With some of the worst fighting of the conflict, the Israeli army has increased its attacks in southern and central Gaza, bombing homes that house Palestinian refugees, hitting refugee camps, and leaving thousands of people already on the move for weeks without a safe place to go.

Israel-Hamas war: Intense bombardment across Gaza since truce ended

Israel-Hamas war: 45 killed in Israeli attacks in Central Gaza's Deir Al Balah: Hamas

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz.

However, this year the coveted invite-only&nbsp;celebration of the eight-day festival of lights has been cancelled, and it's not the only one. The reason? Israel-Hamas war.

<h2>Toned down, cancelled Hanukkah celebrations&nbsp;</h2>

In Virginia, as per ABC News, a menorah lighting at a Virginian art and music festival was reportedly cancelled over apparent concerns related to the ongoing war in the Middle East. Talking to the Gazette, Shirley Vermillion, the festival's founder, said the menorah lighting "seemed very inappropriate" given the conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-believe-israel-to-end-ground-operation-in-gaza-by-january-report-666718">US officials believe Israel will end ground operations in southern Gaza by January: Report</a>

The event was scheduled for a monthly art and musical festival happening on December 10.

At the same time, the White House is yet to announce if and how it will celebrate the eight-day festival.

Across the US, there is an uptick in the number of Hanukkah events getting cancelled. Some escaped cancellation, but have been toned down.

<h2>White House reacts</h2>

Speaking during a news briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that "every action" had been taken in an apparent attempt to help make the Jewish community feel safe.

"We have seen an uptick in hate, just more broadly, in different communities—obviously, also in the Muslim community. And so, we will do everything that we can to make sure that these communities feel safe," she added.

"Obviously, over the past couple of weeks since this—certainly since this war started, we have seen the increase of antisemitism. You know, we understand the fear that people in the Jewish community must be feeling right now, which is why we have taken action to do everything that we can to make sure that people in that community feel protected. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/69-million-children-in-rich-countries-living-in-poverty-unicef-666670">69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF</a>

<h2>Backlash</h2>

The cancellations have triggered a backlash.

Reacting to the news of cancellation at the music festival, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said: "Singling out the Jewish community by cancelling this Hanukkah celebration is absurd and antisemitic. The event organisers should immediately reconsider their actions and move forward with the menorah lighting."

In a post on X, former Virginia House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, a Democrat, also echoed similar sentiments. She said: "Cancelling the menorah lighting ceremony and holding Jewish people responsible for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is shocking and outrageous. This type of hate has no place in Virginia."

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz.

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz. However, this year the coveted invite-only celebration of the eight-day festival of lights has been cancelled, and it's not the only one. The reason? Israel-Hamas war. Toned down, cancelled Hanukkah celebrations In Virginia, as per ABC News, a menorah lighting at a Virginian art and music festival was reportedly cancelled over apparent concerns related to the ongoing war in the Middle East. Talking to the Gazette, Shirley Vermillion, the festival's founder, said the menorah lighting "seemed very inappropriate" given the conflict. Also read | US officials believe Israel will end ground operations in southern Gaza by January: Report The event was scheduled for a monthly art and musical festival happening on December 10. At the same time, the White House is yet to announce if and how it will celebrate the eight-day festival. Across the US, there is an uptick in the number of Hanukkah events getting cancelled. Some escaped cancellation, but have been toned down. White House reacts Speaking during a news briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that "every action" had been taken in an apparent attempt to help make the Jewish community feel safe. "We have seen an uptick in hate, just more broadly, in different communities—obviously, also in the Muslim community. And so, we will do everything that we can to make sure that these communities feel safe," she added. "Obviously, over the past couple of weeks since this—certainly since this war started, we have seen the increase of antisemitism. You know, we understand the fear that people in the Jewish community must be feeling right now, which is why we have taken action to do everything that we can to make sure that people in that community feel protected. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do." Also read | 69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF Backlash The cancellations have triggered a backlash. Reacting to the news of cancellation at the music festival, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said: "Singling out the Jewish community by cancelling this Hanukkah celebration is absurd and antisemitic. The event organisers should immediately reconsider their actions and move forward with the menorah lighting." In a post on X, former Virginia House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, a Democrat, also echoed similar sentiments. She said: "Cancelling the menorah lighting ceremony and holding Jewish people responsible for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is shocking and outrageous. This type of hate has no place in Virginia."

Hanukkah events toned down or scrapped across US in wake of Israel-Hamas war

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse. He also called out the women's and human rights organisations to take stern action against the Palestinian militant group.

He further expressed his disappointment over the absence of outrage from human rights organisations on the matter.

"Today, along with the cabinet members, I met with the families of the hostages. Those who we have returned home and those who we are trying to bring back home. I heard stories that broke my heart, I heard about the thirst and hunger, about physical and mental abuse, about the little witnesses that are still whispering from fear, about the darkness the loved ones still live under. I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape, unlike anything. But I must say that just until a few days I didn't hear human rights organizations and women's rights organizations I didn't hear women's organisations in the UN&nbsp;I didn't hear their outrage," Netanyahu said.

"I say to the women's rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation, where the hell are you, I expect all civilized leaders, governments, nations, to speak up against these atrocities," he added.

He then mentioned that the ground offensive in Gaza had expanded to the south of the Gaza Strip and that "there is no place beyond our reach."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-not-sure-if-hed-be-seeking-reelection-next-year-if-not-for-rival-trump-666650">Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking reelection next year if not for Trump</a>

"Our fighters are expanding the ground operation against Hamas in every place in the strip, including the south of the strip, tonight we operated there with massive force, the earth shook in Khan Younis, the earth shook in Jabalia, we besieged both of them," he said.

<h2>Biden urges global condemnation of sexual violence committed by Hamas</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday called for global condemnation of "horrific" sexual violence committed by the Palestinian militant group.

"The world can't just look away at what’s going on," Biden said at a campaign event in Boston.

"It’s on all of us -- government, international organisations, civil society and businesses -- to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation."

He then mentioned the reports of Hamas using "rape to terrorise women and girls" during the attacks it launched against Israel last month.

"Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," including rape, mutilation and the desecration of bodies, he said.

"Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them -- It is appalling."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse. He also called out the women's and human rights organisations to take stern action against the Palestinian militant group. He further expressed his disappointment over the absence of outrage from human rights organisations on the matter. "Today, along with the cabinet members, I met with the families of the hostages. Those who we have returned home and those who we are trying to bring back home. I heard stories that broke my heart, I heard about the thirst and hunger, about physical and mental abuse, about the little witnesses that are still whispering from fear, about the darkness the loved ones still live under. I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape, unlike anything. But I must say that just until a few days I didn't hear human rights organizations and women's rights organizations I didn't hear women's organisations in the UN I didn't hear their outrage," Netanyahu said. "I say to the women's rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation, where the hell are you, I expect all civilized leaders, governments, nations, to speak up against these atrocities," he added. He then mentioned that the ground offensive in Gaza had expanded to the south of the Gaza Strip and that "there is no place beyond our reach." Also read: Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking reelection next year if not for Trump "Our fighters are expanding the ground operation against Hamas in every place in the strip, including the south of the strip, tonight we operated there with massive force, the earth shook in Khan Younis, the earth shook in Jabalia, we besieged both of them," he said. Biden urges global condemnation of sexual violence committed by Hamas United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday called for global condemnation of "horrific" sexual violence committed by the Palestinian militant group. "The world can't just look away at what’s going on," Biden said at a campaign event in Boston. "It’s on all of us -- government, international organisations, civil society and businesses -- to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation." He then mentioned the reports of Hamas using "rape to terrorise women and girls" during the attacks it launched against Israel last month. "Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," including rape, mutilation and the desecration of bodies, he said. "Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them -- It is appalling." (With inputs from agencies)

Where the hell are you? Netanyahu fumes over women's rights groups' silence on sexual violence by Hamas

Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck three commercial ships on Sunday in the Red Sea. The U.S. warship in the area shot down three drones in self-defence during the hourslong assault. The Iranian-backed Houthis have attacked ships in this vital shipping area. Still, the latest incident marks an escalation in a series of maritime attacks linked to the Israel-Hamas war. Many are concerned that it may lead to a wider regional conflict as multiple ships find themselves in the crosshairs.

Gravitas: Iran's Proxy Step Up Red Sea Attacks | Yemen's Houthis Target US Navy Warship

Hate speech targeting Jews is rising in the West. In the latest, the White House condemned a group of protesters who massed enchanted in front of Israeli Falafel shop in Philadelphia.

US President Joe Biden slams Philadelphia's anti-semitic rally at Falafel shop owned by Israeli chef

A disturbing video has emerged that shows an Israeli lawyer being kidnapped by Hamas militants during the Oct 7 attack. According to a report by the New York Post on Monday (Dec 4), a local Israeli news channel aired a snippet of 40-year-old Amit Soussana’s abduction.

A disturbing video has emerged that shows an Israeli lawyer being kidnapped by Hamas militants during the Oct 7 attack. According to a report by the New York Post on Monday (Dec 4), a local Israeli news channel aired a snippet of 40-year-old Amit Soussana’s abduction. The video showed Soussana flanked by several Hamas militants marching outside of her house in Kibbutz Kfar Azza. Soussana struggled to escape the group, but one of the militants propped her over his shoulder to try and get her to be still. However, the lawyer flailed around and kicked another militant trying to grab her legs. Also read: Israeli officials knew about Hamas' attack plan over a year ago, says report The commotion eventually knocked down the militant lifting her and causing the rest of the group to stop their advancement and encircle her. She was then wrapped in a sheet and taken to the Gaza Strip. Lawyer released from captivity just before truce ended The New York Post report said that Soussana was among the last group of hostages released by Hamas on Thursday, a day before its truce deal with Israel ended. The 40-year-old was freed along with Israeli-French citizen Mia Schem. In total, 10 hostages were released that day. Also read: Broken pelvises, mutilated bodies'...Did Hamas use rape as weapon of war in Israel? A report by the Times of Israel said that Soussana used to live alone in Kibbutz Kfar Azza and was hiding in a safe room in her house when she was kidnapped. Disturbing image: This screenshot shows Hamas militants kidnapping Israeli lawyer Amit Soussana on Oct 7, 2023. Hamas didn't want women hostages to reveal treatment: US A United States official said on Monday that Hamas did not want women hostages to reveal their treatment under the Palestinian militant group's captivity, as it did not want them to speak publicly about sexual violence. "It seems one of the reasons they don't want to turn women over that they've been holding hostage and the reason this pause fell apart is they don't want those women to be able to talk about what happened to them during their time in custody," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. "There is very little that I would put beyond Hamas when it comes to its treatment of civilians and particularly its treatment of women," he added. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Disturbing video shows Hamas kidnapping Israeli lawyer during Oct 7 attack

Jonathan&nbsp;Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4).&nbsp;

The 21-year-old from Tel Aviv was at the Supernova music festival in southern Israel’s kibbutz Re’im when Hamas fighters attacked.

According to Israeli officials, hundreds were killed at the desert festival which was said to be one of the first places attacked by the Hamas terrorists on October 7.&nbsp;

<h2>About Samerano’s death</h2>

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed the 21-year-old’s family of his death in Hamas’ captivity on Monday, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-will-happen-to-you-hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-met-israeli-hostages-in-a-tunnel-663684">'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel</a>

He was reportedly kidnapped on October 7 after he had escaped the festival towards Kibbutz Be’eri before being shot and taken into Gaza.

According to Israeli media reports, he and his friend Maor Gratzyani allegedly sought rescue. Gratzyani’s body was found in the vicinity several days after the massacre.&nbsp;

Samerano, a DJ, was at the festival with his friends wearing a black tank top, green pants and a green hat. His family says he was always the life of any party and had not been heard from since 7:00 am (local time) that morning.&nbsp;

His parents were earlier told to assume he is in Gaza in Hamas captivity. Samerano is survived by his parents, Kobi and Ayelet, and his brother Yair.&nbsp;

“Jonathan was a magical kid, surrounded by friends, a DJ who only wanted to make music, grow, be happy and travel. He had so many dreams,” said members of his family, as quoted by Israeli newspaper, Haaretz.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-to-conduct-surveillance-over-israel-gaza-to-search-for-hamas-hostage-sites-665647">Israel-Hamas war: UK to conduct air surveillance to locate Hamas hostage sites</a>

His funeral will be held on Monday evening in Tel Aviv, reported Jerusalem Post.

<h2>Supernova music festival massacre</h2>

According to Israeli officials, some 350 people were killed after Hamas attacked the music festival and many attendees were among those kidnapped on October 7. At least 1,200 Israelis were reportedly killed by Hamas terrorists.&nbsp;

Last month, Israel’s Channel 12 obtained the first Israeli police report into the attack which said that the Hamas terrorists had originally intended to attack nearby kibbutz Re’im as well as other villages near the Gaza border and found out about the music festival with drones and from the air as they parachuted into Israel.&nbsp;

(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.

Jonathan Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4).

Jonathan Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4). The 21-year-old from Tel Aviv was at the Supernova music festival in southern Israel’s kibbutz Re’im when Hamas fighters attacked. According to Israeli officials, hundreds were killed at the desert festival which was said to be one of the first places attacked by the Hamas terrorists on October 7. About Samerano’s death The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed the 21-year-old’s family of his death in Hamas’ captivity on Monday, reported the Israeli media. ALSO READ | 'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel He was reportedly kidnapped on October 7 after he had escaped the festival towards Kibbutz Be’eri before being shot and taken into Gaza. According to Israeli media reports, he and his friend Maor Gratzyani allegedly sought rescue. Gratzyani’s body was found in the vicinity several days after the massacre. Samerano, a DJ, was at the festival with his friends wearing a black tank top, green pants and a green hat. His family says he was always the life of any party and had not been heard from since 7:00 am (local time) that morning. His parents were earlier told to assume he is in Gaza in Hamas captivity. Samerano is survived by his parents, Kobi and Ayelet, and his brother Yair. “Jonathan was a magical kid, surrounded by friends, a DJ who only wanted to make music, grow, be happy and travel. He had so many dreams,” said members of his family, as quoted by Israeli newspaper, Haaretz. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: UK to conduct air surveillance to locate Hamas hostage sites His funeral will be held on Monday evening in Tel Aviv, reported Jerusalem Post. Supernova music festival massacre According to Israeli officials, some 350 people were killed after Hamas attacked the music festival and many attendees were among those kidnapped on October 7. At least 1,200 Israelis were reportedly killed by Hamas terrorists. Last month, Israel’s Channel 12 obtained the first Israeli police report into the attack which said that the Hamas terrorists had originally intended to attack nearby kibbutz Re’im as well as other villages near the Gaza border and found out about the music festival with drones and from the air as they parachuted into Israel. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Jonatan Samerano, abducted from music fest, died in Hamas custody

Israel held an event at the United Nations in New York which focused on sexual violence against women during the October 7th attack by Hamas militants.

Accounts of Hamas militants raping women; Israel-led UN session condemns world silence

Accounts of Hamas militants raping women; Israel-led UN session condemns world silence | WION

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

Almost two months into Hamas militants' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, reports and accusations of the use of rape&nbsp;and sexual violence as a tool of war continue to circulate.

Israel has accused Hamas of raping "dozens" of women and some men during day one of the attack — a charge vehemently refuted by the militant group.

Labelling the allegations "unfounded lies", the group said they were part of "Zionist campaigns which promote unfounded lies and allegations to demonise the Palestinian resistance".

<h2>Rape — a weapon of war</h2>

Recently, in a statement, UN Women said it was "alarmed by the numerous accounts of gender-based atrocities" during the attacks on southern Israel.

This comes as Israeli police say they have launched an investigation and are collecting evidence of sexual violence.

Meni Binyamin, the head of the International Crime Investigations Unit of the Israeli police, told The New York Times that they "are investigating sexual crimes against both women and men perpetrated by Hamas terrorists".

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/butchered-limbs-mutilated-raped-israeli-forensic-teams-describe-hamas-atrocities-647016" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/butchered-limbs-mutilated-raped-israeli-forensic-teams-describe-hamas-atrocities-647016&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">'Butchered, limbs mutilated, raped': Israeli forensic teams describe Hamas atrocities</a>

In an interview with the publication, Binyamin claimed, "There were violent rape incidents, the most extreme sexual abuses we have seen, of both women and men. I am talking about dozens."

He said that a team of investigators had gathered "tens of thousands" of testimonies from survivors, witnesses and first responders.&nbsp;

Binyamin also said that they were combing through banks of videos and photos from the Oct 7 Hamas incursion, but refused to divulge details, saying, "This is an ongoing investigation."

However, he said that autopsies, forensic evidence, and confessions also corroborate that sexual crimes were committed by Hamas.

<h2>Dishonour on top of abuse</h2>

Yael Sherer, a spokesperson for Israel-based advocacy group Survivors of Sexual Violence, told BBC Radio 4 that there is evidence of sexual violence against both men and women.

"There was sexual violence and rape in these communities in the south of Israel… we have a few living survivors—not a lot—of both genders. It didn't only happen to women, it happened to men as well," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-terrorists-beheaded-soldiers-and-raped-claims-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-645801" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-terrorists-beheaded-soldiers-and-raped-claims-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-645801&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women, claims Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

Sherer alleged that Hamas militants not only sexually violated Israelis but also mutilated their bodies.

"Aside from finding bodies of people who were murdered, a lot of the bodies were mutilated… terrorists made sure to disgrace these people and dishonour them."

<h2>Where's the international condemnation?</h2>

In an opinion piece for Newsweek, Israeli First Lady Michal Herzog expressed her outrage over the international community's failure to condemn the gender-based sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas.

Calling international silence over the crimes a "betrayal of all women," Herzog said, "The silence of international human rights organisations, and the unwillingness to believe Israeli women in the face of overwhelming evidence, has been devastating."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/big-bang-theory-star-condemns-global-silence-on-rape-and-torture-of-israeli-women-by-hamas-664512" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/big-bang-theory-star-condemns-global-silence-on-rape-and-torture-of-israeli-women-by-hamas-664512&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivqrHYm_eCAxX_gVYBHeBZA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Big Bang Theory star condemns global silence on 'rape and torture' of Israeli women by Hamas</a>

"A Hamas video from a kibbutz shows terrorists torturing a pregnant woman and removing her foetus. Our forensic scientists have found bodies of women and girls raped with such violence that their pelvic bones were broken," said Herzog.

"This evidence, along with the explicit recorded confessions of captured terrorists, makes abundantly clear that mass rape was a premeditated part of Hamas's plan," wrote the first lady.

<h2>UN steps up</h2>

Eight weeks of silence later, the United Nations has launched its own investigation into the sexual violence Hamas is accused of.&nbsp;

In a statement posted on X on Nov 30, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: "There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted."

"Gender-based violence must be condemned. Anytime. Anywhere," he added.

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There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted. 
 
Gender-based violence must be condemned. Anytime. Anywhere.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1729983825965703363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Drawing attention to the delayed response,&nbsp;Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on X said, "In every other massacre in which such heinous sexual crimes were committed," the UN Women had "issued an immediate and harsh condemnation."

"But when Israeli women are the victims," these organisations, he said, cast "doubt on the allegations".

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It took 2 months (!) for UNWOMEN to remember to loosely condemn Hamas’ sexual violence on October 7th. In every other massacre in which such heinous sexual crimes were committed, UNWOMEN issued an immediate and harsh condemnation. But when Israeli women are the victims, UNWOMEN… <a href="https://t.co/AzgGlvf9E9">pic.twitter.com/AzgGlvf9E9</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1730958469090410689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Witness testimonies reveal ghastly narratives</h2>

In the days since the Hamas attack, horrifying, ghastly witness testimonies of unprecedented sexual abuse, including that of a woman begging to be killed as she was gang-raped, have emerged.&nbsp;

Talking to UK's Sunday Times, Yoni Saadon, a reveller at the Nova Music Festival, recounted tales of horror from October 7.

"I saw this beautiful woman with the face of an angel and eight or 10 of the fighters beating and raping her," he recalled.

"She was screaming, 'Stop it already! I'm going to die anyway from what you are doing, just kill me!'

"When they finished, they were laughing, and the last one shot her in the head," said the 39-year-old.

Giving an account of how he survived the massacre, Saadon, the father of four, revealed that he had smeared himself with the blood of a slain woman to look dead.

"I will never forget her face," he said, talking about his saviour, who had been shot in the head by the attacking militants.

"Every night I wake to it and apologise to her, saying, 'I'm sorry.'"

He also claims to have witnessed the beheading of a young woman who had fought back as Hamas stripped her.

"They threw her to the ground, and one of the terrorists took a shovel and beheaded her," he told The Sunday Times, adding, "And her head rolled along the ground. I see that head, too."

(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.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Almost two months into Hamas militants' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, reports and accusations of the use of rape and sexual violence as a tool of war continue to circulate.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Almost two months into Hamas militants' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, reports and accusations of the use of rape and sexual violence as a tool of war continue to circulate. Israel has accused Hamas of raping "dozens" of women and some men during day one of the attack — a charge vehemently refuted by the militant group. Labelling the allegations "unfounded lies", the group said they were part of "Zionist campaigns which promote unfounded lies and allegations to demonise the Palestinian resistance". Rape — a weapon of war Recently, in a statement, UN Women said it was "alarmed by the numerous accounts of gender-based atrocities" during the attacks on southern Israel. This comes as Israeli police say they have launched an investigation and are collecting evidence of sexual violence. Meni Binyamin, the head of the International Crime Investigations Unit of the Israeli police, told The New York Times that they "are investigating sexual crimes against both women and men perpetrated by Hamas terrorists". Also read | 'Butchered, limbs mutilated, raped': Israeli forensic teams describe Hamas atrocities In an interview with the publication, Binyamin claimed, "There were violent rape incidents, the most extreme sexual abuses we have seen, of both women and men. I am talking about dozens." He said that a team of investigators had gathered "tens of thousands" of testimonies from survivors, witnesses and first responders. Binyamin also said that they were combing through banks of videos and photos from the Oct 7 Hamas incursion, but refused to divulge details, saying, "This is an ongoing investigation." However, he said that autopsies, forensic evidence, and confessions also corroborate that sexual crimes were committed by Hamas. Dishonour on top of abuse Yael Sherer, a spokesperson for Israel-based advocacy group Survivors of Sexual Violence, told BBC Radio 4 that there is evidence of sexual violence against both men and women. "There was sexual violence and rape in these communities in the south of Israel… we have a few living survivors—not a lot—of both genders. It didn't only happen to women, it happened to men as well," she said. Also read | Hamas terrorists beheaded soldiers and raped women, claims Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Sherer alleged that Hamas militants not only sexually violated Israelis but also mutilated their bodies. "Aside from finding bodies of people who were murdered, a lot of the bodies were mutilated… terrorists made sure to disgrace these people and dishonour them." Where's the international condemnation? In an opinion piece for Newsweek, Israeli First Lady Michal Herzog expressed her outrage over the international community's failure to condemn the gender-based sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas. Calling international silence over the crimes a "betrayal of all women," Herzog said, "The silence of international human rights organisations, and the unwillingness to believe Israeli women in the face of overwhelming evidence, has been devastating." Also read | Big Bang Theory star condemns global silence on 'rape and torture' of Israeli women by Hamas "A Hamas video from a kibbutz shows terrorists torturing a pregnant woman and removing her foetus. Our forensic scientists have found bodies of women and girls raped with such violence that their pelvic bones were broken," said Herzog. "This evidence, along with the explicit recorded confessions of captured terrorists, makes abundantly clear that mass rape was a premeditated part of Hamas's plan," wrote the first lady. UN steps up Eight weeks of silence later, the United Nations has launched its own investigation into the sexual violence Hamas is accused of. In a statement posted on X on Nov 30, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: "There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted." "Gender-based violence must be condemned. Anytime. Anywhere," he added. There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted. Gender-based violence must be condemned. Anytime. Anywhere. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) November 29, 2023 × Drawing attention to the delayed response, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on X said, "In every other massacre in which such heinous sexual crimes were committed," the UN Women had "issued an immediate and harsh condemnation." "But when Israeli women are the victims," these organisations, he said, cast "doubt on the allegations". It took 2 months (!) for UNWOMEN to remember to loosely condemn Hamas’ sexual violence on October 7th. In every other massacre in which such heinous sexual crimes were committed, UNWOMEN issued an immediate and harsh condemnation. But when Israeli women are the victims, UNWOMEN… pic.twitter.com/AzgGlvf9E9 — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) December 2, 2023 × Witness testimonies reveal ghastly narratives In the days since the Hamas attack, horrifying, ghastly witness testimonies of unprecedented sexual abuse, including that of a woman begging to be killed as she was gang-raped, have emerged. Talking to UK's Sunday Times, Yoni Saadon, a reveller at the Nova Music Festival, recounted tales of horror from October 7. "I saw this beautiful woman with the face of an angel and eight or 10 of the fighters beating and raping her," he recalled. "She was screaming, 'Stop it already! I'm going to die anyway from what you are doing, just kill me!' "When they finished, they were laughing, and the last one shot her in the head," said the 39-year-old. Giving an account of how he survived the massacre, Saadon, the father of four, revealed that he had smeared himself with the blood of a slain woman to look dead. "I will never forget her face," he said, talking about his saviour, who had been shot in the head by the attacking militants. "Every night I wake to it and apologise to her, saying, 'I'm sorry.'" He also claims to have witnessed the beheading of a young woman who had fought back as Hamas stripped her. "They threw her to the ground, and one of the terrorists took a shovel and beheaded her," he told The Sunday Times, adding, "And her head rolled along the ground. I see that head, too." (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.

Explained: 'Broken pelvises, mutilated bodies'...Did Hamas use rape as weapon of war in Israel?

The humanitarian crisis is unfolding in south gaza. Living between life and death, displaced gazans say they have nowhere to go. Spokesperson for Gaza's health ministry says hospitals in southern Gaza have totally collapsed. While the W.H.O. Warns that the situation is getting worse by the hour. What is Gazans fate? Will they find refuge?

W.H.O: Gaza reaching humanity's darkest hour

The humanitarian crisis is unfolding in south gaza. Living between life and death, displaced gazans say they have nowhere to go. Spokesperson for gaza's health ministry says hospitals in southern gaza have totally collapsed. While the w.H.O. Warns that the situation is getting worse by the hour. What is gazans fate? Will they find refuge?

Israel-Hamas war: Safe Zone in Gaza impossible, says UN

An intense air offensive by Israel struck the south of the Gaza Strip on Monday (Dec 4) claiming the lives of dozens of Palestinians and wounding others.

As per news agency Reuters reports, the target of the air strikes also included areas where Israel had told people to seek shelter.

Israeli army and tanks also pushed the ground campaign against Hamas militants in the south of the enclave after having primarily acquired control of the northern area which is now devastated.

Israel had earlier on Monday ordered Palestinians to leave parts of Gaza's main southern city, Khan Younis. However, the residents complained of even those areas coming under fire where they were asked to go.

The explosions were seen close to residential areas in Gaza, according to Reuters, with many buildings going into total blackout due to lack of electricity.

At the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to Israel to avoid further action that would worsen the already alarming humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"For people ordered to evacuate, there is nowhere safe to go and very little to survive on," UN&nbsp;spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

The United States also indicated that it expects Israel to avoid attacking areas that Israeli authorities have identified as "no-strike" zones in Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-us-aid-for-ukraine-would-allow-putin-to-prevail-warns-white-house-666210">Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House</a>

"They have also indicated that there are areas where there will be 'no-strike' zones. And in those zones, we do expect Israel to follow through on not striking," Sullivan told reporters at the White House.

<h2>Israeli army told UN health agency to leave southern Gaza warehouse, says Tedros</h2>

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday said that the Israeli military had told the UN health agency to vacate an aid warehouse in southern Gaza before a ground offensive in the area made it inoperable.

"Today, WHO received notification from the Israel Defense Forces that we should remove our supplies from our medical warehouse in southern Gaza within 24 hours, as ground operations will put it beyond use," Tedros wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"We appeal to Israel to withdraw the order, and take every possible measure to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and humanitarian facilities," he wrote.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

An intense air offensive by Israel struck the south of the Gaza Strip on Monday (Dec 4) claiming the lives of dozens of Palestinians and wounding others. As per news agency Reuters reports, the target of the air strikes also included areas where Israel had told people to seek shelter.

An intense air offensive by Israel struck the south of the Gaza Strip on Monday (Dec 4) claiming the lives of dozens of Palestinians and wounding others. As per news agency Reuters reports, the target of the air strikes also included areas where Israel had told people to seek shelter. Israeli army and tanks also pushed the ground campaign against Hamas militants in the south of the enclave after having primarily acquired control of the northern area which is now devastated. Israel had earlier on Monday ordered Palestinians to leave parts of Gaza's main southern city, Khan Younis. However, the residents complained of even those areas coming under fire where they were asked to go. The explosions were seen close to residential areas in Gaza, according to Reuters, with many buildings going into total blackout due to lack of electricity. At the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to Israel to avoid further action that would worsen the already alarming humanitarian situation in Gaza. "For people ordered to evacuate, there is nowhere safe to go and very little to survive on," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. The United States also indicated that it expects Israel to avoid attacking areas that Israeli authorities have identified as "no-strike" zones in Gaza. Also read: Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House "They have also indicated that there are areas where there will be 'no-strike' zones. And in those zones, we do expect Israel to follow through on not striking," Sullivan told reporters at the White House. Israeli army told UN health agency to leave southern Gaza warehouse, says Tedros WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday said that the Israeli military had told the UN health agency to vacate an aid warehouse in southern Gaza before a ground offensive in the area made it inoperable. "Today, WHO received notification from the Israel Defense Forces that we should remove our supplies from our medical warehouse in southern Gaza within 24 hours, as ground operations will put it beyond use," Tedros wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "We appeal to Israel to withdraw the order, and take every possible measure to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and humanitarian facilities," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Intense Israeli air offensive hits south of Gaza, several areas in total blackout

The civilian death toll in Gaza is nearing 16,000 mark. As truce ended between Israel and Hamas, airstrikes restarted in Gaza. Isarel ordered a million Gazans to flee, parts of Gaza reduced to rubble.

Israel tanks enter Southern Gaza near the territory's second-largest city of Khan Younis | World DNA

Nearly two months after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel led to the killing of over a thousand innocent Israelis, a chilling video footage has emerged, showing how the terrorists killed civilians at the Zikim beach on October 7.

Nearly two months after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel led to the killing of over a thousand innocent Israelis, a chilling video footage has emerged, showing how the terrorists killed civilians at the Zikim beach on October 7. The beach, situated north of Gaza, was infiltrated by Hamas after its terrorists landed on the shore in a small dinghy. A group of Israeli teens who had been camping over the weekend on the beach quickly hid themselves but were slaughtered mercilessly. The video currently going viral on social media, shared by Israel Today shows as many as five Hamas members immediately firing their guns after landing on the beach. Due to the beach's close proximity to Gaza, there is at least one Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier stationed to protect the civilians. After hearing the gunshots, the soldier tries to protects the teens by moving them inside a bathroom for cover. However, the next footage shows the soldier and the teens slaughtered by the Hamas. (Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised) 🚨JUST IN: NEW OCT 7 FOOTAGE RELEASED | WARNING - GRAPHIC Newly released footage of the October 7 Hamas attack by sea on Zikim Beach. 1️⃣ Hamas in dinghies land on Zikim Beach, just north of Gaza, where a group of Israeli teens had been camping over the weekend. 2️⃣ The beach is… pic.twitter.com/RjZx230adn — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 5, 2023 × According to Ynet, as many as 10 civilians were murdered by Hamas on the beach. Among the victims was one Aryeh Ozen, a resident of Moshav Gilat, who had come to the beach with his son Eli from Ashdod for a day out. Aryeh and Eli's family had to search for information on their own for days. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli hostages reunite with family × Israeli Navy kills Hamas terrorists A day after the incident, the Israeli Navy released a statement saying it had killed five Palestinian terrorists hiding on the beach. “In the last few hours, Navy control units identified five terrorists who were hiding in the Zikim area, in Israeli territory,” the military says. Footage published by the Israel Defense Forces showed sailors of the 916th Patrol Squadron opening fire at the suspects in the area. The Israeli Navy says it killed five Palestinian terrorists hiding on the Zikim beach pic.twitter.com/kKNh3Tfq9s — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) October 8, 2023 × Also read | Around two civilian deaths for every Hamas fighter killed in Gaza, admits Israeli military Israel ups the ante against Hamas Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations. Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that nearly 16,000 people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel. 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.

As it happened: New clips emerge of Hamas landing on Israeli beach, killing soldier, teens on Oct 7

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli troops and tanks enter south Gaza city after strikes in North

US President Joe Biden slams Philadelphia's anti-Semitic rally

Billie Eilish, renowned for her candidness, didn't know that her latest interview would be considered as her coming-out moment. The 21-year-old was surprised to know that people didn't already suspect her queer identity and her attraction towards women.

Billie Eilish says wasn't it obvious she likes women; confirms queer identity

Israeli forces encircled territory's largest Jabalia refugee camp. Israeli army is moving deeper into teh refugee camp. There are no safer zones anywhere in Gaza, says UN.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli bombardment continues in southern Gaza

Israel tanks enter Southern Gaza near the territory's second-largest city of Khan Younis

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Currently, workers outside shortage occupations require a minimum salary of £26,200 to take up jobs in the UK – lower than the median wage of £33,000.

UK to hike pay gate for foreigners| Lawsuit aims to halt exporting F-35 parts to Israel

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli Army releases video said to show battles with Hamas fighters | WION

Hamas-Israel war: Broken pelvises, mutilated bodies | Did Hamas use rape as weapon of war in Israel?

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