Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza cast their votes in municipal and village elections on Saturday morning for the first time since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023, and the first poll of any kind to be held in Gaza since 2006. The vote in the West Bank will determine the makeup of the local councils overseeing water, roads and electricity. Turnout may reflect the level of public trust in a broader system led by the Palestinian Authority’s ageing leaders, who haven’t held legislative or political elections in decades. The vote in Deir al-Balah is largely symbolic as one of the few areas in the enclave not to have experienced an Israeli ground invasion.<h2>Who are the candidates, and how many registered voters are there?</h2>Gaza remains largely under Hamas control, while the West Bank is under the control of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) through the Palestinian Authority led by 90-year-old Mahmoud Abbas. Hamas won the election in Gaza in 2006, but Fatah maintained control and refused to cede to Hamas, leading to a brief but violent civil war also known as the Battle of Gaza and the ousting of Fatah from Gaza.&nbsp;In 2026, Hamas was not allowed to participate in the elections in Gaza, and several other factions have boycotted the election as it demanded the recognition of the authority of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation, which governs part of the Occupied West Bank that is not under the direct control of the Israeli occupation forces. Reuters report claims that eventhough Hamas is not on the ballot in Deir al-Balah, a slate of candidates was fielded who were aligned with it.&nbsp;In the West Bank, most of the electoral lists are dominated by Fatah, a secular nationalist front and a major segment of the PLO. While some are running as independents. In many West Bank cities, including Nablus and Ramallah, only one list was submitted, meaning Fatah automatically wins. However, according to the polling from the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research, Hamas remains the most popular front in both the West Bank and the Gaza. According to a report by Deutsche Welle, which cites data from the Ramallah-based Central Elections Commission, there are approximately 1.5 million voters in the West Bank, while there are 70,000 in Gaza.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-crisis-un-infections-pests-shelter-shortage-1776950108022">Gaza health crisis worsens as infections triple in displacement camps: UN</a><h2>UN deems the election as a "credible process"</h2>The United Nations has officially described the ongoing Palestinian local elections as a "credible process." UN coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov said, "Saturday's elections represent an important opportunity for Palestinians to exercise their democratic rights during an exceptionally challenging period." Fareed Taamallah, a spokesperson of the election commission, said the main idea is to link the West Bank and Gaza under one political umbrella.UN formally recognises the Israeli Military presence in Palestinian territory as “belligerent occupation”. It recognises that the West Bank, including East Jerusalem and Gaza are “occupied” and Israel is the occupying power and its military is the occupying force.&nbsp;

Palestinians cast ballots in the Gaza Strip for the first time since 2006 and in the West Bank for the first time since the war in 2023, with Hamas being banned and Fatah dominating much of the electorate list.

Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza cast their votes in municipal and village elections on Saturday morning for the first time since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023, and the first poll of any kind to be held in Gaza since 2006. The vote in the West Bank will determine the makeup of the local councils overseeing water, roads and electricity. Turnout may reflect the level of public trust in a broader system led by the Palestinian Authority’s ageing leaders, who haven’t held legislative or political elections in decades. The vote in Deir al-Balah is largely symbolic as one of the few areas in the enclave not to have experienced an Israeli ground invasion. Who are the candidates, and how many registered voters are there? Gaza remains largely under Hamas control, while the West Bank is under the control of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) through the Palestinian Authority led by 90-year-old Mahmoud Abbas. Hamas won the election in Gaza in 2006, but Fatah maintained control and refused to cede to Hamas, leading to a brief but violent civil war also known as the Battle of Gaza and the ousting of Fatah from Gaza. In 2026, Hamas was not allowed to participate in the elections in Gaza, and several other factions have boycotted the election as it demanded the recognition of the authority of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation, which governs part of the Occupied West Bank that is not under the direct control of the Israeli occupation forces. Reuters report claims that eventhough Hamas is not on the ballot in Deir al-Balah, a slate of candidates was fielded who were aligned with it. In the West Bank, most of the electoral lists are dominated by Fatah, a secular nationalist front and a major segment of the PLO. While some are running as independents. In many West Bank cities, including Nablus and Ramallah, only one list was submitted, meaning Fatah automatically wins. However, according to the polling from the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research, Hamas remains the most popular front in both the West Bank and the Gaza. According to a report by Deutsche Welle, which cites data from the Ramallah-based Central Elections Commission, there are approximately 1.5 million voters in the West Bank, while there are 70,000 in Gaza. Also Read: Gaza health crisis worsens as infections triple in displacement camps: UN UN deems the election as a "credible process" The United Nations has officially described the ongoing Palestinian local elections as a "credible process." UN coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov said, "Saturday's elections represent an important opportunity for Palestinians to exercise their democratic rights during an exceptionally challenging period." Fareed Taamallah, a spokesperson of the election commission, said the main idea is to link the West Bank and Gaza under one political umbrella. UN formally recognises the Israeli Military presence in Palestinian territory as “belligerent occupation”. It recognises that the West Bank, including East Jerusalem and Gaza are “occupied” and Israel is the occupying power and its military is the occupying force.

Palestinians cast ballots in the Gaza Strip for the first time since 2006 and in the West Bank for the first time since the war in 2023, with Hamas being banned and Fatah dominating much of the electorate list.

Palestinians vote in West Bank for first time since 2023, Gaza since 2006

US and Hamas held the first direct talks in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday night. According to a report by CNN, a delegation led by senior US advisor Aryeh Lightstone met Chief Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, who was also joined by Nickolay Mladenov, the US-backed UN Secretary-General's High Representative for Gaza. During the negotiations, Al Haya pressed the need for Israel to implement phase one of the commitments, such as halting air strikes and letting more humanitarian aid, before discussing the next steps.&nbsp;The US advisor had previously met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before Tuesday's meeting, where he reportedly committed to implementing the commitments of phase one if Hamas agrees to complete disarmament. However, under the current U.S.-brokered 20-point peace plan, disarmament is officially the core component of phase two. Following this, there will be a deployment of an international force to Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the devastated territory, the establishment of a technocratic administration and the reconstruction of Gaza.&nbsp;Hamas view the proposal as fundamentally unbalanced. A senior Hamas source said that the proposal “reduces the whole process to a single clause – disarmament – while other first phase obligations are postponed or marginalised.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-impeachment-resolution-democrats-six-articles-explained-1776324002941">Democrats unveil six articles to impeach Pete Hegseth: What are the six articles?</a>“The proposed paper reflects a major imbalance in the ordering of priorities: Israel’s security first, while Palestinians’ humanitarian, political, and administrative rights are postponed,” said the source as reported by CNN. According to the report, Mladenov was relaying Israeli demand, which said that it would return to war if Hamas did not disarm.&nbsp;Israel has pulled back according to what the mediators call the “yellow line”, as decided in the 20-point peace proposal. Hamas and multiple international organisations have said that Israel is not holding up its end of the deal, since the brokering of the ceasefire. Hamas have carried out regular strikes which have resulted in the death of at least 765 people in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect in October, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. But the US and Israeli side claim that phase two has begun since the return of the last hostage in January 2026, and now Hamas should agree to complete disarmament.&nbsp; &nbsp;

US and Hamas hold first direct talks in Cairo. Disarmament, ceasefire commitments, and Gaza reconstruction remain key points of contention.

US and Hamas held the first direct talks in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday night. According to a report by CNN, a delegation led by senior US advisor Aryeh Lightstone met Chief Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, who was also joined by Nickolay Mladenov, the US-backed UN Secretary-General's High Representative for Gaza. During the negotiations, Al Haya pressed the need for Israel to implement phase one of the commitments, such as halting air strikes and letting more humanitarian aid, before discussing the next steps. The US advisor had previously met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before Tuesday's meeting, where he reportedly committed to implementing the commitments of phase one if Hamas agrees to complete disarmament. However, under the current U.S.-brokered 20-point peace plan, disarmament is officially the core component of phase two. Following this, there will be a deployment of an international force to Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the devastated territory, the establishment of a technocratic administration and the reconstruction of Gaza. Hamas view the proposal as fundamentally unbalanced. A senior Hamas source said that the proposal “reduces the whole process to a single clause – disarmament – while other first phase obligations are postponed or marginalised.” Also Read: Democrats unveil six articles to impeach Pete Hegseth: What are the six articles? “The proposed paper reflects a major imbalance in the ordering of priorities: Israel’s security first, while Palestinians’ humanitarian, political, and administrative rights are postponed,” said the source as reported by CNN. According to the report, Mladenov was relaying Israeli demand, which said that it would return to war if Hamas did not disarm. Israel has pulled back according to what the mediators call the “yellow line”, as decided in the 20-point peace proposal. Hamas and multiple international organisations have said that Israel is not holding up its end of the deal, since the brokering of the ceasefire. Hamas have carried out regular strikes which have resulted in the death of at least 765 people in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect in October, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. But the US and Israeli side claim that phase two has begun since the return of the last hostage in January 2026, and now Hamas should agree to complete disarmament.

US and Hamas hold first direct talks in Cairo. Disarmament, ceasefire commitments, and Gaza reconstruction remain key points of contention.

US-Hamas hold first direct talks in Cairo, Hamas pushes Israel for implementing ceasefire commitments

At least 10 people have been killed in fresh Israeli strikes across Gaza Strip, including children as young as three. A 14-year-old was also killed in a separate attack in Jabalia, while a strike on a police vehicle in Gaza City left several dead and others critically injured. As the violence intensifies, reports suggest Hamas has rejected a proposed disarmament plan, further complicating hopes for de-escalation.


Israel-Hamas War: At Least 10 Killed In Israeli Strikes In Gaza

Trump's board of peace sets a 'deadline' for Hamas to disarm.
The board is also set to meet the Hamas delegation 'soon'.

Trump Board of Peace Sets 'Deadline' For Hamas To Disarm

Israel is moving ahead with efforts to rebuild border communities devastated during the Gaza conflict, aiming to restore civilian life and strengthen security infrastructure along the frontier. At the same time, reports suggest that Hamas is quietly working to regroup and rearm inside Gaza, raising concerns about renewed tensions and the possibility of future escalation.


Israel Rebuilds Border Communities As Hamas Quietly Rearms Near Gaza

Hamas is reportedly setting up parallel administrative structures in Gaza to maintain influence and prepare for post-war governance. The move signals its intent to retain control amid uncertainty over who will rule the territory after the conflict ends.


Hamas builds Shadow Government in Gaza, moves to control post-Gaza war

Hamas has been accused of placing military personnel in civilian administrative roles, according to newly surfaced documents. The reports also suggest the group intends to retain control over Gaza despite ongoing conflict and international pressure. The revelations have sparked fresh debate over governance, security concerns, and the future political landscape of Gaza amid the prolonged crisis in the region.


Hamas Accused of Using Fighters in Civilian Roles, Plans to Retain Power in Gaza

Hamas is reportedly in the final stages of selecting its new leader, with Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al Hayya emerging as the top contenders. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions in the region and could shape the group’s future direction. Stay updated with the latest developments on Hamas leadership changes and the geopolitical impact of the new chief’s appointment.


Hamas Preparing to Name New Chief | Meshaal & Al Hayya Top Picks

A senior Hamas official revealed on Sunday that the Palestinian group was in the final stage of selecting a new leader and said two prominent figures are in contention for the position. Hamas recently completed the formation of a new Shoura Council, a consultative body largely composed of religious scholars, as well as a new political bureau, the official told AFP. Members of the council are elected every four years by representatives from Hamas’s three branches: the Gaza Strip, the occupied West Bank, and the external leadership.&nbsp;The council subsequently elects the political bureau, which in turn selects the head of the movement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-created-raw-talent-to-serve-others-says-sam-pitroda-bjp-say-congress-bashing-bharat-1771765863125">‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’</a>&nbsp;The Palestinian group has completed its internal elections in the three regions and has reached the final stage of selecting the head of the political bureau, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to speak publicly.&nbsp;Another Hamas source also confirmed the development within the group, which fought a devastating war with Israel following its audacious October 7, 2023, attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya two main contenders for post</h2>&nbsp;He added that the race for the group’s leadership is now between Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya.&nbsp;Hayya, 65, is a Gaza native and was the chief negotiator of Hamas in ceasefire talks. He has held senior roles in the group since 2006, according to the US-based NGO the Counter Extremism Project (CEP).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-used-global-event-for-dirty-naked-politics-pm-tears-into-congress-for-shirtless-protest-at-ai-summit-1771755566543">‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit</a>&nbsp;Meshaal, who led the political bureau from 2004 to 2017, has never lived in Gaza and currently heads the movement’s diaspora office. Born in the West Bank in 1956, he joined Hamas in Kuwait and later lived in Jordan, Syria and Qatar. He is credited for Hamas’s evolution into a political-military hybrid, says CEP.&nbsp;As per reports, Hayya enjoys backing from the group’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassem Brigades.&nbsp;<h2>Hamas opted for interim five-member leadership committee</h2>&nbsp;After Israel killed former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024, the group chose its then-Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar as his successor. Israel accused Sinwar of masterminding the October 7 attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-s-sls-rocket-faces-helium-flow-issue-artemis-ii-march-launch-almost-assuredly-scuttled-1771696356877">NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled</a>&nbsp;Sinwar was also killed by Israeli forces in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, three months after Haniyeh’s assassination.&nbsp;Considering the risk of the new chief also being targeted and eliminated by Israel, Hamas had postponed the appointment of a single leader until elections and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

After Israel killed Ismail Haniyeh and his successor, Yahya Sinwar, within months, Hamas postponed the appointment of a single leader due to the risk of the new chief also being targeted, and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

A senior Hamas official revealed on Sunday that the Palestinian group was in the final stage of selecting a new leader and said two prominent figures are in contention for the position. Hamas recently completed the formation of a new Shoura Council, a consultative body largely composed of religious scholars, as well as a new political bureau, the official told AFP. Members of the council are elected every four years by representatives from Hamas’s three branches: the Gaza Strip, the occupied West Bank, and the external leadership. The council subsequently elects the political bureau, which in turn selects the head of the movement. Also Read: ‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’ The Palestinian group has completed its internal elections in the three regions and has reached the final stage of selecting the head of the political bureau, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to speak publicly. Another Hamas source also confirmed the development within the group, which fought a devastating war with Israel following its audacious October 7, 2023, attack. Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya two main contenders for post He added that the race for the group’s leadership is now between Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya. Hayya, 65, is a Gaza native and was the chief negotiator of Hamas in ceasefire talks. He has held senior roles in the group since 2006, according to the US-based NGO the Counter Extremism Project (CEP). Also Read: ‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit Meshaal, who led the political bureau from 2004 to 2017, has never lived in Gaza and currently heads the movement’s diaspora office. Born in the West Bank in 1956, he joined Hamas in Kuwait and later lived in Jordan, Syria and Qatar. He is credited for Hamas’s evolution into a political-military hybrid, says CEP. As per reports, Hayya enjoys backing from the group’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassem Brigades. Hamas opted for interim five-member leadership committee After Israel killed former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024, the group chose its then-Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar as his successor. Israel accused Sinwar of masterminding the October 7 attack. Also Read: NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled Sinwar was also killed by Israeli forces in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, three months after Haniyeh’s assassination. Considering the risk of the new chief also being targeted and eliminated by Israel, Hamas had postponed the appointment of a single leader until elections and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

After Israel killed Ismail Haniyeh and his successor, Yahya Sinwar, within months, Hamas postponed the appointment of a single leader due to the risk of the new chief also being targeted, and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

Hamas in final stage of picking new chief, says official; Hayya, Meshaal frontrunners

Tensions are rising around the fragile Gaza ceasefire as Hamas demands a halt to what it calls continued Israeli aggression.

The militant group warns that further military operations could jeopardize ongoing truce efforts, while Israel says its actions are focused on security and preventing future attacks.

Diplomats and mediators are working to preserve the ceasefire, but uncertainty remains over whether both sides can maintain calm amid deep mistrust.

Gaza Ceasefire: Hamas Demands Halt To Israeli Aggression

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern deadline to Hamas regarding the reconstruction of Gaza, following extensive damage from recent conflicts. The ultimatum stresses Israel’s conditions for rebuilding and the role Hamas must play in coordinating humanitarian and infrastructure efforts.


Israeli PM Issues Ultimatum To Hamas on Gaza Rebuilding

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has ignited fierce political and international backlash after advocating what he described as “voluntary emigration” of Palestinians from parts of the West Bank. The controversial remarks have intensified debate over the future of the occupied territories and the broader Israel-Palestine conflict. 
Smotrich, a prominent far-right leader within Israel’s governing coalition, suggested that encouraging Palestinians to leave certain areas could alter long-term security and demographic realities.

Israel-Hamas War: Smotrich Sparks Global Outrage With West Bank Emigration Call 

New reports suggest that Hamas operatives allegedly received a specific set of emojis on their phones ahead of the October 7 attack, mirroring two prior instances that signaled preparations for coordinated operations. According to these reports, the emojis were used as coded instructions to gather at staging grounds and prepare weapons before launching the assault.


Israel-Hamas War: How Hamas Allegedly Used Emojis To Signal October 7 Attack

At least 11 people were killed acroos Gaza Strip on Sunday. The Israeli Defence Force carried out an air-strike on the tents of the displaced Palestinians ahead of the first meeting of Trump's Board of Peace on Thursday, February 19. The IDF has accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, and the attack was a retalliation of the violation. The military claimed that "several armed terrorists" had been identified on the Israeli side of the "yellow line" in the north of the sealed-off coastal area.According to a Reuters report, which cites different sources to project the cumulative death toll at 11. According to Gaza Medics, air strikes at the displaced people's camp killed at least four people. According to Health officials, five others were killed in Khan Younis, and one was shot dead in the north.&nbsp;Israel has unilaterally moved the yellow line deep inside Gaza. It has not so far withdrawn its troops behind the yellow line, which was part of the ceasefire agreement. Hazem Qassem, Hamas spokesperson in Gaza, has accused Israel of committing a new massacre in Gaza against the displaced Palestinians.&nbsp;The Israeli military has called the strike precise. It said that terrorists apparently emerged from the underground tunnel and were hiding in proximity to the Israeli troops. The Israeli military claimed that it had continued to destroy an underground tunnel inside Gaza; no IDF claims could have been corroborated independently.&nbsp;The Gaza Health ministry have said that at least 600 people have been killed since the ceasefire, among whom 120 are minors, which is nearly 3 times the number of Israeli children died since October 7, 2023. According to Israeli government data, the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel killed more than 1,200 people. According to the Palestinian health ministry data, more than 72,000 people have been killed since that time. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights the casualty of minors are 21,289, among whom 70 per cent are in residential areas.&nbsp;

At least 11 people were killed in Gaza after Israeli airstrikes, as Hamas and the IDF trade accusations over ceasefire violations, according to Reuters and officials.

At least 11 people were killed acroos Gaza Strip on Sunday. The Israeli Defence Force carried out an air-strike on the tents of the displaced Palestinians ahead of the first meeting of Trump's Board of Peace on Thursday, February 19. The IDF has accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, and the attack was a retalliation of the violation. The military claimed that "several armed terrorists" had been identified on the Israeli side of the "yellow line" in the north of the sealed-off coastal area. According to a Reuters report, which cites different sources to project the cumulative death toll at 11. According to Gaza Medics, air strikes at the displaced people's camp killed at least four people. According to Health officials, five others were killed in Khan Younis, and one was shot dead in the north. Israel has unilaterally moved the yellow line deep inside Gaza. It has not so far withdrawn its troops behind the yellow line, which was part of the ceasefire agreement. Hazem Qassem, Hamas spokesperson in Gaza, has accused Israel of committing a new massacre in Gaza against the displaced Palestinians. The Israeli military has called the strike precise. It said that terrorists apparently emerged from the underground tunnel and were hiding in proximity to the Israeli troops. The Israeli military claimed that it had continued to destroy an underground tunnel inside Gaza; no IDF claims could have been corroborated independently. The Gaza Health ministry have said that at least 600 people have been killed since the ceasefire, among whom 120 are minors, which is nearly 3 times the number of Israeli children died since October 7, 2023. According to Israeli government data, the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel killed more than 1,200 people. According to the Palestinian health ministry data, more than 72,000 people have been killed since that time. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights the casualty of minors are 21,289, among whom 70 per cent are in residential areas.

At least 11 people were killed in Gaza after Israeli airstrikes, as Hamas and the IDF trade accusations over ceasefire violations, according to Reuters and officials.

11 people killed in Israeli-airstrikes in Gaza ahead of Trump's Board of peace meeting

Israel's security cabinet has approved measures to expand control over the West Bank, easing land purchases for Jewish settlers and strengthening Israeli authority, prompting Hamas to call for escalation and urge Muslim states to cut ties with Israel.


Israel Bolsters West Bank Control; Hamas Pushes Escalation 

Israel Tightens West Bank Grip as Hamas Urges Escalation, Tie Cuts

Israel’s cabinet has approved new measures to expand control over the West Bank as regional tensions rise. Hamas has urged escalation and called on Muslim states to cut ties with Israel, while January saw Palestinian terror victims outnumber Israeli casualties, highlighting the intensifying conflict.


Israel-Hamas Tensions: Hamas Urges Escalation, Demands Muslim States Cut Ties With Israel 

Hamas signals willingness to cede formal Gaza governance to a U.S.-backed technocratic committee while pushing to integrate its police and fighters, defying the new authority's design to exclude the group.



Gaza Handover Twist: Hamas Police Join US-Backed Regime

Hamas has said it is ready to hand over governance of Gaza to a technocratic panel while calling for the full reopening of the Rafah crossing. The move comes amid ongoing conflict, humanitarian concerns, and international efforts to reshape Gaza’s future governance.


Hamas Signals Readiness to Handover Gaza Governance, Calls for Full Rafah Reopening 

The United States has designated the Egyptian, Lebanese and Jordanian branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organisations, imposing sanctions on the groups and their members. Washington says the move targets alleged support for violent acts and backing for Hamas, though critics warn it could affect ties with Middle Eastern partners. The Lebanese branch was labelled a Foreign Terrorist Organization while others were listed as global terrorists.


US Labels Muslim Brotherhood Branches in Egypt, Lebanon and Jordan as Terror Groups 

Israel on Tuesday (Jan 13) announced that it was withdrawing from dozens of international organisations, while ordering a wider review of cooperation with others. The nation said that persistent bias, politicisation and actions hostile to Israel were behind its decision to sever contact with several United Nations agencies and international bodies. This comes after the United States last week announced its decision to withdraw from 66 international organisations.<h2>Trump's US inspired Israel</h2>On January 7, 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an order withdrawing the United States from 66 organisations and treaties, which, as per a White House memorandum, are "contrary to the interests of the United States." Roughly half of the organisations and treaties the US exited are affiliated with the United Nations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-us-out-of-66-organisations-and-treaties-including-india-led-international-solar-alliance-1767847347430">Trump pulls US out of 66 organisations and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance | FULL LIST HERE</a>Now, seemingly inspired by the US, Israel has withdrawn from multiple UN agencies. In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, Israel's Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar had ordered an immediate severing of contact with a number of UN bodies after an internal examination of their conduct. The review, the ministry said, was made after the US decision and by Israel's own experience with these organisations."Israel will immediately sever all contact with the following UN agencies and international organizations," the ministry said, adding that Sa’ar has also instructed officials "to immediately examine, in consultation with relevant government ministries, when necessary, the continued cooperation between Israel and other organizations." While naming and shaming seven organisations, the nation said that, "Further decisions will be made following thorough examination and an additional discussion."<h2>Which organisations did Israel leave and why?</h2>As per the X post by Israel’s Foreign Ministry, Tel Aviv has severed ties with the Office of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, which Israel accused of "shamelessly" blacklisting the Israel Defense Forces in 2024. Israel noted that it was placed on the list alongside groups such as ISIS and Boko Haram and said that the ties with the office were formally cut in June 2024.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-accuses-us-of-plotting-regime-change-after-trump-tells-protestors-help-is-on-its-way-1768353184275">Iran accuses US of plotting 'regime change' after Trump tells protesters, 'HELP IS ON ITS WAY'</a>Israel also confirmed it has ended cooperation with UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UNWOMEN), accusing the agency of ignoring sexual violence against Israeli women during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.Cooperation with UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) had already been frozen, said Israel, slamming what it described as "virulent anti-Israel reports annually".The nation stated that it will also disengage from the UN Alliance of Civilizations, UN Energy, and the Global Forum on Migration and Development. The Foreign Ministry accused these bodies of excluding Israel, serving as “platform for attacks against Israel,” platforms for criticism, and undermining national sovereignty.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After an examination and discussion conducted following the US withdrawal from dozens of international organizations, Israel&#39;s Minister of Foreign Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/gidonsaar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gidonsaar</a> has decided that Israel will immediately sever all contact with the following UN agencies and international…&mdash; Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelMFA/status/2011119369435205875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israel has announced it is cutting ties with several UN agencies and international bodies. The move comes days after President Donald Trump pulled the US out of 66 international organisations. WION explains what Israel did, and why it matters.

Israel on Tuesday (Jan 13) announced that it was withdrawing from dozens of international organisations, while ordering a wider review of cooperation with others. The nation said that persistent bias, politicisation and actions hostile to Israel were behind its decision to sever contact with several United Nations agencies and international bodies. This comes after the United States last week announced its decision to withdraw from 66 international organisations. Trump's US inspired Israel On January 7, 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an order withdrawing the United States from 66 organisations and treaties, which, as per a White House memorandum, are "contrary to the interests of the United States." Roughly half of the organisations and treaties the US exited are affiliated with the United Nations. Also read | Trump pulls US out of 66 organisations and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance | FULL LIST HERE Now, seemingly inspired by the US, Israel has withdrawn from multiple UN agencies. In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, Israel's Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar had ordered an immediate severing of contact with a number of UN bodies after an internal examination of their conduct. The review, the ministry said, was made after the US decision and by Israel's own experience with these organisations. "Israel will immediately sever all contact with the following UN agencies and international organizations," the ministry said, adding that Sa’ar has also instructed officials "to immediately examine, in consultation with relevant government ministries, when necessary, the continued cooperation between Israel and other organizations." While naming and shaming seven organisations, the nation said that, "Further decisions will be made following thorough examination and an additional discussion." Which organisations did Israel leave and why? As per the X post by Israel’s Foreign Ministry, Tel Aviv has severed ties with the Office of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, which Israel accused of "shamelessly" blacklisting the Israel Defense Forces in 2024. Israel noted that it was placed on the list alongside groups such as ISIS and Boko Haram and said that the ties with the office were formally cut in June 2024. Also read | Iran accuses US of plotting 'regime change' after Trump tells protesters, 'HELP IS ON ITS WAY' Israel also confirmed it has ended cooperation with UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UNWOMEN), accusing the agency of ignoring sexual violence against Israeli women during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Cooperation with UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) had already been frozen, said Israel, slamming what it described as "virulent anti-Israel reports annually". The nation stated that it will also disengage from the UN Alliance of Civilizations, UN Energy, and the Global Forum on Migration and Development. The Foreign Ministry accused these bodies of excluding Israel, serving as “platform for attacks against Israel,” platforms for criticism, and undermining national sovereignty.

Israel has announced it is cutting ties with several UN agencies and international bodies. The move comes days after President Donald Trump pulled the US out of 66 international organisations. WION explains what Israel did, and why it matters.

Israel says it will 'immediately sever all contact' with several UN bodies | FULL LIST HERE

Gaza: Hamas is preparing to hold internal elections to rebuild its leadership following Israel’s killing of several of the group’s top figures during the conflict in Gaza. Watch for more details!


Hamas to hold elections: Israeli militia claims killing senior Hamas officer in South Gaza

Hamas to hold elections: Pressure mounts on Hamas' leadership as war continues in Gaza

U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan in the Middle East has hit a roadblock as Hamas refuses to disarm. 


Report: Armed Hamas Officials Return to Streets 

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has found himself in controversy at the beginning of his mayoral term. Following his decision to revoke the restriction against the protest outside the Synagogue, there had been protests outside a local synagogue to oppose Mortgage Israel and Tivuch Shelly's Israel Real Estate Event, where “we support Hamas” was chanted. Mamdani condemned the protest with a social media post. “Chants in support of a terrorist organisation have no place in our city,” Mamdani wrote over a picture of a NYT headline.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As I said earlier today, chants in support of a terrorist organization have no place in our city. We will continue to ensure New Yorkers’ safety entering and exiting houses of worship as well as the constitutional right to protest. <a href="https://t.co/0J4GXWigiv">pic.twitter.com/0J4GXWigiv</a>&mdash; Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor/status/2009768025260437806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-army-protect-infrastructure-protests-irgc-red-line-1768044383912">Iran’s army, Revolutionary Guards declare security a ‘red line’ as protests grow after US backs demonstrators</a>Mamdani said that he would want to continue to ensure the safety of the New Yorkers at the places of worship, at the same time protect the constitutional right to protest. The protest was carried out by the Palestinian Assembly for Liberation. The videos were widely circulated, protesters yelling out, “Say it loud, say it clear, we support Hamas here.This comes after Mamdani made several decisions on his first day as Mayor, which were considered controversial. These include revoking the ban on Boycott Divestment and Sanctions Protest, revoking the IHRA antisemitism definition, and revoking the ban on protests outside synagogues.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Activists protested outside a synagogue, chanting, “Say it loud, say it clear, we support Hamas here.” Whatever the amnesia surrounding 10/7, the truth must never be forgotten: Hamas murdered, maimed, mutilated, raped, and tortured thousands of innocent Israelis. It is—and has… <a href="https://t.co/JeGh1XzA2A">pic.twitter.com/JeGh1XzA2A</a>&mdash; Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) <a href="https://twitter.com/RitchieTorres/status/2009458688122089505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-changes-iran-flag-emoji-lion-and-sun-symbol-protests-1768028484625">Why X changed Iran’s flag emoji to the lion and sun as protests intensify</a>While Mamdani faced criticism, many called his response a muted one. “Still waiting on condemnation of support for Hamas at a protest in a Jewish neighbourhood from @NYCMayor,” said Sam Berger is a Democratic New York State Assemblymember.&nbsp;Mamdani commented to a POLITICO reporter, “That language is wrong. I think that language has no place in New York City.” Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul all condemned the act, highlighting that Hamas is a terrorist organisation within the city.&nbsp;“...marching into a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood and leading with a chant saying ‘we support Hamas’ is a disgusting and antisemitic thing to do,” said US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned chants supporting Hamas during a protest outside a synagogue, amid criticism over his response and policy rollbacks.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has found himself in controversy at the beginning of his mayoral term. Following his decision to revoke the restriction against the protest outside the Synagogue, there had been protests outside a local synagogue to oppose Mortgage Israel and Tivuch Shelly's Israel Real Estate Event, where “we support Hamas” was chanted. Mamdani condemned the protest with a social media post. “Chants in support of a terrorist organisation have no place in our city,” Mamdani wrote over a picture of a NYT headline.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned chants supporting Hamas during a protest outside a synagogue, amid criticism over his response and policy rollbacks.

Mamdani condemns ‘We support Hamas’ chants at NYC protest

IDF airstrikes slam Hezbollah & Hamas sites across south Lebanon—Al-Manara homes damaged, Aanan targeted after evac warnings. Ceasefire tested as Israel vows to dismantle terror network.

IDF Airstrikes Hit Hezbollah, Hamas Positions in South Lebanon 

Israel launched airstrikes across southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah and Hamas sites, as stated by the IDF amid ongoing border tensions.


Israel Strikes Lebanon: IDF Says Targeted Hezbollah, Hamas Sites

Israeli forces are carrying out large-scale demolitions in the occupied West Bank, with bulldozers and cranes tearing through residential and commercial buildings. The operation has drawn sharp reactions amid ongoing tensions in the region, raising concerns over displacement, humanitarian impact, and the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations. 

Israel Demolishes Buildings In West Bank: Bulldozers & Cranes Tear Through

Former hostage Matan Zangauker and his girlfriend Ilana Gritzewsky got engaged, according to a photo shared by Matan’s mother Einav on social media on Sunday overnight. The image shows the couple celebrating with champagne beside a “Will you marry me” sign at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, Florida.&nbsp;Eina, who campaigned relentlessly for her son's release after the October 7, 2023, attack, called it her “picture of victory”. Zangauker, 26, was freed in October after two years in captivity, while Gritzewsky, 31, was released in November 2023 after nearly two months.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">תמונת הניצחון שלי🩵 אילנה &amp; מתן <a href="https://t.co/1XQ9wSrJm8">pic.twitter.com/1XQ9wSrJm8</a>&mdash; עינב צנגאוקר (@enavezangauker) <a href="https://twitter.com/enavezangauker/status/2005431312866517185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the attack by Hamas on Israel, both jumped out of the window of their home and ran in separate directions after Palestinian terrorists shot at their door. Later, Gritzewsky was captured, and gunmen seized her to put between two men on a motorcycle and covered her head and face. Her captors later confirmed that Zangauker was also a hostage.<h3>Greeted with sticks, rocks, &amp; pipes</h3>Matan Zangauker told Channel 12 in November that he was greeted by “children, women, old people, lined up with sticks, with rocks, with pipes, and they started to hit me, to beat me" while he was driven into Gaza on a motorcycle on October 7.&nbsp;Zangauker said the first Israeli he encountered in the tunnels that day was the body of a dead IDF soldier, with his captors warning that he would meet the same fate. He was later held alongside Yocheved Lifshitz, also from Nir Oz, who was abducted on October 7 and released weeks later, while her husband, Oded Lifshitz, died in captivity.&nbsp;He said he was frequently moved between locations, largely within the tunnel network, and was sometimes held with other hostages and at other times alone. Despite being a civilian, Zangauker said his captors treated him as a soldier, subjecting him to beatings and food deprivation. He also said his captors used psychological pressure, feeding him false claims about their supposed battlefield gains against the Israeli military.&nbsp;After nearly two months in captivity, Gritzewsky was released in November 2023. Zangauker stated that he was unaware that Ilana had also been taken captive and believed she had managed to hide after they separated. He said he only learned of her abduction when he was permitted to watch television on November 30, the day she was released.

Eina, who campaigned relentlessly for her son's release after the October 7, 2023, attack, called it her “picture of victory”. Zangauker, 26, was freed in October after two years in captivity, while Gritzewsky, 31, was released in November 2023 after nearly two months.

Former hostage Matan Zangauker and his girlfriend Ilana Gritzewsky got engaged, according to a photo shared by Matan’s mother Einav on social media on Sunday overnight. The image shows the couple celebrating with champagne beside a “Will you marry me” sign at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, Florida. Eina, who campaigned relentlessly for her son's release after the October 7, 2023, attack, called it her “picture of victory”. Zangauker, 26, was freed in October after two years in captivity, while Gritzewsky, 31, was released in November 2023 after nearly two months.

Eina, who campaigned relentlessly for her son's release after the October 7, 2023, attack, called it her “picture of victory”. Zangauker, 26, was freed in October after two years in captivity, while Gritzewsky, 31, was released in November 2023 after nearly two months.

‘Picture of victory’: Former Israeli hostage couple engaged months after release from Hamas captivity

A special state commission investigating the events of the October 7 massacre, formed of a balanced representation between the coalition and opposition, is the correct way to learn what happened, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed on Monday.

Israel-Hamas War: Benjamin Netanyahu Backs 'Balanced' October 7 Inquiry

Hamas must given a deadline for relinquishing its weapons, after which Israel will have a green light to return to combat operations across the Gaza Strip, US Senator Lindsey Graham told The Times of Israel on Sunday.

“Put them on the clock,” said the South Carolina Republican, speaking from a Tel Aviv hotel. “If they don’t disarm in a credible way, then unleash Israel on ’em.”

Gaza ceasefire: US Senator warns Hamas and Hezbollah

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