Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operating around Khan Younis in Southern Gaza to kill Sinwar. The Israeli forces successfully reached the Hamas tunnel twice. Sinwar is currently hiding in Khan Younis. According to reports, IDF almost caught top Hamas leader.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar narrowly escapes Israeli forces

The question is if Israel and Hamas are inching towards another brief military pause. The Hamas Chief's Cairo talks ended without results. Netanyahu has ruled out Gaza ceasefire before 'elimination' of Hamas. Will there be another hostage deal for the release of Israeli hostages who are presently in the custody of Hamas?

Netanyahu rules out Gaza ceasefire before 'elimination' of Hamas

While israeli forces continue intense military operations in gaza, qatar is once again trying to resume negotiations to free the hostages. Cia director resumed a fresh round of talks with the mossad chief david bernea and qatar's prime minister, in the polish capital.

Israel-Hamas war: CIA  director meets Mossad chief, Qatar PM

Three elderly Israeli prisoners are heard in a video released by Hamas appealing for their quick release. The one-minute film, titled Don't Let Us Grow Old Here, was uploaded on Monday to the Qassam Brigades' Telegram account by the military wing of the Palestinian group.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas posts video of three elderly hostages pleading for release

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: The Israeli army has killed three captives held by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza after mistakenly identifying them as a threat, according to Israeli military officials.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF accidently kills three Israeli hostages

Israel is facing immense pressure from its citizens to bring hostage negotiations back to the table. Anger and sorrow have mounted in Israel after the IDF admitted to killing three hostages on Friday. Thousands gathered at Israel's headquarters in Tel Aviv to protest the Israeli military's actions and call on to Netanyahu government to do more to release the hostages in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas says no hostage talks until Israeli aggression in Gaza stops

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli PM confirms hostage negotiations back on the table

Israel's offensive continues in Gaza and the cost of war is increasing in terms of lives being lost and families being destroyed. An entire generation of children is suffering endlessly out of the 18,800 people killed in Gaza so far 70% of them have been women and children.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel's offensive kills 19,000 Gazans

Israel is facing immense pressure from its citizens to bring hostage negotiations back to the table. Anger and sorrow have mounted in Israel after the IDF admitted to killing three hostages on Friday. Thousands gathered at Israel's headquarters in Tel Aviv to protest the Israeli military's actions and call on to Netanyahu government to do more to release the hostages in Gaza. To know more watch this interview with Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy.

Israel-Hamas war: Freed hostages urge Israel to re-instate hostage negotiations

Israel-Hamas war: Protesters rally against Israel government to hasten hostage release

U.S. President Joe Biden has warned his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu that the latter could be losing international support because of the rising civilian casualty in Gaza. In his harshest public criticism yet of Netanyahu, Biden has asked Netanyahu to change. Israel has responded by saying that the war will continue with or without international support.

Israel-Hamas War: The death toll in Gaza has crossed 18,000

Israel-Gaza War: Biden says Netanyahu must change | Is Bibi losing international support?

The Israeli army has killed three captives held by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza after mistakenly identifying them as a threat, according to Israeli military officials. To know more watch this interview with Former Director of National Security Council Israel, Helit Barel.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli army bears full responsibility

The Israeli army has killed three captives held by Palestinian armed groups in Gaza after mistakenly identifying them as a threat, according to Israeli military officials.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF mistake kills three hostages in Gaza

Israeli Defense Forces have surely sparked concerns over the safety of the remaining hostages amid Israel's continued offensive. Over 100 hostages are still held in captivity in Gaza. On Thursday Israel revised the number of hostages alive in Gaza to 115.

Israel-Hamas war: How will Israel ensure the safety of hostages still held in Gaza?

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu calls the killings 'unbearable tragedy'

<p>Israeli army&nbsp;in early hours of Saturday (Dec&nbsp;16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead&nbsp;three hostages&nbsp;after considering them a threat.</p>

<p>"During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident".</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">דובר צה"ל:<br />
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במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו.<br />
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במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים&gt;&gt;</p>
— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1735725778250170731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added.</p>

<p>The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family.</p>

<p>Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am.</p>

<p>When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages.</p>

<p>The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of&nbsp;Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>Status of the war and main developments on&nbsp;Friday (Dec 15)</strong></h2>

<p>Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000.&nbsp; Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023</strong></p>

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<p>AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes.</p>

<p>Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem.&nbsp;The city has a powerful missile defence system.</p>

<p>Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began.</p>

<p>US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maersk-suspends-shipping-through-red-sea-strait-after-attacks-from-houthi-rebels-670091">Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels</a></strong></p>

<p>US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday.</p>

<p>Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/45pc-of-israeli-air-to-ground-munitions-in-gaza-are-dumb-bombs-reveals-report-669941">45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report</a></strong></p>

<p>On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat.

Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident". דובר צה"ל: במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו. במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים>> — צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) December 15, 2023 × "The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added. The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family. Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am. When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages. The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday. Status of the war and main developments on Friday (Dec 15) Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000. Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure. Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside. Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023 × AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes. Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem. The city has a powerful missile defence system. Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began. US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip. Also Read | Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday. Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state. Also Read | 45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers". A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel troops ‘mistakenly’ shot dead three Israeli hostages, says army

<p>After years at the bottom of the foreign policy priority lists in Washington and European capitals, the “two-state solution” for one of the most intractable problems of the Middle East is high on the agenda again. Alas, it looks further from reality than ever.</p>

<p>The underlying idea is simple: create two states, one for Palestinians and one for Israelis to live side by side in peace. The concept is rooted in a United Nations Security Council resolution, 242, passed after the end of the 1967 war between Israel and a coalition of Arab states.</p>

<p>It stipulated the “withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in the recent conflict.” These were Gaza, the West Bank, the Golan Heights and East Jerusalem. Israel ignored the resolution but in 2005 disengaged from Gaza, dismantling 21 Israeli settlements and withdrawing settlers and army units.</p>

<p>Control of Gaza went to Hamas, whose militants started the current war on October 7 by breaking through the supposedly impenetrable wall that separates Israel and Gaza, massacred 1,200 civilians and abducted more than 240 to keep them as hostages.</p>

<p>Under a temporary truce deal worked out through Qatar, Hamas has released more than 80 of the hostages in return for Israel freeing 180 Palestinians from prison. Israel has vowed to continue its campaign to wipe out Hamas once all the hostages have been freed.</p>

<p><em><strong>Follow this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-2-russian-hostages-freed-by-hamas-leave-gaza-664437">live blog</a> for all the latest updates on the Israel-Hamas war</strong></em></p>

<p>There will be no peace until Hamas is “destroyed,” Israeli officials say. More than 13,000 Gazans, mostly civilians, have so far died, according to the Gazan Health Ministry</p>

<p>The enormous bloodshed, the prospect of more to come, and a humanitarian crisis termed catastrophic by aid agencies prompted the revival of the two-state concept. US&nbsp;President Joe Biden raised it during a visit to Tel Aviv at the height of a ferocious Israeli bombing campaign.</p>

<p>“As hard as it is, we must keep pursuing peace," he said. “We must keep pursuing a path so that Israel and the Palestinian people can both live safely, in security, in dignity, and in peace. For me, that means a two-state solution.” Biden repeated that call ten days later in an op-ed article in the Washington Post.</p>

<p>That was followed a week later by agreement on the need for a two-state solution at a meeting in Barcelona by the Union for the Mediterranean, a 43-member grouping of European, North African and Middle Eastern countries. However, Israel did not participate.</p>

<p>European Union foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said during the meeting in Barcelona that all EU members thought this was the best way to peace.</p>

<p>This is easier said than done. Among the biggest obstacles: Israeli settlements on the West Bank, the obvious area for a Palestinian state.</p>

<p>In 1993, the year of the Oslo Accords, the first direct Palestinian-Israeli peace agreement, the population of Israeli settlers on the West Bank totalled 111,000. There were 152,000 in East Jerusalem and around 12,000 in Golan Heights.</p>

<p>Thirty years later, more than 500,000 Jews live in 144 settlements in the West Bank, 200,000 in East Jerusalem, and 20,000 in the Golan Heights.</p>

<p>The term “settlement,” by the way, conjures up mental images of people living in converted buses or rough cabins. This is not the case. The biggest “settlement”, Ma’aleh Adumim, has 40,000 inhabitants, a mayor, a municipality, and a mall. It was founded in 1975, grew steadily, and has been called “the town that broke the two-state solution.”</p>

<p>A look at a map of the West Bank explains why it would be near-impossible to create a contiguous territory that could be a Palestinian state. There is an Area A, where the Palestinian Authority has full civil and security control. In Area B Israel has ultimate security control but the PA has some police powers. In Area C, the largest, Israel is in full control.</p>

<p>The logistics of untangling this arrangement are complex and none of the US&nbsp;and European leaders calling for a two-state solution has come up with a plan on how to do this.</p>

<p>The Israeli government under Benjamin Netanyahu has promoted the addition of settlements. The cabinet includes a settler, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who announced a few days after the Hamas attack that his ministry had begun distributing assault rifles to arm civilian security teams.</p>

<p>According to the UN’s humanitarian office, attacks by settlers on Palestinians have risen sharply and there are an average of eight incidents of settler violence a day since Hamas’s killing spree. Settlers attacking Palestinian civilians have little to fear.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-youngest-captive-10-month-old-israeli-hostage-killed-by-israeli-airstrike-hamas-664502">I</a>srael-Hamas War: Youngest captive 10-month old Israeli hostage killed by Israeli airstrike: Hamas</strong></p>

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<p>They are under the protective umbrella of Ben Gvir and members of his far-right Otzma Yehudi party, a driving force of a campaign to expand Jewish settlements in lands Palestinians consider theirs for a future state.</p>

<p>Each new settlement undermines prospects for the two-state solution Washington and its European allies see as the only way to peace. And there are plans to bring in more Jewish settlers – permits for 13,000 new housing units have been approved or are pending.</p>

<p>Which explains the word “fantasy” in the headline of this story.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>


After years at the bottom of the foreign policy priority lists in Washington and European capitals, the “two-state solution” for one of the most intractable problems of the Middle East is high on the agenda again.

After years at the bottom of the foreign policy priority lists in Washington and European capitals, the “two-state solution” for one of the most intractable problems of the Middle East is high on the agenda again. Alas, it looks further from reality than ever. The underlying idea is simple: create two states, one for Palestinians and one for Israelis to live side by side in peace. The concept is rooted in a United Nations Security Council resolution, 242, passed after the end of the 1967 war between Israel and a coalition of Arab states. It stipulated the “withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in the recent conflict.” These were Gaza, the West Bank, the Golan Heights and East Jerusalem. Israel ignored the resolution but in 2005 disengaged from Gaza, dismantling 21 Israeli settlements and withdrawing settlers and army units. Control of Gaza went to Hamas, whose militants started the current war on October 7 by breaking through the supposedly impenetrable wall that separates Israel and Gaza, massacred 1,200 civilians and abducted more than 240 to keep them as hostages. Under a temporary truce deal worked out through Qatar, Hamas has released more than 80 of the hostages in return for Israel freeing 180 Palestinians from prison. Israel has vowed to continue its campaign to wipe out Hamas once all the hostages have been freed. Follow this live blog for all the latest updates on the Israel-Hamas war There will be no peace until Hamas is “destroyed,” Israeli officials say. More than 13,000 Gazans, mostly civilians, have so far died, according to the Gazan Health Ministry The enormous bloodshed, the prospect of more to come, and a humanitarian crisis termed catastrophic by aid agencies prompted the revival of the two-state concept. US President Joe Biden raised it during a visit to Tel Aviv at the height of a ferocious Israeli bombing campaign. “As hard as it is, we must keep pursuing peace," he said. “We must keep pursuing a path so that Israel and the Palestinian people can both live safely, in security, in dignity, and in peace. For me, that means a two-state solution.” Biden repeated that call ten days later in an op-ed article in the Washington Post. That was followed a week later by agreement on the need for a two-state solution at a meeting in Barcelona by the Union for the Mediterranean, a 43-member grouping of European, North African and Middle Eastern countries. However, Israel did not participate. European Union foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said during the meeting in Barcelona that all EU members thought this was the best way to peace. This is easier said than done. Among the biggest obstacles: Israeli settlements on the West Bank, the obvious area for a Palestinian state. In 1993, the year of the Oslo Accords, the first direct Palestinian-Israeli peace agreement, the population of Israeli settlers on the West Bank totalled 111,000. There were 152,000 in East Jerusalem and around 12,000 in Golan Heights. Thirty years later, more than 500,000 Jews live in 144 settlements in the West Bank, 200,000 in East Jerusalem, and 20,000 in the Golan Heights. The term “settlement,” by the way, conjures up mental images of people living in converted buses or rough cabins. This is not the case. The biggest “settlement”, Ma’aleh Adumim, has 40,000 inhabitants, a mayor, a municipality, and a mall. It was founded in 1975, grew steadily, and has been called “the town that broke the two-state solution.” A look at a map of the West Bank explains why it would be near-impossible to create a contiguous territory that could be a Palestinian state. There is an Area A, where the Palestinian Authority has full civil and security control. In Area B Israel has ultimate security control but the PA has some police powers. In Area C, the largest, Israel is in full control. The logistics of untangling this arrangement are complex and none of the US and European leaders calling for a two-state solution has come up with a plan on how to do this. The Israeli government under Benjamin Netanyahu has promoted the addition of settlements. The cabinet includes a settler, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who announced a few days after the Hamas attack that his ministry had begun distributing assault rifles to arm civilian security teams. According to the UN’s humanitarian office, attacks by settlers on Palestinians have risen sharply and there are an average of eight incidents of settler violence a day since Hamas’s killing spree. Settlers attacking Palestinian civilians have little to fear. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: Youngest captive 10-month old Israeli hostage killed by Israeli airstrike: Hamas They are under the protective umbrella of Ben Gvir and members of his far-right Otzma Yehudi party, a driving force of a campaign to expand Jewish settlements in lands Palestinians consider theirs for a future state. Each new settlement undermines prospects for the two-state solution Washington and its European allies see as the only way to peace. And there are plans to bring in more Jewish settlers – permits for 13,000 new housing units have been approved or are pending. Which explains the word “fantasy” in the headline of this story. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Hamas-Israel war: As war rages, a Middle East peace fantasy returns

<p>Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of&nbsp;uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport.</p>

<p>Their arrival at the Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thursday (Nov 30) evening was eagerly awaited by some of their families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm overjoyed. I can't wait for her to come home," Bunyarin Srichan reportedly said on the release of daughter Nattawaree "Yo" Mulka, the only female Thai hostage held captive by the Islamist militant group.</p>

<p>Chanapa, who reached Bangkok to receive brother Buddee Saengbun said, "We haven't had any sleep."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hugs. Hugs and tears," she said while speaking of her plans once she had met her brother. "One month and 18 days. We've been counting each day."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid repatriation efforts, nearly 9,000 from the conflict region have returned to Thailand, with the citizens released from Hamas captivity returning home as Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara&nbsp;visited&nbsp;Israel.</p>

<p>While six recently released Thai hostages remain in Israel for medical examinations, others who have been freed were accompanied back to Thailand by Parnpree.</p>

<p>Some of the Thai hostages reportedly revealed that Jewish hostages endured harsher treatment, including beatings with electric cables, compared to the Thai hostages.</p>

<p>A Thai worker, who spent over seven weeks in captivity, reported that the Jewish captives were under constant guard, faced tougher conditions, and were subjected to physical abuse.</p>

<p>He recounted meager rations, with one pita a day and occasional sharing of a tin of tuna among four people.</p>

<p>Additionally, the Thais&nbsp;also spoke of the limited opportunity for showers during their captivity.</p>

<p>“We were with Israelis, and they were guarded all the time,” a man reportedly said. “The Jews who were held with me were treated very harshly, sometimes they were beaten with electric cables.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-trump-convicted-home-depot-billionaire-says-hed-still-likely-fund-campaign-664642">If Trump convicted, Home Depot billionaire says he'd still likely fund campaign</a></p>

<p>Before the Israel-Hamas war, around 30,000 Thai labourers worked in Israel's agriculture sector.</p>

<p>Hamas' attack on October 7 on Israel resulted in the tragic death of 39 Thai nationals among the 1,200 casualties.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-liat-beinin-atzili-freed-american-hostage-who-worked-at-israels-holocaust-memorial-664609">Who is Liat Beinin Atzili? Freed American hostage who worked at Israel's Holocaust memorial</a></p>

<h2><strong>Forced to watch horror unfolded on October 7</strong></h2>

<p>Deborah Cohen revealed the harrowing experiences her 12-year-old nephew Eitan Yahalomi&nbsp;endured during his 52 days in Hamas captivity.</p>

<p>Cohen reportedly shared, "When he arrived in Gaza, all of the residents, all of them, beat him up. He’s a 12-year-old child." She further disclosed that threats with rifles were used to silence crying children.</p>

<p>Expressing concern about the treatment of her nephew, Cohen stated, "I wanted to hope that he was treated well, but it turns out he wasn’t; they’re monsters."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-warns-gaza-over-rising-diseases-3-killed-in-jerusalem-attack-664646">W.H.O warns Gaza over rising diseases; 3 killed in Jerusalem attack</a></strong></p>

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<p>Cohen recounted her nephew's ordeal, mentioning that "Hamas forced him to watch horror videos" depicting the atrocities committed by the terror group during the October 7 onslaught in southern Israel, where at least 1,200 people were killed, and around 240 were taken hostage.</p>

<p>The distressing account raised alarms about the well-being of those still in captivity and the severity of the psychological impact on the children held by Hamas.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>


Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport.

Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport. Their arrival at the Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thursday (Nov 30) evening was eagerly awaited by some of their families. "I'm overjoyed. I can't wait for her to come home," Bunyarin Srichan reportedly said on the release of daughter Nattawaree "Yo" Mulka, the only female Thai hostage held captive by the Islamist militant group. Chanapa, who reached Bangkok to receive brother Buddee Saengbun said, "We haven't had any sleep." "Hugs. Hugs and tears," she said while speaking of her plans once she had met her brother. "One month and 18 days. We've been counting each day." Amid repatriation efforts, nearly 9,000 from the conflict region have returned to Thailand, with the citizens released from Hamas captivity returning home as Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara visited Israel. While six recently released Thai hostages remain in Israel for medical examinations, others who have been freed were accompanied back to Thailand by Parnpree. Some of the Thai hostages reportedly revealed that Jewish hostages endured harsher treatment, including beatings with electric cables, compared to the Thai hostages. A Thai worker, who spent over seven weeks in captivity, reported that the Jewish captives were under constant guard, faced tougher conditions, and were subjected to physical abuse. He recounted meager rations, with one pita a day and occasional sharing of a tin of tuna among four people. Additionally, the Thais also spoke of the limited opportunity for showers during their captivity. “We were with Israelis, and they were guarded all the time,” a man reportedly said. “The Jews who were held with me were treated very harshly, sometimes they were beaten with electric cables.” Also Read | If Trump convicted, Home Depot billionaire says he'd still likely fund campaign Before the Israel-Hamas war, around 30,000 Thai labourers worked in Israel's agriculture sector. Hamas' attack on October 7 on Israel resulted in the tragic death of 39 Thai nationals among the 1,200 casualties. Also Read | Who is Liat Beinin Atzili? Freed American hostage who worked at Israel's Holocaust memorial Forced to watch horror unfolded on October 7 Deborah Cohen revealed the harrowing experiences her 12-year-old nephew Eitan Yahalomi endured during his 52 days in Hamas captivity. Cohen reportedly shared, "When he arrived in Gaza, all of the residents, all of them, beat him up. He’s a 12-year-old child." She further disclosed that threats with rifles were used to silence crying children. Expressing concern about the treatment of her nephew, Cohen stated, "I wanted to hope that he was treated well, but it turns out he wasn’t; they’re monsters." Watch | W.H.O warns Gaza over rising diseases; 3 killed in Jerusalem attack × Cohen recounted her nephew's ordeal, mentioning that "Hamas forced him to watch horror videos" depicting the atrocities committed by the terror group during the October 7 onslaught in southern Israel, where at least 1,200 people were killed, and around 240 were taken hostage. The distressing account raised alarms about the well-being of those still in captivity and the severity of the psychological impact on the children held by Hamas. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Hugs, tears, joyous reunions as Thai hostages return to Bangkok

The four-day truce deal has been extended. Qatar confirms the development by posying 'X'. The truce is extended by two days. Agreement has been reached to extend the humanitarian truce.

Hostage release: 20 women & children to be released in next two-days

<p>Eleven more hostages held captive by Hamas during the Oct 7 onslaught&nbsp;were released on Monday (Nov 27) under the truce deal signed by both Israel and the Palestinian militant group.</p>

<p>The Israeli military released a statement saying that the hostages, freed in the Gaza Strip, had arrived safely in the country's territory. This came after the extension of the truce was announced by two days between the warring sides.</p>

<p>"Our forces will accompany them until they are reunited with their families," Israeli Defence Forces said in a statement, adding the military "salutes and embraces the released hostages upon their return home".</p>

<p>This fourth batch of hostages freed by Hamas included French, German and Argentinian dual nationals, Qatar said before their release.</p>

<p>On "the fourth day of the humanitarian truce agreement, 33 Palestinian civilians will be released today in exchange for the release of 11 Israeli detainees from Gaza," Qatar Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari said on X.</p>

<p>"Those released from Israeli prisons include 30 minors and 3 women, while the Israelis released from Gaza include 3 French citizens, 2 German citizens, and 6 Argentinian citizens," he added.</p>

<p>German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock welcomed the release of the hostages, including "two German teenagers" after "52 days of suffering and despair".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-and-qatar-successfully-mediate-two-day-extension-of-truce-between-israel-and-hamas-663513">Egypt and Qatar successfully mediate two-day extension of truce between Israel and Hamas</a></p>

<h2><strong>Israel releases 33 Palestinian prisoners</strong></h2>

<p>In a swap, Israel freed 33 Palestinian detainees "during the night" under the truce agreement.</p>

<p>The release brought the total number of detainees freed by Israel during the initial, four-day pause in the fighting to 150.</p>

<p>The move was hailed by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called it a "glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war".</p>

<p>Welcoming the announcement, the White House, in a statement, expressed hope that the humanitarian pause would continue longer.</p>

<p>"Of course, we welcome the announcement," White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters after mediator Qatar said the initial four-day truce was to be lengthened.</p>

<p>"We would of course hope to see the pause extended further, and that will depend upon Hamas continuing to release hostages."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-hails-extension-of-truce-between-israel-hamas-hopes-humanitarian-pause-extends-further-663576">White House hails extension of truce between Israel-Hamas</a></p>

<h2><strong>Blinken to pay third wartime visit to Middle East&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit the Middle East this week for the third time since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas, a US official said Monday after the extension of the truce was announced.</p>

<p>A senior US official said that the top US diplomat would meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv and with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his meetings in the Middle East, the secretary will stress the need to sustain the increased flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, secure the release of all hostages and improve protection to civilians in Gaza," the official said.</p>

<p>"The secretary will discuss with partners in the region the principles he laid out for the future of Gaza and the need to establish an independent Palestinian state," the official said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Eleven more hostages held captive by Hamas during the Oct 7 onslaught were released on Monday (Nov 27) under the truce deal signed by both Israel and the Palestinian militant group.

Eleven more hostages held captive by Hamas during the Oct 7 onslaught were released on Monday (Nov 27) under the truce deal signed by both Israel and the Palestinian militant group. The Israeli military released a statement saying that the hostages, freed in the Gaza Strip, had arrived safely in the country's territory. This came after the extension of the truce was announced by two days between the warring sides. "Our forces will accompany them until they are reunited with their families," Israeli Defence Forces said in a statement, adding the military "salutes and embraces the released hostages upon their return home". This fourth batch of hostages freed by Hamas included French, German and Argentinian dual nationals, Qatar said before their release. On "the fourth day of the humanitarian truce agreement, 33 Palestinian civilians will be released today in exchange for the release of 11 Israeli detainees from Gaza," Qatar Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari said on X. "Those released from Israeli prisons include 30 minors and 3 women, while the Israelis released from Gaza include 3 French citizens, 2 German citizens, and 6 Argentinian citizens," he added. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock welcomed the release of the hostages, including "two German teenagers" after "52 days of suffering and despair". Also read: Egypt and Qatar successfully mediate two-day extension of truce between Israel and Hamas Israel releases 33 Palestinian prisoners In a swap, Israel freed 33 Palestinian detainees "during the night" under the truce agreement. The release brought the total number of detainees freed by Israel during the initial, four-day pause in the fighting to 150. The move was hailed by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called it a "glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war". Welcoming the announcement, the White House, in a statement, expressed hope that the humanitarian pause would continue longer. "Of course, we welcome the announcement," White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters after mediator Qatar said the initial four-day truce was to be lengthened. "We would of course hope to see the pause extended further, and that will depend upon Hamas continuing to release hostages." Also read: White House hails extension of truce between Israel-Hamas Blinken to pay third wartime visit to Middle East US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit the Middle East this week for the third time since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas, a US official said Monday after the extension of the truce was announced. A senior US official said that the top US diplomat would meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv and with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah. "In his meetings in the Middle East, the secretary will stress the need to sustain the increased flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, secure the release of all hostages and improve protection to civilians in Gaza," the official said. "The secretary will discuss with partners in the region the principles he laid out for the future of Gaza and the need to establish an independent Palestinian state," the official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel frees 33 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 11 hostages after extension of truce

41 construction workers remain trapped since November 12 in Uttarakhand tunnel. They were supplied with oxygen, water and food. Rescuers achieve major breakthrough. Green corridor from tunnel to hospital is set up for the workers.

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: All workers safe, rescue team conducting mock drills says NDRF | WION

Amid the return of the hostages and brief truce in the Israel Hamas War, it has come into the damage the conflict has done to the people. The use of anti-anxiety medicines has soared in Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: Use of anti-anxiety meds soars in Israel after hostages return amid truce | WION

Hamas has released 69 hostages so far. After the release of hostages and prisoners, they share their experiences when in captivity. Amid the truce deal, Gaza is suffering with a food crisis.

Israel-Hamas War: Hostages and prisoners share their ordeal in captivity | WION

33 Palestinian prisoners were freed and 11 more Gaza hostages were released by Israel. Israel-Gaza war truce extends for two more days. Glimpse of hope and humanity is seen in the middle of war says UN Chief.

Israel-Hamas war: Truce extends for two days giving glimpse of hope & humanity amid war | WION

The temporary pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas has entered its fifth day after a 48-hour extension to the truce deal was agreed. Qatar, which is mediating the truce deal says that Hamas confirmed it is committed to releasing further 20 hostages, 10 for each day of the extended truce.

Israel-Hamas abide by truce, discuss possible extensions & hostage release

<p>Avigail Idan, a four-year-old Israeli-American girl, was among the 17 hostages released by Hamas on Sunday (Nov 26). Kidnapped during the October 7 attack in southern Israel, Avigail turned four while in captivity. Her parents were killed by the Hamas during the terror assault.</p>

<p>Avigail's family expressed profound relief and gratitude for her safe return. They extended thanks to US President Joe Biden, the Qatari government, and others involved in securing her release. Despite this relief, the family said remained committed to advocating for the release of the remaining hostages.</p>

<p>"There are no words to express our relief and gratitude that Avigail is safe and coming home," said Liz Hirsh Naftali, Avigail's great aunt, and Noa Naftali, her cousin, in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-three-students-of-palestinian-descent-shot-in-suspected-hate-crime-police-investigate-663175">Also read |&nbsp;US: Three students of Palestinian descent shot in suspected hate crime, police investigate</a></p>

<h2><strong>She has been through terrible trauma: Biden</strong></h2>

<p>President Biden said Avigail had been through a "terrible trauma", adding what she "endured is unthinkable".</p>

<p>He credited "intensive US diplomacy" for the recent hostage releases and expressed optimism about further releases in the days to come.</p>

<p>Of the 17 released hostages, 14 were Israeli, including nine children. The released included members of the Brodutch family, with young children like four-year-old Oria, eight-year-old Yuval, and 10-year-old Ofri returning home.</p>

<p>Families welcomed their loved ones with mixed emotions, as joy for those returning was tempered by sadness for those still captive or killed.</p>

<p>Chen Almog-Goldstein and her children, abducted from Kfar Aza, experienced this bittersweet reunion. Sisters Dafna and Ela Elyakim, whose capture was livestreamed by the attackers, also returned.</p>

<h2><strong>Truce and prisoner exchange</strong></h2>

<p>The hostage release is part of a four-day truce between Hamas and Israel. In total, 54 hostages have been released, and 117 Palestinian prisoners freed during this window.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden announces release of 4-year-old american hostage</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-us-president-joe-biden-announces-release-of-4-year-old-american-hostage-663186/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The broader context includes Hamas'&nbsp;October attack that claimed 1,200 lives, with over 14,500 casualties in Israel's retaliatory campaign since then. The truce marks the third day of a temporary pause in fighting in Gaza.</p>

<p>While some hostages are being freed, the situation remains complex. Elderly hostage Elma Avraham was airlifted to a hospital in serious condition, highlighting the physical toll of the ordeal. The families, despite their relief, face a period of recovery as they navigate the new and challenging circumstances post-release.</p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Avigail Idan, a four-year-old Israeli-American girl, was among the 17 hostages released by Hamas on Sunday (Nov 26). Kidnapped during the October 7 attack in southern Israel, Avigail turned four while in captivity.

Avigail Idan, a four-year-old Israeli-American girl, was among the 17 hostages released by Hamas on Sunday (Nov 26). Kidnapped during the October 7 attack in southern Israel, Avigail turned four while in captivity. Her parents were killed by the Hamas during the terror assault. Avigail's family expressed profound relief and gratitude for her safe return. They extended thanks to US President Joe Biden, the Qatari government, and others involved in securing her release. Despite this relief, the family said remained committed to advocating for the release of the remaining hostages. "There are no words to express our relief and gratitude that Avigail is safe and coming home," said Liz Hirsh Naftali, Avigail's great aunt, and Noa Naftali, her cousin, in a statement. Also read | US: Three students of Palestinian descent shot in suspected hate crime, police investigate She has been through terrible trauma: Biden President Biden said Avigail had been through a "terrible trauma", adding what she "endured is unthinkable". He credited "intensive US diplomacy" for the recent hostage releases and expressed optimism about further releases in the days to come. Of the 17 released hostages, 14 were Israeli, including nine children. The released included members of the Brodutch family, with young children like four-year-old Oria, eight-year-old Yuval, and 10-year-old Ofri returning home. Families welcomed their loved ones with mixed emotions, as joy for those returning was tempered by sadness for those still captive or killed. Chen Almog-Goldstein and her children, abducted from Kfar Aza, experienced this bittersweet reunion. Sisters Dafna and Ela Elyakim, whose capture was livestreamed by the attackers, also returned. Truce and prisoner exchange The hostage release is part of a four-day truce between Hamas and Israel. In total, 54 hostages have been released, and 117 Palestinian prisoners freed during this window. Also watch | US President Joe Biden announces release of 4-year-old american hostage The broader context includes Hamas' October attack that claimed 1,200 lives, with over 14,500 casualties in Israel's retaliatory campaign since then. The truce marks the third day of a temporary pause in fighting in Gaza. While some hostages are being freed, the situation remains complex. Elderly hostage Elma Avraham was airlifted to a hospital in serious condition, highlighting the physical toll of the ordeal. The families, despite their relief, face a period of recovery as they navigate the new and challenging circumstances post-release. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Avigail Idan? 4-year-old whose parents were killed is youngest US hostage released by Hamas

Isarel-Hamas truce entered day four after fifty days of war nd bombardment that has killed thousands on both sides. Joyous and tearful reunions unfolded when people returned home.

Israel-Hamas War: Hostages released from both sides reunite with their loved ones

<p>A nine-year-old Irish-Israeli girl Emily Hand who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza following the attacks&nbsp;by the Palestinian group on Israel on October 7, was among the second group of hostages released from Gaza, on Sunday (Nov 26).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli-Irish girl held captive by Hamas reunites&nbsp;with family</strong></h2>

<p>Emily Hand was released with the second batch of hostages which included 13 Israelis and four Thai nationals after the first group was released on Friday (Nov 24). She was among seven children ranging from three to 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted on YouTube by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Emily can be seen meeting her father Tom for the first time in 50 days. The clip also shows 13-year-old Hila Rotem being welcomed and embraced by her uncle.</p>

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<p>Hand’s family said they “can’t find the words to describe our emotions after 50 challenging and complicated days”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We are overjoyed to embrace Emily again, but at the same time, we remember Raya Rotem (Hila’s mother) and all the hostages who have yet to return. We will persist in doing everything in our power to bring them back home”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Irish PM slammed</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy slammed Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar over a statement he posted about Emily. Announcing the nine-year-old’s release from Hamas captivity, Varadkar took to X and said “This is a day of enormous joy and relief for Emily Hand and her family.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“An innocent child who was lost has now been found and returned, and we breathe a massive sigh of relief. Our prayers have been answered,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the post, Levy told the Irish PM that Hand wasn’t “lost” but had been “brutally abducted by the death squads that massacred her neighbours”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said the way that Varadkar described Emily’s abduction was “how you describe a little girl who went missing during a stroll in a forest, then gets discovered by a friendly hiker.”</p>

<p>In a subsequent post, the Israeli government spokesperson along with an image of a “Lost and Found Box” said, “No wonder the Irish government opposes Israel’s military pressure on Hamas to release innocent hostages. It thought Emily Hand was hiding here.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No wonder the Irish government opposes Israel’s military pressure on Hamas to release innocent hostages.<br />
<br />
It thought Emily Hand was hiding here. <a href="https://t.co/hcXJAm0obs">pic.twitter.com/hcXJAm0obs</a></p>
— Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) <a href="https://twitter.com/EylonALevy/status/1728568072770830413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While the Irish PM had previously supported Israel’s right to defend itself he has recently expressed concern about Israel’s constant bombardment and ground operation in Gaza and said that it amounts to “collective punishment” and “something more approaching revenge”.</p>

<h2><strong>About Emily Hand</strong></h2>

<p>Emily was eight years old when she was abducted by Hamas following the October 7 attacks on southern Israel and was initially believed to be killed by the Palestinian militant group. She celebrated her birthday in captivity on October 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The sad thing about it is, she won’t even know what day it is. She won't know whether it's night or day. She won’t even though it’s her birthday,” Emily’s father Tom Hand told CBS News two days before his daughter’s birthday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The nine-year-old had been at a sleepover at a friend’s house in Kibbutz Be’eri when the massacre by Hamas took place. According to Israeli officials, more than 100 people were killed in that community alone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her father Thomas, who was born in Ireland and later moved to Israel, told AFP earlier this month that initially he thought his daughter had been killed in the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Later on we had an eyewitness...(who) saw her being led away by the terrorists, into a van off to Gaza” he told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


A nine-year-old Irish-Israeli girl Emily Hand who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza following the attacks by the Palestinian group on Israel on October 7, was among the second group of hostages released from Gaza, on Sunday (Nov 26).

A nine-year-old Irish-Israeli girl Emily Hand who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza following the attacks by the Palestinian group on Israel on October 7, was among the second group of hostages released from Gaza, on Sunday (Nov 26). Israeli-Irish girl held captive by Hamas reunites with family Emily Hand was released with the second batch of hostages which included 13 Israelis and four Thai nationals after the first group was released on Friday (Nov 24). She was among seven children ranging from three to 16. In a video posted on YouTube by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Emily can be seen meeting her father Tom for the first time in 50 days. The clip also shows 13-year-old Hila Rotem being welcomed and embraced by her uncle. × Hand’s family said they “can’t find the words to describe our emotions after 50 challenging and complicated days”. It added, “We are overjoyed to embrace Emily again, but at the same time, we remember Raya Rotem (Hila’s mother) and all the hostages who have yet to return. We will persist in doing everything in our power to bring them back home”. Irish PM slammed Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy slammed Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar over a statement he posted about Emily. Announcing the nine-year-old’s release from Hamas captivity, Varadkar took to X and said “This is a day of enormous joy and relief for Emily Hand and her family.” “An innocent child who was lost has now been found and returned, and we breathe a massive sigh of relief. Our prayers have been answered,” he added. In response to the post, Levy told the Irish PM that Hand wasn’t “lost” but had been “brutally abducted by the death squads that massacred her neighbours”. He also said the way that Varadkar described Emily’s abduction was “how you describe a little girl who went missing during a stroll in a forest, then gets discovered by a friendly hiker.” In a subsequent post, the Israeli government spokesperson along with an image of a “Lost and Found Box” said, “No wonder the Irish government opposes Israel’s military pressure on Hamas to release innocent hostages. It thought Emily Hand was hiding here.” No wonder the Irish government opposes Israel’s military pressure on Hamas to release innocent hostages. It thought Emily Hand was hiding here. pic.twitter.com/hcXJAm0obs — Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) November 26, 2023 × While the Irish PM had previously supported Israel’s right to defend itself he has recently expressed concern about Israel’s constant bombardment and ground operation in Gaza and said that it amounts to “collective punishment” and “something more approaching revenge”. About Emily Hand Emily was eight years old when she was abducted by Hamas following the October 7 attacks on southern Israel and was initially believed to be killed by the Palestinian militant group. She celebrated her birthday in captivity on October 17. “The sad thing about it is, she won’t even know what day it is. She won't know whether it's night or day. She won’t even though it’s her birthday,” Emily’s father Tom Hand told CBS News two days before his daughter’s birthday. The nine-year-old had been at a sleepover at a friend’s house in Kibbutz Be’eri when the massacre by Hamas took place. According to Israeli officials, more than 100 people were killed in that community alone. Her father Thomas, who was born in Ireland and later moved to Israel, told AFP earlier this month that initially he thought his daughter had been killed in the attack. “Later on we had an eyewitness...(who) saw her being led away by the terrorists, into a van off to Gaza” he told the news agency. (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 | Nine-year-old Irish-Israeli girl, once thought to be killed by Hamas, reunites with family

<p>As the Israel-Hamas truce came into effect on Friday (Nov 24), 13 Israeli hostages were released on day one, including sisters aged 2 and 4 and their mother, a 5-year-old girl and her mother, as well as elderly women.</p>

<p>Among them was nine-year-old Ohad Munder, who spent his last birthday just a few days ago in Hamas’ captivity. Munder was among the four children released by the terror outfit on Friday, and was handed over to Red Cross staff before he returned home to his family in the Jewish nation.</p>

<p>His cousin watched Ohad Munder being handed over by Hamas to Red Cross staff and said, “I'm waiting to see Ohad and can't wait to give him his Rubik's cube which I know he really loved and he probably missed it so much. That's the first thing he takes everywhere he goes.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/celebrations-break-out-in-west-bank-as-prisoners-reach-home-to-heroic-welcome-662623"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Celebrations break out in West Bank as prisoners reach home to heroic welcome</strong></a></p>

<p>According to Ohad’s father, he, his mother Keren, and his grandmother Ruth, were all fine and healthy. “But Ohad Munder's grandfather, Avraham Munder, remained in captivity in Gaza,” he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ohad Munder, his mother Keren, and grandmother Ruti in the first moments of reuniting with Ohad's father, brother, and other family members❤️<br />
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It's hard to see through all these tears. <a href="https://t.co/cgfY8Dm3gF">pic.twitter.com/cgfY8Dm3gF</a></p>
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvivaKlompas/status/1728359028324270508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also published photos and videos of the released hostages, including a clip showing girl Emily Hand, 9, meeting her father Tom for the first time in 50 days and Hila Rotem, 13, being welcomed and embraced by her uncle.</p>

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<p>In exchange for the release of the 13 hostages, Israel freed 39 Palestinian prisoners on Friday, spurring a wave of celebration across the West Bank. Under the truce, Israel will release a total of 150 prisoners, in exchange for 50 individuals held hostage by Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;West Bank Palestinians rejoice the return of 39 prisoners</strong></p>

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<p>On day two of the truce, 13 Israeli and four Thai hostages were freed by Hamas, who later arrived in Israel. However, the release was hit by a delay, thanks to a dispute over aid.</p>

<p>Television footage captured the moment when the hostages, including six women and seven children and teenagers, crossed the Egyptian side of the Rafah border after leaving Gaza.</p>

<p>In exchange for the Israeli hostages, 39 Palestinian civilians, including 33 minors, were released from Israeli prisons.</p>


As the Israel-Hamas truce came into effect on Friday (Nov 24), 13 Israeli hostages were released on day one, including sisters aged 2 and 4 and their mother, a 5-year-old girl and her mother, as well as elderly women.

As the Israel-Hamas truce came into effect on Friday (Nov 24), 13 Israeli hostages were released on day one, including sisters aged 2 and 4 and their mother, a 5-year-old girl and her mother, as well as elderly women. Among them was nine-year-old Ohad Munder, who spent his last birthday just a few days ago in Hamas’ captivity. Munder was among the four children released by the terror outfit on Friday, and was handed over to Red Cross staff before he returned home to his family in the Jewish nation. His cousin watched Ohad Munder being handed over by Hamas to Red Cross staff and said, “I'm waiting to see Ohad and can't wait to give him his Rubik's cube which I know he really loved and he probably missed it so much. That's the first thing he takes everywhere he goes.” Also read: Celebrations break out in West Bank as prisoners reach home to heroic welcome According to Ohad’s father, he, his mother Keren, and his grandmother Ruth, were all fine and healthy. “But Ohad Munder's grandfather, Avraham Munder, remained in captivity in Gaza,” he said. Ohad Munder, his mother Keren, and grandmother Ruti in the first moments of reuniting with Ohad's father, brother, and other family members❤️ It's hard to see through all these tears. pic.twitter.com/cgfY8Dm3gF — Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) November 25, 2023 × Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also published photos and videos of the released hostages, including a clip showing girl Emily Hand, 9, meeting her father Tom for the first time in 50 days and Hila Rotem, 13, being welcomed and embraced by her uncle. × In exchange for the release of the 13 hostages, Israel freed 39 Palestinian prisoners on Friday, spurring a wave of celebration across the West Bank. Under the truce, Israel will release a total of 150 prisoners, in exchange for 50 individuals held hostage by Hamas. Watch: West Bank Palestinians rejoice the return of 39 prisoners × On day two of the truce, 13 Israeli and four Thai hostages were freed by Hamas, who later arrived in Israel. However, the release was hit by a delay, thanks to a dispute over aid. Television footage captured the moment when the hostages, including six women and seven children and teenagers, crossed the Egyptian side of the Rafah border after leaving Gaza. In exchange for the Israeli hostages, 39 Palestinian civilians, including 33 minors, were released from Israeli prisons.

Watch: Joy, tears as 9-year-old Ohad Munder held hostage rejoins family in Israel

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