After 18 days since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, the narrative appears to be shifting towards the suffering of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip. With rising casualties, challenges in delivering aid, and the United Nations Chief condemning violations of international law in Gaza, sympathy for Israel seems to be diminishing. Here's a report.

Gravitas: Palestinian Sympathy Grows Amid Israeli Bombardment | The Human Cost of War in Gaza

Who will govern Gaza if Hamas is driven out in a further escalation - the West wants a two-state solution. Israel says it wants to crush the Hamas and its terror activities but will it control Gaza and if not then will it allow the Palestinian authorities?

Israel-Palestine war: Can Mahmoud Abbas represent the voice of Palestinians?

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is getting worse, which is why there are more strikes. In an attempt to save hostages and maintain the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday that he "did not demand" that Israel postpone a ground invasion of the region.

Israel-Palestine war: Over-crowding, poor sanitation causing spread of diseases in Gaza

Following Kevin McCarthy's removal three weeks ago, there had been a turbulent 22-day vacancy until Mike Johnson was sworn in as the 56th Speaker of the House Representatives.

New US house speaker Mike Johnson announces resolution supporting Israel as first bill

While acknowledging the close ties with India, Israel has called on New Delhi to&nbsp;declare Hamas a terrorist organisation in the country. Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Wednesday (Oct 26) in a press briefing showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his statement post the horrific October 7 Hamas attack where he assured the terror-hit country that India stands firm with it in these unprecedented times.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Modi was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a clear statement...this was before we had understood the full magnitude of what had happened...I think that set a very strong tone of clear condemnation of terrorism. It's important to us because India is a very close ally," Gilon said in the briefing.&nbsp;

The ambassador also appreciated the pivotal role played by India in its fight against terrorism.&nbsp;"India is also a very important moral voice in the world and when it comes to terror, India is also coming from the point of view of someone who knows what they're talking about being victims for so many years of terrorism," he reportedly said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-consider-hitler-moustache-drawn-on-abducted-children-posters-a-hate-crime-651313">UK: Police consider 'Hitler moustache' drawn on abducted children posters a 'hate crime'</a>

<h2>Hamas is a designated&nbsp;terrorist organisation in several countries</h2>

Hamas' attack on Israel has led to the killing of thousands of Israeli citizens and this has once again brought the spotlight on the terrorist organisation that has long been active in the Gaza Strip. As the UNSC meets to find a resolution to the Israel-Hamas war, Israel is urging India to declare the militant group a terrorist organisation. Notably, Israel, the US, and the EU have already designated the Islamist militant group a terrorist organisation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think that it's also time to officially designate Hamas as a terror organisation also in India. Most of the democracies, the EU, US, Canada, and Australia, I believe have already done this, and I think it's good," the envoy said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-urges-israel-to-follow-laws-of-war-protect-civilians-in-gaza-651316">US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza</a>

India has seen the ugly face of terrorism and has been the victim of Pakistan-based terror groups such as&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The country on many occasions also voiced its concerns&nbsp;on the&nbsp;pertinent issue on international platforms, asking Pakistan to stop its cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-palestinian-sympathy-grows-amid-israeli-bombardment-the-human-cost-of-war-in-gaza-651298">Gravitas: Palestinian Sympathy Grows Amid Israeli Bombardment | The Human Cost of War in Gaza</a>

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"We spoke to the relevant authorities also here. It's not the first time we've spoken about it. We understand the problems of terror threats to each other. I think it's a natural thing. It's not something that we are putting pressure on. We are asking because I think it's something that is due because of our shared war on terror," Gilon said.&nbsp;

"We raised it after the attack and we are still in dialogue. We are speaking always with India. It's a friendly talk. We are not having battles on anything. We see eye to eye on a vast majority of things, on counter-terrorism for sure, but also in other strategic issues," 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.

While acknowledging the close ties with India, Israel has called on New Delhi to declare Hamas a terrorist organisation in the country. Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Wednesday (Oct 26) in a press briefing showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his statement post the horrific October 7 Hamas attack where he assured the terror-hit country that India stands firm with it in these unprecedented times.

While acknowledging the close ties with India, Israel has called on New Delhi to declare Hamas a terrorist organisation in the country. Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Wednesday (Oct 26) in a press briefing showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his statement post the horrific October 7 Hamas attack where he assured the terror-hit country that India stands firm with it in these unprecedented times. "Prime Minister Modi was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a clear statement...this was before we had understood the full magnitude of what had happened...I think that set a very strong tone of clear condemnation of terrorism. It's important to us because India is a very close ally," Gilon said in the briefing. The ambassador also appreciated the pivotal role played by India in its fight against terrorism. "India is also a very important moral voice in the world and when it comes to terror, India is also coming from the point of view of someone who knows what they're talking about being victims for so many years of terrorism," he reportedly said. Also Read | UK: Police consider 'Hitler moustache' drawn on abducted children posters a 'hate crime' Hamas is a designated terrorist organisation in several countries Hamas' attack on Israel has led to the killing of thousands of Israeli citizens and this has once again brought the spotlight on the terrorist organisation that has long been active in the Gaza Strip. As the UNSC meets to find a resolution to the Israel-Hamas war, Israel is urging India to declare the militant group a terrorist organisation. Notably, Israel, the US, and the EU have already designated the Islamist militant group a terrorist organisation. "I think that it's also time to officially designate Hamas as a terror organisation also in India. Most of the democracies, the EU, US, Canada, and Australia, I believe have already done this, and I think it's good," the envoy said. Also Read | US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza India has seen the ugly face of terrorism and has been the victim of Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The country on many occasions also voiced its concerns on the pertinent issue on international platforms, asking Pakistan to stop its cross-border terrorism. Watch | Gravitas: Palestinian Sympathy Grows Amid Israeli Bombardment | The Human Cost of War in Gaza × "We spoke to the relevant authorities also here. It's not the first time we've spoken about it. We understand the problems of terror threats to each other. I think it's a natural thing. It's not something that we are putting pressure on. We are asking because I think it's something that is due because of our shared war on terror," Gilon said. "We raised it after the attack and we are still in dialogue. We are speaking always with India. It's a friendly talk. We are not having battles on anything. We see eye to eye on a vast majority of things, on counter-terrorism for sure, but also in other strategic issues," 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.

'It is time...': Israel urges India to designate Hamas a terrorist organisation

For over a year and a half, the war in Ukraine has dominated global attention due to the bloody scenes after Russia’s invasion. Despite the grinding battle of attrition, the Russian armed forces are pressing on. Moscow continues to bank on its military-industrial complex and recently tested its ability to deliver a massive retaliatory nuclear strike by land, sea and air.

Does the world have the resources to focus on two wars? | Gravitas

Not only has the violence led to widespread flight cancellations and uncertainty in Israel, but it's also sending shockwaves throughout West Asia’s tourism industry.

Tourism industry reels from Israel-Hamas conflict fallout | World Business Watch

As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation.

The basis of this collaboration of more than a decade was their shared hatred for the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Let us break it down for you.

Netanyahu assumed the PM's office in 2009 and since then, he has tried to shore up Hamas in order to ostracise the PA.&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu always opposed peace efforts between Hamas and the PA</h2>

He opposed reconciliation efforts between Hamas and Fatah, the political party backed by PA leader Mahmoud Abbas.

A glaring example came in late 2017. The peace efforts were going on, with support from the US and Egypt. One of the major hurdles in reaching the peace deal was Hamas’ assertion that it won’t be subordinate to the PA.&nbsp;

However, it agreed to transfer all political powers to the PA in Gaza, while refusing to lay down its arms.

During that time, Netanyahu reportedly made all possible efforts to derail that deal, while &nbsp;claiming that “reconciliation between Hamas and the PLO makes achieving peace harder.”&nbsp;

Bibi believed that peace between Hamas and PA would pave the way for a united Palestine, essentially leading to a two-state solution, an idea Netanyahu vehemently opposes.

In May 2019, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak further confirmed this during an interview with Channel 13. “Netanyahu isn’t interested in a two-state solution. Rather, he wants to separate Gaza from the West Bank, as he told me at the end of 2010,” he said.

<h2>Netanyahu’s pro-Hamas policies</h2>

Under his rule, Netanyahu ensured Hamas got unhindered access to funds flowing in from Qatar and Iran. He did almost nothing to install checks and balances even as he knew much of it might be directed towards funding terrorism and the flowering of militant ideology.

Without these funds, Hamas would never have developed such a strong military arm, eventually carrying out the dastardly terrorist attack of October 7.

In March 2019, Netanyahu himself admitted that he supported the policy of enriching Hamas to keep the PA at bay.&nbsp;

“Whoever opposes a Palestinian state must support delivery of funds to Gaza because maintaining separation between the PA in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza will prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state,” he said during a meeting with Likud MKs (Members of Knesset).

Netanyahu had this clear plan in mind: To hurt Abbas and prevent the division of the land of Israel into two states, Hamas must be shored up.

<h2>Operation Protective Edge</h2>

It is also a fact that under Netanyahu’s rule, Hamas never faced any major, existential military threat from the Israeli forces. In fact, according to claims by several Israeli officials and ministers, it is Netanyahu himself who once stymied the IDF’s plans to obliterate the Hamas once and for all.

In 2014, IDF launched Operation Protective Edge in Gaza which had the potential to wipe Hamas off Gaza’s map. Netanyahu reportedly did something to derail that plan and shield Hamas.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion'

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He allegedly leaked to the media a presentation made by the Israeli military highlighting the potential repercussions and human cost of the operation.

The secret document was leaked to peddle this narrative that the operation against Hamas would lead to thousands of casualties for the IDF and it should not be initiated altogether.

Of course, the leak was never investigated. In closed-door meetings, Benny Gantz, IDF’s former chief of staff, is believed to have said, “Bibi leaked this.”

<h2>Top anti-Netanyahu voices</h2>

Many of Israel’s top military and political leaders have talked about this covert relationship between Hamas and Bibi.

In an interview published days before Hamas’ October 7 assault against Israel, Avigdor Lieberman, former finance minister, was quoted as saying by Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper that Bibi “continuously thwarted all the targeted assassinations” in Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-your-son-pm-israeli-reservists-ask-as-yair-netanyahu-stays-back-in-us-650631">Also read:&nbsp;'Where is your son PM?' Israeli reservists ask as Yair Netanyahu stays back in US</a>

In August 2019, former PM of Israel Ehud Barak said that Netanyahu’s strategy was to keep Hamas alive. “His strategy is to keep Hamas alive and kicking… even at the price of abandoning the citizens [of the south] … in order to weaken the PA in Ramallah,” he said.

Former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot in January 2022 claimed that Netanyahu always overruled what the National Security Council suggested—establish two states and engage with the PA. Israel did the exact opposite—it ostracised the PA and strengthened Hamas.

<h2>Pro-Netanyahu flank's argument</h2>

Pro-Netanyahu voices believe the biggest achievement of the prime minister is separating Gaza from the West Bank, thus virtually killing the idea of a two-state solution.

Netanyahu “basically smashed the vision of the Palestinian state in these two places,” said Jonatan Urich, one of Netanyahu’s media advisers and a Likud spokesman, in April 2019.

The very next month, another pro-Netanyahu voice, Gen (Res) Gershon Hacohen said, “When Netanyahu didn’t go to war in Gaza to defeat the Hamas regime, he basically prevented Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) from establishing a united Palestinian state.”

“We need to exploit the situation of separation created between Gaza and Ramallah. It’s an Israeli interest of the highest level, and you can’t understand the situation in Gaza without understanding this context,” he added, reinforcing Netanyahu’s divide-and-rule policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation.

As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation. The basis of this collaboration of more than a decade was their shared hatred for the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its leader Mahmoud Abbas. Let us break it down for you. Netanyahu assumed the PM's office in 2009 and since then, he has tried to shore up Hamas in order to ostracise the PA. Netanyahu always opposed peace efforts between Hamas and the PA He opposed reconciliation efforts between Hamas and Fatah, the political party backed by PA leader Mahmoud Abbas. A glaring example came in late 2017. The peace efforts were going on, with support from the US and Egypt. One of the major hurdles in reaching the peace deal was Hamas’ assertion that it won’t be subordinate to the PA. However, it agreed to transfer all political powers to the PA in Gaza, while refusing to lay down its arms. During that time, Netanyahu reportedly made all possible efforts to derail that deal, while claiming that “reconciliation between Hamas and the PLO makes achieving peace harder.” Bibi believed that peace between Hamas and PA would pave the way for a united Palestine, essentially leading to a two-state solution, an idea Netanyahu vehemently opposes. In May 2019, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak further confirmed this during an interview with Channel 13. “Netanyahu isn’t interested in a two-state solution. Rather, he wants to separate Gaza from the West Bank, as he told me at the end of 2010,” he said. Netanyahu’s pro-Hamas policies Under his rule, Netanyahu ensured Hamas got unhindered access to funds flowing in from Qatar and Iran. He did almost nothing to install checks and balances even as he knew much of it might be directed towards funding terrorism and the flowering of militant ideology. Without these funds, Hamas would never have developed such a strong military arm, eventually carrying out the dastardly terrorist attack of October 7. In March 2019, Netanyahu himself admitted that he supported the policy of enriching Hamas to keep the PA at bay. “Whoever opposes a Palestinian state must support delivery of funds to Gaza because maintaining separation between the PA in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza will prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state,” he said during a meeting with Likud MKs (Members of Knesset). Netanyahu had this clear plan in mind: To hurt Abbas and prevent the division of the land of Israel into two states, Hamas must be shored up. Operation Protective Edge It is also a fact that under Netanyahu’s rule, Hamas never faced any major, existential military threat from the Israeli forces. In fact, according to claims by several Israeli officials and ministers, it is Netanyahu himself who once stymied the IDF’s plans to obliterate the Hamas once and for all. In 2014, IDF launched Operation Protective Edge in Gaza which had the potential to wipe Hamas off Gaza’s map. Netanyahu reportedly did something to derail that plan and shield Hamas. Watch: Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion' × He allegedly leaked to the media a presentation made by the Israeli military highlighting the potential repercussions and human cost of the operation. The secret document was leaked to peddle this narrative that the operation against Hamas would lead to thousands of casualties for the IDF and it should not be initiated altogether. Of course, the leak was never investigated. In closed-door meetings, Benny Gantz, IDF’s former chief of staff, is believed to have said, “Bibi leaked this.” Top anti-Netanyahu voices Many of Israel’s top military and political leaders have talked about this covert relationship between Hamas and Bibi. In an interview published days before Hamas’ October 7 assault against Israel, Avigdor Lieberman, former finance minister, was quoted as saying by Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper that Bibi “continuously thwarted all the targeted assassinations” in Gaza. Also read: 'Where is your son PM?' Israeli reservists ask as Yair Netanyahu stays back in US In August 2019, former PM of Israel Ehud Barak said that Netanyahu’s strategy was to keep Hamas alive. “His strategy is to keep Hamas alive and kicking… even at the price of abandoning the citizens [of the south] … in order to weaken the PA in Ramallah,” he said. Former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot in January 2022 claimed that Netanyahu always overruled what the National Security Council suggested—establish two states and engage with the PA. Israel did the exact opposite—it ostracised the PA and strengthened Hamas. Pro-Netanyahu flank's argument Pro-Netanyahu voices believe the biggest achievement of the prime minister is separating Gaza from the West Bank, thus virtually killing the idea of a two-state solution. Netanyahu “basically smashed the vision of the Palestinian state in these two places,” said Jonatan Urich, one of Netanyahu’s media advisers and a Likud spokesman, in April 2019. The very next month, another pro-Netanyahu voice, Gen (Res) Gershon Hacohen said, “When Netanyahu didn’t go to war in Gaza to defeat the Hamas regime, he basically prevented Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) from establishing a united Palestinian state.” “We need to exploit the situation of separation created between Gaza and Ramallah. It’s an Israeli interest of the highest level, and you can’t understand the situation in Gaza without understanding this context,” he added, reinforcing Netanyahu’s divide-and-rule policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster

Amid its military campaign in Gaza, Israel intensifies diplomatic efforts to have Hamas officially designated as a terrorist organization worldwide. The move is part of Israel's broader strategy to combat terrorism and garner international support during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Israel urges India to designate Hamas as terror outfit | Gravitas

S&P Global Ratings has issued a stark warning regarding Israel's economic outlook. Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the rating agency has downgraded Israel's credit outlook from stable to negative.

S&P rattles Israel's economic confidence amid escalating conflict

You can find a lot of false information on social media. That's not a brand-new issue, but the conflict between Israel and Hamas makes it very urgent at the moment.

Israel-Palestine war: How Israel-Gaza war is affecting you

Israel-Palestine war: Will Israel launch a ground invasion of Gaza?

As Israel intensifies its operations in the Gaza Strip, watch how Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's spokesperson reacts to the escalating situation. The conflict has reached a critical stage, with Israel reportedly preparing for a ground invasion.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu's aide speaks to WION, justifies ground assault | Gravitas

Israel and UN are locked in a furious spat over the UN Secretary General Antonio Guturres' comments on the Israel-Hamas war--saying that it did not happen in a vacuum. The Secy General's comments have sparked outrage from Israel which has even asked Guterres to resign saying he has justified terrorism.

Israel accuses UN's Guterres of supporting Hamas terrorists, UNSC leaders veto resolutions| Gravitas

Israeli troops and tanks conducted an overnight ground raid in northern Gaza, marking a significant development in the conflict. Amid the strikes, tragic stories of families affected by the conflict, are coming out of the Gaza strip. Watch this video for all the developments from the ground.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel stages biggest night incursion in North Gaza, prepares for Ground offensive

Hamas' armed wing on Thursday (Oct 26) claimed that "almost 50" Israeli hostages, held captive by the militant group, were killed after Israel began its counter-offensive against the Palestinian enclave.

"(Ezzedine) Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50," the group said in a statement issued on its Telegram channel, as per news agency AFP reports.

Earlier, the Israeli army said that 224 people were kidnapped by militants during the attack that claimed the lives of 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

"We have informed the families of 224 hostages. This number is changing based on the intelligence we obtain," military spokesman Daniel Hagari told reporters.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-russia-us-proposals-for-un-action-on-israel-gaza-rejected-at-security-council-651348">Israel-Hamas war: Russia, US proposals for UN action on Israel, Gaza rejected at Security Council</a>

"It will continue to change. The effort to return the hostages is a top priority."

As per the Israeli government, at least half of the hostages have foreign passports.

Israel launched massive air strikes&nbsp;in retaliation against Palestinian militant group Hamas after its brutal onslaught on Oct 7.

<h2>'Advance warnings make no difference'</h2>

The UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, on Thursday, said that despite the fact that Israeli forces issued warnings to the people in Gaza to leave, "advance warnings make no difference".&nbsp;

In a statement, she said that when evacuation routes are bombed, "people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza."

The army said overnight its forces hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts".

The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", the military said.

The raid by the army came after PM Netanyahu, during a televised address said that "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence".&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.

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Hamas' armed wing on Thursday (Oct 26) claimed that "almost 50" Israeli hostages, held captive by the militant group, were killed after Israel began its counter-offensive against the Palestinian enclave.

Hamas' armed wing on Thursday (Oct 26) claimed that "almost 50" Israeli hostages, held captive by the militant group, were killed after Israel began its counter-offensive against the Palestinian enclave. "(Ezzedine) Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50," the group said in a statement issued on its Telegram channel, as per news agency AFP reports. Earlier, the Israeli army said that 224 people were kidnapped by militants during the attack that claimed the lives of 1,400 people, mostly civilians. "We have informed the families of 224 hostages. This number is changing based on the intelligence we obtain," military spokesman Daniel Hagari told reporters. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Russia, US proposals for UN action on Israel, Gaza rejected at Security Council "It will continue to change. The effort to return the hostages is a top priority." As per the Israeli government, at least half of the hostages have foreign passports. Israel launched massive air strikes in retaliation against Palestinian militant group Hamas after its brutal onslaught on Oct 7. 'Advance warnings make no difference' The UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, on Thursday, said that despite the fact that Israeli forces issued warnings to the people in Gaza to leave, "advance warnings make no difference". In a statement, she said that when evacuation routes are bombed, "people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza." The army said overnight its forces hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts". The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", the military said. The raid by the army came after PM Netanyahu, during a televised address said that "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence". (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Almost 50' hostages killed in Israel raids, says Hamas armed wing

Reiterating his words, "Israel is in a battle for its existence", Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his goal against the Hamas war is "saving the nation" and promises that a ground incursion to destroy Hamas in Gaza will start soon, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday.

'We are preparing for a ground incursion': Israeli PM signals on ground offensive in Gaza

The UN Security Council on October 25 failed again to take action on the Israel-Hamas war, with Russia and China vetoing a U.S.-led draft resolution and a text led by Moscow drawing insufficient support.

US, Russian bids on Israel-Hamas war fail at Security Council

The US has been Israel's strongest ally, showing unwavering support for the latter's military actions in Gaza. But Joe Biden's weak stance on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has angered thousands of American Muslims and Arabs in the country. Will Biden's support to Israel's Gaza siege come at the cost of 2024 presidential elections?

US: Muslims, Arabs raise alarm over Biden's unwavering support to Israel

United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians. This comes amid mounting international pressure for a ceasefire in the region, the calls for which the US president has previously rejected saying that would not happen until all the hostages being held in Gaza are released.&nbsp;

The Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7 which, as per Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people, while more than 200 others were taken as hostages by Hamas.&nbsp;

Israel, in turn, has launched air strikes against Gaza which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 6,500 Palestinians. Jerusalem&nbsp;is also planning a ground invasion of the besieged Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden on Israel’s right to defend itself</h2>

“Israel has a right, and I would add responsibility, to respond to the slaughter of its people,” the US president told reporters at the White House during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who is in the midst of a visit to Washington.&nbsp;

He also went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes but also called on Israel to follow “laws of war.”&nbsp;

“Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president.&nbsp;

Biden also called for an end to Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank saying that it is “pouring gasoline on the fire.” He added, “They’re attacking Palestinians in places that they’re entitled to be.”

<h2>US president doubts Gaza death toll, calls for two-state solution</h2>

Biden also cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. “I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war.”&nbsp;

He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.” He also denied reports that he “demanded” that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delay Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza.&nbsp;

“What I have indicated to him is that if that’s possible to get these folks out safely, that’s what he should do. It’s their decision,” said Biden, adding “I did not demand it. I put it out to him, if it’s real, it should be done.”

Speaking about what happens once the current crisis is over, the US president said that “there has to be a vision of what comes next” in the region and it should include a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians.

“Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and in peace,” said Biden.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians.

United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians. This comes amid mounting international pressure for a ceasefire in the region, the calls for which the US president has previously rejected saying that would not happen until all the hostages being held in Gaza are released. The Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7 which, as per Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people, while more than 200 others were taken as hostages by Hamas. Israel, in turn, has launched air strikes against Gaza which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 6,500 Palestinians. Jerusalem is also planning a ground invasion of the besieged Gaza Strip. Biden on Israel’s right to defend itself “Israel has a right, and I would add responsibility, to respond to the slaughter of its people,” the US president told reporters at the White House during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who is in the midst of a visit to Washington. He also went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes but also called on Israel to follow “laws of war.” “Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president. Biden also called for an end to Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank saying that it is “pouring gasoline on the fire.” He added, “They’re attacking Palestinians in places that they’re entitled to be.” US president doubts Gaza death toll, calls for two-state solution Biden also cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. “I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war.” He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.” He also denied reports that he “demanded” that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delay Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza. “What I have indicated to him is that if that’s possible to get these folks out safely, that’s what he should do. It’s their decision,” said Biden, adding “I did not demand it. I put it out to him, if it’s real, it should be done.” Speaking about what happens once the current crisis is over, the US president said that “there has to be a vision of what comes next” in the region and it should include a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians. “Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and in peace,” said Biden. (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.

US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza

Florida's university system, in coordination with Governor Ron DeSantis, ordered colleges to shut down a pro-Palestinian student organisation. The group has now been outlawed after its national leadership backed Hamas'&nbsp;attack on Israel.

The State University System of Florida has said that Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) was to be dismantled as the Republican-led state cracks down on demonstrations on campus that it said provide "harmful support for terrorist groups."

"Based on the National SJP’s support of terrorism, in consultation with Governor DeSantis, the student chapters must be deactivated," the system's Chancellor Ray Rodrigues wrote in a memo to university leaders.

Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion'

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DeSantis is trying to win the Republican Party nomination for the US presidential election in 2024. He has taken a hard line against Palestinians. He has even suggested that civilians in Gaza should be denied water and utilities till Hamas releases the more than 200 hostages taken during the attack on Israel on October 7.

Desantis' action has&nbsp;drawn flak. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida has said that DeSantis' actions were unconstitutional and amounted to an attack on free speech.

"Instead of keeping students and communities safe, the government is simply silencing ideas it doesn't like," the group said in a statement, declining to comment on whether it would take legal action.

Administrators at some universities in the US have slammed the National SJP especially after the group called Hamas' attack "a historic win for the Palestinian resistance" and appealed for a "day of resistance" on October 12 by its chapters at over 200 colleges in the US and Canada.

Rodrigues said in his memo that it was a felony under Florida law "to provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organisation."

Tensions between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian students have led to harassment and assaults at US universities since the Hamas attack and Israel's subsequent siege and bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

(With inputs from agencies)

Florida's university system, in coordination with Governor Ron DeSantis, ordered colleges to shut down a pro-Palestinian student organisation. The group has now been outlawed after its national leadership backed Hamas' attack on Israel.

Florida's university system, in coordination with Governor Ron DeSantis, ordered colleges to shut down a pro-Palestinian student organisation. The group has now been outlawed after its national leadership backed Hamas' attack on Israel. The State University System of Florida has said that Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) was to be dismantled as the Republican-led state cracks down on demonstrations on campus that it said provide "harmful support for terrorist groups." "Based on the National SJP’s support of terrorism, in consultation with Governor DeSantis, the student chapters must be deactivated," the system's Chancellor Ray Rodrigues wrote in a memo to university leaders. Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion' × DeSantis is trying to win the Republican Party nomination for the US presidential election in 2024. He has taken a hard line against Palestinians. He has even suggested that civilians in Gaza should be denied water and utilities till Hamas releases the more than 200 hostages taken during the attack on Israel on October 7. Desantis' action has drawn flak. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida has said that DeSantis' actions were unconstitutional and amounted to an attack on free speech. "Instead of keeping students and communities safe, the government is simply silencing ideas it doesn't like," the group said in a statement, declining to comment on whether it would take legal action. Administrators at some universities in the US have slammed the National SJP especially after the group called Hamas' attack "a historic win for the Palestinian resistance" and appealed for a "day of resistance" on October 12 by its chapters at over 200 colleges in the US and Canada. Rodrigues said in his memo that it was a felony under Florida law "to provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organisation." Tensions between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian students have led to harassment and assaults at US universities since the Hamas attack and Israel's subsequent siege and bombardment of the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis bans pro-Palestinian group from colleges

Hundreds of people have taken to the streets in Tel Aviv, Israel, to demand that the Israeli government secure the release of hostages seized by Hamas in its October 7 attack on southern Israel.

Israel-Palestine war: Hundreds rally in Israel’s Tel Aviv to demand release of hostages

Police in the UK are treating an act of drawing 'Hitler moustache' on the posters of two abducted Israeli children as a hate crime. The children are said to be abducted by Hamas in Israel.

The poster of the two siblings was put up in Camden, northwest London. It shows Emma and Yuli Cunio, both three years old.

It has been reported in British media that the children were kidnapped when Hamas fighters crossed the border into Israel and launched an attack, also kidnapping more than 200 people.

It was observed that Hitler's moustaches were drawn over the children's faces. Another poster, showing a 58-year-old missing lady was defaced.

The posters appeal to passersby to share images of those missing in the hope that this would secure their release.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has already warned that anyone glorifying Hamas terrorists will be dealt with the full force of the law.&nbsp;

“This is what the Jewish community is facing. Not in 1936. In 2023. Here. In London,” wrote journalist Dan Hodges as he posted a photo on social media of the Cunio children’s poster, branding the defacements “evil”.

The Independent has reported that London Metropolitan Police are witnessing a "massive increase" in hate crimes against Jewish members of the society ever since the current war between Israel and Hamas began.

The force has reportedly recorded 105 antisemitic incidents in just two weeks of October. The figure is up from just 14 in the same period last year.

The incidents include intimidation outside synagogues and loudly playing German military music. Jewish people have also been confronted by protesters.

“Police have been made aware of a number of photos that have been posted on social media today of posters which have been defaced in the Finchley Road area," said a police spokesman as quoted by The Independent.

“We fully understand the distress this will cause to local communities. Police are investigating the incident and are treating it as a hate crime.

“Local officers have immediately responded and will be focused on the area to carry out reassurance patrols.”

Police in the UK are treating an act of drawing 'Hitler moustache' on the posters of two abducted Israeli children as a hate crime. The children are said to be abducted by Hamas in Israel.

Police in the UK are treating an act of drawing 'Hitler moustache' on the posters of two abducted Israeli children as a hate crime. The children are said to be abducted by Hamas in Israel. The poster of the two siblings was put up in Camden, northwest London. It shows Emma and Yuli Cunio, both three years old. It has been reported in British media that the children were kidnapped when Hamas fighters crossed the border into Israel and launched an attack, also kidnapping more than 200 people. It was observed that Hitler's moustaches were drawn over the children's faces. Another poster, showing a 58-year-old missing lady was defaced. The posters appeal to passersby to share images of those missing in the hope that this would secure their release. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has already warned that anyone glorifying Hamas terrorists will be dealt with the full force of the law. “This is what the Jewish community is facing. Not in 1936. In 2023. Here. In London,” wrote journalist Dan Hodges as he posted a photo on social media of the Cunio children’s poster, branding the defacements “evil”. The Independent has reported that London Metropolitan Police are witnessing a "massive increase" in hate crimes against Jewish members of the society ever since the current war between Israel and Hamas began. The force has reportedly recorded 105 antisemitic incidents in just two weeks of October. The figure is up from just 14 in the same period last year. The incidents include intimidation outside synagogues and loudly playing German military music. Jewish people have also been confronted by protesters. “Police have been made aware of a number of photos that have been posted on social media today of posters which have been defaced in the Finchley Road area," said a police spokesman as quoted by The Independent. “We fully understand the distress this will cause to local communities. Police are investigating the incident and are treating it as a hate crime. “Local officers have immediately responded and will be focused on the area to carry out reassurance patrols.”

UK: Police investigating 'Hitler moustache' drawn on posters of abducted children a 'hate crime'

Benjamin Netanyahu has been repeatedly calling it a ‘long war’ in almost every public address he has made since the October 7th HAMAS attacks. But why? The Israeli PM has vowed to destroy HAMAS, but is he finally trying to put a lid on the ghost he helped create? Will HAMAS become Israel’s forever war? Watch the story of how HAMAS, which Israel itself had propped up in the past, could ruin Israel’s game plan.

Israel-Hamas war: Can Israel put the Hamas genie back in the bottle? Is this Israel’s forever war?

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