A huge crowd of protesters gathered outside the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (Nov 4) showing their frustration over the hostage situation and the tragic killings by Hamas in their&nbsp;October 7 assault. Police were present to manage the situation as anger mounted with demonstrations demanding accountability.

Waving Israeli flags and chanting slogans like "Jail now!", the hundreds-strong crowd pushed through police barriers around Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem in a security breach. These events showed that there is increasing disappointment among the public towards political and security leaders, including Netanyahu and the defence forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a video widely viewed and shared on X social media platform, a swarm of protesters was reportedly seen breaching the security put in place on the way to the Israeli PM's house. They were reportedly demanding Netanyahu's resignation over the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 Israeli protesters have reportedly breached past two checkpoints on the way to Netanyahu's home and are demanding his resignation for his culpability in the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack. Still surreal to think the tiny border with Gaza was essentially left unprotected that day. <a href="https://t.co/vuKkSR1GNT">pic.twitter.com/vuKkSR1GNT</a>
— Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) <a href="https://twitter.com/igorsushko/status/1720894530944446663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

One month has passed since the Israel-Hamas war started and since the initial attack which sent shockwaves across West Asia, public anger has also continued to grow over the hostage crisis. Hamas gunmen are holding many captive in the Gaza Strip which is facing air raids every day, with some even on schools housing displaced innocent people.&nbsp;

Families of those held hostage in Gaza have been critical of the government's response and are calling for the safe return of their relatives.

<h2>Demonstrations in Tel Aviv</h2>

In Tel Aviv, thousands also took to the streets, waving flags and displaying images of the captives in Gaza. Their signs bore slogans such as "Release the hostages now at all costs." The crowds were seen chanting "bring them home now."

One protester, Ofri Bibas-Levy, whose brother and two young nephews - four-year-old son Ariel and 10-month-old son Kfir - were among the hostages, expressed her concerns about their well-being in a conversation with Reuters.

She stated, "We don't know where they are, we don't know what condition they are kept in. I don't know if Kfir is getting food, I don't know if Ariel is getting enough food. He is a very small baby."

<h2>Intense Israeli offensive in Gaza</h2>

In response to the attack, Israel launched a significant air and ground offensive in Gaza. This offensive, according to health authorities in the Hamas-controlled area, has resulted in over 9,000 casualties and extensive damage to parts of the enclave.

A poll found that 76 per cent of Israelis believe that Netanyahu, currently serving his record sixth term as prime minister, should resign. Additionally, 64 per cent of respondents in the poll favoured holding an election immediately following the war.

Moreover, the poll revealed that 44 per cent of Israelis attributed blame to Netanyahu, 33 per cent blamed the military chief of staff and senior IDF officials, and 5 per cent held the Defence Minister responsible.

(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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

A huge crowd of protesters gathered outside the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (Nov 4) showing their frustration over the hostage situation and the tragic killings by Hamas in their October 7 assault.

A huge crowd of protesters gathered outside the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (Nov 4) showing their frustration over the hostage situation and the tragic killings by Hamas in their October 7 assault. Police were present to manage the situation as anger mounted with demonstrations demanding accountability. Waving Israeli flags and chanting slogans like "Jail now!", the hundreds-strong crowd pushed through police barriers around Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem in a security breach. These events showed that there is increasing disappointment among the public towards political and security leaders, including Netanyahu and the defence forces. In a video widely viewed and shared on X social media platform, a swarm of protesters was reportedly seen breaching the security put in place on the way to the Israeli PM's house. They were reportedly demanding Netanyahu's resignation over the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack. 🚨 Israeli protesters have reportedly breached past two checkpoints on the way to Netanyahu's home and are demanding his resignation for his culpability in the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack. Still surreal to think the tiny border with Gaza was essentially left unprotected that day. pic.twitter.com/vuKkSR1GNT — Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) November 4, 2023 × One month has passed since the Israel-Hamas war started and since the initial attack which sent shockwaves across West Asia, public anger has also continued to grow over the hostage crisis. Hamas gunmen are holding many captive in the Gaza Strip which is facing air raids every day, with some even on schools housing displaced innocent people. Families of those held hostage in Gaza have been critical of the government's response and are calling for the safe return of their relatives. Demonstrations in Tel Aviv In Tel Aviv, thousands also took to the streets, waving flags and displaying images of the captives in Gaza. Their signs bore slogans such as "Release the hostages now at all costs." The crowds were seen chanting "bring them home now." One protester, Ofri Bibas-Levy, whose brother and two young nephews - four-year-old son Ariel and 10-month-old son Kfir - were among the hostages, expressed her concerns about their well-being in a conversation with Reuters. She stated, "We don't know where they are, we don't know what condition they are kept in. I don't know if Kfir is getting food, I don't know if Ariel is getting enough food. He is a very small baby." Intense Israeli offensive in Gaza In response to the attack, Israel launched a significant air and ground offensive in Gaza. This offensive, according to health authorities in the Hamas-controlled area, has resulted in over 9,000 casualties and extensive damage to parts of the enclave. A poll found that 76 per cent of Israelis believe that Netanyahu, currently serving his record sixth term as prime minister, should resign. Additionally, 64 per cent of respondents in the poll favoured holding an election immediately following the war. Moreover, the poll revealed that 44 per cent of Israelis attributed blame to Netanyahu, 33 per cent blamed the military chief of staff and senior IDF officials, and 5 per cent held the Defence Minister responsible. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

WATCH | Israeli protesters breach security cordons at Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem

In the latest development from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian group has said that in the coming days, it would release some of the foreign hostages that it took captive during its unprecedented onslaught on Oct&nbsp;7.

Hamas's armed wing on Tuesday (Oct 31) said that it would free "a certain number of foreigners" as it vowed to turn Gaza into a graveyard for the Israeli army.

"We have informed intermediaries that we will release a certain number of foreigners in the next few days," Abu Obeida, a spokesman for Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said in a televised address.

"Gaza will be a graveyard and a quagmire for the enemy, its soldiers and its political and military leadership," said Obeida.

Reportedly, at the moment, Hamas has held approximately 240 hostages in Gaza after the militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on Oct 7 prompting a fierce ground offensive by Israeli defence forces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-ministry-floats-idea-of-transferring-23mn-gazans-to-egypts-sinai-peninsula-653479">Israel floats idea of shifting 2.3 million Gazans to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula</a>

As of now, five hostages have been released, including four after negotiations through a diplomatic backchannel and one following an operation by the Israeli army.

<h2>Hamas demands Israel free Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages</h2>

Earlier, Hamas had demanded Israel release purported Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages it took captive.

Israel describes such Palestinian prisoners as Hamas operatives and a threat to its national security.&nbsp;

"The price to pay for the large number of enemy hostages in our hands is to empty the (Israeli) prisons of all Palestinian prisoners," Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades spokesman Abu Obeida said in a statement broadcast by the Hamas-run Al-Aqsa television channel.

"If the enemy wants to close this file of detainees in one go, we are ready for it. If it wants to do it step-by-step, we are ready for that too."

In a press briefing on Saturday (Oct 28), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while not making any commitment to the exchange deal, vowed to "exhaust every option to bring them (the hostages) home".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In the latest development from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian group has said that in the coming days, it would release some of the foreign hostages that it took captive during its unprecedented onslaught on Oct 7.

In the latest development from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian group has said that in the coming days, it would release some of the foreign hostages that it took captive during its unprecedented onslaught on Oct 7. Hamas's armed wing on Tuesday (Oct 31) said that it would free "a certain number of foreigners" as it vowed to turn Gaza into a graveyard for the Israeli army. "We have informed intermediaries that we will release a certain number of foreigners in the next few days," Abu Obeida, a spokesman for Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said in a televised address. "Gaza will be a graveyard and a quagmire for the enemy, its soldiers and its political and military leadership," said Obeida. Reportedly, at the moment, Hamas has held approximately 240 hostages in Gaza after the militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on Oct 7 prompting a fierce ground offensive by Israeli defence forces. Also read: Israel floats idea of shifting 2.3 million Gazans to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula As of now, five hostages have been released, including four after negotiations through a diplomatic backchannel and one following an operation by the Israeli army. Hamas demands Israel free Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages Earlier, Hamas had demanded Israel release purported Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages it took captive. Israel describes such Palestinian prisoners as Hamas operatives and a threat to its national security. "The price to pay for the large number of enemy hostages in our hands is to empty the (Israeli) prisons of all Palestinian prisoners," Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades spokesman Abu Obeida said in a statement broadcast by the Hamas-run Al-Aqsa television channel. "If the enemy wants to close this file of detainees in one go, we are ready for it. If it wants to do it step-by-step, we are ready for that too." In a press briefing on Saturday (Oct 28), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while not making any commitment to the exchange deal, vowed to "exhaust every option to bring them (the hostages) home". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will free 'certain foreign hostages' in next few days, turn Gaza into graveyard for Israeli army, says Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed what he terms a propaganda video released by the Hamas terror group which shows three hostages kidnapped by them criticising the government for the ongoing war.

The terror group had released a 76-second video which purportedly shows three Israeli ladies seated on plastic chairs and facing the camera.

The clip then shows one of the ladies, seated in the centre, accusing the Israeli government of leaving the people defenceless during the&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;attack.

<h2>Hostages slam Israeli govt</h2>

“We are getting punished for your political, national neglect,” she says. “Nobody came. Nobody heard us.”

She further said that they had been in captivity for 23 days, suggesting that the video was filmed on Sunday (Oct 29) or Monday (Oct 30), over three weeks after Hamas launched an all-front assault on 7 October

Furthermore, she pleads for an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

“Let their citizens go, let their prisoners go. Free us. Free all of us. Let us return to our families now!” she was heard as saying, reported the Guardian.

<h2>'Cruel psychological propaganda'</h2>

Meanwhile, Netanyahu slammed the video terming it as "cruel psychological propaganda".

In a statement, Netanyahu also named the hostages, saying: "I turn to Elena Trupanov, Daniel Aloni and Rimon Kirsht who were kidnapped by Hamas who commits war crimes. I hug you.".

Netanyahu also rejected an immediate swap and said the offensive in Gaza would put pressure on Hamas to make concessions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-israeli-woman-paraded-by-hamas-after-oct-7-terror-attacks-found-dead-653122">Shani beheaded by Hamas after she was kidnapped: Israeli prez</a>

Benjamin Mark Regev, senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister, told BBC that he was glad that the women were alive and well, and the video showed proof of it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-threatens-to-halt-rifle-exports-after-israeli-minister-found-handing-it-out-to-civilians-report-653157">US threatened to halt rifle exports to Israel: Report</a>

"The only good thing about this video is we have visual proof these women are alive,"&nbsp;he said

Regev said he cannot imagine the pain the hostages are experiencing on a daily basis.

"We don’t believe that Hamas is going to release these hostages because suddenly Hamas is becoming boy scouts or a humanitarian organisation... Hamas is a brutal, ruthless, extreme, barbaric organisation... We've seen the sort of violence they're capable of first-hand," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed what he terms a propaganda video released by the Hamas terror group which shows three hostages kidnapped by them criticising the government for the ongoing war.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed what he terms a propaganda video released by the Hamas terror group which shows three hostages kidnapped by them criticising the government for the ongoing war. The terror group had released a 76-second video which purportedly shows three Israeli ladies seated on plastic chairs and facing the camera. The clip then shows one of the ladies, seated in the centre, accusing the Israeli government of leaving the people defenceless during the Hamas attack. Hostages slam Israeli govt “We are getting punished for your political, national neglect,” she says. “Nobody came. Nobody heard us.” She further said that they had been in captivity for 23 days, suggesting that the video was filmed on Sunday (Oct 29) or Monday (Oct 30), over three weeks after Hamas launched an all-front assault on 7 October Furthermore, she pleads for an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. “Let their citizens go, let their prisoners go. Free us. Free all of us. Let us return to our families now!” she was heard as saying, reported the Guardian. 'Cruel psychological propaganda' Meanwhile, Netanyahu slammed the video terming it as "cruel psychological propaganda". In a statement, Netanyahu also named the hostages, saying: "I turn to Elena Trupanov, Daniel Aloni and Rimon Kirsht who were kidnapped by Hamas who commits war crimes. I hug you.". Netanyahu also rejected an immediate swap and said the offensive in Gaza would put pressure on Hamas to make concessions. Also read | Shani beheaded by Hamas after she was kidnapped: Israeli prez Benjamin Mark Regev, senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister, told BBC that he was glad that the women were alive and well, and the video showed proof of it. Also read | US threatened to halt rifle exports to Israel: Report "The only good thing about this video is we have visual proof these women are alive," he said Regev said he cannot imagine the pain the hostages are experiencing on a daily basis. "We don’t believe that Hamas is going to release these hostages because suddenly Hamas is becoming boy scouts or a humanitarian organisation... Hamas is a brutal, ruthless, extreme, barbaric organisation... We've seen the sort of violence they're capable of first-hand," he added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In hostage video released by Hamas, women slam Netanyahu, PM calls it ‘cruel propaganda’

In some big Revelation now Palestinian military group Hamas has claimed that it is ready to free eight hostages at Moscow's request. These are all Russian Israelis who hold dual citizenship. A Hamas official claimed that they don't know where these eight people are at the moment.

Israel-Palestine war | Trying to locate eight Russian-Israeli dual citizens: Hamas

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip.

Biden took to his official X handle and shared a post saying, "I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted-for Americans."

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas's October 7 invasion of southern Israel that claimed the lives of 1,400 people.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. 
 
Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. <a href="https://t.co/oXk6gfrD8M">pic.twitter.com/oXk6gfrD8M</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1715489606722801704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative's birthday.

On Friday, (Oct 20), Biden said that he was "overjoyed" at the release of the hostages and thanked Qatar and the government of Israel "for their partnership in this work".

"Today, we have secured the release of two Americans taken hostage by Hamas during the horrific terrorist assault against Israel on October 7," Biden said in a statement.

"Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear."&nbsp;

The United States president then pledged support to the families of the hostages saying that the work would continue to win the release of other Americans being held by Hamas since the attack.

"We will not stop until we get their loved ones home. As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans held hostage around the world," Biden said.

"These individuals and their families will have the full support of the United States government as they recover and heal, and we should all respect their privacy in this moment," he added.

<h2>Mediation will lead to hostage releases 'very soon'</h2>

A Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman told German Welt am Sonntag newspaper that the ongoing discussions will lead to the release of hostages held captive by Hamas "very soon, especially civilians".

"I can't promise you this will happen today or tomorrow or after tomorrow. But we are taking a path that will very soon lead to the release of the hostages, especially civilians," Majed Al-Ansari said.&nbsp;

"We are currently working on an agreement under which all civilian hostages will be initially released," he added.&nbsp;

He further said that the release of the two American nationals "proved to us and our partners that the efforts made in the past days are feasible and must continue".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip.

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip. Biden took to his official X handle and shared a post saying, "I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted-for Americans." Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas's October 7 invasion of southern Israel that claimed the lives of 1,400 people. I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. pic.twitter.com/oXk6gfrD8M — President Biden (@POTUS) October 20, 2023 × The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative's birthday. On Friday, (Oct 20), Biden said that he was "overjoyed" at the release of the hostages and thanked Qatar and the government of Israel "for their partnership in this work". "Today, we have secured the release of two Americans taken hostage by Hamas during the horrific terrorist assault against Israel on October 7," Biden said in a statement. "Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear." The United States president then pledged support to the families of the hostages saying that the work would continue to win the release of other Americans being held by Hamas since the attack. "We will not stop until we get their loved ones home. As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans held hostage around the world," Biden said. "These individuals and their families will have the full support of the United States government as they recover and heal, and we should all respect their privacy in this moment," he added. Mediation will lead to hostage releases 'very soon' A Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman told German Welt am Sonntag newspaper that the ongoing discussions will lead to the release of hostages held captive by Hamas "very soon, especially civilians". "I can't promise you this will happen today or tomorrow or after tomorrow. But we are taking a path that will very soon lead to the release of the hostages, especially civilians," Majed Al-Ansari said. "We are currently working on an agreement under which all civilian hostages will be initially released," he added. He further said that the release of the two American nationals "proved to us and our partners that the efforts made in the past days are feasible and must continue". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

"In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.

The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive.

"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said.

The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.

The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.

"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a>

"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."

<h2>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</h2>

Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;

He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".

Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel. "In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released. Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said. The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza

The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday.

"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," the statement read.

The military further said that out of the hostages, more than 20 were children, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.

There are also between 100 and 200 people considered missing since the Hamas attacks, the army further added.

Last week, the Israeli military released a statement saying that they had found the bodies of some of the hostages abducted by the Hamas militant group during their operations inside Gaza.

"We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing.

Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7, the Israeli army has orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed more than 2000 people.

Lerner said the bodies of hostages were found on these "small, close-perimeter raids into the Gaza Strip".

The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.

"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-joe-bidens-wartime-address-hails-india-middle-east-europe-corridor-649015">Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor</a>

"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."

<h2>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</h2>

Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;

He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".

Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday.

The majority of the 200 people held hostage by the Hamas militant group in Israel and taken to the Gaza Strip are still alive, the Israeli army said in a statement on Friday. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," the statement read. The military further said that out of the hostages, more than 20 were children, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. There are also between 100 and 200 people considered missing since the Hamas attacks, the army further added. Last week, the Israeli military released a statement saying that they had found the bodies of some of the hostages abducted by the Hamas militant group during their operations inside Gaza. "We have found and located some bodies of Israelis who were abducted in the perimeter in the Gaza Strip," military spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, told a briefing. Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on Oct 7, the Israeli army has orchestrated "localised" raids inside Gaza to support an air offensive on the territory that the Hamas government says has killed more than 2000 people. Lerner said the bodies of hostages were found on these "small, close-perimeter raids into the Gaza Strip". The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Majority of Israelis held hostage in Gaza are alive', says Israeli military

The Palestinian group Hamas unleashed terror on Israeli civilians through surprise attacks, marking a disturbing escalation of violence in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, on October 7. It was a three-pronged assault, with Hamas terrorists striking from land, sea, and air, using guns and rockets to target both Israeli civilians and the military.

Now, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) has released&nbsp;raw Point of View (PoV) footage from a recovered camera of a terrorist, offering a chilling first-person perspective of the violence.

The video documented an armed Hamas operative ambushing an Israeli checkpoint and subsequently attacking Israelis with assault rifles. The confrontation ultimately led to the operative's demise at the hands of Israeli security forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-puts-2000-troops-on-prepare-to-deploy-orders-says-report-647772">Israel-Hamas war: US puts 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders, says report</a>

<h2>The assault on video</h2>

The horrifying video, lasting three minutes, captures the Hamas assault vividly. It shows several militants on bikes and pickup trucks, armed with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and Kalashnikov rifles. They were seen heading towards the Gaza-Israel border wall in a convoy, seemingly prepared for a violent confrontation.

Watch the video here:

Trigger warning: Some viewers may find the video disturbing. Discretion is adviced.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
⚠️Trigger Warning ⚠️ 
 
RAW FOOTAGE: Hamas jihadists squad invasion and killing spree of an innocent Israeli community. 
 
The filmed terrorist was neutralized by Israeli security forces. <a href="https://t.co/4sKuxl9uRq">pic.twitter.com/4sKuxl9uRq</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1713685914575044809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As the operatives reached the border fencing, they crossed into Israeli territory, launching an ambush on Israeli forces using RPGs and assault rifles.

Their violent rampage extended to a civilian area, where they unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on houses, even targeting an ambulance parked in the vicinity. An Israeli citizen inside one of the houses fell victim to their attack.

Watch |&nbsp;Biden to visit Israel as Gaza war sparks humanitarian crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-biden-to-visit-israel-as-gaza-war-sparks-humanitarian-crisis-647802/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The assailants proceeded to reload their weapons and forcibly entered another house. Inside, they encountered an unlocked phone on the dining table, lights still on, but no people in sight. Despite their search efforts, they found no one within the premises.

The Hamas operative's ambush ended in his death, as Israeli security forces mounted a counter-attack, ultimately neutralising him from a hidden location. The man was left on the ground, howling and screaming in pain.

<h2>Allegations of human shields</h2>

Israel has accused Hamas of preventing Gazans from escaping to safety, effectively using them as human shields to protect themselves from Israeli counter-attacks.

In an effort to mitigate civilian casualties, the Israeli military identified two specific roads in the Gaza Strip for residents to use while moving south, avoiding the potential danger of an impending ground offensive.

(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;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The Palestinian group Hamas unleashed terror on Israeli civilians through surprise attacks, marking a disturbing escalation of violence in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, on October 7.

The Palestinian group Hamas unleashed terror on Israeli civilians through surprise attacks, marking a disturbing escalation of violence in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, on October 7. It was a three-pronged assault, with Hamas terrorists striking from land, sea, and air, using guns and rockets to target both Israeli civilians and the military. Now, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) has released raw Point of View (PoV) footage from a recovered camera of a terrorist, offering a chilling first-person perspective of the violence. The video documented an armed Hamas operative ambushing an Israeli checkpoint and subsequently attacking Israelis with assault rifles. The confrontation ultimately led to the operative's demise at the hands of Israeli security forces. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US puts 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders, says report The assault on video The horrifying video, lasting three minutes, captures the Hamas assault vividly. It shows several militants on bikes and pickup trucks, armed with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and Kalashnikov rifles. They were seen heading towards the Gaza-Israel border wall in a convoy, seemingly prepared for a violent confrontation. Watch the video here: Trigger warning: Some viewers may find the video disturbing. Discretion is adviced. ⚠️Trigger Warning ⚠️ RAW FOOTAGE: Hamas jihadists squad invasion and killing spree of an innocent Israeli community. The filmed terrorist was neutralized by Israeli security forces. pic.twitter.com/4sKuxl9uRq — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 15, 2023 × As the operatives reached the border fencing, they crossed into Israeli territory, launching an ambush on Israeli forces using RPGs and assault rifles. Their violent rampage extended to a civilian area, where they unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on houses, even targeting an ambulance parked in the vicinity. An Israeli citizen inside one of the houses fell victim to their attack. Watch | Biden to visit Israel as Gaza war sparks humanitarian crisis The assailants proceeded to reload their weapons and forcibly entered another house. Inside, they encountered an unlocked phone on the dining table, lights still on, but no people in sight. Despite their search efforts, they found no one within the premises. The Hamas operative's ambush ended in his death, as Israeli security forces mounted a counter-attack, ultimately neutralising him from a hidden location. The man was left on the ground, howling and screaming in pain. Allegations of human shields Israel has accused Hamas of preventing Gazans from escaping to safety, effectively using them as human shields to protect themselves from Israeli counter-attacks. In an effort to mitigate civilian casualties, the Israeli military identified two specific roads in the Gaza Strip for residents to use while moving south, avoiding the potential danger of an impending ground offensive. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TRIGGER WARNING: Shocking GoPro-style footage shows Hamas gunman's rampage

Heart-wrenching stories of victims are continuing to emerge in the aftermath of the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Among them is a family of five who died&nbsp;in each other's arms.&nbsp;The Kutz family, consisting of Aviv (54), Livnat (49), Rotem (19), Yonatan (17), and Yiftach (17), were found&nbsp;lifeless in their bed in their Kfar Aza residence near the Gaza border, hugging each other, Israeli media reported.

Aviv, an agricultural worker and deputy director of a consulting firm, used to organise an annual kite festival near the Gaza fence to promote a message of peace.

Livnat was a graphic designer born during the Yom Kippur War in 1973.

Rotem, an IDF soldier, played a role in training new recruits. Yonatan and Yiftach were students at Kfar Hayarok boarding school, participating in the Hapoel youth basketball programme, Times of Israel reported.

"They were all amazing kids with huge hearts. They had their whole lives ahead of them,"&nbsp;their devastated aunt, Adi Levy Salama, told the Times of Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-puts-2000-troops-on-prepare-to-deploy-orders-says-report-647772">Israel-Hamas war: US puts 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders, says report</a>

<h2>A love story cut short</h2>

In another tragic case from Kfar Aza, IDF officers Niral Zini (31) and Niv Raviv (27) lost their lives just before they could fulfill their dreams. Zini had planned to propose to Raviv on October 10, but the engagement ring was later found in the ruins of their home in the kibbutz.

Before the attack, Zini sent a chilling message to his family: "They're here. I'm putting the phone down—pray." He attempted to defend against the terrorists with a knife while blocking the shelter door, under which Raviv had taken refuge.

Their families learned of their fate after days of uncertainty. Mourners gathered in Netanya for their funerals. Both Zini and Raviv served in the military reserves, holding the ranks of major and captain, respectively.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel Defence Forces' Sergeant 'Y' on WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-israel-defence-forces-sergeant-y-on-wion-647774/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The couple commemorated Zini's survival following an injury in Hebron on October 10, 2015, with a special annual meal. Zini had plans to study law to assist physically and mentally injured soldiers, while Raviv was pursuing a career as a clinical psychologist.

Amid the harrowing situation, some people&nbsp;survived due to the actions of IDF soldiers. A video released by the IDF showcased the Oketz Unit's special forces rescuing a woman and her son who had been trapped in their home for hours.&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;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Heart-wrenching stories of victims are continuing to emerge in the aftermath of the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Among them is a family of five who died in each other's arms.

Heart-wrenching stories of victims are continuing to emerge in the aftermath of the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Among them is a family of five who died in each other's arms. The Kutz family, consisting of Aviv (54), Livnat (49), Rotem (19), Yonatan (17), and Yiftach (17), were found lifeless in their bed in their Kfar Aza residence near the Gaza border, hugging each other, Israeli media reported. Aviv, an agricultural worker and deputy director of a consulting firm, used to organise an annual kite festival near the Gaza fence to promote a message of peace. Livnat was a graphic designer born during the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Rotem, an IDF soldier, played a role in training new recruits. Yonatan and Yiftach were students at Kfar Hayarok boarding school, participating in the Hapoel youth basketball programme, Times of Israel reported. "They were all amazing kids with huge hearts. They had their whole lives ahead of them," their devastated aunt, Adi Levy Salama, told the Times of Israel. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US puts 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders, says report A love story cut short In another tragic case from Kfar Aza, IDF officers Niral Zini (31) and Niv Raviv (27) lost their lives just before they could fulfill their dreams. Zini had planned to propose to Raviv on October 10, but the engagement ring was later found in the ruins of their home in the kibbutz. Before the attack, Zini sent a chilling message to his family: "They're here. I'm putting the phone down—pray." He attempted to defend against the terrorists with a knife while blocking the shelter door, under which Raviv had taken refuge. Their families learned of their fate after days of uncertainty. Mourners gathered in Netanya for their funerals. Both Zini and Raviv served in the military reserves, holding the ranks of major and captain, respectively. Also watch | Israel Defence Forces' Sergeant 'Y' on WION The couple commemorated Zini's survival following an injury in Hebron on October 10, 2015, with a special annual meal. Zini had plans to study law to assist physically and mentally injured soldiers, while Raviv was pursuing a career as a clinical psychologist. Amid the harrowing situation, some people survived due to the actions of IDF soldiers. A video released by the IDF showcased the Oketz Unit's special forces rescuing a woman and her son who had been trapped in their home for hours. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel-Hamas war: A family attacked on Gaza border was found dead hugging each other

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are&nbsp;"literally" living like&nbsp;hostages in the embassy.&nbsp;

Macron said envoy&nbsp;Sylvain Itte remains persona non grata while accusing&nbsp;the junta of blocking food deliveries to the consulate where the diplomatic staff is living in miserable conditions.&nbsp;

"As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;told reporters during a visit to Burgundy.

"They are preventing food deliveries. He is eating military rations," he added.&nbsp;

Quizzed if his government was planning to bring Itte back home, Macron said:&nbsp;"I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day."

Notably, the military rulers, who overthrew&nbsp;President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 had told&nbsp;Itte that he was to leave the country as soon as possible. However, even after the 48-hour ultimatum lapsed, the French government refused to comply as well recognise the military regime as legitimate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-is-niger-a-victim-of-foreign-exploitation-624905">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation?</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-is-niger-a-victim-of-foreign-exploitation-624905/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to&nbsp;Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, the ambassador "is working" in the consulate and would stay at his post, as long as his country demands.&nbsp;

"He is very useful for us with his contacts and those of his team," Colonna was quoted as saying by French media reports.&nbsp;

Macron has for weeks rejected the call to remove the French ambassador, a stance backed by the EU which has described the demand as "a provocation". Like France, the EU "does not recognise" the authorities that seized power in Niger, said EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-orders-troops-to-go-on-maximum-alert-629497">Also read |&nbsp;Niger junta orders troops to be on 'maximum alert' amid high threat of attack</a>

<h2>What is happening in Niger?&nbsp;</h2>

On July 26, Bazoum was overthrown when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency. After the military junta seized power, General Abdourahamane Tiani was made the new head of the state.&nbsp;

The main West African bloc ECOWAS has been trying to negotiate with the junta but to no avail.&nbsp;The bloc's decision last month to activate a so-called standby force for a possible intervention has raised fears of an escalation that could further destabilise the insurgency-torn Sahel region.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are "literally" living like hostages in the embassy.

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are "literally" living like hostages in the embassy. Macron said envoy Sylvain Itte remains persona non grata while accusing the junta of blocking food deliveries to the consulate where the diplomatic staff is living in miserable conditions. "As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy," Macron told reporters during a visit to Burgundy. "They are preventing food deliveries. He is eating military rations," he added. Quizzed if his government was planning to bring Itte back home, Macron said: "I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day." Notably, the military rulers, who overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 had told Itte that he was to leave the country as soon as possible. However, even after the 48-hour ultimatum lapsed, the French government refused to comply as well recognise the military regime as legitimate. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation? × According to Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, the ambassador "is working" in the consulate and would stay at his post, as long as his country demands. "He is very useful for us with his contacts and those of his team," Colonna was quoted as saying by French media reports. Macron has for weeks rejected the call to remove the French ambassador, a stance backed by the EU which has described the demand as "a provocation". Like France, the EU "does not recognise" the authorities that seized power in Niger, said EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali last month. Also read | Niger junta orders troops to be on 'maximum alert' amid high threat of attack What is happening in Niger? On July 26, Bazoum was overthrown when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency. After the military junta seized power, General Abdourahamane Tiani was made the new head of the state. The main West African bloc ECOWAS has been trying to negotiate with the junta but to no avail. The bloc's decision last month to activate a so-called standby force for a possible intervention has raised fears of an escalation that could further destabilise the insurgency-torn Sahel region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Macron says French ambassador to Niger 'literally' being held hostage

The inmates released the 50 guards and seven police officers in six Ecuadoran prisons on Friday (September 1) after taking them hostage in the latest incident of narcotics-related mayhem, said&nbsp;the state prison institute.

The prison guards and police "were freed and are undergoing medical evaluation to verify their health status," said the SNAI prison authority, further stating&nbsp;that all of them were reported to be in good health.

Prisoners at a jail in the Ecuadorian city of Cuenca were holding the 50 guards and seven police officers hostage, Interior Minister Juan Zapata had confirmed&nbsp;on Thursday (August 31).

"We are concerned about the safety of our officials," he said at a press conference in the capital Quito.

The mass hostage-taking happened a day after hundreds of soldiers and police officers and soldiers carried out an operation in search of weapons, ammunition and explosives. The jail is one of the country's main penitentiaries.

SNAI, the state office that is in charge of prisons, said that the hostage-taking was reprisal for the earlier operation. However, authorities later said that it happened as a protest at the transfer of inmates to other prisons.

There have been massacres in Ecuadorian jails by rival gangs who have links to Colombian and Mexican cartels. Since 2021, there have been more than 430 inmate deaths. The violence has often left a trail of burned and dismembered bodies.

The country, until a few years ago a peaceful South American haven nestled between the world's largest cocaine producers -- Colombia and Peru -- has recently descended into violence as it has itself become a hub for drug trafficking.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The inmates released the 50 guards and seven police officers in six Ecuadoran prisons on Friday (September 1) after taking them hostage in the latest incident of narcotics-related mayhem, said the state prison institute.

The inmates released the 50 guards and seven police officers in six Ecuadoran prisons on Friday (September 1) after taking them hostage in the latest incident of narcotics-related mayhem, said the state prison institute. The prison guards and police "were freed and are undergoing medical evaluation to verify their health status," said the SNAI prison authority, further stating that all of them were reported to be in good health. Prisoners at a jail in the Ecuadorian city of Cuenca were holding the 50 guards and seven police officers hostage, Interior Minister Juan Zapata had confirmed on Thursday (August 31). "We are concerned about the safety of our officials," he said at a press conference in the capital Quito. The mass hostage-taking happened a day after hundreds of soldiers and police officers and soldiers carried out an operation in search of weapons, ammunition and explosives. The jail is one of the country's main penitentiaries. SNAI, the state office that is in charge of prisons, said that the hostage-taking was reprisal for the earlier operation. However, authorities later said that it happened as a protest at the transfer of inmates to other prisons. There have been massacres in Ecuadorian jails by rival gangs who have links to Colombian and Mexican cartels. Since 2021, there have been more than 430 inmate deaths. The violence has often left a trail of burned and dismembered bodies. The country, until a few years ago a peaceful South American haven nestled between the world's largest cocaine producers -- Colombia and Peru -- has recently descended into violence as it has itself become a hub for drug trafficking. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Inmates in Ecuador jail finally release 50 guards, 7 police officers held hostage

The Sindh government came into action on Sunday after the reports of the demolition of over a century-old-temple&nbsp;in Soldier Bazaar surfaced and promised&nbsp;that construction of any commercial building would not be allowed on a plot which has been emptied after razing the Hindu place of worship.

The Hindu community had claimed that&nbsp;150-year-old Mari Mata Temple in Soldier Bazaar was demolished after the property was sold to a builder allegedly by using ‘fake documents’.

Although the claim of the&nbsp;community about temple's demolition&nbsp;was contested by the provincial government, it asked&nbsp;police and local administration to stop any kind of&nbsp;demolition or construction&nbsp;work going on at the piece of land that once had the century-old temple.

Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, speaking to the&nbsp;Dawn, said that&nbsp;Hindu Panchayat had owned the plot and had been trying to ascertain facts.&nbsp;

“[I] have checked. No such demolition of the Mandir has taken place and Mandir is still intact. The administration has intervened and Hindu Panchayat has been asked to assist police in ascertaining the true facts. I will keep everyone posted on this. The Pakistan Peoples Party stands with people of all communities,"&nbsp;Wahab&nbsp;tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Have checked. No such demolition of the Mandir has taken place &amp; Mandir is still intact. Administration has intervened &amp; Hindu Panchayat has been asked to assist police in ascertaining the true facts. Will keep everyone posted on this. PPP stands with people of all communities <a href="https://t.co/dUKauDtWuZ">https://t.co/dUKauDtWuZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/xu9mN5hbin">pic.twitter.com/xu9mN5hbin</a>
— Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui (@murtazawahab1) <a href="https://twitter.com/murtazawahab1/status/1680549907076186123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the officials confirmed, “No more activity [demolition or construction work] is going on at the site. The police would check records, determine the facts and countercheck the claims of both sides."

According to initial reports published in the Dawn, two Hindu temples, one of which was built around 150 years ago, were desecrated in the Sindh province of Pakistan within 24 hours.

<h2>Demolition of temple in Karachi</h2>

The first incident took place on Saturday morning in Karachi when some men razed the old Mari Mata Temple in Soldier Bazaar. According to a report published by Dawn newspaper, the locals informed that the demolition of the temple took place when there was no electricity in the area. 
 
The entire structure was demolished using diggers and a bulldozer and only the outer walls and the main gate of the temple were left intact. The residents stated that police vehicles were present at the scene and providing “cover” to the men who were carrying out the demolition, stated the report.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-10000-people-gather-in-texas-to-recite-bhagavad-gita-celebrating-guru-purnima-611580">10,000 people gather in Texas to recite Bhagavad Gita celebrating Guru Purnima</a>

“It is a very old mandir. It is said to have been built over 150 years ago,” said Shri Ram Nath Mishra, priest of another nearby temple, adding: "The temple covered about 400 to 500 square yards and there had been talk of land grabbers having their eye on it". He said the temple was under the management of Karachi's Madrasi Hindu community.

<h2>Authorities called temple 'dangerous'</h2>

The authorities had stated that the old structure of the temple was dangerous and may topple any day. Because of this, most of the deities had been temporarily moved out from the temple by the mandir management. 
 
“But last night the Mari Mata Mandir was just flattened,” Mishra stated. The minority community appealed Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the Pakistan-Hindu Council and the Inspector General of Sindh police to look into the matter.

<h2>Rockets launched at another temple</h2>

In the second incident which happened on Sunday, a Hindu temple was allegedly attacked by a gang of dacoits with “rocket launchers” in Kashmore region, Sindh. The place of worshipping along with the adjoining homes which belonged to the Hindu families were attacked by the assailants, as reported by Dawn. 
 
Locals stated that the assailants fired indiscriminately after which a police unit led by Kashmore-Kandhkot SSP Irfan Sammo reached the scene. The police official stated that “rocket launchers” were fired by the dacoits at the place of worship. During the attack, the temple was closed. The place of worship opens annually when the Bagri community conducts religious services.

WATCH |&nbsp;Cillian Murphy: Read Bhagavad Gita to prepare for 'Oppenheimer'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cillian-murphy-read-bhagavad-gita-to-prepare-for-oppenheimer-616075/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“The suspects fled from the scene after the attack. Police are conducting a search operation in the area,” stated Sammo. According to the police, eight to nine gunmen carried out the attack. One of the members of the Bagri community Dr Suresh said that the “rocket launchers” which were fired by the assailants failed to explode and hence, there was no loss of life.

<h2>Rights group raises alarm after 30 Hindus held hostage by criminal gangs</h2>

An alarm was raised by a rights group about reports of 30 members of the minority Hindu community, which included children and women, being held hostage by organised criminal gangs. The incident was reported from Sindh's districts of Kashmore and Ghotki. 
 
Taking to Twitter, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said, “HRCP is alarmed by reports of deteriorating law and order in the districts of Kashmore and Ghotki in Sindh, where some 30 members of the Hindu community - including women and children - have allegedly been held hostage by organised criminal gangs.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HRCP is alarmed by reports of deteriorating law and order in the districts of Kashmore and Ghotki in Sindh, where some 30 members of the Hindu community - including women and children - have allegedly been held hostage by organised criminal gangs.
— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) <a href="https://twitter.com/HRCP87/status/1680499499943227393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Moreover, we have received disturbing reports that these gangs have threatened to attack the community’s sites of worship, using high-grade weapons,” the commission added, appealing to the Sindh Home Department to investigate the issue without any delay.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

<main>
<section>
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-31="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</section>
</main>

The Sindh government came into action on Sunday after the reports of the demolition of over a century-old-temple in Soldier Bazaar surfaced and promised that construction of any commercial building would not be allowed on a plot which has been emptied after razing the Hindu place of worship.

The Sindh government came into action on Sunday after the reports of the demolition of over a century-old-temple in Soldier Bazaar surfaced and promised that construction of any commercial building would not be allowed on a plot which has been emptied after razing the Hindu place of worship. The Hindu community had claimed that 150-year-old Mari Mata Temple in Soldier Bazaar was demolished after the property was sold to a builder allegedly by using ‘fake documents’. Although the claim of the community about temple's demolition was contested by the provincial government, it asked police and local administration to stop any kind of demolition or construction work going on at the piece of land that once had the century-old temple. Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, speaking to the Dawn, said that Hindu Panchayat had owned the plot and had been trying to ascertain facts. “[I] have checked. No such demolition of the Mandir has taken place and Mandir is still intact. The administration has intervened and Hindu Panchayat has been asked to assist police in ascertaining the true facts. I will keep everyone posted on this. The Pakistan Peoples Party stands with people of all communities," Wahab tweeted. Have checked. No such demolition of the Mandir has taken place & Mandir is still intact. Administration has intervened & Hindu Panchayat has been asked to assist police in ascertaining the true facts. Will keep everyone posted on this. PPP stands with people of all communities https://t.co/dUKauDtWuZ pic.twitter.com/xu9mN5hbin — Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui (@murtazawahab1) July 16, 2023 × Meanwhile, the officials confirmed, “No more activity [demolition or construction work] is going on at the site. The police would check records, determine the facts and countercheck the claims of both sides." According to initial reports published in the Dawn, two Hindu temples, one of which was built around 150 years ago, were desecrated in the Sindh province of Pakistan within 24 hours. Demolition of temple in Karachi The first incident took place on Saturday morning in Karachi when some men razed the old Mari Mata Temple in Soldier Bazaar. According to a report published by Dawn newspaper, the locals informed that the demolition of the temple took place when there was no electricity in the area. The entire structure was demolished using diggers and a bulldozer and only the outer walls and the main gate of the temple were left intact. The residents stated that police vehicles were present at the scene and providing “cover” to the men who were carrying out the demolition, stated the report. ALSO READ | 10,000 people gather in Texas to recite Bhagavad Gita celebrating Guru Purnima “It is a very old mandir. It is said to have been built over 150 years ago,” said Shri Ram Nath Mishra, priest of another nearby temple, adding: "The temple covered about 400 to 500 square yards and there had been talk of land grabbers having their eye on it". He said the temple was under the management of Karachi's Madrasi Hindu community. Authorities called temple 'dangerous' The authorities had stated that the old structure of the temple was dangerous and may topple any day. Because of this, most of the deities had been temporarily moved out from the temple by the mandir management. “But last night the Mari Mata Mandir was just flattened,” Mishra stated. The minority community appealed Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the Pakistan-Hindu Council and the Inspector General of Sindh police to look into the matter. Rockets launched at another temple In the second incident which happened on Sunday, a Hindu temple was allegedly attacked by a gang of dacoits with “rocket launchers” in Kashmore region, Sindh. The place of worshipping along with the adjoining homes which belonged to the Hindu families were attacked by the assailants, as reported by Dawn. Locals stated that the assailants fired indiscriminately after which a police unit led by Kashmore-Kandhkot SSP Irfan Sammo reached the scene. The police official stated that “rocket launchers” were fired by the dacoits at the place of worship. During the attack, the temple was closed. The place of worship opens annually when the Bagri community conducts religious services. WATCH | Cillian Murphy: Read Bhagavad Gita to prepare for 'Oppenheimer' “The suspects fled from the scene after the attack. Police are conducting a search operation in the area,” stated Sammo. According to the police, eight to nine gunmen carried out the attack. One of the members of the Bagri community Dr Suresh said that the “rocket launchers” which were fired by the assailants failed to explode and hence, there was no loss of life. Rights group raises alarm after 30 Hindus held hostage by criminal gangs An alarm was raised by a rights group about reports of 30 members of the minority Hindu community, which included children and women, being held hostage by organised criminal gangs. The incident was reported from Sindh's districts of Kashmore and Ghotki. Taking to Twitter, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said, “HRCP is alarmed by reports of deteriorating law and order in the districts of Kashmore and Ghotki in Sindh, where some 30 members of the Hindu community - including women and children - have allegedly been held hostage by organised criminal gangs.” HRCP is alarmed by reports of deteriorating law and order in the districts of Kashmore and Ghotki in Sindh, where some 30 members of the Hindu community - including women and children - have allegedly been held hostage by organised criminal gangs. — Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) July 16, 2023 × “Moreover, we have received disturbing reports that these gangs have threatened to attack the community’s sites of worship, using high-grade weapons,” the commission added, appealing to the Sindh Home Department to investigate the issue without any delay. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

No construction of building on plot of century-old Hindu temple will be allowed: Karachi mayor

New Zealand prime minister Chris Hipkins has disagreed with US President Joe Biden's remark that Xi Jinping is a “dictator”, as he prepares to meet the Chinese leader on an official trade trip to China.

New Zealand PM disagrees with Joe Biden over Xi Jinping ‘dictator’ remark

The police in Germany on Friday said that a male suspect was arrested after a pharmacy was stormed by a special unit in the southwestern city of Karlsruhe where many people were held hostage for hours.

Multiple explosions were heard when police officers in tactical gear stormed inside the pharmacy in the city centre after they first arrived on the scene at around 4:30 p.m.

"A special unit entered the pharmacy at 21:10; a male suspect was arrested," said Karlsruhe police on Twitter.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-killed-in-hamburg-church-shootout-says-german-police-570410">Hamburg church shooting leaves 8 dead, including unborn child</a>

Police "were able to arrest the suspected perpetrator and also free the hostages,” said Karlsruhe police spokesman, Dennis Krull.

“It is very good that there were no injuries, neither on the part of the hostages, nor on the part of the emergency forces or the perpetrator,” he added.

A man, with his head covered in a blanket, was brought out of the pharmacy by the police officers and bundled into a car.

They stated that the police searched the building and no one was found injured. The incident took place a day after the deadly shooting rampage at a Jehovah's Witnesses hall in Hamburg.

WATCH | Germany finds way to tackle high gas price | Latest News | WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-finds-way-to-tackle-high-gas-price-latest-news-wion-530913/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The police, earlier in a joint statement with prosecutors, had claimed the involvement of "multiple" hostages. Karlsruhe city centre was cordoned off by the police and many blue and grey police vehicles were seen lined on the streets.

According to the Stuttgarter Zeitung's report, two people were taken hostage and they were demanding a ransom of a single-digit million euro sum.

Germany's Bild newspaper had earlier reported that the police had established contact with the alleged hostage-taker.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The police in Germany on Friday said that a male suspect was arrested after a pharmacy was stormed by a special unit in the southwestern city of Karlsruhe where many people were held hostage for hours.

The police in Germany on Friday said that a male suspect was arrested after a pharmacy was stormed by a special unit in the southwestern city of Karlsruhe where many people were held hostage for hours. Multiple explosions were heard when police officers in tactical gear stormed inside the pharmacy in the city centre after they first arrived on the scene at around 4:30 p.m. "A special unit entered the pharmacy at 21:10; a male suspect was arrested," said Karlsruhe police on Twitter. ALSO READ | Hamburg church shooting leaves 8 dead, including unborn child Police "were able to arrest the suspected perpetrator and also free the hostages,” said Karlsruhe police spokesman, Dennis Krull. “It is very good that there were no injuries, neither on the part of the hostages, nor on the part of the emergency forces or the perpetrator,” he added. A man, with his head covered in a blanket, was brought out of the pharmacy by the police officers and bundled into a car. They stated that the police searched the building and no one was found injured. The incident took place a day after the deadly shooting rampage at a Jehovah's Witnesses hall in Hamburg. WATCH | Germany finds way to tackle high gas price | Latest News | WION The police, earlier in a joint statement with prosecutors, had claimed the involvement of "multiple" hostages. Karlsruhe city centre was cordoned off by the police and many blue and grey police vehicles were seen lined on the streets. According to the Stuttgarter Zeitung's report, two people were taken hostage and they were demanding a ransom of a single-digit million euro sum. Germany's Bild newspaper had earlier reported that the police had established contact with the alleged hostage-taker. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Police enter Karlsruhe pharmacy, arrest hostage-taker in Germany

During one protest in Colombia, 79 offices and nine oil field workers reportedly were taken hostage by members of rural communities who also blocked access to an oil field and started a fire.

Violence in Colombia: Protesters demand oil firm to build roads in the region

A professor from Australia and his fellow researchers have been freed from captivity more than a week after they were abducted in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

A second woman who had been abducted and taken hostage was released two days ago.

James Marape, the prime minister of Papua New Guinea, praised the people, local authorities, the police, and the military in a Facebook post after the hostages were released.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
the University of Southern Queensland confirmed their "much-loved colleague" Professor Bryce Barker was among several hostages released today after being taken captive by an armed gang in PNG last week <a href="https://t.co/LxOGzBMsA3">https://t.co/LxOGzBMsA3</a> <a href="https://t.co/amzrAtTXj8">pic.twitter.com/amzrAtTXj8</a>
— Josh Butler (@JoshButler) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshButler/status/1629723080020078603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We apologise to the families of those taken as hostages for ransom, it took us a while but the last three have been successfully returned through covert operations," he wrote.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-news-live-earthquake-strikes-papa-papua-new-guinea-565983/amp">Global news live | CIA director 'confident' that China is considering lethal aid for Russia</a>

Professor Bryce Barker, who is an Australian resident and New Zealand citizen, was held with&nbsp;fellow members of his research team Cathy Alex, Jemina Haro and PhD student Teppsy Beni.&nbsp;

The crew was conducting fieldwork in a remote area of PNG's highlands close to Mount Bosavi, on the boundary of the Hela and Southern Highlands provinces, when they were abducted by a criminal gang from the Hela Province who demanded a ransom for their release.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

A professor from Australia and his fellow researchers have been freed from captivity more than a week after they were abducted in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

A professor from Australia and his fellow researchers have been freed from captivity more than a week after they were abducted in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. A second woman who had been abducted and taken hostage was released two days ago. James Marape, the prime minister of Papua New Guinea, praised the people, local authorities, the police, and the military in a Facebook post after the hostages were released. the University of Southern Queensland confirmed their "much-loved colleague" Professor Bryce Barker was among several hostages released today after being taken captive by an armed gang in PNG last week https://t.co/LxOGzBMsA3 pic.twitter.com/amzrAtTXj8 — Josh Butler (@JoshButler) February 26, 2023 × "We apologise to the families of those taken as hostages for ransom, it took us a while but the last three have been successfully returned through covert operations," he wrote. ALSO READ | Global news live | CIA director 'confident' that China is considering lethal aid for Russia Professor Bryce Barker, who is an Australian resident and New Zealand citizen, was held with fellow members of his research team Cathy Alex, Jemina Haro and PhD student Teppsy Beni. The crew was conducting fieldwork in a remote area of PNG's highlands close to Mount Bosavi, on the boundary of the Hela and Southern Highlands provinces, when they were abducted by a criminal gang from the Hela Province who demanded a ransom for their release. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Papua New Guinea: Australian professor, fellow researchers freed after week-long abduction

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

The Australian professor is an archaeologist who was working at an Australian university and had gone on a field trip along with many Papua New Guinean students from a local university who were also kept hostage, according to Reuters.

According to reports, the professor was conducting studies around Mount Bosavi along with guides and University of Papua New Guinea's graduates.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guineas-airlines-grounded-due-to-fuel-shortage-549850">Papua New Guinea's airlines grounded due to fuel shortage</a>

While speaking to local reporters on Monday, Papua New Guinea's PM Marape said that the military and police have been kept on a stand-by, and the government has been working in co-ordination with the missionaries, who were playing the role of mediators.

"We want those criminals to release those who are held in captivity," Marape said, in the comments which were broadcasted on ABC Television. "There is no place to run, there is no place to hide," he added.

“I want to inform the families of those taken hostage we’ve been at work. Contact has been made with people in the bush through secondary sources. They have indicated ransom. We do not encourage ransom, but we’re treating this very diligently and carefully because life is at risk and life is at stake," the prime minister added.

Reassuring the families of the hostages, the prime minister said, "I'm confident, I'm optimistic, I'm prayerful that we get… them out."

WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Australia's indigenous culture at risk

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-australias-indigenous-culture-at-risk-547449/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

PM Marape did not disclose the location where the group was taken and said that they have kept the situation "under close wraps because of the sensitivity". The prime minister said that the PNG authorities have confirmed the group of students and the professor are alive.

According to a source in Papua New Guinea, the situation of the hostage was in "a crucial moment" on Monday morning and they cannot give any comment as of now.&nbsp;

No response was received by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the whole incident.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape on Monday confirmed that some people have taken an Australian university professor as a hostage in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. The Australian professor is an archaeologist who was working at an Australian university and had gone on a field trip along with many Papua New Guinean students from a local university who were also kept hostage, according to Reuters. According to reports, the professor was conducting studies around Mount Bosavi along with guides and University of Papua New Guinea's graduates. ALSO READ | Papua New Guinea's airlines grounded due to fuel shortage While speaking to local reporters on Monday, Papua New Guinea's PM Marape said that the military and police have been kept on a stand-by, and the government has been working in co-ordination with the missionaries, who were playing the role of mediators. "We want those criminals to release those who are held in captivity," Marape said, in the comments which were broadcasted on ABC Television. "There is no place to run, there is no place to hide," he added. “I want to inform the families of those taken hostage we’ve been at work. Contact has been made with people in the bush through secondary sources. They have indicated ransom. We do not encourage ransom, but we’re treating this very diligently and carefully because life is at risk and life is at stake," the prime minister added. Reassuring the families of the hostages, the prime minister said, "I'm confident, I'm optimistic, I'm prayerful that we get… them out." WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Australia's indigenous culture at risk PM Marape did not disclose the location where the group was taken and said that they have kept the situation "under close wraps because of the sensitivity". The prime minister said that the PNG authorities have confirmed the group of students and the professor are alive. According to a source in Papua New Guinea, the situation of the hostage was in "a crucial moment" on Monday morning and they cannot give any comment as of now. No response was received by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the whole incident. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australian professor taken hostage in Papua New Guinea's highlands, says PM Marape

Separatists in Indonesia's Papua region released hostage pilot images. New Zealand pilot Philip Mehrtens was taken hostage last week.

Indonesia's rebels release images of hostage pilot

A New Zealand pilot has been taken hostage by rebel fighters in Indonesia's Papua region. Information is being gathered on the status of other 5 passengers. The separatist fighters set the commercial plane on fire after it landed in the remote highland area of Papua. The west Papua national liberation army claimed responsibility for the attack...

Chief supervising Editor- TV RI World, Imanuddin Razak speaks to WION

Rebels demand independence for West Papua

Pakistani army commandos on Tuesday stormed a counter-terrorism centre and killed militant detainees who had seized control of the facility, as well as rescuing their hostages, after talks failed to resolve a two-day standoff.

Gravitas Global Headlines: Pakistan army frees hostages, kills all militants

According to the sources, it is now being said that the hostage crisis in Pakistan's Bannu has now ended. The hostages according to report have all been rescued.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan hostage crisis ends after 3 days

A group of terrorists has seized a counter-terrorism centre in the northwestern Pakistani area of Bannu. According to officials, the terrorists took policemen hostages demanding safe passage to neighboring Afghanistan in exchange for their lives.

Terrorists take Pakistani policemen hostage at counter-terrorism center in Bannu

German police confirmed on Saturday that the hostage situation in the eastern German city of Dresden was over. Media reports quoted officials as saying that the gunman was killed after sustaining life-threatening injuries.

German police confirmed on Saturday that the hostage situation in the eastern German city of Dresden was over. Media reports quoted officials as saying that the gunman was killed after sustaining life-threatening injuries. The news agency Reuters stated that the 40-year-old hostage-taker died of the fatal injuries he sustained during the police operation. As quoted by the news agency, Armin Schuster, the interior minister of the state of Saxony, said, "I am outraged by the act of what appears to be a psychologically confused individual acting alone." DW's report mentioned that the cops tried to contact the armed man via telephone during the operation. As quoted by The Sun, police spokesman Thomas Geithner said, "The suspect died in the operation in connection with a hostage-taking in downtown Dresden. The 40-year-old suffered fatal injuries during the attack and the liberation of the hostages." Wir stehen im Kontakt mit dem Täter. Auch unser SEK und die Verhandlungsgruppe ist vor Ort. #dd1012 — Polizei Sachsen (@PolizeiSachsen) December 10, 2022 × In a separate statement, the police said that the German man is believed to have killed his 62-year-old mother in an apartment building in the Prohlis district of Dresden. Earlier, they had evacuated a shopping mall and the surrounding areas to tackle the situation when an armed man had entered the Ammonhof office building. The police had also shut down the famous Striezelmarkt Christmas market. In a statement shared on Twitter, police said, "All-clear! The hostage situation in #Dresden is over!" The cops also added that two people who appeared to be unharmed were in its care. Geithner further added, "This morning there was a hostage situation in downtown Dresden. A 40-year-old man from Dresden took two people hostage, a woman and a child." "In the end, special forces rescued the hostages. The two hostages were taken into custody, they are unharmed and safe and are now being looked after," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany: Hostage situation in Dresden over, 'injured' suspect dead

During his remarks at an electric vehicles component plant in Michigan, President Joe Biden spoke on his intention to compete with China. He also added that the US is not going to be held hostage anymore in chip supply.

US will not be held hostage in chip supply, says Joe Biden during Michigan speech

Twelve people were taken hostage by an armed man on Tuesday at a bank in Kutaisi, Georgia's second-largest city, who demanded a hefty sum of money, according to officials.&nbsp;Later,&nbsp;it was confirmed that, following a police operation, the man had been arrested and all hostages freed unharmed.

The suspect was reportedly holed up at a Bank of Georgia branch in the town of about 150,000 inhabitants in central Georgia, according to the interior ministry of the country.&nbsp;

According to the ministry, an inquiry was started into "a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jem-chief-masood-azhar-indias-most-wanted-and-the-man-who-brought-jihad-to-britain-517709">terrorist</a> act, hostage-taking, and unlawful possession of firearms".

A video taken on a hostage's phone and broadcast by the independent Mtavari TV channel depicted&nbsp;what he claims are two explosive devices on the front door.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistan-and-afghanistans-farce-over-masood-azhar-concerning-but-amusing-517702">Pakistan and Afghanistan's farce over Masood Azhar. Concerning, but amusing</a>

In another video, the interior of the bank is visible, as is the accused hostage-taker—a masked gunman dressed in military gear.

A female<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-biden-to-meet-with-relatives-of-two-americans-jailed-in-russia-516614"> hostage</a> is heard saying: “His demand is two million dollars within three hours. He has a hand grenade and there are bombs which will explode.”&nbsp;

He also demanded a helicopter, a Russian flag and a fishing rod in return for freeing hostages, according to&nbsp;Georgian media reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Twelve people were taken hostage by an armed man on Tuesday at a bank in Kutaisi, Georgia's second-largest city, who demanded a hefty sum of money, according to officials.

Twelve people were taken hostage by an armed man on Tuesday at a bank in Kutaisi, Georgia's second-largest city, who demanded a hefty sum of money, according to officials. Later, it was confirmed that, following a police operation, the man had been arrested and all hostages freed unharmed. The suspect was reportedly holed up at a Bank of Georgia branch in the town of about 150,000 inhabitants in central Georgia, according to the interior ministry of the country. According to the ministry, an inquiry was started into "a terrorist act, hostage-taking, and unlawful possession of firearms". A video taken on a hostage's phone and broadcast by the independent Mtavari TV channel depicted what he claims are two explosive devices on the front door. Also read | Pakistan and Afghanistan's farce over Masood Azhar. Concerning, but amusing In another video, the interior of the bank is visible, as is the accused hostage-taker—a masked gunman dressed in military gear. A female hostage is heard saying: “His demand is two million dollars within three hours. He has a hand grenade and there are bombs which will explode.” He also demanded a helicopter, a Russian flag and a fishing rod in return for freeing hostages, according to Georgian media reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gunman who took 12 hostages at a bank in Georgia arrested

A hostage crisis in a bank in Beirut ended after the authorities agreed to grant a local gunman partial access to his frozen funds in exchange for releasing all six hostages.

WION Dispatch: Lebanon bank hostage crisis ends after partial payout

An armed Lebanese man stormed into a bank in Beirut on Thursday, holding staff members hostage and threatening to light himself on fire with gasoline if he didn't receive his trapped savings, a security official reported.

According to the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in accordance with regulations, the man, identified as 42-year-old Bassam al-Sheikh Hussein, allegedly entered a branch of the Federal Bank in Beirut's busy Hamra neighbourhood carrying a canister of gasoline and held six or seven bank employees hostage. George al-Haj, the head of the Bank Staff Syndicate, however, told local media that two customers and seven to eight bank employees are being taken hostage.

<img alt="A man shouts inside the bank as he holds hostages at gunpoint in Beirut,, Lebanon, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022. A Lebanese security official says a man armed with a shotgun has broken into a Beirut bank, holding employees hostage and threatening to set himself ablaze with gasoline unless he receives his trapped saving. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86be5d9e-c107-48c2-98fc-cfe45faf2001" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1000_5.jpeg" />A man shouts inside the bank as he holds hostages at gunpoint in Beirut,&nbsp;Lebanon on&nbsp;Aug. 11, 2022. A Lebanese security official says a man armed with a shotgun has broken into a Beirut bank, holding employees hostage and threatening to set himself ablaze with gasoline unless he receives his trapped saving. (Photo credits: AP)

According to the official, the man also fired three warning shots. He reportedly has roughly $200,000 trapped in the bank, according to local media.

Since late 2019, Lebanon's cash-strapped banks have imposed stringent withdrawal restrictions on foreign currency assets, effectively wiping out many Lebanese savings. Three-quarters of the people are now living in poverty as a result of the nation's worst economic crisis in modern times, and the value of the Lebanese pound has fallen by nearly 90% versus the dollar.

The region has been surrounded by members of the Lebanese army, internal security force police officers, and intelligence personnel. Officers are attempting to negotiate a deal with the armed man, but so far without success.

According to a bank customer who left the premises as the conflict got worse, the customer was demanding to withdraw $2,000 to cover his father's healthcare fees. Standing outside the bank, his brother Atef told the Associated Press that if the bank would give him money to cover his father's medical expenditures and family expenses, his brother would be willing to turn himself in.

As Hussein waited for his savings to be released, a large group of demonstrators gathered nearby, chanting anti-Lebanese government and bank slogans. Even several onlookers praised him as a hero.

Dina Abou Zor, an attorney with the legal and advocacy group the Depositors' Union, was among the protesters. "What led us to this situation is the state's failure to resolve this economic crisis and the banks' and Central Bank's actions, where people can only retrieve some of their own money as if it's a weekly allowance," she said. And as a result, some people have acted independently.

A coffee shop owner in eastern Lebanon successfully withdrew $50,000 from a bank branch in January after holding bank employees hostage and threatening to kill them.

Since the start of the economic crisis, Lebanon has not yet implemented official capital controls.

(With inputs from the agencies)

An armed Lebanese man stormed into a bank in Beirut on Thursday, holding staff members hostage and threatening to light himself on fire with gasoline if he didn't receive his trapped savings, a security official reported.

An armed Lebanese man stormed into a bank in Beirut on Thursday, holding staff members hostage and threatening to light himself on fire with gasoline if he didn't receive his trapped savings, a security official reported. According to the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in accordance with regulations, the man, identified as 42-year-old Bassam al-Sheikh Hussein, allegedly entered a branch of the Federal Bank in Beirut's busy Hamra neighbourhood carrying a canister of gasoline and held six or seven bank employees hostage. George al-Haj, the head of the Bank Staff Syndicate, however, told local media that two customers and seven to eight bank employees are being taken hostage. A man shouts inside the bank as he holds hostages at gunpoint in Beirut, Lebanon on Aug. 11, 2022. A Lebanese security official says a man armed with a shotgun has broken into a Beirut bank, holding employees hostage and threatening to set himself ablaze with gasoline unless he receives his trapped saving. (Photo credits: AP) According to the official, the man also fired three warning shots. He reportedly has roughly $200,000 trapped in the bank, according to local media. Since late 2019, Lebanon's cash-strapped banks have imposed stringent withdrawal restrictions on foreign currency assets, effectively wiping out many Lebanese savings. Three-quarters of the people are now living in poverty as a result of the nation's worst economic crisis in modern times, and the value of the Lebanese pound has fallen by nearly 90% versus the dollar. The region has been surrounded by members of the Lebanese army, internal security force police officers, and intelligence personnel. Officers are attempting to negotiate a deal with the armed man, but so far without success. According to a bank customer who left the premises as the conflict got worse, the customer was demanding to withdraw $2,000 to cover his father's healthcare fees. Standing outside the bank, his brother Atef told the Associated Press that if the bank would give him money to cover his father's medical expenditures and family expenses, his brother would be willing to turn himself in. As Hussein waited for his savings to be released, a large group of demonstrators gathered nearby, chanting anti-Lebanese government and bank slogans. Even several onlookers praised him as a hero. Dina Abou Zor, an attorney with the legal and advocacy group the Depositors' Union, was among the protesters. "What led us to this situation is the state's failure to resolve this economic crisis and the banks' and Central Bank's actions, where people can only retrieve some of their own money as if it's a weekly allowance," she said. And as a result, some people have acted independently. A coffee shop owner in eastern Lebanon successfully withdrew $50,000 from a bank branch in January after holding bank employees hostage and threatening to kill them. Since the start of the economic crisis, Lebanon has not yet implemented official capital controls. (With inputs from the agencies)

Armed man demanding savings holds Beirut bank staff hostage

The man who held a customer&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;at gunpoint at an&nbsp;Amsterdam&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;store&nbsp;has died of the&nbsp;injuries&nbsp;he sustained during&nbsp;his&nbsp;arrest, public prosecutors said on Wednesday.

Police stopped the man, identified as a 27-year-old from&nbsp;Amsterdam, by running into him forcefully with a car as he chased after&nbsp;his&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;when the&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;fled from the&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;flagship&nbsp;store&nbsp;on Tuesday night.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hostage-situation-at-amsterdam-apple-store-ends-police-arrest-gunman-455550">Hostage situation at Amsterdam Apple store ends, police arrest gunman</a>

"We are investigating the possible motives of the&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;taker&nbsp;and the explosives he carried on&nbsp;his&nbsp;body", police said in a statement, noting that the explosives were not ready to detonate.

The suspect was armed with a pistol and an automatic rifle, with which he fired at least four shots when police arrived at the central Leidseplein square in front of the&nbsp;store&nbsp;around 6 p.m. (1700 GMT),&nbsp;Amsterdam&nbsp;police chief Frank Pauw told a news conference.

The man, who had a criminal record, had demanded a ransom of 200 million euros ($226 million) in crypto currencies and safe passage out of the building, Pauw said.'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-thousands-protest-in-amsterdam-against-covid-restrictions-441905">Watch: Thousands protest in Amsterdam against Covid restrictions</a>

The&nbsp;hostage, described by police as a 44-year-old Bulgarian man, fled from the building around 10:30 p.m.

The&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;taker&nbsp;chased after the man and police waiting outside rammed him with the car to stop him.

Videos of the incident showed the&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;taker&nbsp;being knocked onto the hood of the police car and then falling to the ground.

Police said on Wednesday the man who was arrested was the only suspect.

Watch |&nbsp;Netherlands: Thousands protest against Covid-19 curbs in Amsterdam

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-thousands-protest-against-covid-19-curbs-in-amsterdam-445303/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During the evening, about 70 people were able to leave the&nbsp;store&nbsp;while the&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;situation was ongoing. There were no reports of other&nbsp;injuries.

"We are so incredibly grateful and relieved that our employees and customers in&nbsp;Amsterdam&nbsp;are safe after this&nbsp;terrifying experience,"&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;said in a statement.

The man who held a customer hostage at gunpoint at an Amsterdam Apple store has died of the injuries he sustained during his arrest, public prosecutors said on Wednesday.

The man who held a customer hostage at gunpoint at an Amsterdam Apple store has died of the injuries he sustained during his arrest, public prosecutors said on Wednesday. Police stopped the man, identified as a 27-year-old from Amsterdam, by running into him forcefully with a car as he chased after his hostage when the hostage fled from the Apple flagship store on Tuesday night. Also read | Hostage situation at Amsterdam Apple store ends, police arrest gunman "We are investigating the possible motives of the hostage taker and the explosives he carried on his body", police said in a statement, noting that the explosives were not ready to detonate. The suspect was armed with a pistol and an automatic rifle, with which he fired at least four shots when police arrived at the central Leidseplein square in front of the store around 6 p.m. (1700 GMT), Amsterdam police chief Frank Pauw told a news conference. The man, who had a criminal record, had demanded a ransom of 200 million euros ($226 million) in crypto currencies and safe passage out of the building, Pauw said.' Also read | Watch: Thousands protest in Amsterdam against Covid restrictions The hostage, described by police as a 44-year-old Bulgarian man, fled from the building around 10:30 p.m. The hostage taker chased after the man and police waiting outside rammed him with the car to stop him. Videos of the incident showed the hostage taker being knocked onto the hood of the police car and then falling to the ground. Police said on Wednesday the man who was arrested was the only suspect. Watch | Netherlands: Thousands protest against Covid-19 curbs in Amsterdam During the evening, about 70 people were able to leave the store while the hostage situation was ongoing. There were no reports of other injuries. "We are so incredibly grateful and relieved that our employees and customers in Amsterdam are safe after this terrifying experience," Apple said in a statement.

Hostage taker in Amsterdam Apple store dies of his injuries

A British Pakistani took hostages in America's Texas this weekend. The terrorist was the brother of "Lady Al-Qaeda" - a woman who is serving an 86-year-long jail term in the US. Is Britain the new laboratory for radical Islam? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: United Kingdom: A new launchpad for terror attacks?

The man who died after holding four people hostage at a Texas synagogue was identified by the FBI as a 44-year-old British citizen named Malik Faisal Akram. US President Joe Biden has called this incident an “act of terror”.

FBI identifies Texas hostage-taker as British citizen named Malik Faisal Akram

hostage

Hostage, News on Hostage, stories on Hostage, articles on Hostage, Hostage stories at Wion, Hostage news, Hostage latest news