Hamas on Wednesday said its "positive" response to a U.S. ceasefire plan for the eight-month-old war in the Gaza Strip opened a "wide pathway" to reach an agreement, but the outlook was uncertain as neither the Palestinian group nor Israel publicly committed to a deal.

Israel war: Hamas proposes new timeline for ceasefire, offers ammendments to US-backed proposals

<p>A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023.</p>

<p>The upcoming report obtained by AFP is the United Nations' annual "Children in Armed Conflict" report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am appalled by the dramatic increase in grave violations," wrote Secretary-General António Guterres in the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-for-gaza-peace-blinken-visits-israel-and-egypt-to-secure-ceasefire-730711">US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Disturbing increase in violence</strong></h2>

<p>The report, prepared by Guterres and due for release on Thursday, highlights a 21 per cent increase in grave violations against children in 2023, totalling 30,705 verified violations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These included 5,301 killings, 6,348 injuries, 8,655 instances of child recruitment and use in conflicts, 5,205 denials of humanitarian access&nbsp;and 4,356 kidnappings.</p>

<p>"In 2023, violence against children in armed conflict reached extreme levels, with a shocking 21 per cent increase in grave violations," said the report.</p>

<p>Findings of the report are unprecedented, said a senior UN official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-unicef-report-400-million-children-under-five-face-violence-at-home-730683">Shocking UNICEF report: 400 million children under five face violence at home</a></strong></p>

<p>"We've never verified so many violations against children as last year."</p>

<p>Last year, "children bore the brunt of multiplying and escalating crises that were marked by a complete disregard for child rights, notably the inherent right to life," said the report.</p>

<h2><strong>Blacklisted organisations</strong></h2>

<p>The report places a number of entities on the blacklist for "killing and maiming children, and for attacks on schools and hospitals."</p>

<p>This in Sudan includes the Sudanese army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The RSF was listed for recruiting children and committing "rape and other forms of sexual violence against children," alongside attacks on schools and hospitals.</p>

<p>Additionally, Hamas and the armed wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad were added to the blacklist for the October 7 attack on Israel. The Israeli army was blacklisted for its retaliatory campaign against Hamas in Gaza.</p>

<p>The Russian army and "affiliated armed groups" also remain on the blacklist for killing 80 children in Ukraine in 2023 and injuring 339.</p>

<h2><strong>Sudan conflict and the children&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In Sudan, grave violations against children surged by "a staggering 480 per cent" from 2022 to 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war and the children</strong></h2>

<p>The conflict in the Middle East saw a 155 per cent increase in grave violations against children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On October 7, 43 Israeli children were killed and an additional 47 Israeli children were abducted by Hamas and other Palestinian groups.</p>

<p>The retaliatory attack, as verified by the UN, has claimed the lives of 2,141 Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip, with 2,051 killed between October 7 and December 31.</p>

<p>Furthermore, 23,000 reports of grave violations against children are yet to be verified. This includes&nbsp;violations against 3,900 Israeli children and 19,887 Palestinian children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report covers approximately 20 conflict zones worldwide, detailing the killing, injuring, recruitment, kidnapping, and sexual violence against children.&nbsp;It verified 30,705 "grave violations" committed last year, including during the Gaza war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023.

A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023. The upcoming report obtained by AFP is the United Nations' annual "Children in Armed Conflict" report. "I am appalled by the dramatic increase in grave violations," wrote Secretary-General António Guterres in the report. Also read | US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire Disturbing increase in violence The report, prepared by Guterres and due for release on Thursday, highlights a 21 per cent increase in grave violations against children in 2023, totalling 30,705 verified violations. These included 5,301 killings, 6,348 injuries, 8,655 instances of child recruitment and use in conflicts, 5,205 denials of humanitarian access and 4,356 kidnappings. "In 2023, violence against children in armed conflict reached extreme levels, with a shocking 21 per cent increase in grave violations," said the report. Findings of the report are unprecedented, said a senior UN official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity. Also read | Shocking UNICEF report: 400 million children under five face violence at home "We've never verified so many violations against children as last year." Last year, "children bore the brunt of multiplying and escalating crises that were marked by a complete disregard for child rights, notably the inherent right to life," said the report. Blacklisted organisations The report places a number of entities on the blacklist for "killing and maiming children, and for attacks on schools and hospitals." This in Sudan includes the Sudanese army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF was listed for recruiting children and committing "rape and other forms of sexual violence against children," alongside attacks on schools and hospitals. Additionally, Hamas and the armed wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad were added to the blacklist for the October 7 attack on Israel. The Israeli army was blacklisted for its retaliatory campaign against Hamas in Gaza. The Russian army and "affiliated armed groups" also remain on the blacklist for killing 80 children in Ukraine in 2023 and injuring 339. Sudan conflict and the children In Sudan, grave violations against children surged by "a staggering 480 per cent" from 2022 to 2023. Israel-Hamas war and the children The conflict in the Middle East saw a 155 per cent increase in grave violations against children. On October 7, 43 Israeli children were killed and an additional 47 Israeli children were abducted by Hamas and other Palestinian groups. The retaliatory attack, as verified by the UN, has claimed the lives of 2,141 Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip, with 2,051 killed between October 7 and December 31. Furthermore, 23,000 reports of grave violations against children are yet to be verified. This includes violations against 3,900 Israeli children and 19,887 Palestinian children. The report covers approximately 20 conflict zones worldwide, detailing the killing, injuring, recruitment, kidnapping, and sexual violence against children. It verified 30,705 "grave violations" committed last year, including during the Gaza war. (With inputs from agencies)

UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan

According to a new UN research, violence against children caught up in increasingly complex and violent conflicts reached alarming proportions in 2023, with an unprecedented number of deaths and injuries in crises ranging from Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine to Israel and the Palestinian territories.

Almost 3,000 children cut off from treatment for malnutrition, at risk of death

Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, stated on Wednesday that his Palestinian Islamist organization, which is at odds with Israel, is adhering to its demands for a truce in Gaza, which include an Israeli military pullout. Keep an eye out for additional information!

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas responds to Egypt and Qatar on Gaza ceasefire plan

An unprecedented number of people died and were injured in crises ranging from Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine to Israel and the Palestinian territories in 2023, according to new UN research on violence against children entangled in more complicated and violent conflicts.

Israel war: 2,051 Palestinian children killed, 47 children abducted by Hamas: UN report

Our correspondent Jodi Cowan spoke with a former advisor to Israeli Prime Minister and Military expert Colonel Miri Eisin on the impact of Benny Gantz's resignation on Netanyahu. WION's Jodie Cohen interview with Colonel Miri Eisin, Israeli PM's former advisor. Watch in for more details!

Miri Eisin: Netanyahu will try to get Gantz back in the cabinet

Will the US cut Israel out of the Hamas hostage talks? Is America's patience exhausted with Israel? What will America's next move be? Molly Gambhir getting you the complete story.

Gravitas | Will the US cut Israel out of the Hamas hostage talks?

The war in Gaza has dashed the dreams of Palestinians willing to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca the holiest side in Islamic World Palestinians are unable to go on the pilgrimage as there's no way out of the Gaza Strip.

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war shatters pilgrimage dreams of Palestinian couple

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas has reportedly accepted a United Nations-backed peace proposal to end the war in Gaza, several media outlets reported on Tuesday (June 11) quoting a senior official of the group.</p>

<p>Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri said the group was ready for further negotiations and that it was up to Washington to ensure that Israel abides by the UN resolution.</p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reacted to the development and called it “a hopeful sign”.</p>

<p>However, he cautioned that a definitive word was still required from the militant group. “That’s what counts, and that’s what we don’t have yet,” he said.</p>

<p>Earlier, Blinken met officials in Israel to court them to end the country’s air and ground offensive against Hamas.</p>

<p>This comes a day after President Joe Biden’s proposal for a truce was approved by the UN Security Council.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: A glimpse of Gaza war devastation in the form of numbers</strong></p>

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<p>According to the peace proposal, Israel will have to withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza.</p>

<p>Hamas, on the other hand, will have to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners incarcerated in Israel.</p>

<p>“The US administration is facing a real test to carry out its commitments in compelling the occupation to immediately end the war in an implementation of the U.N. Security Council resolution,” Abu Zuhri was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>US to provide $404 million in aid for Palestinians</strong></h2>

<p>US on Tuesday (Jun 11) declared it will wire another $404 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.</p>

<p>The new aid package will&nbsp;bring&nbsp;the total amount of US assistance for Palestinians to $674 million&nbsp;since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p>“As the largest single country humanitarian donor to the Palestinian people, we recognize the urgent need for more assistance to reach civilians given the dire humanitarian conditions and call on all donors to support life-saving operations for Palestinians in Gaza and the region,” a statement from the US State Department said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjRzq3z3tOGAxW71DgGHWEIApEQxfQBKAB6BAgZEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-for-gaza-peace-blinken-visits-israel-and-egypt-to-secure-ceasefire-730711" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-for-gaza-peace-blinken-visits-israel-and-egypt-to-secure-ceasefire-730711&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjRzq3z3tOGAxW71DgGHWEIApEQxfQBKAB6BAgZEAE">US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire</a></strong></p>

<p>“This new funding will provide essential support to vulnerable Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and the region, including food, safe drinking water, health care, protection, education, shelter and psychosocial support,” the statement added.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas has reportedly accepted a United Nations-backed peace proposal to end the war in Gaza, several media outlets reported on Tuesday (June 11) quoting a senior official of the group.

Palestinian militant group Hamas has reportedly accepted a United Nations-backed peace proposal to end the war in Gaza, several media outlets reported on Tuesday (June 11) quoting a senior official of the group. Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri said the group was ready for further negotiations and that it was up to Washington to ensure that Israel abides by the UN resolution. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reacted to the development and called it “a hopeful sign”. However, he cautioned that a definitive word was still required from the militant group. “That’s what counts, and that’s what we don’t have yet,” he said. Earlier, Blinken met officials in Israel to court them to end the country’s air and ground offensive against Hamas. This comes a day after President Joe Biden’s proposal for a truce was approved by the UN Security Council. Watch: Israel war: A glimpse of Gaza war devastation in the form of numbers × According to the peace proposal, Israel will have to withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza. Hamas, on the other hand, will have to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners incarcerated in Israel. “The US administration is facing a real test to carry out its commitments in compelling the occupation to immediately end the war in an implementation of the U.N. Security Council resolution,” Abu Zuhri was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. US to provide $404 million in aid for Palestinians US on Tuesday (Jun 11) declared it will wire another $404 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza and the West Bank. The new aid package will bring the total amount of US assistance for Palestinians to $674 million since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war. “As the largest single country humanitarian donor to the Palestinian people, we recognize the urgent need for more assistance to reach civilians given the dire humanitarian conditions and call on all donors to support life-saving operations for Palestinians in Gaza and the region,” a statement from the US State Department said. Also read: US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire “This new funding will provide essential support to vulnerable Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and the region, including food, safe drinking water, health care, protection, education, shelter and psychosocial support,” the statement added. 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)

Hamas accepts UN-backed Gaza peace proposal, US terms it 'hopeful sign'

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The top US Diplomat is on a West Asia peace mission to deliver President Joe Biden's latest proposed plan to end the Gaza War.

Antony Blinken visits West Asia: Hamas accepts UN-backed ceasefire deal

<p>The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10)&nbsp;backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, the resolution was adopted by the US and was supported by the other 14&nbsp;of the 15 members of the Security Council. Russia, however,&nbsp;abstained from voting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today we voted for peace," said the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield after the vote.</p>

<p>"Today this Council sent a clear message to Hamas: accept the ceasefire deal on the table. Israel has already agreed to this deal and the fighting could stop today if Hamas would do the same," she added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-unilateral-deal-with-hamas-for-release-of-american-captives-in-gaza-730591">US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Hamas 'welcomes' the resolution</strong></h2>

<p>The resolution says Israel has accepted the truce plan, and "calls upon Hamas to also accept it." The Palestinian militant group&nbsp;said that it "welcomes" the vote.</p>

<p>In a statement, as quoted by Reuters, the group said&nbsp;that it is ready to cooperate with mediators over implementing the principles of the plan "that are consistent with the demands of our people and resistance."</p>

<p>The deal&nbsp;remains uncertain as Hamas officials have insisted that any ceasefire agreement must guarantee a permanent end to the war — a demand Israel has firmly rejected, vowing to destroy Hamas and free the remaining captives.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macrons-great-gamble-why-french-president-dissolved-parliament-what-if-his-party-loses-730607">Macron's great gamble: Why did French president dissolve parliament? What if his party loses?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Israel reiterates the destruction of Hamas</strong></h2>

<p>After the vote, Israeli diplomat Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly once again reiterated her country's stand and said that the "war will end" only when Israeli "goals are met," including the release of hostages and the destruction of Hamas.</p>

<p>"Hamas' refusal to release the hostages through diplomacy has proven that the effort to bring our hostages home must also include military means," she said.</p>

<p>Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian envoy to the United Nations, meanwhile, welcomed the Security Council's vote, and said that the "burden" of implementing the resolution and ceasefire "is on the Israeli side".</p>

<p>Announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden, the&nbsp;truce and hostage release proposal urges "parties to fully implement its terms without delay and without condition."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10) backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10) backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. As per reports, the resolution was adopted by the US and was supported by the other 14 of the 15 members of the Security Council. Russia, however, abstained from voting. "Today we voted for peace," said the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield after the vote. "Today this Council sent a clear message to Hamas: accept the ceasefire deal on the table. Israel has already agreed to this deal and the fighting could stop today if Hamas would do the same," she added. Also read | US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza Hamas 'welcomes' the resolution The resolution says Israel has accepted the truce plan, and "calls upon Hamas to also accept it." The Palestinian militant group said that it "welcomes" the vote. In a statement, as quoted by Reuters, the group said that it is ready to cooperate with mediators over implementing the principles of the plan "that are consistent with the demands of our people and resistance." The deal remains uncertain as Hamas officials have insisted that any ceasefire agreement must guarantee a permanent end to the war — a demand Israel has firmly rejected, vowing to destroy Hamas and free the remaining captives. Also read | Macron's great gamble: Why did French president dissolve parliament? What if his party loses? Israel reiterates the destruction of Hamas After the vote, Israeli diplomat Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly once again reiterated her country's stand and said that the "war will end" only when Israeli "goals are met," including the release of hostages and the destruction of Hamas. "Hamas' refusal to release the hostages through diplomacy has proven that the effort to bring our hostages home must also include military means," she said. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian envoy to the United Nations, meanwhile, welcomed the Security Council's vote, and said that the "burden" of implementing the resolution and ceasefire "is on the Israeli side". Announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden, the truce and hostage release proposal urges "parties to fully implement its terms without delay and without condition." (With inputs from agencies)

UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan

Anthony Blinken meets Netanyahu & Gallant during his visit to West Asia

Well as the war in Gaza rages on for eight months and Counting. WION's report gives you a glimpse into the devastation through numbers.

Israel war: A glimpse of Gaza war devastation in the form of numbers

The United Nations Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution supporting a ceasefire plan in Gaza. The text passed with 14 votes in favour welcomes the truce and hostage release proposal announced on May 31st by President Joe Biden.

Israel-Hamas War: UN body votes to support US-proposed truce plan

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.</p>

<p>On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-we-voted-for-peace-un-security-council-overwhelmingly-backs-bidens-gaza-ceasefire-plan-730625">UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Say Yes'</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed.</p>

<p>"My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/world/us-secretary-blinken-returns-to-w-asia-on-peace-mission-as-benny-gantz-israels-gaza-general-resign-730413">US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken in Israel</strong></h2>

<p>After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period."</p>

<p>State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region."</p>

<p>Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November.&nbsp;On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza. On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon. Also read | UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan 'Say Yes' Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed. "My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel." Also read | US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations Blinken in Israel After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period." State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region." Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November. On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal. (With inputs from agencies)

US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations.</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken in West Asia</strong></h2>

<p>As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.</p>

<p>Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-drops-dramatic-footage-of-rescue-of-four-hamas-hostages-in-complex-daytime-operation-730368">Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation'</a></strong></p>

<p>This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict.</p>

<p>As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal.</p>

<h2><strong>Multiple high-level resignations in one day</strong></h2>

<p>Further complicating&nbsp;matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza.</p>

<p>The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338">Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory'</a></strong></p>

<p>Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans&nbsp;as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise.</p>

<h2><strong>Why did the Gaza commander resign?</strong></h2>

<p>Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He&nbsp;is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas&nbsp;attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April.</p>

<p>According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]."</p>

<p>"Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said.</p>

<p>"As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner."</p>

<p>"I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel. It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations. Blinken in West Asia As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12). Also read | Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation' This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict. As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal. Multiple high-level resignations in one day Further complicating matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza. The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month. Also read | Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory' Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise. Why did the Gaza commander resign? Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April. According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]." "Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said. "As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner." "I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations

<p>White House officials are reportedly discussing a unilateral deal with Hamas to release five American captives in Gaza, potentially facilitated by Qatari mediators, should Israel fail to reach a captive exchange agreement.</p>

<p>In a critical development in efforts to halt the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Robert Wood announced that Israel has accepted a US-proposed three-phase deal aimed at ending hostilities with Hamas militant group.</p>

<p>“This proposal is the best opportunity we have right now, to bring at least a temporary halt to this fighting to be able to get more assistance in, get hostages released, and all the other things are included in the proposal. So we want to work hard to get that done," Wood said and added that it is Hamas that needs to accept the ceasefire deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561">Xi Jinping using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, pro-Palestine activists targeted 20 Barclays branches in England and Scotland and called for divestment from Israel’s weapons trade.</p>

<p>Some branches were vandalised and their windows were broken.</p>

<h2><strong>Escalation on multiple fronts</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for an attack on the headquarters of the 210th Golan Division at the Nafah base in the occupied Golan Heights of Syria.</p>

<p>The Lebanese armed group reported “confirmed casualties” and damage to the headquarters while asserting that a squadron of drones was used in the attack.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-strike-sukhoi-su-57-fighter-jet-inside-russian-territory-730498">Ukrainian forces strike Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jet inside Russian territory</a></p>

<p>Amid the celebrations of hostage release, accusations of mass killings by Israeli forces have also emerged during a major operation to free four Israeli captives.</p>

<h2><strong>Qassam Brigades' ambush&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas' Qassam Brigades reported ambushing an Israeli force in a residential building reportedly resulted in casualties and the destruction of the building.</p>

<p>“Immediately upon the arrival of the rescue force, our [fighters] destroyed the vicinity of the house that was blown up with mortar shells,” Qassam Brigades said in a Telegram post.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-approves-6-candidates-for-presidential-elections-former-president-ahmadinejad-barred-730582">Iran approves 6 candidates for Presidential elections, Former President Ahmadinejad barred</a></strong></p>

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<p>Moreover, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, is currently in Cairo for talks with Egypt’s president, has urged regional leaders to urge Hamas into agreeing to the ceasefire proposal.</p>

<p>In a notable political development in Israel, Benny Gantz has resigned from the government.</p>

<p>Gantz, who had proposed a six-point plan for Gaza's administration, stated he would leave the cabinet if the plan was not adopted</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


White House officials are reportedly discussing a unilateral deal with Hamas to release five American captives in Gaza, potentially facilitated by Qatari mediators, should Israel fail to reach a captive exchange agreement.

White House officials are reportedly discussing a unilateral deal with Hamas to release five American captives in Gaza, potentially facilitated by Qatari mediators, should Israel fail to reach a captive exchange agreement. In a critical development in efforts to halt the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Robert Wood announced that Israel has accepted a US-proposed three-phase deal aimed at ending hostilities with Hamas militant group. “This proposal is the best opportunity we have right now, to bring at least a temporary halt to this fighting to be able to get more assistance in, get hostages released, and all the other things are included in the proposal. So we want to work hard to get that done," Wood said and added that it is Hamas that needs to accept the ceasefire deal. Also Read | Xi Jinping using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report Meanwhile, pro-Palestine activists targeted 20 Barclays branches in England and Scotland and called for divestment from Israel’s weapons trade. Some branches were vandalised and their windows were broken. Escalation on multiple fronts Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for an attack on the headquarters of the 210th Golan Division at the Nafah base in the occupied Golan Heights of Syria. The Lebanese armed group reported “confirmed casualties” and damage to the headquarters while asserting that a squadron of drones was used in the attack. Also Read | Ukrainian forces strike Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jet inside Russian territory Amid the celebrations of hostage release, accusations of mass killings by Israeli forces have also emerged during a major operation to free four Israeli captives. Qassam Brigades' ambush Hamas' Qassam Brigades reported ambushing an Israeli force in a residential building reportedly resulted in casualties and the destruction of the building. “Immediately upon the arrival of the rescue force, our [fighters] destroyed the vicinity of the house that was blown up with mortar shells,” Qassam Brigades said in a Telegram post. Watch | Iran approves 6 candidates for Presidential elections, Former President Ahmadinejad barred × Moreover, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, is currently in Cairo for talks with Egypt’s president, has urged regional leaders to urge Hamas into agreeing to the ceasefire proposal. In a notable political development in Israel, Benny Gantz has resigned from the government. Gantz, who had proposed a six-point plan for Gaza's administration, stated he would leave the cabinet if the plan was not adopted (With inputs from agencies)

US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza

<p>The Israel Defense Force (IDF) dropped fresh footage of its recent&nbsp;military operation which led to the rescue of four hostages from Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) said that they rescued four hostages - identified as &nbsp;Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv from Gaza - in a “complex daytime operation”.</p>

<p>According to IDF, Hamas terrorists had kidnapped these&nbsp;four hostages&nbsp;from the Nova music festival on October 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338">Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory'</a></p>

<p>The daytime operation was described by the IDF as "Seeds of Summer", which they said was a "high-risk, complex mission" that was "surgical" in its precision, as reported by&nbsp;Fox News.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bringing them home:<br />
The moment we rescued 3 of the 4 hostages from the heart of Gaza. <a href="https://t.co/NkQvXJ9ChT">pic.twitter.com/NkQvXJ9ChT</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1799460733962555435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Israel Defense Force's Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said that they had planned the rescue mission for weeks using "precise intelligence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The operation was carried out in the heart of Nuseirat in central Gaza at around 11 am local time, stated the report.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The rescue footage</strong></h2>

<p>In the headcam footage released, members of the Navy’s elite Shayetet 13 commando unit were seen reaching the site in armoured vehicles and taking back the hostages in the chopper.</p>

<p>“The takeoff of the helicopter from the Gaza Strip with three of the rescued hostages," read the text in the clip. Meanwhile, the IDF wrote in the caption, “Bringing them home: The moment we rescued 3 of the 4 hostages from the heart of Gaza.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More hostage rescue footage:<br />
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THE MOMENT HOSTAGES WERE TRANSFERRED FROM ISRAEL POLICE ‘YAMAM’ AND ISA FORCES TO IDF*<br />
<br />
During the "Arnon" Operation to rescue the hostages by the Israel Police ‘Yamam’ (National Counter-Terrorism Unit) and the ISA yesterday (Saturday), IDF soldiers… <a href="https://t.co/7L4TY3xDh5">pic.twitter.com/7L4TY3xDh5</a></p>
— Brian BJ (@iamBrianBJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamBrianBJ/status/1799895492081356941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tanks had accompanied the commandos who were seen firing at Hamas terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The soldiers secured the site and called down a chopper which was coming in from the sea. Israeli soldiers were seen escorting Kozlov and Jan towards the helicopter in the video.</p>

<p>The chopper took off after the hostages were rescued and exited the Gaza Strip where the hostages were sent to the Sheba Medical Center, near Tel Aviv, ending their eight-month-long ordeal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: Israel continues to pound central Gaza</strong></p>

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<p>In the mission, IDF commander Arnon Zamora - who played an important role and was hailed as a hero - was killed.</p>

<p>“Behind every rescue mission, are Israeli men and women who risk their lives. We are devastated to share that Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, commander and tactical operator in the Yamam (National Police Counter-Terrorism Unit), who was critically wounded in the operation to rescue hostages this morning, has succumbed to his wounds,” stated Israeli’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on X.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Israel Defense Force (IDF) dropped fresh footage of its recent military operation which led to the rescue of four hostages from Gaza. The Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) said that they rescued four hostages - identified as Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv from Gaza - in a “complex daytime operation”.

The Israel Defense Force (IDF) dropped fresh footage of its recent military operation which led to the rescue of four hostages from Gaza. The Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) said that they rescued four hostages - identified as Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv from Gaza - in a “complex daytime operation”. According to IDF, Hamas terrorists had kidnapped these four hostages from the Nova music festival on October 7. Also Read: Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory' The daytime operation was described by the IDF as "Seeds of Summer", which they said was a "high-risk, complex mission" that was "surgical" in its precision, as reported by Fox News. Bringing them home: The moment we rescued 3 of the 4 hostages from the heart of Gaza. pic.twitter.com/NkQvXJ9ChT — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 8, 2024 × Israel Defense Force's Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said that they had planned the rescue mission for weeks using "precise intelligence". The operation was carried out in the heart of Nuseirat in central Gaza at around 11 am local time, stated the report. The rescue footage In the headcam footage released, members of the Navy’s elite Shayetet 13 commando unit were seen reaching the site in armoured vehicles and taking back the hostages in the chopper. “The takeoff of the helicopter from the Gaza Strip with three of the rescued hostages," read the text in the clip. Meanwhile, the IDF wrote in the caption, “Bringing them home: The moment we rescued 3 of the 4 hostages from the heart of Gaza.” More hostage rescue footage: THE MOMENT HOSTAGES WERE TRANSFERRED FROM ISRAEL POLICE ‘YAMAM’ AND ISA FORCES TO IDF* During the "Arnon" Operation to rescue the hostages by the Israel Police ‘Yamam’ (National Counter-Terrorism Unit) and the ISA yesterday (Saturday), IDF soldiers… pic.twitter.com/7L4TY3xDh5 — Brian BJ (@iamBrianBJ) June 9, 2024 × The tanks had accompanied the commandos who were seen firing at Hamas terrorists. The soldiers secured the site and called down a chopper which was coming in from the sea. Israeli soldiers were seen escorting Kozlov and Jan towards the helicopter in the video. The chopper took off after the hostages were rescued and exited the Gaza Strip where the hostages were sent to the Sheba Medical Center, near Tel Aviv, ending their eight-month-long ordeal. Watch: Israel war: Israel continues to pound central Gaza In the mission, IDF commander Arnon Zamora - who played an important role and was hailed as a hero - was killed. “Behind every rescue mission, are Israeli men and women who risk their lives. We are devastated to share that Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, commander and tactical operator in the Yamam (National Police Counter-Terrorism Unit), who was critically wounded in the operation to rescue hostages this morning, has succumbed to his wounds,” stated Israeli’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on X. 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)

Israel drops dramatic footage showing rescue of hostages in 'complex daytime operation'

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire deal, has asked his war cabinet minister Gantz to not leave the emergency wartime government and "remain united."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu's post on X on Saturday (June 8), when translated in English, read, "This is the time for unity and not for division. We must remain united within ourselves in the face of the great tasks before us. I call on Benny Gantz - do not leave the emergency government. Don't give up on unity."</p>

<p>Multiple Israeli media outlets reported that&nbsp;Gantz postponed the presser scheduled for Saturday where he was speculated to make an announcement of his resignation from Netanyahu's emergency government.</p>

<p>WION's correspondent in Israel confirmed that the presser by Gantz where he was due to make an announcement has now been canceled because of the hostages' rescue, a development which was a major sigh of relief for many Israelis who are demanding the prompt release of Israeli captives by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli forces successfully rescued four hostages from the Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza on Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>210 Palestinians killed amid rescue: Hamas&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The rescue operation, which took place amid intense conflict, left 210 Palestinians dead and hundreds injured, according to reports from the Hamas-run government.</p>

<p>The al Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing, confirmed the rescue in a Telegram post.</p>

<p>Spokesman Abu Ubaida stated, "The enemy was able, by committing horrific massacres, to free some of its prisoners, but at the same time it killed some of them during the operation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further warned that the operation could endanger remaining hostages, saying, "The operation will pose a great danger to the enemy prisoners and will have a devastating impact on their conditions and lives."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-noa-argamani-and-other-rescued-hostages-fateful-encounter-with-hamas-on-oct-7-729997">Gaza war: Noa Argamani and other rescued hostages' fateful encounter with Hamas on Oct 7</a></p>

<p>The Israeli military reported that the four rescued hostages - Noa Argamani, 26, Almog Meir Jan, 22, Andrey Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 41 - were in good medical condition. They were taken during Hamas's attack on the Nova music festival&nbsp;on October 7, an event that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-macron-celebrate-us-french-ties-show-support-for-ukraine-and-gaza-ceasefire-deal-729985">Biden and Macron celebrate US-French ties, show support for Ukraine and Gaza ceasefire deal</a></p>

<p>An Israel Defence Forces source told Sky News that the hostages were held in "residential buildings in the midst of civilian population." "As far as I know, they were all Hamas operatives. Sounds convenient for Hamas to say that they are not after the hostages were rescued," the said source revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-macron-welcomes-us-president-biden-in-paris-729974">French President Macron welcomes US President Biden in Paris</a></strong></p>

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<p>Currently, 116 hostages remain in Gaza, including 41 that the Israeli army believes are dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire deal, has asked his war cabinet minister Gantz to not leave the emergency wartime government and "remain united.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire deal, has asked his war cabinet minister Gantz to not leave the emergency wartime government and "remain united." Netanyahu's post on X on Saturday (June 8), when translated in English, read, "This is the time for unity and not for division. We must remain united within ourselves in the face of the great tasks before us. I call on Benny Gantz - do not leave the emergency government. Don't give up on unity." Multiple Israeli media outlets reported that Gantz postponed the presser scheduled for Saturday where he was speculated to make an announcement of his resignation from Netanyahu's emergency government. WION's correspondent in Israel confirmed that the presser by Gantz where he was due to make an announcement has now been canceled because of the hostages' rescue, a development which was a major sigh of relief for many Israelis who are demanding the prompt release of Israeli captives by Hamas. Israeli forces successfully rescued four hostages from the Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza on Saturday. 210 Palestinians killed amid rescue: Hamas The rescue operation, which took place amid intense conflict, left 210 Palestinians dead and hundreds injured, according to reports from the Hamas-run government. The al Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing, confirmed the rescue in a Telegram post. Spokesman Abu Ubaida stated, "The enemy was able, by committing horrific massacres, to free some of its prisoners, but at the same time it killed some of them during the operation." He further warned that the operation could endanger remaining hostages, saying, "The operation will pose a great danger to the enemy prisoners and will have a devastating impact on their conditions and lives." Also Read | Gaza war: Noa Argamani and other rescued hostages' fateful encounter with Hamas on Oct 7 The Israeli military reported that the four rescued hostages - Noa Argamani, 26, Almog Meir Jan, 22, Andrey Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 41 - were in good medical condition. They were taken during Hamas's attack on the Nova music festival on October 7, an event that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Also Read | Biden and Macron celebrate US-French ties, show support for Ukraine and Gaza ceasefire deal An Israel Defence Forces source told Sky News that the hostages were held in "residential buildings in the midst of civilian population." "As far as I know, they were all Hamas operatives. Sounds convenient for Hamas to say that they are not after the hostages were rescued," the said source revealed. Watch | French President Macron welcomes US President Biden in Paris × Currently, 116 hostages remain in Gaza, including 41 that the Israeli army believes are dead. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu urges 'unity', calls on Gantz to stay in emergency wartime government

Israeli forces are continuing to pound Central and Southern parts of Gaza. The Palestine Red Crescent Society informed that an Israeli strike on a house in Central Gaza's Deir Al-Balah has wounded over 10 people.

Israel war: Israel continues to pound central Gaza

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuiduB9IATpQ1Tgv" />Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite&nbsp;Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred&nbsp;in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8). On this day, Israeli forces rescued four hostages&nbsp;held by Hamas since October last year in a raid&nbsp;that Palestinian officials said killed more than 200 people.</p>

<p>The hostage rescue operation and an intense accompanying air assault took place in central Gaza's al-Nuseirat. An Israeli military spokesperson&nbsp;said the operation took place in the heart of a residential neighbourhood in Nuseirat where Hamas had kept the&nbsp;hostages&nbsp;in two separate apartment blocks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-noa-argamani-rescued-just-in-time-to-see-terminally-ailing-mother-730021">Israeli hostage Noa Argamani rescued just in time to see her terminally ailing mother</a></strong></p>

<p>In the operation, Chief Inspector Zamora was critically wounded and later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Arnon Zamora?</strong></h2>

<p>Arnon Zamora, 36,&nbsp;belonged to Israel's&nbsp;Sde David. He was a part of the Yamam unit of the Israeli police that&nbsp;deals with counter-terrorism operations. This unit has been active throughout the war between Israel and Hamas that started on October 7, 2023.</p>

<p>A report by The Times of Israel on Sunday said that on October 7, Zamora himself had led a battle against Hamas near the border community of Yad Mordechai, killing dozens of terrorists and preventing them from infiltrating the kibbutz.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>Following this battle, the 36-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;was also involved in fighting terrorists at the Nahal Oz base and Kibbutz Be’eri.</p>

<h2><strong>Operation Arnon</strong></h2>

<p>During Saturday's hostage rescue operation, Zamora suffered severe injuries while he was commanding the team&nbsp;that rescued three of the four hostages. The Times of Israel report said that a&nbsp;major gun battle erupted during the extraction, during which Zamora’s vehicle came under fire.</p>

<p>Other forces quickly reached the scene to rescue him and the hostages,&nbsp;bringing them to a makeshift helipad in Gaza. The 36-year-old was evacuated&nbsp;to a hospital in Israel in a critical condition and succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the announcement of his death,&nbsp;the name of the hostage rescue operation (in which he was killed) was changed from “Seeds of Summer” to “Operation Arnon.”</p>

<p>Zamora is survived by his wife and two children. He would be laid to rest later on Sunday&nbsp;in the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>Tributes pour in</strong></h2>

<p>Tributes started pouring in for the martyred Yamam officer.</p>

<p>In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "My deepest condolences on the death of the IDF commander and fighter, the late Commander Arnon Zamora, who fell in the heroic action to rescue the hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza."</p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;called Arnon a hero of Israel, a lover of the land, and a protector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8).

Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8). On this day, Israeli forces rescued four hostages held by Hamas since October last year in a raid that Palestinian officials said killed more than 200 people. The hostage rescue operation and an intense accompanying air assault took place in central Gaza's al-Nuseirat. An Israeli military spokesperson said the operation took place in the heart of a residential neighbourhood in Nuseirat where Hamas had kept the hostages in two separate apartment blocks. Also read | Israeli hostage Noa Argamani rescued just in time to see her terminally ailing mother In the operation, Chief Inspector Zamora was critically wounded and later succumbed to his injuries. Who was Arnon Zamora? Arnon Zamora, 36, belonged to Israel's Sde David. He was a part of the Yamam unit of the Israeli police that deals with counter-terrorism operations. This unit has been active throughout the war between Israel and Hamas that started on October 7, 2023. A report by The Times of Israel on Sunday said that on October 7, Zamora himself had led a battle against Hamas near the border community of Yad Mordechai, killing dozens of terrorists and preventing them from infiltrating the kibbutz. Also watch | Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes × Following this battle, the 36-year-old was also involved in fighting terrorists at the Nahal Oz base and Kibbutz Be’eri. Operation Arnon During Saturday's hostage rescue operation, Zamora suffered severe injuries while he was commanding the team that rescued three of the four hostages. The Times of Israel report said that a major gun battle erupted during the extraction, during which Zamora’s vehicle came under fire. Other forces quickly reached the scene to rescue him and the hostages, bringing them to a makeshift helipad in Gaza. The 36-year-old was evacuated to a hospital in Israel in a critical condition and succumbed to his injuries. Following the announcement of his death, the name of the hostage rescue operation (in which he was killed) was changed from “Seeds of Summer” to “Operation Arnon.” Zamora is survived by his wife and two children. He would be laid to rest later on Sunday in the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, the report added. Tributes pour in Tributes started pouring in for the martyred Yamam officer. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "My deepest condolences on the death of the IDF commander and fighter, the late Commander Arnon Zamora, who fell in the heroic action to rescue the hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza." The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) called Arnon a hero of Israel, a lover of the land, and a protector. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli officer Arnon Zamora dies while rescuing hostages. Who was he?

With a renewed ceasefire push in the eight-month-old Gaza war stalled, Israel bombarded central and southern areas again on Friday, killing at least 28 Palestinians, and tank forces advanced to the western edges of Rafah.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel forces batter central, South Gaza

Benjamin Netanyahu is all set to address a joint meeting of the US Congress on the 24th of July, During his address he will reportedly reveal the truth about the ongoing War. It's unclear at this point if Netanyahu would meet Biden during his visit this visit.

Netanyahu on US visit: Will reveal 'Truth about war with Hamas'

<p>After the deadly strike at a UN school complex in Gaza that killed at least 30, the US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency.</p>

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<p>The US asked Israel to identify publicly the Hamas fighters it said it had killed - as the Israeli military gave the names of nine of them.</p>

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<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24.</p>

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After the deadly strike at a UN school complex in Gaza that killed at least 30, the US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency. In other news, Donald Trump pledged to use economic sanctions against countries that do not stem the flow of migrants into the United States.

After the deadly strike at a UN school complex in Gaza that killed at least 30, the US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency. In other news, Donald Trump pledged to use economic sanctions against countries that do not stem the flow of migrants into the United States. Click on the links to read more: US calls on Israel to provide transparency in Gaza school strike The US asked Israel to identify publicly the Hamas fighters it said it had killed - as the Israeli military gave the names of nine of them. Trump vows to reverse 'crooked Joe's outrageous executive' border order Donald Trump, in his first campaign event since his historic conviction, has announced that he would overturn President Joe Biden's recent order aimed at curbing illegal border crossings. T20 World Cup 2024: USA spring HUGE SURPRISE, beat listless Pak in Super Over USA stunned Pakistan in a thrilling Super Over win in match 11 of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which is being held in the West Indies and USA. Netanyahu to address US Congress amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24. VIDEO | Hunter Biden's gun trial day 4: 'Embarrassed and Ashamed' Hallie Biden testifies ×

Morning news brief: Trump vows to reverse Biden border order; USA beat Pak in T20 World Cup; and more

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