Israel’s foreign minister said on Saturday that a planned incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah could be suspended should a deal emerge to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli foreign minister says hostage deal would defer Rafah operation

On Saturday, the Palestinian militant group Hamas released ‘proof of life’ videos of two hostages being held in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas releases new ‘Proof of Life’ videos of two hostages held in Gaza

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza.

"We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history".

"What will happen in the coming few days is what Israel will do with attacking Rafah because all the Palestinians from Gaza are gathered there," Abbas said.

Further reiterating that he rejects the displacement of Palestinians into Jordan and Egypt, he expressed his concern over Israel completing its operation in Gaza stating that this would push the Palestinians to move out of the West Bank and take shelter in Jordan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-hamas-reviewing-new-israeli-ceasefire-proposal-715737">Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured, says Israeli foreign minister</a>

“The third point is that we will not accept by any case the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank outside their homeland, and they must stay in their country, we must not repeat the Nakba of 1948 and of 1967,” the Palestinian president said.

Israel which ramped up the airstrikes on Rafah last week, for weeks threatened to launch an offensive in the Gaza strip with an aim to destroy Hamas' remaining battalions.

Countries including Israel's closest ally the US have called on Tel Aviv not to attack the southern city, which connects the Egyptian border and is providing shelter to over a million Palestinians who fled the Israeli assault.

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza. "We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh. He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history". "What will happen in the coming few days is what Israel will do with attacking Rafah because all the Palestinians from Gaza are gathered there," Abbas said. Further reiterating that he rejects the displacement of Palestinians into Jordan and Egypt, he expressed his concern over Israel completing its operation in Gaza stating that this would push the Palestinians to move out of the West Bank and take shelter in Jordan. Also read: Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured, says Israeli foreign minister “The third point is that we will not accept by any case the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank outside their homeland, and they must stay in their country, we must not repeat the Nakba of 1948 and of 1967,” the Palestinian president said. Israel which ramped up the airstrikes on Rafah last week, for weeks threatened to launch an offensive in the Gaza strip with an aim to destroy Hamas' remaining battalions. Countries including Israel's closest ally the US have called on Tel Aviv not to attack the southern city, which connects the Egyptian border and is providing shelter to over a million Palestinians who fled the Israeli assault. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah

Israel-Hamas War: Hostage deal will defer Rafah operation, says Israeli foreign minister

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of&nbsp;two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel.

The two captives were seen alive in the footage shared by the Palestinian militant group.

Campaign group the Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement identifying the two as Keith Siegel and Omri Miran who were abducted by militants during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7.

"The proof of life from Keith Siegel and Omri Miran is the clearest evidence that the Israeli government must do everything to approve a deal for the return of all the hostages before Independence Day (on May 14)," the forum said.

"The living should return for rehabilitation, and the murdered should receive a dignified burial."

The recent video comes just three days after Hamas released a video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive.

The two men Siegel and Miran reportedly appeared to speak under pressure.

"I have been here in Hamas captivity for 202 days. The situation here is unpleasant, difficult and there are many bombs," Miran is heard saying in the footage, indicating it was taken earlier this week.

"It's time to reach a deal that will get us out of here safe and healthy... Keep protesting, so that there will be a deal now."

Siegel, who also spoke in the video, broke into tears as he spoke of his time in captivity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-says-hamas-captor-proposed-her-for-marriage-he-gave-me-a-ring-715371">Also read:&nbsp;Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’</a>

"We are in danger here, there are bombs, it is stressful and scary," he said, burying his face in his arms as he cried.

"I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It's important to me that you know that I am fine.

"I have very, very beautiful memories of last year's Passover that we all celebrated together. I really hope that we will have the best possible surprise," he said, appealing to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal soon.

<h2>Hamas 'reviewing new Israeli ceasefire proposal'</h2>

The video also comes amid&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the Palestinian militant group was evaluating Israel's proposal, and "upon completion of its study, it will submit its response".&nbsp;

The official, however, did not provide details on Israel's offer but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago.&nbsp;

This development comes as Egypt increased its efforts to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region and calls to prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel.

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel. The two captives were seen alive in the footage shared by the Palestinian militant group. Campaign group the Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement identifying the two as Keith Siegel and Omri Miran who were abducted by militants during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7. "The proof of life from Keith Siegel and Omri Miran is the clearest evidence that the Israeli government must do everything to approve a deal for the return of all the hostages before Independence Day (on May 14)," the forum said. "The living should return for rehabilitation, and the murdered should receive a dignified burial." The recent video comes just three days after Hamas released a video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive. The two men Siegel and Miran reportedly appeared to speak under pressure. "I have been here in Hamas captivity for 202 days. The situation here is unpleasant, difficult and there are many bombs," Miran is heard saying in the footage, indicating it was taken earlier this week. "It's time to reach a deal that will get us out of here safe and healthy... Keep protesting, so that there will be a deal now." Siegel, who also spoke in the video, broke into tears as he spoke of his time in captivity. Also read: Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’ "We are in danger here, there are bombs, it is stressful and scary," he said, burying his face in his arms as he cried. "I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It's important to me that you know that I am fine. "I have very, very beautiful memories of last year's Passover that we all celebrated together. I really hope that we will have the best possible surprise," he said, appealing to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal soon. Hamas 'reviewing new Israeli ceasefire proposal' The video also comes amid Hamas reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza. A senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the Palestinian militant group was evaluating Israel's proposal, and "upon completion of its study, it will submit its response". The official, however, did not provide details on Israel's offer but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago. This development comes as Egypt increased its efforts to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region and calls to prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah. 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 releases new video of two Israeli hostages held in Gaza

Outside the venue&nbsp;where President Joe Biden was supposed to speak at the yearly White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) dinner, pro-Palestinian protestors gathered to protest&nbsp;Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza.&nbsp;

On Saturday night (April 27), they stood outside the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington D.C., showing their disagreement with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Inside the hotel, members of the press,&nbsp;and politicians were coming together for the event celebrating press freedom. One most striking thing at the protest was a big Palestinian flag hanging down the side of the hotel.

Watch the video here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
A Palestinian flag has been deployed from the top floor of the Washington Hilton hotel where the White Hoise correspondents dinner is taking place. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHCD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHCD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://t.co/h0QMUdjafH">pic.twitter.com/h0QMUdjafH</a>
— Adam Eidinger (@aeidinger) <a href="https://twitter.com/aeidinger/status/1784357018708419025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The conflict began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas initiated an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 casualties and over 200 hostages.

Over the course of the nearly seven-month-long war, the Palestinian death toll has exceeded 34,000, with more than 76,000 people&nbsp;sustaining injuries, according to&nbsp;the Associated Press reports, citing information from the Gaza Health Ministry. While the ministry, controlled by Hamas, does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its tally, it states that at least two-thirds of the casualties have been children and women.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-150-detained-as-pro-palestine-protests-with-virulent-anti-semitic-slurs-grip-us-varsities-715798">Also read |&nbsp;US: Over 150 detained as pro-Palestine protests with 'virulent anti-Semitic slurs' grip several varsities</a>

The escalating death toll, along with disturbing&nbsp;images of children found deceased amidst the wreckage of bombed structures, has intensified demands for a ceasefire and heightened pressure on President Biden to adopt a more assertive stance towards Israel, a longstanding ally of the United States.

The pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the WHCA dinner coincides with protests erupting at college campuses nationwide, leading to numerous arrests.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US starts building Gaza aid pier to boost deliveries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-us-starts-building-gaza-aid-pier-to-boost-deliveries-715880/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Footage circulated on social media showed demonstrators in D.C. directing chants towards Biden's motorcade and those attending the event as they entered the hotel.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Outside the venue where President Joe Biden was supposed to speak at the yearly White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) dinner, pro-Palestinian protestors gathered to protest Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza.

Outside the venue where President Joe Biden was supposed to speak at the yearly White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) dinner, pro-Palestinian protestors gathered to protest Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza. On Saturday night (April 27), they stood outside the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington D.C., showing their disagreement with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Inside the hotel, members of the press, and politicians were coming together for the event celebrating press freedom. One most striking thing at the protest was a big Palestinian flag hanging down the side of the hotel. Watch the video here: A Palestinian flag has been deployed from the top floor of the Washington Hilton hotel where the White Hoise correspondents dinner is taking place. #WHCD #Gaza pic.twitter.com/h0QMUdjafH — Adam Eidinger (@aeidinger) April 27, 2024 × The conflict began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas initiated an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 casualties and over 200 hostages. Over the course of the nearly seven-month-long war, the Palestinian death toll has exceeded 34,000, with more than 76,000 people sustaining injuries, according to the Associated Press reports, citing information from the Gaza Health Ministry. While the ministry, controlled by Hamas, does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its tally, it states that at least two-thirds of the casualties have been children and women. Also read | US: Over 150 detained as pro-Palestine protests with 'virulent anti-Semitic slurs' grip several varsities The escalating death toll, along with disturbing images of children found deceased amidst the wreckage of bombed structures, has intensified demands for a ceasefire and heightened pressure on President Biden to adopt a more assertive stance towards Israel, a longstanding ally of the United States. The pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the WHCA dinner coincides with protests erupting at college campuses nationwide, leading to numerous arrests. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: US starts building Gaza aid pier to boost deliveries Footage circulated on social media showed demonstrators in D.C. directing chants towards Biden's motorcade and those attending the event as they entered the hotel. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Protesters put up giant Palestinian flag at venue of Biden's White House event

While leaders are trying to achieve a breakthrough deal as they push for a ceasefire in Gaza but amidst the talks the plight of hostages remain uncertain. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Foreign Minister says Hostage deal will defer Rafah offensive

An Egyptian delegation is in Israel to broker a ceasefire deal between Tel Aviv and Hamas in Gaza. The envoys warned that Israeli ground offensive in Gaza's Rafah City will have catastrophic consequences for regional stability. Blinken will visit Saudi Arabia for talks on Gaza truce. Will US stop Rafah offensive?

Israel-Hamas War: Antony Blinken to reach Saudi Arabia on Monday for talks on Gaza

Hamas announced that it received Israel's official response to its latest ceasefire proposal on Saturday (Apr 27). According to a statement by the group's deputy Gaza chief, Hamas will review the response and make its own reply afterward.

"Today Hamas has received the official response of the Zionist occupation to the proposal presented to the Egyptian and the Qatari mediators on April 13," Khalil Al-Hayya, who is currently based in Qatar, said in a statement released by the group.

Six months into the conflict with Israel in Gaza, negotiations remains deadlock. Hamas is firm in its demand that any agreement must include an end to the war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-could-take-over-14-years-to-clear-debris-in-war-ravaged-gaza-715468">It could take over 14 years to clear debris in war-ravaged Gaza</a>

It is worth mentioning, an Egyptian delegation visited Israel on Friday (Apr 26) for discussions with Israeli officials to find a way to resume talks to end the war. They are also seeking to secure the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas during the attack on Israeli towns on October 7, according to an official briefed on the meetings.

Speaking&nbsp;on condition of anonymity, the official said Israel had no new proposals to make, although it was willing to consider a limited truce in which 33 hostages would be released by Hamas, instead of the 40 previously under discussion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/premature-baby-rescued-from-dead-mothers-womb-in-gaza-dies-715377">Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies</a>&nbsp;

However on Thursday (Apr 25), the United States and 17 other countries urged Hamas to release all of its hostages as a way to help end the crisis.&nbsp;

Despite international pressure, Hamas has vowed not to give in. However, in a statement released on Friday, the group said it is open to any ideas or proposals that consider the needs and rights of our people. 
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Friday he saw fresh momentum in talks to end the war and return the remaining hostages.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-says-hamas-captor-proposed-her-for-marriage-he-gave-me-a-ring-715371">Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’</a>&nbsp;

According to reports, Israel told the Egyptian mediators that it was ready to give hostage negotiations one last chance to reach a deal with Hamas before moving forward with an invasion of Rafah.

On October 7, Hamas fighters stormed Israeli towns, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people and the capture of 253 hostages. In response, Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas through an offensive that has caused the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians, according to reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas announced that it received Israel's official response to its latest ceasefire proposal on Saturday (Apr 27). According to a statement by the group's deputy Gaza chief, Hamas will review the response and make its own reply afterward.

Hamas announced that it received Israel's official response to its latest ceasefire proposal on Saturday (Apr 27). According to a statement by the group's deputy Gaza chief, Hamas will review the response and make its own reply afterward. "Today Hamas has received the official response of the Zionist occupation to the proposal presented to the Egyptian and the Qatari mediators on April 13," Khalil Al-Hayya, who is currently based in Qatar, said in a statement released by the group. Six months into the conflict with Israel in Gaza, negotiations remains deadlock. Hamas is firm in its demand that any agreement must include an end to the war. Also read: It could take over 14 years to clear debris in war-ravaged Gaza It is worth mentioning, an Egyptian delegation visited Israel on Friday (Apr 26) for discussions with Israeli officials to find a way to resume talks to end the war. They are also seeking to secure the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas during the attack on Israeli towns on October 7, according to an official briefed on the meetings. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said Israel had no new proposals to make, although it was willing to consider a limited truce in which 33 hostages would be released by Hamas, instead of the 40 previously under discussion. Also read: Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies However on Thursday (Apr 25), the United States and 17 other countries urged Hamas to release all of its hostages as a way to help end the crisis. Despite international pressure, Hamas has vowed not to give in. However, in a statement released on Friday, the group said it is open to any ideas or proposals that consider the needs and rights of our people. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Friday he saw fresh momentum in talks to end the war and return the remaining hostages. Also read: Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’ According to reports, Israel told the Egyptian mediators that it was ready to give hostage negotiations one last chance to reach a deal with Hamas before moving forward with an invasion of Rafah. On October 7, Hamas fighters stormed Israeli towns, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people and the capture of 253 hostages. In response, Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas through an offensive that has caused the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians, according to reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says it received Israel's response in truce talks

An Egyptian delegation is in Israel to broker a ceasefire deal between Tel Aviv and Hamas in Gaza. The envoys warned that Israeli ground offensive in Gaza's Rafah City will have catastrophic consequences for regional stability.

Israel war: Egyptian delegation in Israel to broker truce between Israel-Hamas

Hamas said it was studying on Saturday the latest Israeli counterproposal regarding a potential ceasefire in Gaza, a day after a delegation from mediator Egypt reportedly arrived in Israel. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas says studying Israel's latest truce proposal

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas says studying Israel's new truce proposal

The Hamas massacre and hostage-taking horror in Israel on the 7th of October last year has its tremors in Nepal. The kin of one of the Nepali youth taken hostage has been holding meetings raising a voice in Nepal for the return of the hostages trapped there. WION's Saloni Murarka spoke to the family and has this report on their nightmare.

October 7 Nightmare: Ripples in Nepal

The Israeli military has massed dozens of tanks and armoured vehicles along its border with the southern Gaza strip in what appears to be a preparation for an invasion of the border city of Rafah. The tanks and armoured vehicles are stationed near Israel's Kerem Shalom crossing next to Rafah. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel masses dozens of tanks near Rafah border

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas says studying new Israeli truce proposal

The Israeli military has massed dozens of tanks and armoured vehicles along its border with the southern Gaza strip in what appears to be a preparation for an invasion of the border city of Rafah. The tanks and armoured vehicles are stationed near Israel's Kerem Shalom crossing next to Rafah. American Diplomat Anthony Blinken is planning to travel to Israel on Tuesday after returning from his trip to China. Reports suggest that Blinken will travel to Israel to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken plans to visit Israel | Will US stop Israel's Rafah offensive?

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Israel's Rafah onslaught inevitable? - Russia pounds Ukraine, alert sounded - US: Freight train fire hits key highway - $6 bn new US military package for Ukraine - US: University panel slams crackdowns - China interfering in US polls: Blinken - Ready for debate with Trump: Biden

Israel's Rafah onslaught inevitable? | Russia pounds Ukraine, alert sounded

Israel’s military is poised to evacuate Palestinian civilians from Rafah and assault Hamas hold-outs in the southern Gaza Strip city, a senior Israeli defence official said on Wednesday, despite international warnings of humanitarian catastrophe.

Rafah Invasion awaits green-light: Israel's plan to invade Rafah in the crosshairs

Israel is willing to decrease its original demand for the release of 40 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, media reports said.

Israel is willing to decrease its original demand for the release of 40 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, media reports said. Israel is now reportedly ready to negotiate for the release of 20 hostages after an offer proposed by Qatari, Egyptian and US negotiators was refused by the terror group, which may have released many abductees if finalised. It was reported by many Hebrew media sites on Thursday evening (April 25) that Israel is now willing to finalise a deal to release only 20 hostages in the first phase of the truce, as long as they are either women or men who are seriously ill and over 50 years old. The release of 40 hostages in those categories was envisioned in the last proposal sent to Hamas, however, the terror outfit denied keeping so many hostages alive in those categories. Also Read: Israel to go ahead with Rafah invasion even as Egypt warns of humanitarian crisis Because of the ongoing deadlock, Israel's war cabinet authorised the negotiating team on Thursday (April 25) to discuss a flexible approach to the truce with an Egyptian delegation. The Egyptian delegation will reach Tel Aviv for additional talks on the matter on Friday (Apr 26), said the Hebrew news sites. The Israeli negotiators in the earlier round insisted that 40 living hostages were falling under the category of female, elderly or sick and if Hamas said that this wasn’t true, then it should agree to release hostages from categories, which are men and soldiers under the age of 50, to meet the benchmark of 40. War cabinet discusses Rafah offensive amid truce talks Israel's war cabinet held a meeting at military headquarters in Tel Aviv on Thursday (April 25) as the country prepared for the Rafah offensive. Watch: Gravitas | Israel's Rafah Offensive: Here's what is very mysterious Amid ongoing preparations for the Rafah offensive, Israel Defense Forces withdrew the Nahal Brigade from the Gaza Strip with the aim of training the rest of the 162nd Division for future operations. Two reserve brigades - the 679th “Yiftah” Armored Brigade and the 2nd “Carmeli” Infantry Brigade - have replaced Nahal in central Gaza. During the cabinet meeting, the families of the hostages protested outside the compound asking for a deal for their release. 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 may agree with release of less than 40 hostages in first phase of truce: Reports

Tensions flared between pro-Palestinian student protesters and school administrators at several US universities on Monday, as in-person classes were cancelled and demonstrators arrested. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Anti-war protests grip US Universities | US starts building Gaza aid pier

Israel-Hamas war: Anti-war protests grip American Universities

In a heartbreaking development, the premature Palestinian baby who had been saved from her mother’s womb shortly after the woman was killed in an Israeli airstrike amid the ongoing war in Gaza, has died, the doctor who was caring for her told Reuters, on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;

<h2>Baby saved from dead mother’s womb dies</h2>

The baby’s mother, Sabreen Al-Sakani had suffered extensive injuries after an Israeli strike hit the family home in southern Gaza’s Rafah.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies

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At the time, Sabreen, along with her husband and their other daughter – three-year-old Malak – were asleep. The explosion reportedly took place an hour before midnight on April 20.&nbsp;

The baby, who had been named Rouh, meaning soul died on Thursday (Apr 25) reported Reuters citing Doctor Mohammad Salama, head of the emergency neonatal unit at Emirati Hospital, who had been caring for her. &nbsp;

“I and other doctors tried to save her, but she died. For me personally, it was a very difficult and painful day,” he told the news agency by phone.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-says-hamas-captor-proposed-her-for-marriage-he-gave-me-a-ring-715371">Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; 'he gave me a ring'</a>

The doctor also said that the baby suffered respiratory problems and had a “very weak” immune system “that is what led to her death. She joined her family as a martyr,” Dr Salama said.&nbsp;

<h2>About the Israeli airstrike</h2>

Sabreen, who had carried her child through seven-and-a-half months of pregnancy, sustained extensive injuries while her husband and Malak were killed in an Israel airstrike. However, the baby was still alive in her mother’s womb when rescue workers reached the site.&nbsp;

Sabreen was rushed to the Emirati hospital in Rafah where she eventually succumbed to her wounds, but amid the chaos, doctors performed an emergency C-section and were able to save the baby.&nbsp;

In response to the airstrike, an&nbsp;Israeli military spokesperson told&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people.

Rouh weighed just 1.4 kilogrammes at birth and survived. At the time, the doctor wrote the words “the baby of the martyr Sabreen al-Sakani” on a piece of tape and attached it to the baby’s body before she was placed in an incubator.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-in-doomed-gaza-baby-delivered-alive-from-dead-body-of-mother-killed-in-attack-713713">Miracle in doomed Gaza: Baby delivered alive from dead body of mother killed in attack</a>

The baby’s uncle Rami al-Sheikh told the Associated Press that she was buried next to her father on Thursday. “My brother’s family is completely wiped out. It’s been deleted from the civil registry. There is no trace of him left behind.”

At least 34,356 people have been killed in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel, said the health ministry run by the Palestinian militant group in an update on Friday.&nbsp;

The tally includes at least 51 deaths in the past 24 hours, the Hamas-run ministry said in the statement, adding that 77,368 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

In a heartbreaking development, the premature Palestinian baby who had been saved from her mother’s womb shortly after the woman was killed in an Israeli airstrike amid the ongoing war in Gaza, has died, the doctor who was caring for her told Reuters, on Friday (Apr 26).

In a heartbreaking development, the premature Palestinian baby who had been saved from her mother’s womb shortly after the woman was killed in an Israeli airstrike amid the ongoing war in Gaza, has died, the doctor who was caring for her told Reuters, on Friday (Apr 26). Baby saved from dead mother’s womb dies The baby’s mother, Sabreen Al-Sakani had suffered extensive injuries after an Israeli strike hit the family home in southern Gaza’s Rafah. WATCH | Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies At the time, Sabreen, along with her husband and their other daughter – three-year-old Malak – were asleep. The explosion reportedly took place an hour before midnight on April 20. The baby, who had been named Rouh, meaning soul died on Thursday (Apr 25) reported Reuters citing Doctor Mohammad Salama, head of the emergency neonatal unit at Emirati Hospital, who had been caring for her. “I and other doctors tried to save her, but she died. For me personally, it was a very difficult and painful day,” he told the news agency by phone. Also Read | Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; 'he gave me a ring' The doctor also said that the baby suffered respiratory problems and had a “very weak” immune system “that is what led to her death. She joined her family as a martyr,” Dr Salama said. About the Israeli airstrike Sabreen, who had carried her child through seven-and-a-half months of pregnancy, sustained extensive injuries while her husband and Malak were killed in an Israel airstrike. However, the baby was still alive in her mother’s womb when rescue workers reached the site. Sabreen was rushed to the Emirati hospital in Rafah where she eventually succumbed to her wounds, but amid the chaos, doctors performed an emergency C-section and were able to save the baby. In response to the airstrike, an Israeli military spokesperson told Reuters that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people. Rouh weighed just 1.4 kilogrammes at birth and survived. At the time, the doctor wrote the words “the baby of the martyr Sabreen al-Sakani” on a piece of tape and attached it to the baby’s body before she was placed in an incubator. Also Read | Miracle in doomed Gaza: Baby delivered alive from dead body of mother killed in attack The baby’s uncle Rami al-Sheikh told the Associated Press that she was buried next to her father on Thursday. “My brother’s family is completely wiped out. It’s been deleted from the civil registry. There is no trace of him left behind.” At least 34,356 people have been killed in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel, said the health ministry run by the Palestinian militant group in an update on Friday. The tally includes at least 51 deaths in the past 24 hours, the Hamas-run ministry said in the statement, adding that 77,368 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year.

Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids.

“He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying.

“He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled.

“I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added.

However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-campus-protests-spread-like-wildfire-as-police-resort-to-rubber-bullets-teargas-arrest-several-dozens-715051">US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments</a>

<h2>Noga's abduction</h2>

Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage.

Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead.

“They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said.

Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother.

“I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said.

Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later.

<h2>US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages</h2>

Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity.

"The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added.

All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months.

(With inputs from agencies)

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage. Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year. Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids. “He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying. “He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled. “I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added. However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood. Also read: US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments Noga's abduction Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage. Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead. “They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said. Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother. “I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said. Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later. US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. "We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity. "The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added. All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’

Israel has stepped up airstrikes on Rafah overnight. Israel said it would evacuate civilians from the southern Gazan city. So that it can launch an all-out assault despite allies' warnings that this could cause mass casualties. Watch this video to find out why Israel is pushing for an all-out assault on Rafah in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Why is Israel pushing for an all-out assault on Rafah in Gaza?

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