More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military.

As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times.

<h2>Families notified</h2>

As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-strikes-two-houthi-drones-in-yemen-in-self-defence-687383">Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence'</a>

The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence.

This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself.

<h2>Worsening tensions</h2>

Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions.

Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return.

The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a>

Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising.

Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages.

However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war.

Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct.

More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times. Families notified As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed. Also read | Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence' The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence. This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself. Worsening tensions Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions. Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return. The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails. Also read | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising. Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages. However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

<h2>Blinken meets Saudi crown prince</h2>

On his fifth trip to the Middle East since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, Blinken met with the Saudi crown prince in Riyadh and is later expected to visit Israel, Israeli-occupied West Bank, Egypt and Qatar.

The meeting between Washington’s top diplomat and the Saudi leader lasted for about two hours, reported Reuters. However, Blinken did not respond to shouted questions from reporters about the meeting, only waving as he walked by.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-drone-strike-on-syrian-democratic-forces-kills-seven-in-syria-687239">Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria</a>

He later took to X and said that they discussed "efforts to increase urgent humanitarian aid and ensure it gets to those who need it in Gaza."

Blinken added, "We will continue to engage in diplomacy in the region to prevent the further spread of the conflict."

Ahead of the visit, Blinken stressed the need for “urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza”. This comes as aid groups in the Palestinian enclave have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact of the war.&nbsp;

Washington’s top diplomat is also expected to discuss a truce framework which has not been signed off on by either Hamas or Israel.

<h2>Rise in tensions in the Middle East</h2>

The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is escalating and spreading to the rest of the region with Iranian-backed groups entering the fray and firing on American soldiers in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Yemen-based Houthis attacked shipping routes in the Red Sea which they say is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the war, there have been several attacks against American troops in the Middle East, including the drone strike last week in Jordan that killed three military personnel.&nbsp;

The US has been carrying out retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed militias across Syria, Iraq and Yemen.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a>

Washington’s top diplomat will nevertheless try to reinforce the message that US President Joe Biden’s administration neither seeks war with Iran nor wants the conflict to spread. So far, Tehran, despite its backing of several militia groups, has avoided any direct role in the conflict.&nbsp;

Blinken’s key priority during this visit would be to “deliver a message directly to countries in the region that the United States does not want to see the conflict escalated and will not escalate the conflict,” a senior US official told reporters, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

“It’s important to show up and say it on one-on-one,” the official added.

Meanwhile, the talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt with the backing of the US about the possible release of more than 130 hostages in Gaza in return for a humanitarian pause, are underway.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Blinken meets Saudi crown prince On his fifth trip to the Middle East since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, Blinken met with the Saudi crown prince in Riyadh and is later expected to visit Israel, Israeli-occupied West Bank, Egypt and Qatar. The meeting between Washington’s top diplomat and the Saudi leader lasted for about two hours, reported Reuters. However, Blinken did not respond to shouted questions from reporters about the meeting, only waving as he walked by. ALSO READ | Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria He later took to X and said that they discussed "efforts to increase urgent humanitarian aid and ensure it gets to those who need it in Gaza." Blinken added, "We will continue to engage in diplomacy in the region to prevent the further spread of the conflict." Ahead of the visit, Blinken stressed the need for “urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza”. This comes as aid groups in the Palestinian enclave have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact of the war. Washington’s top diplomat is also expected to discuss a truce framework which has not been signed off on by either Hamas or Israel. Rise in tensions in the Middle East The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is escalating and spreading to the rest of the region with Iranian-backed groups entering the fray and firing on American soldiers in Iraq and Syria. Meanwhile, Yemen-based Houthis attacked shipping routes in the Red Sea which they say is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Since the beginning of the war, there have been several attacks against American troops in the Middle East, including the drone strike last week in Jordan that killed three military personnel. The US has been carrying out retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed militias across Syria, Iraq and Yemen. ALSO READ | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report Washington’s top diplomat will nevertheless try to reinforce the message that US President Joe Biden’s administration neither seeks war with Iran nor wants the conflict to spread. So far, Tehran, despite its backing of several militia groups, has avoided any direct role in the conflict. Blinken’s key priority during this visit would be to “deliver a message directly to countries in the region that the United States does not want to see the conflict escalated and will not escalate the conflict,” a senior US official told reporters, as quoted by Reuters. “It’s important to show up and say it on one-on-one,” the official added. Meanwhile, the talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt with the backing of the US about the possible release of more than 130 hostages in Gaza in return for a humanitarian pause, are underway. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Blinken kicks off Middle East visit, meets Saudi crown prince amid rise in tensions

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne will visit Israel and the West Bank tomorrow, the French Embassy announces.

French FM to visit Jordan Israel and Lebanon

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel

The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In the latest US Secy State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with the Saudi counterpart about the Israel-Hamas war. Watch to know more!

Antony Blinken to press hostage release deal on New West Asia trip

A Palestinian doctor working at al-Ahli al-Arab hospital in Gaza City was detained by Israeli forces during their takeover of the hospital.

Israel-Palestine war: Gaza doctor reveals disturbing details of detention under IDF

U.S. has confirmed that it has conducted additional strikes on Iran-linked Houthi rebels. This comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is heading to West Asia again on his new crisis tour of the region. Blinken seeks to push forward a proposal to halt the devastating conflict in return for the release of hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Antony Blinken heads back to West Asia to push for hostage deal

Israeli protesters demand PM Netanyahu to resign. Israel issues warning to Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israeli military says it hit 50 Hezbollah targets since October 7. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli protesters demand PM Netanyahu to resign

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Sunday (Feb 4) that the wave of American and British strikes in Yemen would bring "further turmoil" to the Middle East. On Saturday, the militaries of the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) launched strikes against 36 Houthi targets at 13 locations in Yemen, the third such joint operation in response to repeated attacks on Red Sea shipping by the Iran-backed rebels.

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Sunday (Feb 4) that the wave of American and British strikes in Yemen would bring "further turmoil" to the Middle East. On Saturday, the militaries of the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) launched strikes against 36 Houthi targets at 13 locations in Yemen, the third such joint operation in response to repeated attacks on Red Sea shipping by the Iran-backed rebels. Citing a statement from Hamas, a report by the news agency AFP said that the Palestinian militant group called the bombing of Houthi targets "a blatant assault on the sovereignty of a sister Arab country, and an escalation that will drag the region into further turmoil." The Houthis did not announce any deaths in these strikes. According to the Pentagon, the strikes hit buried weapons storage facilities, missile systems, launchers, and other capabilities the Houthis used to attack Red Sea shipping. Houthis vow response after strikes Also on Sunday, Houthi rebels vowed a response to the American and British strikes. "The strikes will not pass without a response and consequences," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea, the news agency Reuters reported. Last night, @RoyalAirForce Typhoons successfully took out specific Houthi military targets in Yemen, further degrading the Houthis’ capabilities. Recent attacks on UK and international vessels are unacceptable. It’s our duty to protect innocent lives and preserve freedom. pic.twitter.com/AV1a22G8QM — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 4, 2024 × "These attacks will not deter us from our ethical, religious, and humanitarian stance in support of the resilient Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip," Sarea added and pointed out that the group would press on. Also watch | How does the US earn from wars? × The Houthis control swathes of Yemen and have said their attacks in the Red Sea are in solidarity with Palestinians as Israel continues its offensive in the Gaza Strip. The US has carried out more than a dozen strikes against Houthi targets in the past several weeks. Sunday's strikes come a day after the US launched separate strikes against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for the killing of three US soldiers in Jordan last week. US, UK fuelling chaos: Iran reacts to Yemen strikes Condemning the strikes in Yemen, Iran said on Sunday that the US and the UK contradicted their declared intention of avoiding a wider Middle East conflict. In a statement, Iran Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani said the strikes were in "clear contradiction with the repeated claims of Washington and London that they do not want the expansion of war and conflict in the region." Kanani accused the two countries of "fuelling chaos, disorder, insecurity and instability" by supporting Israel in its war against Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

US, UK strikes on Yemen will bring ‘further turmoil’ to Middle East: Hamas

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory.&nbsp;

Australia is one of several countries to have halted funding of UNRWA, a critical source of support for millions in Gaza.

"Well, we're examining it, along with other like-minded countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. And we want that to be resolved," said Albanese.&nbsp;

"The issue here is one that’s of deep concern, that this occurred, that there were some involvement. And those allegations need to be fully examined to ensure that every single dollar of aid is going to just that," he added.&nbsp;

The Australian PM added that he did not want people "literally dying" in Gaza but his government needed to make sure the money was being spent for the purpose it was sent.

"Well, what we're doing is going through those processes, along with our like-minded allies. But all of us want to see the support for kids in Gaza can't be in a situation where people are literally starving and the only organisation that can provide that support there is UNRWA,"&nbsp;said Albanese.&nbsp;

Speaking further he said, "It has been funded by Australia for a long period of time and funded by our like-minded allies as well. But we want to make sure that the organisation has every single dollar going to the purpose for which it is given."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-crisis-unrwa-staff-involved-in-oct-7th-hamas-attack-un-agency-probes-staff-involvement-684618">Watch |&nbsp;Gaza crisis: UNRWA staff involved in Oct 7th Hamas attack? | UN agency probes staff involvement</a>

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<h2>UNRWA in soup&nbsp;</h2>

Over a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia have paused funding to the aid agency after allegations surfaced that several of its employees had ties with Hamas.&nbsp;

The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-back-300000-funding-to-un-agency-amid-allegations-of-ties-with-hamas-685310">Also read | US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas</a>

The European Union,&nbsp;one of UNRWA's top donors, last month demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians.&nbsp;

A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said&nbsp;no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February".

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory. Australia is one of several countries to have halted funding of UNRWA, a critical source of support for millions in Gaza. "Well, we're examining it, along with other like-minded countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. And we want that to be resolved," said Albanese. "The issue here is one that’s of deep concern, that this occurred, that there were some involvement. And those allegations need to be fully examined to ensure that every single dollar of aid is going to just that," he added. The Australian PM added that he did not want people "literally dying" in Gaza but his government needed to make sure the money was being spent for the purpose it was sent. "Well, what we're doing is going through those processes, along with our like-minded allies. But all of us want to see the support for kids in Gaza can't be in a situation where people are literally starving and the only organisation that can provide that support there is UNRWA," said Albanese. Speaking further he said, "It has been funded by Australia for a long period of time and funded by our like-minded allies as well. But we want to make sure that the organisation has every single dollar going to the purpose for which it is given." Watch | Gaza crisis: UNRWA staff involved in Oct 7th Hamas attack? | UN agency probes staff involvement o Embed Code: × UNRWA in soup Over a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia have paused funding to the aid agency after allegations surfaced that several of its employees had ties with Hamas. The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation. Also read | US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas The European Union, one of UNRWA's top donors, last month demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians. A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February". (With inputs from agencies)

Australia PM Albanese says government probing claims UN agency aided Hamas

As Israel continues its&nbsp;war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel&nbsp;recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).&nbsp;The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish&nbsp;Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems.

Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand&nbsp;Israelis.&nbsp;

According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance.

Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-carry-out-joint-air-raids-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-hit-36-sites-686775">US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites</a>

However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation.

The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50-hezbollah-targets-hit-in-syria-since-oct-7-says-israel-686772">Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel</a>

Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-40-killed-as-us-unleashes-airstrikes-on-iranian-proxies-in-iraq-syria-686763">Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq &amp; Syria</a>

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Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon&nbsp;the urgency of lending support to Israel said,&nbsp;"The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing."

The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).

As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4). The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems. Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand Israelis. According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance. Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Also Read | US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation. The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns. Also Read | Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters. Watch | Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq & Syria × Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon the urgency of lending support to Israel said, "The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing." The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval. (With inputs from agencies)

US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel amid war with Hamas

Israel-Hamas war: US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the top military spokesperson, made the comments during a briefing that focused mostly on countering Hezbollah attacks that were launched in support of Hamas.&nbsp;

"Everywhere Hezbollah is, we shall be. We will take action everywhere required in the Middle East," Hagari said.

Israeli forces have so far attacked 34,000 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including 120 border surveillance outposts, 40 caches of missiles and other weaponry and more than 40 command centres, said Hagari.

He stated that the number of enemies killed in the attack was over 200.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-crisis-us-military-says-it-destroyed-drones-near-yemen-686759">Red Sea crisis: US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen</a>

<h2>'No deal yet on Gaza truce', says senior Hamas official</h2>

Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official on Saturday said that a final deal had not yet been reached over pausing the four-month-long war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in the Gaza Strip.

Osama Hamdan, a top Hamas official in Lebanon said that the leaders of the militant group were reviewing the proposal by top officials from Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the United States, but more time was needed to "announce our position".

He told a news conference that his movement "has repeatedly said" it was "open to discussing any initiative... putting an end to this barbaric aggression against our Palestinian people".

He confirmed that the group had received the proposal that was drafted by top leaders in Paris, however, stated that an agreement had not yet been reached and that the plan was missing certain details.

"We will announce our position" soon, "based on... our desire to put an end as quickly as possible to the aggression that our people suffer", he added.

<h2>US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen</h2>

In another development from the Red Sea crisis, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) launched strikes targeting six anti-ship missiles belonging to Yemen's Houthi rebel group, according to the US military.

The missiles were "prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea. US forces identified the cruise missiles in Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels," Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on social media.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, CENTCOM said that the American forces had shot down eight drones near Yemen on Friday (Feb 2) and destroyed four more before they could be launched.

It further said that the ones hit on the ground belonged to the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. However, CENTCOM did not specify a country or group linked to the missiles shot out of the air.

Anger over Israel's destructive campaign in Gaza, which began on October 7 in response to unprecedented attacks by Hamas, has spread throughout the Middle East.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the top military spokesperson, made the comments during a briefing that focused mostly on countering Hezbollah attacks that were launched in support of Hamas. "Everywhere Hezbollah is, we shall be. We will take action everywhere required in the Middle East," Hagari said. Israeli forces have so far attacked 34,000 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including 120 border surveillance outposts, 40 caches of missiles and other weaponry and more than 40 command centres, said Hagari. He stated that the number of enemies killed in the attack was over 200. Also read: Red Sea crisis: US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen 'No deal yet on Gaza truce', says senior Hamas official Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official on Saturday said that a final deal had not yet been reached over pausing the four-month-long war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in the Gaza Strip. Osama Hamdan, a top Hamas official in Lebanon said that the leaders of the militant group were reviewing the proposal by top officials from Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the United States, but more time was needed to "announce our position". He told a news conference that his movement "has repeatedly said" it was "open to discussing any initiative... putting an end to this barbaric aggression against our Palestinian people". He confirmed that the group had received the proposal that was drafted by top leaders in Paris, however, stated that an agreement had not yet been reached and that the plan was missing certain details. "We will announce our position" soon, "based on... our desire to put an end as quickly as possible to the aggression that our people suffer", he added. US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen In another development from the Red Sea crisis, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) launched strikes targeting six anti-ship missiles belonging to Yemen's Houthi rebel group, according to the US military. The missiles were "prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea. US forces identified the cruise missiles in Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels," Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on social media. Earlier in the day, CENTCOM said that the American forces had shot down eight drones near Yemen on Friday (Feb 2) and destroyed four more before they could be launched. It further said that the ones hit on the ground belonged to the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. However, CENTCOM did not specify a country or group linked to the missiles shot out of the air. Anger over Israel's destructive campaign in Gaza, which began on October 7 in response to unprecedented attacks by Hamas, has spread throughout the Middle East. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands gathered in support of Palestinians. Houthi supporters gathered in Sana'a, the capital of Yemen in solidarity with Gazans. Yemenis raised anti US & anti-Israel slogans. Houthis say their assaults won't stop until Gaza war ends. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Yemenis gather in solidarity with Gazans

Gaza's Health Ministry says 100 people have been killed in the territory in the last 24 hours. Watch the video to know more.

Over 100 people dead in 24 hours: Gaza Health Ministry

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

Israel-Hamas hostage deal remains precarious

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

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

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

Indian Navy rescues another Iranian-flagged vessel

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

Israel-Hamas war: Israel claims success in Khan Younis

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

How West Asian businesses are capitalising on boycott of American manufacturers

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

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

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

US blames Iran-backed group for drone strike in Jordan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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