The latest ceasefire talks in Doha have ended without a breakthrough, but technical teams will continue meetings and negotiators will meet again next week to end the war. The White House has come up with a new proposal. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Indian PM Modi talks to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu

Lebanon's Hezbollah on Friday released a video showing what appeared to be underground tunnels and large missile launchers, amid fears of all-out war between the Iran-backed group and Israel. Watch in for more details!

Hezbollah flaunts underground missile launch site

Israel-Hamas War: US, Qatar & Egypt issue joint statement

Israel-Hamas War: PM Modi talks to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu

Gaza has recorded its first polio case in 25 years, the Palestinian Authority health ministry said on Friday, after UN chief Antonio Guterres called for pauses in the Israel-Hamas war to vaccinate hundreds of thousands of children.

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza reports its first polio case in 25 years

Palestinian group Hamas on Thursday (Aug 15)&nbsp;stated that any ceasefire in the ongoing conflict must include a "complete" withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

In other news,&nbsp;India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday (Aug 16) launched the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) using its recently built small satellite launch vehicle SSLV-D3.

Click on the links to read more...

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-requires-full-israeli-withdrawal-from-gaza-says-hamas-750545">Ceasefire requires full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, says Hamas</a>

Any agreement must achieve a comprehensive ceasefire, a complete (Israeli) withdrawal from Gaza, (and) the return of the displaced,&nbsp;said&nbsp;Hamas.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/16/438072-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-palestinian-killed-after-dozens-of-israeli-settlers-attack-west-bank-village-us-israel-condemn-incident-750549">Dozens of Israeli settlers attack West Bank village, killing one Palestinian</a>

Dozens of Israeli settlers,&nbsp;some wearing masks, attacked the village of Jit in West Bank on Thursday (Aug 15).&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/16/449630-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-space-agency-isro-launches-eos-08-satellite-with-sslv-d3-750558">India's space agency ISRO launches EOS-08 satellite with SSLV-D3</a>

India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday (Aug 16) launched the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) using its recently built small satellite launch vehicle SSLV-D3.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/16/449637-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-riots-15-year-old-faces-riot-charges-amid-widespread-unrest-750534">UK unrest: 15-year-old boy becomes first to be charged with rioting</a>

A teenager was charged with rioting on Thursday (Aug 16), becoming the first person prosecuted for involvement in the widespread violence that has gripped the UK.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/16/449622-untitled-design-55.png?imwidth=400" />

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-claims-capturing-100-russian-soldiers-in-kursk-region-750564" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims capturing 100 Russian soldiers in Kursk region</a>

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Palestinian group Hamas on Thursday (Aug 15) stated that any ceasefire in the ongoing conflict must include a "complete" withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. In other news, India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday (Aug 16) launched the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) using its recently built small satellite launch vehicle SSLV-D3.

Palestinian group Hamas on Thursday (Aug 15) stated that any ceasefire in the ongoing conflict must include a "complete" withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. In other news, India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday (Aug 16) launched the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) using its recently built small satellite launch vehicle SSLV-D3. Click on the links to read more... Ceasefire requires full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, says Hamas Any agreement must achieve a comprehensive ceasefire, a complete (Israeli) withdrawal from Gaza, (and) the return of the displaced, said Hamas. Dozens of Israeli settlers attack West Bank village, killing one Palestinian Dozens of Israeli settlers, some wearing masks, attacked the village of Jit in West Bank on Thursday (Aug 15). India's space agency ISRO launches EOS-08 satellite with SSLV-D3 India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday (Aug 16) launched the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) using its recently built small satellite launch vehicle SSLV-D3. UK unrest: 15-year-old boy becomes first to be charged with rioting A teenager was charged with rioting on Thursday (Aug 16), becoming the first person prosecuted for involvement in the widespread violence that has gripped the UK. WATCH: Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims capturing 100 Russian soldiers in Kursk region ×

Morning news brief: Gaza ceasefire talks resume; settlers attack West Bank village; and more

A fresh round of Gaza ceasefire negotiations is scheduled to begin on Thursday in Qatar. However, Hamas announced on Wednesday that it will not participate in these discussions, casting doubt on the possibility of a negotiated truce that could prevent an Iranian attack on Israel.

Hamas skips Doha ceasefire talks, likely to talk to mediators after summit

#Gravitas As Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Doha continue, alarming reports from Israel suggest an ominous plot could be unfolding. Senior officials warned the Israeli security cabinet of a potential Iranian and Hezbollah plan to assassinate high-ranking Israeli figures. While talks aim to de-escalate tensions, the threat of targeted killings could ignite a regional conflict with catastrophic consequences. The world watches anxiously as the situation in West Asia teeters on the brink.

Is Israel's High Command on Iran’s, Hezbollah's Hit List?

#Gravitas As per reports, dozens of Israeli settlers launched an attack on the Palestinian village of Jit, located in West Bank, setting fire to homes and vehicles. According to the Palestinian health ministry, at least one Palestinian man lost his life in the violence, another individual suffered critical injuries. Reports indicate that the settlers, some of them masked, descended on Jit with rocks and molotov cocktails. The incident has sparked outrage and concern internationally.

Masked Settlers Attack Arab Villages in West Ban

In a bid to prevent a direct war between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, US. Special envoy and French Minister arrive in Lebanon. We tell you what happens.

Top diplomats arrive in Lebanon

Ibrahim Salem spent eight months in Israeli detention, where he says rape, electrocution and beatings were routine.

Palestinian in leaked Israeli base photo speaks out

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (August 16) and appealed to the latter ‘to de-escalate the situation’ in West Asia.

PM Netanyahu had made a telephone call to PM Modi to give him wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-was-offered-millions-of-dollars-by-qatar-claims-report-what-is-project-raven-737387">Israel's Netanyahu was offered millions of dollars by Qatar, claims report. What is Project Raven?</a>

“Appreciate PM @netanyahu’s phone call and warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Emphasized on the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire and need for continued humanitarian assistance,” said PM Modi, in a post shared on social media site X.

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Appreciate PM <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a>’s phone call and warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Emphasized on the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire and need for…
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The Indian prime minister again reiterated the demand for the release of all hostages and underlined the need to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the war.

<h2>Indian PM Modi calls early resolution of Israel-Hamas conflict</h2>

In a statement, the PMO stated, "PM Netanyahu conveyed his warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. The two leaders discussed the prevailing situation in West Asia. PM Modi emphasises the need for de-escalating the situation and reiterates India’s call for the release of hostages, ceasefire and continued humanitarian&nbsp;aid."&nbsp;

PM Modi also appealed for an early and peaceful resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

The two leaders talked about different aspects of bilateral cooperation and ways to strengthen the India-Israel Strategic Partnership.

Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu vs Gallant: Is Israel PM sabotaging peace in Gaza?

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Israel&nbsp;has been facing diplomatic pressure to finalise a truce which can avert a wider war in the region amid the&nbsp;ongoing talks in Qatar.

The international negotiators have for months not been able to finalise a truce or hostage release deal, however, the tensions have escalated in the region after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's killing and have underscored the urgency to reach a ceasefire agreement.

In the talks, the Palestinian militant group Hamas were not present as they said that they had accepted the terms and that Israel now needs to agree to it.

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.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (August 16) and appealed to the latter ‘to de-escalate the situation’ in West Asia.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (August 16) and appealed to the latter ‘to de-escalate the situation’ in West Asia. PM Netanyahu had made a telephone call to PM Modi to give him wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. Also Read: Israel's Netanyahu was offered millions of dollars by Qatar, claims report. What is Project Raven? “Appreciate PM @netanyahu’s phone call and warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Emphasized on the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire and need for continued humanitarian assistance,” said PM Modi, in a post shared on social media site X. Appreciate PM @netanyahu’s phone call and warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Emphasized on the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire and need for… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2024 × The Indian prime minister again reiterated the demand for the release of all hostages and underlined the need to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the war. Indian PM Modi calls early resolution of Israel-Hamas conflict In a statement, the PMO stated, "PM Netanyahu conveyed his warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day. The two leaders discussed the prevailing situation in West Asia. PM Modi emphasises the need for de-escalating the situation and reiterates India’s call for the release of hostages, ceasefire and continued humanitarian aid." PM Modi also appealed for an early and peaceful resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. The two leaders talked about different aspects of bilateral cooperation and ways to strengthen the India-Israel Strategic Partnership. Watch: Netanyahu vs Gallant: Is Israel PM sabotaging peace in Gaza? Israel has been facing diplomatic pressure to finalise a truce which can avert a wider war in the region amid the ongoing talks in Qatar. The international negotiators have for months not been able to finalise a truce or hostage release deal, however, the tensions have escalated in the region after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's killing and have underscored the urgency to reach a ceasefire agreement. In the talks, the Palestinian militant group Hamas were not present as they said that they had accepted the terms and that Israel now needs to agree to it. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi appeals for de-escalation, calls for release of hostages in talks with Israel's Netanyahu

The second day of ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Gaza facilitated by international mediators are set to resume for a second day in Qatar on Friday to prevent the conflict from escalating into a wider regional crisis. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza ceasefire negotiators to meet again in Doha

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza ceasefire talks to resume for second day in Doha

Columbia&nbsp;University President Minouche Shafik resigned on Wednesday (Aug 14), nearly four months after the university's handling of campus protests over Israel's war in Gaza drew criticism from pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian sides alike.

Shafik, who cited the toll the campus turmoil took on her family, becomes the third president of an Ivy League university to step down in the wake of campus protests over Gaza.

She said she made the announcement now so new leadership could be in place before the new term begins on Sept. 3, when student protesters have vowed to resume protests.

"It has...been a period of turmoil where it has been difficult to overcome divergent views across our community. This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in our community," Shafik said in a statement.

The university announced Katrina Armstrong, dean of&nbsp;Columbia's medical school, would serve as interim president. Armstrong said in a statement she was "acutely aware of the trials the University has faced over the past year."

Columbia&nbsp;was rocked in April and May as protesters occupied parts of the New York City campus in opposition to Palestinian civilian deaths in Gaza, resulting in hundreds of arrests. The demonstrators denounced Shafik for calling police onto campus to halt the demonstrations, while pro-Israel supporters castigated her for failing to crack down sufficiently.

Students with&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;University Apartheid Divest, a group behind the protests, welcomed the resignation but said it should not become a distraction from their efforts to have&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;divest from companies that support Israel's military and its occupation of Palestinian territories.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-white-house-condemns-antisemitism-at-columbia-university-protests-713997">Watch |&nbsp;US: White House condemns antisemitism at Columbia University protests</a>

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&nbsp;

"We hope that&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;will finally appoint a president that will hear the students and faculty rather than appeasing Congress and donors," said Mahmoud Khalil, one of the group's lead negotiators with the school's administration.

Republican U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik, a critic of university leaders in congressional hearings over Gaza protests nationwide, called Shafik's resignation "overdue" on X because of what she called failure to protect Jewish students.

Two other Ivy League presidents have resigned after facing congressional critics. Liz Magill of the University of Pennsylvania stepped down in December 2023 and Claudine Gay of Harvard quit a month later.

Shafik, an Egyptian-born economist who holds British and US nationality, was previously deputy governor of the Bank of England, president of the London School of Economics and deputy managing director at the International Monetary Fund.

After leading&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;for little more than a year, Shafik said she would return to the British House of Lords and chair a review of the government's approach to international development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-shifts-to-virtual-classes-following-on-campus-arrests-amid-anti-israel-protests-713938">Also read |&nbsp;Columbia University shifts to virtual classes following on-campus arrests amid anti-Israel protests</a>

Her position at&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;was undermined when pro-Palestinian protesters set up dozens of tents on the main lawn.

On April 18 she took the unusual step of asking New York police to enter campus, angering rights groups, students and faculty, after encampments were not cleared voluntarily.

More than 100 people were arrested and the tents removed, but within days the encampment was back in place. The university called police back in on April 30, when they arrested 300 people at and near&nbsp;Columbia&nbsp;and the City College of New York. Some protesters were injured in the arrests.

The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on Oct. 7 when Palestinian fighters from Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel's subsequent assault on the Hamas-governed enclave has since killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, while displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million, causing a hunger crisis and leading to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned on Wednesday (Aug 14), nearly four months after the university's handling of campus protests over Israel's war in Gaza drew criticism from pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian sides alike.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned on Wednesday (Aug 14), nearly four months after the university's handling of campus protests over Israel's war in Gaza drew criticism from pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian sides alike. Shafik, who cited the toll the campus turmoil took on her family, becomes the third president of an Ivy League university to step down in the wake of campus protests over Gaza. She said she made the announcement now so new leadership could be in place before the new term begins on Sept. 3, when student protesters have vowed to resume protests. "It has...been a period of turmoil where it has been difficult to overcome divergent views across our community. This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in our community," Shafik said in a statement. The university announced Katrina Armstrong, dean of Columbia's medical school, would serve as interim president. Armstrong said in a statement she was "acutely aware of the trials the University has faced over the past year." Columbia was rocked in April and May as protesters occupied parts of the New York City campus in opposition to Palestinian civilian deaths in Gaza, resulting in hundreds of arrests. The demonstrators denounced Shafik for calling police onto campus to halt the demonstrations, while pro-Israel supporters castigated her for failing to crack down sufficiently. Students with Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a group behind the protests, welcomed the resignation but said it should not become a distraction from their efforts to have Columbia divest from companies that support Israel's military and its occupation of Palestinian territories. Watch | US: White House condemns antisemitism at Columbia University protests × "We hope that Columbia will finally appoint a president that will hear the students and faculty rather than appeasing Congress and donors," said Mahmoud Khalil, one of the group's lead negotiators with the school's administration. Republican U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik, a critic of university leaders in congressional hearings over Gaza protests nationwide, called Shafik's resignation "overdue" on X because of what she called failure to protect Jewish students. Two other Ivy League presidents have resigned after facing congressional critics. Liz Magill of the University of Pennsylvania stepped down in December 2023 and Claudine Gay of Harvard quit a month later. Shafik, an Egyptian-born economist who holds British and US nationality, was previously deputy governor of the Bank of England, president of the London School of Economics and deputy managing director at the International Monetary Fund. After leading Columbia for little more than a year, Shafik said she would return to the British House of Lords and chair a review of the government's approach to international development. Also read | Columbia University shifts to virtual classes following on-campus arrests amid anti-Israel protests Her position at Columbia was undermined when pro-Palestinian protesters set up dozens of tents on the main lawn. On April 18 she took the unusual step of asking New York police to enter campus, angering rights groups, students and faculty, after encampments were not cleared voluntarily. More than 100 people were arrested and the tents removed, but within days the encampment was back in place. The university called police back in on April 30, when they arrested 300 people at and near Columbia and the City College of New York. Some protesters were injured in the arrests. The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on Oct. 7 when Palestinian fighters from Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Israel's subsequent assault on the Hamas-governed enclave has since killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, while displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million, causing a hunger crisis and leading to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Columbia University president resigns after antisemitic protests on campus

Republican presidential candidate Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;spoke on the phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Aug 14) and discussed the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, Axios reported, citing two US&nbsp;sources.

One source told Axios that Trump's call was intended to encourage Netanyahu to take the deal, but stressed he did not know if this was indeed what the former president told Netanyahu. The&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Late last month, Netanyahu visited the US&nbsp;and met President Joe Biden, Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and Republican former President&nbsp;Trump.

Egypt, the United States and Qatar have scheduled a new round of Gaza ceasefire negotiations for Thursday.

Biden laid out a three-phase ceasefire proposal in an address on May 31. Washington and regional mediators have since tried arranging the Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal but have run into repeated obstacles.

Hamas said on Wednesday it would not take part in a new round of Gaza ceasefire talks slated for Thursday in Qatar, but an official briefed on the talks said mediators expected to consult with the Palestinian Islamist group afterwards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-not-attack-israel-for-revenge-us-president-joe-biden-reveals-a-way-out-749972">Also read |&nbsp;Iran may not attack Israel for revenge. US President Joe Biden reveals a way out</a>

Washington, Israel's most important ally, has said that a ceasefire in Gaza will reduce the rising threat of a wider war in the Middle East.

There has been an increased risk of a broader war after the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Both drew threats of retaliation against Israel.

The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-tensions-israel-us-expect-iranian-attack-within-days-wion-speed-news-749720" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;West Asia Tensions: Israel, US expect Iranian attack within days | WION Speed News</a>

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Israel's subsequent assault on the Hamas-governed enclave has since killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, while also displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million, causing a hunger crisis and leading to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump spoke on the phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Aug 14) and discussed the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, Axios reported, citing two US sources.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump spoke on the phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Aug 14) and discussed the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, Axios reported, citing two US sources. One source told Axios that Trump's call was intended to encourage Netanyahu to take the deal, but stressed he did not know if this was indeed what the former president told Netanyahu. The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Late last month, Netanyahu visited the US and met President Joe Biden, Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and Republican former President Trump. Egypt, the United States and Qatar have scheduled a new round of Gaza ceasefire negotiations for Thursday. Biden laid out a three-phase ceasefire proposal in an address on May 31. Washington and regional mediators have since tried arranging the Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal but have run into repeated obstacles. Hamas said on Wednesday it would not take part in a new round of Gaza ceasefire talks slated for Thursday in Qatar, but an official briefed on the talks said mediators expected to consult with the Palestinian Islamist group afterwards. Also read | Iran may not attack Israel for revenge. US President Joe Biden reveals a way out Washington, Israel's most important ally, has said that a ceasefire in Gaza will reduce the rising threat of a wider war in the Middle East. There has been an increased risk of a broader war after the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Both drew threats of retaliation against Israel. The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Watch | West Asia Tensions: Israel, US expect Iranian attack within days | WION Speed News Israel's subsequent assault on the Hamas-governed enclave has since killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, while also displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million, causing a hunger crisis and leading to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump and Netanyahu hold talks amid hostage-truce deal in Gaza

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:84,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1976}">Retreat will invite ‘divine wrath’</h2>

Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran".

Khamenei's statement comes just weeks after Hamas leader Haniyeh was killed by a strike in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:244,&quot;w&quot;:620,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2136}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-line-israeli-military-cant-do-anything-more-against-hamas-in-gaza-report-750293">'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report</a>

Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination and soon after the killing, the Supreme leader Khamenei issued an order to strike Israel.

Khamenei, in a public statement on July 31 — the day of the assassination — &nbsp;proclaimed "we see avenging his blood our duty," as the assassination&nbsp;happened on Iran's territory.

In his recent statement, Khamenei said, "Governments that yield to the demands of today's dominant powers, regardless of the size or strength of the nations they represent, could defy these pressures if they draw on the strength of their people and accurately assess their adversaries' true, unembellished capabilities," Khamenei said.

As per Iran International, he also criticised the longstanding habit of "exaggerating" enemy capabilities to instil fear as he pointed to what he described as US, British, and Israeli efforts since the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:539,&quot;w&quot;:488,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2431}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-approved-plans-to-sabotage-nord-stream-pipelines-report-750358">Zelensky approved plans to sabotage Nord Stream pipelines: Report</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:575,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2467}">When will Iran attack Israel?</h2>

Iran has been biding its time to retaliate against Israel. The nation has been leveraging psychological tactics, building suspense on when the retaliation might happen. Twice already, the US has given its estimate on when the strike may happen.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Iran contends that it has the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week.&nbsp;

"No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani had said during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel.

However, even as he asserted Iran's right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the fatal attack on Haniyeh in Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country. Retreat will invite ‘divine wrath’ Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran". Khamenei's statement comes just weeks after Hamas leader Haniyeh was killed by a strike in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian. Also read | 'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination and soon after the killing, the Supreme leader Khamenei issued an order to strike Israel. Khamenei, in a public statement on July 31 — the day of the assassination — proclaimed "we see avenging his blood our duty," as the assassination happened on Iran's territory. In his recent statement, Khamenei said, "Governments that yield to the demands of today's dominant powers, regardless of the size or strength of the nations they represent, could defy these pressures if they draw on the strength of their people and accurately assess their adversaries' true, unembellished capabilities," Khamenei said. As per Iran International, he also criticised the longstanding habit of "exaggerating" enemy capabilities to instil fear as he pointed to what he described as US, British, and Israeli efforts since the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran. Also read | Zelensky approved plans to sabotage Nord Stream pipelines: Report When will Iran attack Israel? Iran has been biding its time to retaliate against Israel. The nation has been leveraging psychological tactics, building suspense on when the retaliation might happen. Twice already, the US has given its estimate on when the strike may happen. Iran contends that it has the "legal right" to respond to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. "No one has the right to doubt Iran's legal right to punish the Zionist regime," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani had said during a regular news conference, in obvious reference to Israel. However, even as he asserted Iran's right to retaliate, Nasser Kanani emphasised that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions in the region," which have been on the rise since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October and escalated further following the fatal attack on Haniyeh in Tehran. (With inputs from agencies)

Backing down from retaliating against Israel would invite ‘divine wrath’: Iran supreme leader Khamenei

Hamas to stay out of truce talks, likely to talk to mediators after summit

More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, which is now in its 11th month, the territory’s Health Ministry said Thursday.

Israel intensifies Gaza bombardment, hostages' kin protest in Tel Aviv urging peace deal

High-stakes talks will take place today between mediators seeking a truce to Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. Israel confirmed it would attend, though it remained unclear if Hamas planned to participate. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Mediators will meet in Doha today for Gaza peace talks

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials.&nbsp;

Washington believes that Tel Aviv will never be able to completely wipe out Hamas and that more bombings only increase the risk of civilian casualties.&nbsp;

“Israel has been able to disrupt Hamas, kill a number of their leaders and largely reduce the threat to Israel that existed before October 7,” Gen. Joseph L. Votel, former head of US Central Command was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

A former senior CIA official added that Hamas was largely depleted in the region but nowhere near being wiped out off the map.&nbsp;

However, the Israeli side has refuted the claims saying there were gains still to be made on the ground in Gaza.&nbsp;

“If Israel evacuates its forces now, within a year, Hamas will be strong again,” said&nbsp;Yaakov Amidror, a retired IDF major general, who added that the military needs another two to three months in central and southern Gaza.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-us-ready-to-defend-israel-in-fight-against-iran-proxies-748982" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran &amp; proxies</a>&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-us-ready-to-defend-israel-in-fight-against-iran-proxies-748982/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Netanyahu and Gallant argue&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, the report comes a couple of days after Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was angry over&nbsp;Defence Minister Yoav Gallant calling his goal of achieving "total victory" against Hamas "gibberish".&nbsp;

Netanyahu accused Gallant of adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks.

“When Gallant adopts the anti-Israel narrative, he harms the chances of reaching a hostage-release deal,” the Israeli PMO said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-us-greenlighted-israels-killing-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-746705" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>

Gallant made the rather rebellious remark in front of lawmakers during a private security briefing.&nbsp;

“I hear all the heroes with the war drums, ‘absolute victory,’ and all that gibberish. I saw that courage when it came down to the discussion,” said Gallant, according to reports.&nbsp;

Despite gaining control of the majority of the Gaza Strip, the Israeli forces haven't been able to free the hostages kidnapped on October 7 last year. The hostage-truce talks have been at an impasse for months, despite Washington attempting to fasten the process.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an imminent threat of retaliatory strikes from Iran also looms over Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials.

Over 10 months into the war, Israel has accomplished everything that it could gain militarily in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and can't do anything more, a report in the New York Times has claimed, citing US officials. Washington believes that Tel Aviv will never be able to completely wipe out Hamas and that more bombings only increase the risk of civilian casualties. “Israel has been able to disrupt Hamas, kill a number of their leaders and largely reduce the threat to Israel that existed before October 7,” Gen. Joseph L. Votel, former head of US Central Command was quoted as saying by the publication. A former senior CIA official added that Hamas was largely depleted in the region but nowhere near being wiped out off the map. However, the Israeli side has refuted the claims saying there were gains still to be made on the ground in Gaza. “If Israel evacuates its forces now, within a year, Hamas will be strong again,” said Yaakov Amidror, a retired IDF major general, who added that the military needs another two to three months in central and southern Gaza. Watch | Iran-Israel tensions: US ready to defend Israel in fight against Iran & proxies Netanyahu and Gallant argue Notably, the report comes a couple of days after Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was angry over Defence Minister Yoav Gallant calling his goal of achieving "total victory" against Hamas "gibberish". Netanyahu accused Gallant of adopting "an anti-Israel narrative" that was hurting the momentum of the forces and the ongoing talks. “When Gallant adopts the anti-Israel narrative, he harms the chances of reaching a hostage-release deal,” the Israeli PMO said. Also read | Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh Gallant made the rather rebellious remark in front of lawmakers during a private security briefing. “I hear all the heroes with the war drums, ‘absolute victory,’ and all that gibberish. I saw that courage when it came down to the discussion,” said Gallant, according to reports. Despite gaining control of the majority of the Gaza Strip, the Israeli forces haven't been able to free the hostages kidnapped on October 7 last year. The hostage-truce talks have been at an impasse for months, despite Washington attempting to fasten the process. Meanwhile, an imminent threat of retaliatory strikes from Iran also looms over Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

'End of line': Israeli military can't do anything more against Hamas in Gaza - Report

High-stakes peace talks will take place today between mediators seeking a truce to Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Mediators to meet Doha for Gaza peace negotiations | WION Speed News

Hamas to stay out of truce talks, new round of Gaza ceasefire talks slated for Thursday in Qatar

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