attempted to eliminate him since the war began, but each time he managed to flee and evade death. Intelligence sources say al-Haddad is very guarded about his whereabouts and movements, frequently shifts locations and maintains tight security protocols, relying only on a select few in his inner circle. The extreme caution has helped him survive, even as Israel has placed a $750,000 bounty on information leading to his capture or death. His eldest son, Suhaib, and grandson were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on January 17, 2025. In April 2025, his second son was also killed in an Israeli operation. Reports say that the Sinwar brothers trusted al-Haddad following their years of collaboration in intelligence operations and armed strategy. The closeness he enjoyed with the Sinwar brothers positioned him as a natural successor once the IDF started eliminating senior Hamas figures.

Known by several aliases like “Abu Suhaib” and “the Ghost of the al-Qassam Brigades”, al-Haddad has succeeded in evading Israel’s most intensive manhunts and is now believed to hold authority over hostages, military operations, and key decisions on ceasefire negotiations.

Sinwars wiped out, Izz al-Din al-Haddad now new military chief of Hamas? Who is he?

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