In a disconcerting incident in Philadelphia, a pro-Palestine mob targeted a Jewish-owned falafel restaurant.&nbsp;On Sunday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the West Philadelphia neighbourhood known as University City, home to the Ivy-league school, the University of Pennsylvania.

The crowds were seen igniting smoke bombs the colour of the Palestinian flag and calling for an "Intifada revolution" — a violent uprising against Israel.

<h2>Pennsylvania Governor condemns mob</h2>

Targeting the restaurant, crowds chanted "Goldie, Goldie, you can't hide, we charge you with genocide."

The restaurant, called Goldie's, is part of the acclaimed Philadelphia chain owned by Israeli-born chef Mike Solomonov.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has condemned the act, calling it a "blatant act of antisemitism - not a peaceful protest."

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Tonight in Philly, we saw a blatant act of antisemitism — not a peaceful protest. 
 
A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history. <a href="https://t.co/WS2guahnsQ">https://t.co/WS2guahnsQ</a>
— Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernorShapiro/status/1731520930097033273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Shapiro, who as per Daily Mail is the state's third-ever Jewish governor, wrote,&nbsp;"A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history."

<h2>Tensions rise at UPenn</h2>

The calls for an "intifada" by students at the University of Pennsylvania have further highlighted rising tensions. The protests as per Daily Mail were led by the Philly Palestine Coalition.

UPenn, the prestigious Ivy League institution, has been grappling with escalating incidents of antisemitism, including threats projected onto its buildings. This has led to it being accused of being a "magnet for antisemites" and the prompting of a civil rights complaint.&nbsp;

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University of Pennsylvania right now. Jewish students are terrified. 
 
Where is law enforcement???? 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/JordynTilchen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JordynTilchen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HenMazzig?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HenMazzig</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/yashar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yashar</a> <a href="https://t.co/hO5lTVddZU">pic.twitter.com/hO5lTVddZU</a>
— Jen X 🇮🇱 🦋 (@bellewriter) <a href="https://twitter.com/bellewriter/status/1731470764971356318?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As such incidents increase in frequency, the university has responded by increasing security measures and collaborating with the FBI to address the discrimination against Jewish students.

The university said that several of its staff have received "vile, disturbing antisemitic emails" threatening violence against Jews on campus, particularly in Penn Hillel, an on-campus Jewish organisation, and Lauder College House.

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Happening now at <a href="https://twitter.com/Penn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Penn</a>. Hundreds of students marching chanting for “Intifada revolution.” 
 
Imagine being a Jewish student there… <a href="https://t.co/8d0uEl6sQf">pic.twitter.com/8d0uEl6sQf</a>
— Chaya Raichik (@ChayaRaichik10) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChayaRaichik10/status/1731495839359713607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per University president Liz Magill, "These messages also included hateful language, targeting the personal identities of the recipients. Penn's Division of Public Safety was immediately notified and responded. Penn Police also notified the FBI of this potential hate crime and a joint investigation is underway."

This incident occurred against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Middle East. On October 7, the militant group Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel killing 1,200 Israelis. Tel Aviv has vowed annihilation of the group, its retaliatory strikes have left more than 15,000 dead in the Gaza Strip.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a disconcerting incident in Philadelphia, a pro-Palestine mob targeted a Jewish-owned falafel restaurant. On Sunday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the West Philadelphia neighbourhood known as University City, home to the Ivy-league school, the University of Pennsylvania.

In a disconcerting incident in Philadelphia, a pro-Palestine mob targeted a Jewish-owned falafel restaurant. On Sunday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the West Philadelphia neighbourhood known as University City, home to the Ivy-league school, the University of Pennsylvania. The crowds were seen igniting smoke bombs the colour of the Palestinian flag and calling for an "Intifada revolution" — a violent uprising against Israel. Pennsylvania Governor condemns mob Targeting the restaurant, crowds chanted "Goldie, Goldie, you can't hide, we charge you with genocide." The restaurant, called Goldie's, is part of the acclaimed Philadelphia chain owned by Israeli-born chef Mike Solomonov. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has condemned the act, calling it a "blatant act of antisemitism - not a peaceful protest." Tonight in Philly, we saw a blatant act of antisemitism — not a peaceful protest. A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history. https://t.co/WS2guahnsQ — Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) December 4, 2023 × Shapiro, who as per Daily Mail is the state's third-ever Jewish governor, wrote, "A restaurant was targeted and mobbed because its owner is Jewish and Israeli. This hate and bigotry is reminiscent of a dark time in history." Tensions rise at UPenn The calls for an "intifada" by students at the University of Pennsylvania have further highlighted rising tensions. The protests as per Daily Mail were led by the Philly Palestine Coalition. UPenn, the prestigious Ivy League institution, has been grappling with escalating incidents of antisemitism, including threats projected onto its buildings. This has led to it being accused of being a "magnet for antisemites" and the prompting of a civil rights complaint. University of Pennsylvania right now. Jewish students are terrified. Where is law enforcement???? @JordynTilchen @HenMazzig @yashar pic.twitter.com/hO5lTVddZU — Jen X 🇮🇱 🦋 (@bellewriter) December 4, 2023 × As such incidents increase in frequency, the university has responded by increasing security measures and collaborating with the FBI to address the discrimination against Jewish students. The university said that several of its staff have received "vile, disturbing antisemitic emails" threatening violence against Jews on campus, particularly in Penn Hillel, an on-campus Jewish organisation, and Lauder College House. Happening now at @Penn. Hundreds of students marching chanting for “Intifada revolution.” Imagine being a Jewish student there… pic.twitter.com/8d0uEl6sQf — Chaya Raichik (@ChayaRaichik10) December 4, 2023 × As per University president Liz Magill, "These messages also included hateful language, targeting the personal identities of the recipients. Penn's Division of Public Safety was immediately notified and responded. Penn Police also notified the FBI of this potential hate crime and a joint investigation is underway." This incident occurred against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Middle East. On October 7, the militant group Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel killing 1,200 Israelis. Tel Aviv has vowed annihilation of the group, its retaliatory strikes have left more than 15,000 dead in the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestine protest at University of Pennsylvania calls for 'Intifada' revolution, targets Jewish restaurant

In a major diplomatic effort, Egypt and Qatar&nbsp;have succeeded in temporarily extending the ceasefire between Israeli and Hamas forces in Gaza. The extension, as per a social media post by a Qatar official, is for two days — in addition to the previous four days.

<h2>Four plus two days</h2>

The truce extension comes as the initial four-day agreement was set to expire.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-and-israel-reach-in-principle-agreement-for-use-of-starlink-technology-in-gaza-663381">Musk, Israel authorities agree 'in principle' for use of Starlink technology in Gaza</a>

Taking to social media platform X, Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari wrote "The State of Qatar announces that, as part of the ongoing mediation, an agreement has been reached to extend the humanitarian truce for an additional two days in the Gaza Strip".

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Qatar, with the support of Egypt and the United States, had for days been engaged in intense negotiations to establish and prolong the truce in Gaza.

<h2>Hamas confirms</h2>

The extension, as per an Al Jazeera report, has been confirmed by militant group Hamas.

"Hamas announced that an agreement has been reached with the brothers in Qatar and Egypt for an extension of the temporary humanitarian pause for an additional two days, with the same conditions as the previous truce," said the group in a statement, as reported by AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-emotional-reunion-in-israel-west-bank-as-more-hostages-prisoners-are-released-663356">In Pics | Emotional reunion in Israel, West Bank as more hostages, prisoners are released</a>

<h2>The terms of the truce</h2>

During the course of the initial truce, a total of 50 civilian hostages — including women and children — were expected to be released.

In exchange, Israel had agreed to release 150 Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, humanitarian aid was to be allowed into the war-torn region.

The first three days of the truce, as per AFP, saw Hamas release 58 hostages — including 39 Israeli hostages, along with 17 Thais, one Filipino and one dual Russian-Israeli national. On the other hand, in exchange, Israel released 117 Palestinian prisoners.

The truce was set to end on Monday (Nov 27) night. It marks a pause in the seven-week conflict that has inflicted significant casualties and destruction in the Palestinian enclave.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major diplomatic effort, Egypt and Qatar have succeeded in temporarily extending the ceasefire between Israeli and Hamas forces in Gaza. The extension, as per a social media post by a Qatar official, is for two days — in addition to the previous four days.

In a major diplomatic effort, Egypt and Qatar have succeeded in temporarily extending the ceasefire between Israeli and Hamas forces in Gaza. The extension, as per a social media post by a Qatar official, is for two days — in addition to the previous four days. Four plus two days The truce extension comes as the initial four-day agreement was set to expire. Also read | Musk, Israel authorities agree 'in principle' for use of Starlink technology in Gaza Taking to social media platform X, Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari wrote "The State of Qatar announces that, as part of the ongoing mediation, an agreement has been reached to extend the humanitarian truce for an additional two days in the Gaza Strip". Qatar, with the support of Egypt and the United States, had for days been engaged in intense negotiations to establish and prolong the truce in Gaza. Hamas confirms The extension, as per an Al Jazeera report, has been confirmed by militant group Hamas. "Hamas announced that an agreement has been reached with the brothers in Qatar and Egypt for an extension of the temporary humanitarian pause for an additional two days, with the same conditions as the previous truce," said the group in a statement, as reported by AFP. Also read | In Pics | Emotional reunion in Israel, West Bank as more hostages, prisoners are released The terms of the truce During the course of the initial truce, a total of 50 civilian hostages — including women and children — were expected to be released. In exchange, Israel had agreed to release 150 Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, humanitarian aid was to be allowed into the war-torn region. The first three days of the truce, as per AFP, saw Hamas release 58 hostages — including 39 Israeli hostages, along with 17 Thais, one Filipino and one dual Russian-Israeli national. On the other hand, in exchange, Israel released 117 Palestinian prisoners. The truce was set to end on Monday (Nov 27) night. It marks a pause in the seven-week conflict that has inflicted significant casualties and destruction in the Palestinian enclave. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt and Qatar successfully mediate two-day extension of truce between Israel and Hamas

Elon Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, landed in&nbsp;Israel on Monday (Nov&nbsp;27) for a visit. As per a statement from the host nation, Musk engaged in discussions about the potential use of SpaceX's Starlink communications in the Gaza Strip.

While Musk's office is yet to make an official statement regarding the visit, as per Reuters, Israeli officials have confirmed that an agreement in principle has been reached for the utilisation of Starlink technology in the region.

<h2>Diplomatic endeavours and a fragile truce</h2>

As per the news agency report, Israeli President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to meet with Musk&nbsp;to discuss the potential use of Starlink in the region and other things, including&nbsp;broader issues like the release of hostages held by Hamas and "the need to act to combat rising antisemitism online".

Elon Musk's visit coincides&nbsp;with a temporary pause in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-set-to-meet-israeli-president-hostage-families-amid-escalating-antisemitism-concerns-663196">Elon Musk set to meet Israeli president, hostage families amid rising antisemitism on social media platform X</a>

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also meet with Musk to deliberate the security aspects of artificial intelligence.&nbsp;The two, as per Netanyahu's office, are expected to hold a live online discussion. Previously, during a meeting in California on September 18, Netanyahu urged Musk to strike a balance between protecting free expression and combating hate speech.

<h2>Starlink's potential role in humanitarian aid</h2>

In the midst of heightened tensions and a blackout situation in Gaza, Musk had previously proposed using Starlink to support communication links with "internationally recognised aid organisations" in the region.&nbsp;

As per Reuters, at the time, Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi had expressed concerns, and said "Hamas will use it (Starlink) for terrorist activities".

However, in a recent shift in stance, on Monday, Karhi revealed the 'in principle' agreement between Israel and Musk. Under this agreement, "Starlink satellite units can only be operated in Israel with the approval of the Israeli Ministry of Communications, including the Gaza Strip".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-three-students-of-palestinian-descent-shot-in-suspected-hate-crime-police-investigate-663175">US: Suspect arrested for shooting 3 students of Palestinian descent in possible 'hate-motivated crime'</a>

Karhi, in an X post directed at Musk, expressed hope that the visit would "serve as a springboard for future endeavours, as well as enhance your relationship with the Jewish people and values we share with the entire world".&nbsp;

Musk, who has previously condemned antisemitism, is expected to engage in discussions that could potentially enhance cooperation between SpaceX and Israeli authorities.

This comes just weeks after Musk sparked controversy by enthusiastically agreeing to a post promoting the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory. This drew condemnation from the White House and also led to major US companies like Disney to pause advertisements on X.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, landed in Israel on Monday (Nov 27) for a visit. As per a statement from the host nation, Musk engaged in discussions about the potential use of SpaceX's Starlink communications in the Gaza Strip.

Elon Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, landed in Israel on Monday (Nov 27) for a visit. As per a statement from the host nation, Musk engaged in discussions about the potential use of SpaceX's Starlink communications in the Gaza Strip. While Musk's office is yet to make an official statement regarding the visit, as per Reuters, Israeli officials have confirmed that an agreement in principle has been reached for the utilisation of Starlink technology in the region. Diplomatic endeavours and a fragile truce As per the news agency report, Israeli President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to meet with Musk to discuss the potential use of Starlink in the region and other things, including broader issues like the release of hostages held by Hamas and "the need to act to combat rising antisemitism online". Elon Musk's visit coincides with a temporary pause in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Also read | Elon Musk set to meet Israeli president, hostage families amid rising antisemitism on social media platform X Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also meet with Musk to deliberate the security aspects of artificial intelligence. The two, as per Netanyahu's office, are expected to hold a live online discussion. Previously, during a meeting in California on September 18, Netanyahu urged Musk to strike a balance between protecting free expression and combating hate speech. Starlink's potential role in humanitarian aid In the midst of heightened tensions and a blackout situation in Gaza, Musk had previously proposed using Starlink to support communication links with "internationally recognised aid organisations" in the region. As per Reuters, at the time, Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi had expressed concerns, and said "Hamas will use it (Starlink) for terrorist activities". However, in a recent shift in stance, on Monday, Karhi revealed the 'in principle' agreement between Israel and Musk. Under this agreement, "Starlink satellite units can only be operated in Israel with the approval of the Israeli Ministry of Communications, including the Gaza Strip". Also read | US: Suspect arrested for shooting 3 students of Palestinian descent in possible 'hate-motivated crime' Karhi, in an X post directed at Musk, expressed hope that the visit would "serve as a springboard for future endeavours, as well as enhance your relationship with the Jewish people and values we share with the entire world". Musk, who has previously condemned antisemitism, is expected to engage in discussions that could potentially enhance cooperation between SpaceX and Israeli authorities. This comes just weeks after Musk sparked controversy by enthusiastically agreeing to a post promoting the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory. This drew condemnation from the White House and also led to major US companies like Disney to pause advertisements on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk, Israel authorities agree 'in principle' for use of Starlink technology in Gaza

Israeli soldiers, as per reports, have found a Hamas tunnel in Gaza's biggest medical facility, the Al-Shifa Hospital.

The nation's army has released a video of the purported militant tunnel entrance that is reportedly located in an outdoor area of Al-Shifa.

Hamas has once again reiterated that it does not&nbsp;use hospitals as hideouts and attack launch bases.

<h2>Israel releases video</h2>

The Israeli military has released a series of videos on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: "Exposing another layer of Hamas’ exploitation of three of the largest hospitals in Gaza."

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Exposing another layer of Hamas’ exploitation of three of the largest hospitals in Gaza: 
 
🔻Inside the Shifa Hospital complex, a Hamas terrorist tunnel was uncovered. 
 
1/3 <a href="https://t.co/uGo4uBdTly">pic.twitter.com/uGo4uBdTly</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1725317630356070907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Al-Shifa hospital video shows a deep hole in the ground. The alleged tunnel could be seen littered with and surrounded by concrete, wood, rubble, and sand.&nbsp;

A bulldozer could be seen in the background, which, as per Reuters, hints at an excavation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-deliberate-attempt-to-paralyse-our-work-in-gaza-says-un-agency-659532">There is 'deliberate attempt' to 'paralyse' our work in Gaza, says UN agency</a>

IDF also said that it had found "a large number of weapons" in a vehicle at another one of Gaza's main hospitals.

In subsequent posts, the Israeli ministry "showed" similar "terrorist tunnels" at the Rantisi Hospital and said that a large number of weaponry and ammunition were found at the Al-Quds Hospital.

The Israeli military also said that it had recovered the body of a&nbsp;65-year-old woman who, they say, was taken hostage by Hamas during the militant group's initial attack on October 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the Israeli military, the woman&nbsp;was abducted by Hamas from her home in Kibbutz Be’eri. It also said that her husband was "murdered in their home" during the attack.

Weiss' body was reportedly discovered in "a building adjacent to the Shifa Hospital in Gaza earlier today." Along with her body,&nbsp;AK-47s, RPGs, and other military equipment were also found, said the IDF.

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Yehudit Weiss was a 65-year-old who worked with kindergarten kids. 
 
On October 7, Yehudit was abducted by Hamas from her home in Kibbutz Be’eri. Her husband, Shmulik Weiss, was murdered in their home. Yehudit and Shmulik were parents to 5 children. 
 
IDF soldiers recovered her… <a href="https://t.co/Y7tpt8nU3o">pic.twitter.com/Y7tpt8nU3o</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1725274903098569016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Hamas denies charges

In a statement released late on Thursday, the Hamas labelled IDF's repeated claims of its use of Al-Shifa hospital a "false narrative".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-demolishes-gaza-home-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-in-overnight-airstrikes-659331">WATCH | Israel demolishes Gaza home of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in overnight airstrikes</a>

On Thursday, US White House Spokesperson John Kirby in a media briefing said that the Western nation's own intelligence agencies have shown Hamas activities in the Al-Shifa hospital. However, he said that the US will neither share nor elaborate.

Hamas said that the Pentagon and the US State Department's claims are "a repetition of a blatantly false narrative, demonstrated by the weak and ridiculous performances of the occupation army spokesman."

(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.

Israeli soldiers, as per reports, have found a Hamas tunnel in Gaza's biggest medical facility, the Al-Shifa Hospital. The nation's army has released a video of the purported militant tunnel entrance that is reportedly located in an outdoor area of Al-Shifa.

Israeli soldiers, as per reports, have found a Hamas tunnel in Gaza's biggest medical facility, the Al-Shifa Hospital. The nation's army has released a video of the purported militant tunnel entrance that is reportedly located in an outdoor area of Al-Shifa. Hamas has once again reiterated that it does not use hospitals as hideouts and attack launch bases. Israel releases video The Israeli military has released a series of videos on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: "Exposing another layer of Hamas’ exploitation of three of the largest hospitals in Gaza." Exposing another layer of Hamas’ exploitation of three of the largest hospitals in Gaza: 🔻Inside the Shifa Hospital complex, a Hamas terrorist tunnel was uncovered. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/uGo4uBdTly — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 17, 2023 × The Al-Shifa hospital video shows a deep hole in the ground. The alleged tunnel could be seen littered with and surrounded by concrete, wood, rubble, and sand. A bulldozer could be seen in the background, which, as per Reuters, hints at an excavation. Also read | There is 'deliberate attempt' to 'paralyse' our work in Gaza, says UN agency IDF also said that it had found "a large number of weapons" in a vehicle at another one of Gaza's main hospitals. In subsequent posts, the Israeli ministry "showed" similar "terrorist tunnels" at the Rantisi Hospital and said that a large number of weaponry and ammunition were found at the Al-Quds Hospital. The Israeli military also said that it had recovered the body of a 65-year-old woman who, they say, was taken hostage by Hamas during the militant group's initial attack on October 7. As per the Israeli military, the woman was abducted by Hamas from her home in Kibbutz Be’eri. It also said that her husband was "murdered in their home" during the attack. Weiss' body was reportedly discovered in "a building adjacent to the Shifa Hospital in Gaza earlier today." Along with her body, AK-47s, RPGs, and other military equipment were also found, said the IDF. Yehudit Weiss was a 65-year-old who worked with kindergarten kids. On October 7, Yehudit was abducted by Hamas from her home in Kibbutz Be’eri. Her husband, Shmulik Weiss, was murdered in their home. Yehudit and Shmulik were parents to 5 children. IDF soldiers recovered her… pic.twitter.com/Y7tpt8nU3o — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 16, 2023 × Hamas denies charges In a statement released late on Thursday, the Hamas labelled IDF's repeated claims of its use of Al-Shifa hospital a "false narrative". Also read | WATCH | Israel demolishes Gaza home of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in overnight airstrikes On Thursday, US White House Spokesperson John Kirby in a media briefing said that the Western nation's own intelligence agencies have shown Hamas activities in the Al-Shifa hospital. However, he said that the US will neither share nor elaborate. Hamas said that the Pentagon and the US State Department's claims are "a repetition of a blatantly false narrative, demonstrated by the weak and ridiculous performances of the occupation army spokesman." (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 uncovers Hamas tunnel at Al-Shifa Hospital; finds body of 65-year-old kidnapped during Oct 7 attack

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent interview hinted at a potential breakthrough in securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

While refraining from disclosing any details that could jeopardise the negotiations, he said "There could be" a deal in the works.

His statement comes soon after the militant group said it was suspending hostage negotiations over Israel's actions at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza.

<h2>What Netanyahu said</h2>

Speaking to NBC's "Meet the Press," Netanyahu acknowledged the evolving situation and stated, "There could be" a deal in the works.

However, the Prime Minister was cautious not to disclose specifics, emphasising the sensitivity of the ongoing negotiations.&nbsp;

"We heard that there was an impending deal of this kind or of that kind and then we learned that it was all hokum. But the minute we started the ground operation, that began to change," he said.

"I think the less I say about it, the more I'll increase the chances that it materialises," remarked Netanyahu.

<h2>What the Hamas said</h2>

On the other hand, Hamas, as per Reuters, on Sunday announced a suspension of hostage negotiations citing concerns over Israel's actions at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza.&nbsp;

As Israel intensifies its ground invasion in northern Gaza, the Al-Shifa Hospital has faced severe bombardment, resulting in the destruction of its cardiac ward.&nbsp;

Palestinian health officials have also reported the halt of operations at the hospitals due to a lack of fuel.

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) said that individuals attempting to leave the hospital were being shot at. Condemning the situation, the international medical humanitarian organisation accused the Israeli military of putting civilians trapped in Al-Shifa at risk, describing it as a "death warrant."

"Our staff are witnessing people being shot at as they attempt to flee the hospital," said MSF in a report published on Saturday.

"MSF denounces the death warrant of civilians currently trapped in Al-Shifa hospital signed by the Israeli military."

As per Israel Hamas is holding 239 people hostages in Gaza. It has also alleged that the militants are using the Al-Shifa hospital as a cover for a command centre, while Hamas denies the allegations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent interview hinted at a potential breakthrough in securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent interview hinted at a potential breakthrough in securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. While refraining from disclosing any details that could jeopardise the negotiations, he said "There could be" a deal in the works. His statement comes soon after the militant group said it was suspending hostage negotiations over Israel's actions at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza. What Netanyahu said Speaking to NBC's "Meet the Press," Netanyahu acknowledged the evolving situation and stated, "There could be" a deal in the works. However, the Prime Minister was cautious not to disclose specifics, emphasising the sensitivity of the ongoing negotiations. "We heard that there was an impending deal of this kind or of that kind and then we learned that it was all hokum. But the minute we started the ground operation, that began to change," he said. "I think the less I say about it, the more I'll increase the chances that it materialises," remarked Netanyahu. What the Hamas said On the other hand, Hamas, as per Reuters, on Sunday announced a suspension of hostage negotiations citing concerns over Israel's actions at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza. As Israel intensifies its ground invasion in northern Gaza, the Al-Shifa Hospital has faced severe bombardment, resulting in the destruction of its cardiac ward. Palestinian health officials have also reported the halt of operations at the hospitals due to a lack of fuel. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) said that individuals attempting to leave the hospital were being shot at. Condemning the situation, the international medical humanitarian organisation accused the Israeli military of putting civilians trapped in Al-Shifa at risk, describing it as a "death warrant." "Our staff are witnessing people being shot at as they attempt to flee the hospital," said MSF in a report published on Saturday. "MSF denounces the death warrant of civilians currently trapped in Al-Shifa hospital signed by the Israeli military." As per Israel Hamas is holding 239 people hostages in Gaza. It has also alleged that the militants are using the Al-Shifa hospital as a cover for a command centre, while Hamas denies the allegations.

Hostage negotiations in flux: Netanyahu signals potential deal while Hamas announces suspension of talks

Israel has reportedly launched attacks targeting hospitals in Gaza. The nation&nbsp;launched air strikes on or near at least three hospitals on Friday, said a spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry.

These attacks are further stressing the Palestinian enclave's already struggling health system.

<h2>Simultaneous strikes&nbsp;</h2>

"The Israeli occupation launched simultaneous strikes on a number of hospitals during the past hours," said Ashraf Al-Qidra, spokesperson for the Gaza Ministry of Health, while talking to Al Jazeera.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-seek-to-occupy-gaza-netanyahu-tells-media-657109">We are not seeking to govern Gaza, Netanyahu tells media</a>

Al Shifa, the hospital Israel had alleged was being used by Hamas to hide its command centres and tunnels, is one of the hospitals being attacked, reports Reuters. Hamas militants have denied Israel's allegations.

The spokesperson for the Hamas-led Ministry of Health also claimed that Israel targeted Gaza City's medical complex's courtyard and that casualties have been reported. However, he did not provide any further details.

Qidra also said that the Al-Rantisi Paediatric Hospital and Al-Nasr Children's Hospital "have been witnessing a series of direct attacks and bombardments" on Friday.&nbsp;

He stated that the Israeli strikes on Al-Rantisi's hospital grounds had set vehicles on fire, which were partly extinguished later.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mossad-statement-on-hezbollah-angers-brazil-657103">Israel-Hamas war: Mossad statement on Hezbollah angers Brazil</a>

Palestinian media as per Reuters has published video footage, purportedly of Al Shifa, on Friday. The footage, which is being widely shared on X,&nbsp;shows the aftermath of an Israeli attack on a parking lot, where journalists and Displaced Palestinians were taking shelter.

It shows people yelling and screaming in panic as an explosion is heard in the background. A man can also be seen with his leg bent at an unnatural angle, lying next to a pool of blood.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

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Hospital Al Shifa, Gaza diserang menggunakan misil American R9X Hellfire. Misil jenis ini tak hasilkan ledakan macam bom biasa tapi akan lepaskan beberapa bilah tajam macam mata pisau pada kelajuan tinggi. Dalam video nampak ada kaki mangsa terpotong. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/60bIwiOTdd">pic.twitter.com/60bIwiOTdd</a>
— Ikhwan (@JatIkhwan) <a href="https://twitter.com/JatIkhwan/status/1722805416579695067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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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.

<h2>Human rights organisations concerned</h2>

Human Rights Watch, taking to social media platform X, expressed its concern and said: "With ongoing strikes and fighting nearby (Al Shifa), we are gravely concerned about the well-being of thousands of civilians there, many children among them, seeking medical care and shelter."

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war began with the militant group launching an attack on October 7. The conflict, which has already stretched beyond a month, has to date resulted in the loss of more than 12,000 lives — 1,400 in Israel, and at least 10,812 (with about 40 per cent of them children) in Gaza, as per the latest numbers shared by concerned official departments.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel has reportedly launched attacks targeting hospitals in Gaza. The nation launched air strikes on or near at least three hospitals on Friday, said a spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry.

Israel has reportedly launched attacks targeting hospitals in Gaza. The nation launched air strikes on or near at least three hospitals on Friday, said a spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry. These attacks are further stressing the Palestinian enclave's already struggling health system. Simultaneous strikes "The Israeli occupation launched simultaneous strikes on a number of hospitals during the past hours," said Ashraf Al-Qidra, spokesperson for the Gaza Ministry of Health, while talking to Al Jazeera. Also read | We are not seeking to govern Gaza, Netanyahu tells media Al Shifa, the hospital Israel had alleged was being used by Hamas to hide its command centres and tunnels, is one of the hospitals being attacked, reports Reuters. Hamas militants have denied Israel's allegations. The spokesperson for the Hamas-led Ministry of Health also claimed that Israel targeted Gaza City's medical complex's courtyard and that casualties have been reported. However, he did not provide any further details. Qidra also said that the Al-Rantisi Paediatric Hospital and Al-Nasr Children's Hospital "have been witnessing a series of direct attacks and bombardments" on Friday. He stated that the Israeli strikes on Al-Rantisi's hospital grounds had set vehicles on fire, which were partly extinguished later. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Mossad statement on Hezbollah angers Brazil Palestinian media as per Reuters has published video footage, purportedly of Al Shifa, on Friday. The footage, which is being widely shared on X, shows the aftermath of an Israeli attack on a parking lot, where journalists and Displaced Palestinians were taking shelter. It shows people yelling and screaming in panic as an explosion is heard in the background. A man can also be seen with his leg bent at an unnatural angle, lying next to a pool of blood. Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Hospital Al Shifa, Gaza diserang menggunakan misil American R9X Hellfire. Misil jenis ini tak hasilkan ledakan macam bom biasa tapi akan lepaskan beberapa bilah tajam macam mata pisau pada kelajuan tinggi. Dalam video nampak ada kaki mangsa terpotong. pic.twitter.com/60bIwiOTdd — Ikhwan (@JatIkhwan) November 10, 2023 × 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. Human rights organisations concerned Human Rights Watch, taking to social media platform X, expressed its concern and said: "With ongoing strikes and fighting nearby (Al Shifa), we are gravely concerned about the well-being of thousands of civilians there, many children among them, seeking medical care and shelter." The ongoing Israel-Hamas war began with the militant group launching an attack on October 7. The conflict, which has already stretched beyond a month, has to date resulted in the loss of more than 12,000 lives — 1,400 in Israel, and at least 10,812 (with about 40 per cent of them children) in Gaza, as per the latest numbers shared by concerned official departments. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Israel targeting hospitals in Gaza, say Palestinian officials

US Presidential race contender Ron DeSantis has claimed credit for saving lives and&nbsp;limiting the number of hostages&nbsp;militant group Hamas kidnapped during its October 7 attack.

Speaking during the Republican presidential debate, the Florida Governor said that there would've been more hostages if he hadn't stepped in to arrange evacuation for 700 people.

<h2>'We acted, and we saved lives'</h2>

DeSantis claimed that after the initial Hamas attack, there would have been a higher number of hostages. He said that Florida citizens were also under attack and US President Joe Biden "left them stranded".&nbsp;

"We had Floridians that were over there after the attack. [Biden] left them stranded. They couldn’t get flights out. I scrambled resources in Florida. I sent planes over to Israel, and I brought back over 700 people to safety. There could've been more hostages had we not acted," said DeSantis.&nbsp;

"We acted, and we saved lives," he added.

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GOV. RON DESANTIS ON ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR: "I actually did something about it [...] I sent planes over to Israel, and I brought back over 700 people to safety. There could've been more hostages had we not acted." 
 
"We acted, and we saved lives." <a href="https://t.co/d0XqUnBnLb">pic.twitter.com/d0XqUnBnLb</a>
— Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLVoiceNews/status/1722422748117389782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per The Times of Israel, Hamas militants did not kidnap anyone after the initial October 7 attack. So it is unclear why DeSantis said that the charter flights he helped organise&nbsp;"prevented additional hostages from being taken into Gaza".

<h2>Did the Biden administration abandon citizens?</h2>

The Biden administration arranged a number of charter flights out of Israel for its citizens. These flights started on October 13, chartering Americans from Tel Aviv to Athens.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

With demands for flights falling sharply, its last planned charter flight, as per a Reuters report, was on Tuesday (Oct 31).

"It is purely a demand issue... We have consistently seen the demand for our charter flights go down," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a press briefing on Monday (Oct 30).

Miller also said that the nation will continue to assess the situation and if "circumstances change on the ground" they will see if they "need to make additional arrangements."

(With inputs from agencies)

US Presidential race contender Ron DeSantis has claimed credit for saving lives and limiting the number of hostages militant group Hamas kidnapped during its October 7 attack.

US Presidential race contender Ron DeSantis has claimed credit for saving lives and limiting the number of hostages militant group Hamas kidnapped during its October 7 attack. Speaking during the Republican presidential debate, the Florida Governor said that there would've been more hostages if he hadn't stepped in to arrange evacuation for 700 people. 'We acted, and we saved lives' DeSantis claimed that after the initial Hamas attack, there would have been a higher number of hostages. He said that Florida citizens were also under attack and US President Joe Biden "left them stranded". "We had Floridians that were over there after the attack. [Biden] left them stranded. They couldn’t get flights out. I scrambled resources in Florida. I sent planes over to Israel, and I brought back over 700 people to safety. There could've been more hostages had we not acted," said DeSantis. "We acted, and we saved lives," he added. GOV. RON DESANTIS ON ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR: "I actually did something about it [...] I sent planes over to Israel, and I brought back over 700 people to safety. There could've been more hostages had we not acted." "We acted, and we saved lives." pic.twitter.com/d0XqUnBnLb — Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) November 9, 2023 × As per The Times of Israel, Hamas militants did not kidnap anyone after the initial October 7 attack. So it is unclear why DeSantis said that the charter flights he helped organise "prevented additional hostages from being taken into Gaza". Did the Biden administration abandon citizens? The Biden administration arranged a number of charter flights out of Israel for its citizens. These flights started on October 13, chartering Americans from Tel Aviv to Athens. Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old With demands for flights falling sharply, its last planned charter flight, as per a Reuters report, was on Tuesday (Oct 31). "It is purely a demand issue... We have consistently seen the demand for our charter flights go down," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a press briefing on Monday (Oct 30). Miller also said that the nation will continue to assess the situation and if "circumstances change on the ground" they will see if they "need to make additional arrangements." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: DeSantis claims he saved Americans stuck in conflict, when Biden 'left them stranded'

The Joe Biden administration has warned schools and colleges in the United States that the nation is witnessing an "alarming rise" in antisemitism and Islamophobia. The authorities have urged educational institutions to take immediate action against the rising threats and harassment.

In a letter on Tuesday (Nov 7), the US Education Department said that in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, there was a "renewed urgency" to fight discrimination against students.

"Antisemitism, Islamophobia and all other forms of hatred go against everything we stand for as a nation," said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a statement.

However, hate crimes, unfortunately, are nothing new in the United States.&nbsp;

In the wake of history-changing events like the 9/11 terror attack, the Covid pandemic and now the Israel-Hamas war, the 'land of opportunity' as it was once called becomes the hot bed for Xenophobia — the fear or dislike of anything which is perceived as being foreign or strange.

<h2>Aftermath of Israel-Hamas war</h2>

In the wake of the ongoing war in the Middle East, the US has seen an "alarming rise" in cases of antisemitism and Islamophobia, as per the Biden administration.

In a recent statement released on the 25th Anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act, President Joe Biden said: "Here at home, we are facing a rising tide of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of discrimination that are fuelling violence and hate across our country."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hate-crime-nyu-students-seen-tearing-down-posters-of-young-israeli-children-kidnapped-by-hamas-watch-648203">NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch!</a>

However, the US President said that "in the wake of Hamas' brutal terrorist assault against Israel," they are "working with community partners to identify, prevent, and disrupt any threats that could harm the Jewish, Muslim, Arab American, Palestinian American, or any other communities."

After Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, incidents of hate crimes started cropping up very rapidly.

One case that left the world shocked involved a six-year-old child, who became the victim of a senseless hate crime borne out of fear.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-im-fine-family-reveal-6-year-old-hate-crime-victims-heartbreaking-last-words-647816">'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime</a>

Soon after the war started, Wadea al-Fayoume, a Palestinian-American Muslim boy, was stabbed 26 times with a military-style knife in his home in Illinois, US.&nbsp;

The motive of the crime? Hatred.

The assailant, Wadea's landlord, 71-year-old Joseph M Czuba reportedly entered the little boy's family home yelling: "You Muslims must die!".

In the attack, the child's 32-year-old mother also suffered several stabbing wounds and had to be hospitalised.

Similarly, there have been reports of several disturbing spillovers and prejudices against Muslims and Jews. This includes reports of university students beating up their classmates, tearing down posters of Israeli children taken hostage, and more.

Are these once in a blue moon kinds of incidents?

Unfortunately, no. Modern history has already been witness to two such major episodes, where a particular race or religion saw widespread hatred: the Covid pandemic and the 9/11 attacks.

<h2>Asian community becomes the target</h2>

In 2020, the world came face to face with a dangerous common enemy: the coronavirus.&nbsp;

An invisible ailment that targeted our bodies from the inside forced the global population to quarantine themselves from the world.&nbsp;

Millions lost their lives as humanity everywhere grappled with the rapidly strengthening foe, whose origins remain unclear even now.

Origin theories point the finger at China and postulate that the virus which was first recorded in the nation's Wuhan is either a laboratory leak — accidental or intentional, or that it is a zoonotic disease that jumped species in Wuhan's wet markets.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rise-in-hate-crime-against-asian-americans-amid-pandemic-us-senators-296718">Rise in hate crime against Asian-Americans amid pandemic: US senators</a>

During the almost two years when the pandemic was at its peak, in the US, as per the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), crimes against the Asian American community saw a significant rise.

Between 2019 and 2020, there was a 77 per cent increase in hate crimes against Asian people living in the US.

Furthermore, during the period from March 2020 to June 2021, more than 9,000 anti-Asian hate incidents were reported, as per advocacy group Stop AAPI Hate Center. This included verbal harassment, including being called things like the "Chinese Coronavirus".&nbsp;

As per a Health Affairs report, these numbers are not a just reflection of the incidents as hate crimes frequently go unreported. A 2021 poll by Axios/Ipsos, called the 'Hard Truth Civil Rights &amp; Social Justice poll' found that 82 per cent of Asian Americans agreed that as a group they've faced discrimination because of the coronavirus pandemic. More than 57 per cent said they often or sometimes feel unsafe in public.

<h2>Muslims, Arabs and Islamophobia</h2>

After the horrific 9/11 attack in the US, there was a hate crime backlash that targeted&nbsp;people of Arab and Muslim origins. Even Sikhs, South Asians and those perceived to belong to be Arab or Muslim also faced the adverse response.

These incidents were marked by ferocity and included murder, physical assaults, arson, vandalism of places of worship and other property damage, death threats and public harassment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-antisemitic-islamophobic-incidents-surge-with-war-advocates-say-651470">US antisemitic, Islamophobic incidents surge with war, advocates say</a>

As per the Human Rights Watch, most of these violent incidents occurred in the first months after September 11. FBI data shows a seventeen-fold increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes.&nbsp;

What does this data tell us? Does the United States — the dream destination&nbsp;of many from developing nations — able to fully grasp the concept of tolerance?

The Joe Biden administration has warned schools and colleges in the United States that the nation is witnessing an "alarming rise" in antisemitism and Islamophobia.

The Joe Biden administration has warned schools and colleges in the United States that the nation is witnessing an "alarming rise" in antisemitism and Islamophobia. The authorities have urged educational institutions to take immediate action against the rising threats and harassment. In a letter on Tuesday (Nov 7), the US Education Department said that in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, there was a "renewed urgency" to fight discrimination against students. "Antisemitism, Islamophobia and all other forms of hatred go against everything we stand for as a nation," said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a statement. However, hate crimes, unfortunately, are nothing new in the United States. In the wake of history-changing events like the 9/11 terror attack, the Covid pandemic and now the Israel-Hamas war, the 'land of opportunity' as it was once called becomes the hot bed for Xenophobia — the fear or dislike of anything which is perceived as being foreign or strange. Aftermath of Israel-Hamas war In the wake of the ongoing war in the Middle East, the US has seen an "alarming rise" in cases of antisemitism and Islamophobia, as per the Biden administration. In a recent statement released on the 25th Anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act, President Joe Biden said: "Here at home, we are facing a rising tide of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of discrimination that are fuelling violence and hate across our country." Also read | NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch! However, the US President said that "in the wake of Hamas' brutal terrorist assault against Israel," they are "working with community partners to identify, prevent, and disrupt any threats that could harm the Jewish, Muslim, Arab American, Palestinian American, or any other communities." After Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, incidents of hate crimes started cropping up very rapidly. One case that left the world shocked involved a six-year-old child, who became the victim of a senseless hate crime borne out of fear. Also read | 'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime Soon after the war started, Wadea al-Fayoume, a Palestinian-American Muslim boy, was stabbed 26 times with a military-style knife in his home in Illinois, US. The motive of the crime? Hatred. The assailant, Wadea's landlord, 71-year-old Joseph M Czuba reportedly entered the little boy's family home yelling: "You Muslims must die!". In the attack, the child's 32-year-old mother also suffered several stabbing wounds and had to be hospitalised. Similarly, there have been reports of several disturbing spillovers and prejudices against Muslims and Jews. This includes reports of university students beating up their classmates, tearing down posters of Israeli children taken hostage, and more. Are these once in a blue moon kinds of incidents? Unfortunately, no. Modern history has already been witness to two such major episodes, where a particular race or religion saw widespread hatred: the Covid pandemic and the 9/11 attacks. Asian community becomes the target In 2020, the world came face to face with a dangerous common enemy: the coronavirus. An invisible ailment that targeted our bodies from the inside forced the global population to quarantine themselves from the world. Millions lost their lives as humanity everywhere grappled with the rapidly strengthening foe, whose origins remain unclear even now. Origin theories point the finger at China and postulate that the virus which was first recorded in the nation's Wuhan is either a laboratory leak — accidental or intentional, or that it is a zoonotic disease that jumped species in Wuhan's wet markets. Also read | Rise in hate crime against Asian-Americans amid pandemic: US senators During the almost two years when the pandemic was at its peak, in the US, as per the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), crimes against the Asian American community saw a significant rise. Between 2019 and 2020, there was a 77 per cent increase in hate crimes against Asian people living in the US. Furthermore, during the period from March 2020 to June 2021, more than 9,000 anti-Asian hate incidents were reported, as per advocacy group Stop AAPI Hate Center. This included verbal harassment, including being called things like the "Chinese Coronavirus". As per a Health Affairs report, these numbers are not a just reflection of the incidents as hate crimes frequently go unreported. A 2021 poll by Axios/Ipsos, called the 'Hard Truth Civil Rights & Social Justice poll' found that 82 per cent of Asian Americans agreed that as a group they've faced discrimination because of the coronavirus pandemic. More than 57 per cent said they often or sometimes feel unsafe in public. Muslims, Arabs and Islamophobia After the horrific 9/11 attack in the US, there was a hate crime backlash that targeted people of Arab and Muslim origins. Even Sikhs, South Asians and those perceived to belong to be Arab or Muslim also faced the adverse response. These incidents were marked by ferocity and included murder, physical assaults, arson, vandalism of places of worship and other property damage, death threats and public harassment. Also read | US antisemitic, Islamophobic incidents surge with war, advocates say As per the Human Rights Watch, most of these violent incidents occurred in the first months after September 11. FBI data shows a seventeen-fold increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes. What does this data tell us? Does the United States — the dream destination of many from developing nations — able to fully grasp the concept of tolerance?

Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson on Sunday (Nov 5) visited Jerusalem, and&nbsp;met with British soldiers enlisted in the Israeli Army. The British leader, who was accompanied by former Australian PM Scott Morrison, also visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza, which was devastated in the terror attack by Hamas militants on October 7.

<h2>Johnson talks to troops</h2>

As per Reuters news agency, the British leader, during his conversation with the soldiers, expressed his support for the troops and said he disagreed with those trying to make a moral equivalence between what the Israeli soldiers are doing and what the Hamas militants are doing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usas-blinken-visits-turkey-amid-tensions-over-israel-hamas-war-f-16-deal-655594">USA's Blinken visits Turkey amid tensions over Israel-Hamas war, F-16 deal</a>

<h2>Kibbutz Kfar Aza visit</h2>

Johnson, accompanied by former Australian PM Morrison, also paid a visit to Kibbutz Kfar Aza, the area which became the scene of devastation as Hamas militants launched their October 7 attack called Operation Al-Aqsa Floodgate.

The two leaders, along with Israeli soldiers and officials, also walked into some houses that were burned during the October 7 attacks.

Johnson, as reported by Reuters, said that he believed that the attacks, which killed over 1,400 Israelis, might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is “starting to fade” but stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-semitic-crimes-surge-in-france-over-1000-acts-recorded-since-october-7-hamas-attack-655582">Anti-Semitic crimes surge in France: Over 1,000 acts recorded since October 7 Hamas attack</a>

<h2>Memory of the Holocaust 'starting to fade'</h2>

Later, talking to the press, Johnson said he believed that the attacks, which killed over 1,400 Israelis, might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is "starting to fade". He also stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated".

"There's been no single attack like this on the Jewish people since the Second World War, and that's a matter of record," said Johnson.

"I think that maybe because across the world, the memory and the lesson of that appalling crime, where six million died, the memory may be starting to fade. And it may be that what we're really seeing right now, in some of these marches and these demos, and the unthinking way people are talking about this issue, what we're starting to see perhaps, I hope this really isn't the case, we're seeing more and more evidence of antisemitism."

"In the end, that is something that simply cannot be tolerated, neither in my country nor anywhere else," he emphasised.

In the attack, as per Israeli estimates, around 1,400 people were killed, while more than 230 were taken hostage by the militants. These kidnapped individuals, which involve foreign nationals and around 30 children, remain with the Hamas, amid calls for their release. As of Sunday, more than 9,770 Palestinians have been killed in the war, said Gaza health officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson on Sunday (Nov 5) visited Jerusalem, and met with British soldiers enlisted in the Israeli Army. The British leader, who was accompanied by former Australian PM Scott Morrison, also visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza, which was devastated in the terror attack by Hamas militants on October 7.

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson on Sunday (Nov 5) visited Jerusalem, and met with British soldiers enlisted in the Israeli Army. The British leader, who was accompanied by former Australian PM Scott Morrison, also visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza, which was devastated in the terror attack by Hamas militants on October 7. Johnson talks to troops As per Reuters news agency, the British leader, during his conversation with the soldiers, expressed his support for the troops and said he disagreed with those trying to make a moral equivalence between what the Israeli soldiers are doing and what the Hamas militants are doing. Also read | USA's Blinken visits Turkey amid tensions over Israel-Hamas war, F-16 deal Kibbutz Kfar Aza visit Johnson, accompanied by former Australian PM Morrison, also paid a visit to Kibbutz Kfar Aza, the area which became the scene of devastation as Hamas militants launched their October 7 attack called Operation Al-Aqsa Floodgate. The two leaders, along with Israeli soldiers and officials, also walked into some houses that were burned during the October 7 attacks. Johnson, as reported by Reuters, said that he believed that the attacks, which killed over 1,400 Israelis, might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is “starting to fade” but stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated". Also read | Anti-Semitic crimes surge in France: Over 1,000 acts recorded since October 7 Hamas attack Memory of the Holocaust 'starting to fade' Later, talking to the press, Johnson said he believed that the attacks, which killed over 1,400 Israelis, might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is "starting to fade". He also stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated". "There's been no single attack like this on the Jewish people since the Second World War, and that's a matter of record," said Johnson. "I think that maybe because across the world, the memory and the lesson of that appalling crime, where six million died, the memory may be starting to fade. And it may be that what we're really seeing right now, in some of these marches and these demos, and the unthinking way people are talking about this issue, what we're starting to see perhaps, I hope this really isn't the case, we're seeing more and more evidence of antisemitism." "In the end, that is something that simply cannot be tolerated, neither in my country nor anywhere else," he emphasised. In the attack, as per Israeli estimates, around 1,400 people were killed, while more than 230 were taken hostage by the militants. These kidnapped individuals, which involve foreign nationals and around 30 children, remain with the Hamas, amid calls for their release. As of Sunday, more than 9,770 Palestinians have been killed in the war, said Gaza health officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel vs Hamas: Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson visits Kibbutz, says memory of Holocaust 'starting to fade'

WhatsApp recently introduced an Artificial Intelligence-based feature that lets users generate images based on prompts. In a disturbing development, the said feature, as per a report, is returning pictures of a gun or a child with a gun when prompted with terms like "Muslim boy Palestinian", "Palestine" or "Palestinian".

The feature is only available in limited locations, and hence couldn't be tested by WION. However, the Guardian reports that, while results vary, its testing of the said feature rendered "various stickers portraying guns" when the three terms mentioned above were searched.

<h2>A biased AI?</h2>

As per the report, while prompts involving Palestine generated images with weaponry, searches using prompts like "Israeli boy" would bring up results of children playing sports like soccer or reading.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-a-graveyard-where-parenthood-is-a-curse-israel-hamas-war-claims-lives-of-400-children-every-day-654341">Gaza a 'graveyard' where parenthood is a 'curse': Israel-Hamas war claims lives of 400+ children every day</a>

Meanwhile, in contrast to results for "Muslim boy Palestinian", a search for "Jewish boy Israeli" generated four images of boys — two wearing the star of David, one reading while wearing a Yarmulke (a skullcap worn by orthodox Jewish men) and the final one just standing.

Even explicit searches for "Israel army" reportedly generated results with smiling and/or praying soldiers, with no guns in sight.

<img alt="WhatsApp imagines Palestinian kids with guns, and Israelis with books" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73a32d3e-b07f-416e-98af-91c0c2e45116" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2870%29.jpg" />

WhatsApp imagines Palestinian kids with guns (Image credit: WhatsApp via The Guardian)

The Guardian reports that searches for "Muslim Palestine" surfaced images of a woman in hijab in various poses: reading, standing, holding a sign and holding a flower.

<h2>Has anyone reported this?</h2>

Talking to the Guardian, a former employee of Meta revealed that the tech giant's employees have reported and escalated the issue internally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

This revelation comes as Meta comes under fire over an increasing number of users on Instagram and Facebook reporting biased moderation policies — in favour of Israel. Users posting in support of Palestine have reported a steep drop in engagement.

In a blog post from mid-October, Meta clarified that its "policies are designed to give everyone a voice while keeping people safe on our apps," and that "we apply these policies regardless of who is posting or their personal beliefs, and it is never our intention to suppress a particular community or point of view."

Meta also said, "Given the higher volumes of content being reported to us, we know content that doesn’t violate our policies may be removed in error."

(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;

WhatsApp recently introduced an Artificial Intelligence-based feature that lets users generate images based on prompts. In a disturbing development, the said feature, as per a report, is returning pictures of a gun or a child with a gun when prompted with terms like "Muslim boy Palestinian", "Palestine" or "Palestinian".

WhatsApp recently introduced an Artificial Intelligence-based feature that lets users generate images based on prompts. In a disturbing development, the said feature, as per a report, is returning pictures of a gun or a child with a gun when prompted with terms like "Muslim boy Palestinian", "Palestine" or "Palestinian". The feature is only available in limited locations, and hence couldn't be tested by WION. However, the Guardian reports that, while results vary, its testing of the said feature rendered "various stickers portraying guns" when the three terms mentioned above were searched. A biased AI? As per the report, while prompts involving Palestine generated images with weaponry, searches using prompts like "Israeli boy" would bring up results of children playing sports like soccer or reading. Also read | Gaza a 'graveyard' where parenthood is a 'curse': Israel-Hamas war claims lives of 400+ children every day Meanwhile, in contrast to results for "Muslim boy Palestinian", a search for "Jewish boy Israeli" generated four images of boys — two wearing the star of David, one reading while wearing a Yarmulke (a skullcap worn by orthodox Jewish men) and the final one just standing. Even explicit searches for "Israel army" reportedly generated results with smiling and/or praying soldiers, with no guns in sight. WhatsApp imagines Palestinian kids with guns (Image credit: WhatsApp via The Guardian) The Guardian reports that searches for "Muslim Palestine" surfaced images of a woman in hijab in various poses: reading, standing, holding a sign and holding a flower. Has anyone reported this? Talking to the Guardian, a former employee of Meta revealed that the tech giant's employees have reported and escalated the issue internally. Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old This revelation comes as Meta comes under fire over an increasing number of users on Instagram and Facebook reporting biased moderation policies — in favour of Israel. Users posting in support of Palestine have reported a steep drop in engagement. In a blog post from mid-October, Meta clarified that its "policies are designed to give everyone a voice while keeping people safe on our apps," and that "we apply these policies regardless of who is posting or their personal beliefs, and it is never our intention to suppress a particular community or point of view." Meta also said, "Given the higher volumes of content being reported to us, we know content that doesn’t violate our policies may be removed in error." (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.

Biased AI? New WhatsApp feature imagines Palestinian children with guns and Israelis with books

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

Gaza, as per the UN's children agency UNICEF, has become "a graveyard for thousands of children", where more than 400 are killed or injured every day. Gazans say parenthood in the war-torn land has become a "curse".

<h2>The toll on innocence</h2>

As per global charity Save the Children, in just over three weeks, the ongoing war has claimed the lives of more children than all the world's conflicts combined in the last three years.

In the crowded Gaza Strip, almost half of the 2.3 million inhabitants are under 18, and so far, around 40 per cent of the dead are children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

James Elder, the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) spokesperson,&nbsp;said, "Gaza has become a graveyard for thousands of children".

According to UNICEF estimates, every day, more than 400 children are killed or injured in Gaza due to the Israeli offensive.&nbsp;

In a statement, the UN agency said that around 3,500 children have reportedly been killed, while more than 6,800 have been injured due to the "ongoing bombardment".

"This cannot become the new normal," it asserted, adding, "Children have endured too much already. The killing and captivity of children must stop. Children are not a target."

<h2>The 'curse' of parenthood</h2>

"It’s a curse to be a parent in Gaza," said Ahmed Modawikh, who lost his eight-year-old daughter to the war, as quoted by news agency AP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-im-fine-family-reveal-6-year-old-hate-crime-victims-heartbreaking-last-words-647816">'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime</a>

Another Gazan, Yasmine Jouda, who has lost 68 members of his extended family in an airstrike on a four-story building in Deir al-Balah, summed up the situation in just nine words: "People are running from death only to find death".

It is not just Gaza. Israeli children have also become victims of the bloodshed too. When Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, about 1,400 Israelis were killed, among them babies and small children. 
 
Reports of allegedly beheaded babies and charred bodies of children shocked the global community. Of the more than 240 hostages still stuck in the clutches of militants, some 30 are children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

The tragedy of lost innocence unfortunately doesn't end here. Hundreds of minors have lost their parents, many are left without a family.

"What did this tiny baby do to deserve a life without any family?" questions Jouda, whose one-year-old Milissa is now an orphan, having lost her mother to an attack.

A huge number of injured children, their heartbreaking visuals of being pulled from the rubble, all bloody or writhing on dirty gurneys in makeshift hospitals, are a haunting reminder of the massive cost wars have on 'innocence'.&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;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry. Gaza, as per the UN's children agency UNICEF, has become "a graveyard for thousands of children", where more than 400 are killed or injured every day. Gazans say parenthood in the war-torn land has become a "curse". The toll on innocence As per global charity Save the Children, in just over three weeks, the ongoing war has claimed the lives of more children than all the world's conflicts combined in the last three years. In the crowded Gaza Strip, almost half of the 2.3 million inhabitants are under 18, and so far, around 40 per cent of the dead are children. Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old James Elder, the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) spokesperson, said, "Gaza has become a graveyard for thousands of children". According to UNICEF estimates, every day, more than 400 children are killed or injured in Gaza due to the Israeli offensive. In a statement, the UN agency said that around 3,500 children have reportedly been killed, while more than 6,800 have been injured due to the "ongoing bombardment". "This cannot become the new normal," it asserted, adding, "Children have endured too much already. The killing and captivity of children must stop. Children are not a target." The 'curse' of parenthood "It’s a curse to be a parent in Gaza," said Ahmed Modawikh, who lost his eight-year-old daughter to the war, as quoted by news agency AP. Also read | 'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime Another Gazan, Yasmine Jouda, who has lost 68 members of his extended family in an airstrike on a four-story building in Deir al-Balah, summed up the situation in just nine words: "People are running from death only to find death". It is not just Gaza. Israeli children have also become victims of the bloodshed too. When Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, about 1,400 Israelis were killed, among them babies and small children. Reports of allegedly beheaded babies and charred bodies of children shocked the global community. Of the more than 240 hostages still stuck in the clutches of militants, some 30 are children. Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies The tragedy of lost innocence unfortunately doesn't end here. Hundreds of minors have lost their parents, many are left without a family. "What did this tiny baby do to deserve a life without any family?" questions Jouda, whose one-year-old Milissa is now an orphan, having lost her mother to an attack. A huge number of injured children, their heartbreaking visuals of being pulled from the rubble, all bloody or writhing on dirty gurneys in makeshift hospitals, are a haunting reminder of the massive cost wars have on 'innocence'. (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.

Gaza a 'graveyard' where parenthood is a 'curse': Israel-Hamas war claims lives of 400+ children every day

Hamas'&nbsp;underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces.&nbsp;

We previously reported that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will use an innovative weapon called the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">"sponge bombs"</a> and special 'killer' drones to combat militants and their surprise ambush. Now, recent reports indicate that the military will use specialist units that include attack dogs.&nbsp;

<h2>'Sting' attack dogs and specialised units</h2>

As per The National report quoting officials in the Israeli military, specialist teams made up of Oketz or "sting" dog attack units and the Samur "Weasel" subterranean commandos will help deal with these tunnels.

These commandos, as per the report, have been trained in a specially built tunnel complex under the Negev Desert in Israel.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels</a>

Reportedly, defence analysts have disclosed that the forces have used ground-penetrating radar and gravity detectors to map out the over 500-kilometre&nbsp;spiderweb tunnel system under Gaza.

Israel has also formed a force of combat engineers to locate the tunnels. This force is called Yahalom "Diamond" and has been trained to either destroy the tunnels or blow them up, to allow for a "hard entry" by the Samur and Oketz units.

The two units will drop into the tunnels that would likely have been blown open.

They will also use robots that have been developed by Tel Aviv company Roboteam. The company has developed IRIS, a 'throwbot', that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments, such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance.

Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports, can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves.

<h2>Gaza tunnels</h2>

As per former Israeli military brigadier General Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40–50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

"It is a very complicated situation, and I'm not talking about the number of dead or number of kidnapped, namely the infrastructure of the lower city, of the tunnels, is a very delicate situation," said Omri Attar, a reserve major in a special operations brigade.

Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures and has exit/entry points in civilian areas.

Reuters reports that Israeli ground troops have also been trained to locate and seal off air vents and escape hatches leading to the tunnel openings.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas' underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces.

Hamas' underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces. We previously reported that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will use an innovative weapon called the "sponge bombs" and special 'killer' drones to combat militants and their surprise ambush. Now, recent reports indicate that the military will use specialist units that include attack dogs. 'Sting' attack dogs and specialised units As per The National report quoting officials in the Israeli military, specialist teams made up of Oketz or "sting" dog attack units and the Samur "Weasel" subterranean commandos will help deal with these tunnels. These commandos, as per the report, have been trained in a specially built tunnel complex under the Negev Desert in Israel. Also read | Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels Reportedly, defence analysts have disclosed that the forces have used ground-penetrating radar and gravity detectors to map out the over 500-kilometre spiderweb tunnel system under Gaza. Israel has also formed a force of combat engineers to locate the tunnels. This force is called Yahalom "Diamond" and has been trained to either destroy the tunnels or blow them up, to allow for a "hard entry" by the Samur and Oketz units. The two units will drop into the tunnels that would likely have been blown open. They will also use robots that have been developed by Tel Aviv company Roboteam. The company has developed IRIS, a 'throwbot', that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments, such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance. Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports, can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves. Gaza tunnels As per former Israeli military brigadier General Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40–50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions." Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old "It is a very complicated situation, and I'm not talking about the number of dead or number of kidnapped, namely the infrastructure of the lower city, of the tunnels, is a very delicate situation," said Omri Attar, a reserve major in a special operations brigade. Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures and has exit/entry points in civilian areas. Reuters reports that Israeli ground troops have also been trained to locate and seal off air vents and escape hatches leading to the tunnel openings. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sponge bombs,' killer drones, and attack dogs: The many weapons Israel will use to tackle Hamas tunnels

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst. Away from the blood and the alarms of the Israel-Hamas war, a family in Minnesota is yet to come to grips with the massive price they've paid: 42 lives.

A week ago, a Palestinian American family in Maple Grove, Minnesota in the US, learned that they had lost 42 members of their family to the war.

<h2>Coming to terms&nbsp;</h2>

Tariq Hamouda and his wife&nbsp;still cannot fully comprehend that they've lost three generations of their family.&nbsp;Talking to CNN, Hamouda said that his wife, whose maiden name is Saqallah, lost four brothers, a sister, and their many children in what they claim were Israeli airstrikes. The explosions, as per the family, destroyed the Saqallah family compound in the Sheikh Ejleen neighbourhood of Gaza City on October 19.&nbsp;

"Up until last night, she is still denying (the loss)," said Hamouda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fuel-and-medicines-dwindle-as-gazas-only-cancer-hospital-bears-the-brunt-of-israeli-blockade-report-648708">Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report</a>

Another member of the family, Eyad Abu Shaban, who lives in South Florida, says, "It's like your whole world stops" after such a loss.

He told CNN that of the 42 family members they lost, the youngest was aged just three months, and the oldest was around 77 years. Among the deceased were medical professionals, including eye and ENT doctors who operated Gaza's prominent family-owned eye clinics.

<h2>No warning given</h2>

As per Tariq Hamouda, before the strikes, the family received calls warning of military activity in the area, but they were not asked to evacuate.

"They have bombed houses with warnings and without warnings," he said, deploring the fear, and confusion faced by Palestinians.

Hamouda revealed that his mother-in-law, who was standing on the balcony when the first strike happened, managed to escape.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-mother-of-6-year-old-hate-crime-victim-asks-world-to-pray-for-peace-650965">Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace'</a>

"My mother-in-law said her sons tried to evacuate, but they had no time."

The Palestinian-American man said that a second strike obliterated the family house, killing dozens inside.&nbsp;

Hamouda and his family insist that the affected family members had no involvement in any militant activities and that they "had nothing to do with anything at all."

Abu Shaban underlined that their family consisted of ordinary civilians.

"We have no Hamas members [in our family]. They're just ordinary people: doctors and grandmothers and grandfathers and uncles and aunts and children," he lamented, adding, "I mean, if you want to exterminate Hamas then you should go to the source."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels</a>

Appealing for the violence to cease, the aggrieved family highlighted the human toll of the conflict and said, "We've never seen in this day and age where the whole world is watching innocent people just being torn apart. Families, whole families, just wiped off the map."

"I want everybody to know that the people of Gaza are just like them. They hurt, they bleed, they have families, they have feelings," added Abu Shaban.

(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

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst. Away from the blood and the alarms of the Israel-Hamas war, a family in Minnesota is yet to come to grips with the massive price they've paid: 42 lives. A week ago, a Palestinian American family in Maple Grove, Minnesota in the US, learned that they had lost 42 members of their family to the war. Coming to terms Tariq Hamouda and his wife still cannot fully comprehend that they've lost three generations of their family. Talking to CNN, Hamouda said that his wife, whose maiden name is Saqallah, lost four brothers, a sister, and their many children in what they claim were Israeli airstrikes. The explosions, as per the family, destroyed the Saqallah family compound in the Sheikh Ejleen neighbourhood of Gaza City on October 19. "Up until last night, she is still denying (the loss)," said Hamouda. Also read | Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report Another member of the family, Eyad Abu Shaban, who lives in South Florida, says, "It's like your whole world stops" after such a loss. He told CNN that of the 42 family members they lost, the youngest was aged just three months, and the oldest was around 77 years. Among the deceased were medical professionals, including eye and ENT doctors who operated Gaza's prominent family-owned eye clinics. No warning given As per Tariq Hamouda, before the strikes, the family received calls warning of military activity in the area, but they were not asked to evacuate. "They have bombed houses with warnings and without warnings," he said, deploring the fear, and confusion faced by Palestinians. Hamouda revealed that his mother-in-law, who was standing on the balcony when the first strike happened, managed to escape. Also read | Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace' "My mother-in-law said her sons tried to evacuate, but they had no time." The Palestinian-American man said that a second strike obliterated the family house, killing dozens inside. Hamouda and his family insist that the affected family members had no involvement in any militant activities and that they "had nothing to do with anything at all." Abu Shaban underlined that their family consisted of ordinary civilians. "We have no Hamas members [in our family]. They're just ordinary people: doctors and grandmothers and grandfathers and uncles and aunts and children," he lamented, adding, "I mean, if you want to exterminate Hamas then you should go to the source." Also read | Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels Appealing for the violence to cease, the aggrieved family highlighted the human toll of the conflict and said, "We've never seen in this day and age where the whole world is watching innocent people just being torn apart. Families, whole families, just wiped off the map." "I want everybody to know that the people of Gaza are just like them. They hurt, they bleed, they have families, they have feelings," added Abu Shaban. (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

'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East.

He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region.

<h2>Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"?</h2>

Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services."

The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-enter-russian-airport-in-search-of-jewish-people-chant-anti-israeli-remarks-652865">Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans</a>

Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability."

Putin also said that in the wake&nbsp;to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions."

<h2>Old habits?</h2>

As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces.

Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation".

However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-government-aide-paul-bristow-fired-after-calls-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-653237">Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza</a>

"We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added.

<h2>What happened at Makhachkala airport?</h2>

On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region. Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"? Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services." The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society. Also read | Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability." Putin also said that in the wake to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions." Old habits? As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces. Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation". However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza "We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added. What happened at Makhachkala airport? On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East

Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa.

<h2>Patients suffocating</h2>

The medical organisation in a statement said that "the Israeli army deliberately continues to launch rockets directly near Al-Quds hospital with the aim of forcing medical staff, displaced individuals and patients to evacuate the hospital."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-concerns-mount-over-regional-war-will-the-israel-hamas-war-spread-652974">West Asia: Concerns mount over regional war. Will the Israel-Hamas war spread?</a>

This, as per The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, has "caused significant damage to hospital departments and exposed residents and patients to suffocation".

Furthermore, as per the organisation, some 14,000 displaced people sheltering in the hospital are also affected by the Israeli bombing.

<h2>Evacuation ordered</h2>

Talking to news agency AFP, Hospital director Bashar Murad revealed that, on Sunday, twice, they received calls, and threats from Israeli forces asking them to evacuate the facility.

"We received strongly worded threats from the occupation (Israeli) forces to immediately evacuate Al-Quds hospital in the Gaza Strip as it will be bombed," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/earnings-in-the-fog-of-war-global-companies-dance-to-israel-hamas-tune-652988">Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune</a>

On Facebook, the group said, "Since this morning, there has been raids 50 metres away from the hospital."

However, as per a military spokesperson, these calls were not threats, rather they were "part of the military's overall call asking people to head to the south" of the Gaza Strip.

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Direct targeting near Al-Quds Hospital in Tel Al-Hawa. This hospital houses over 14,000 displaced people and hundreds of patients. 
 
The occupation warned the hospital that it would be bombed and that it must be evacuated. It is not logical or reasonable in this situation to… <a href="https://t.co/fvsovRmg1d">pic.twitter.com/fvsovRmg1d</a>
— Dunia🇵🇸 (@Dunian98) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dunian98/status/1718648071989399844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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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.

<h2>Deeply concerning: WHO</h2>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of World Health Organization (WHO) has labelled the reports of threats to the Al-Quds hospital "deeply concerning".&nbsp;

Taking to social media platform X, he reiterated, "It's impossible to evacuate hospitals full of patients without endangering their lives".

Meanwhile, militant group Hamas has urged the "United Nations and the international community to take immediate action to stop the threat by the occupation (Israel) to target Al-Quds hospital".

Hamas-ruled Gaza's health ministry claims that&nbsp;during the course of war that erupted on October 7th, there have been 57 attacks on medical facilities. In a statement, the ministry said that as the fighting rages on, a dozen hospitals in Gaza are no longer functioning. Additionally, it claimed said that the war has claimed the lives of 116 health workers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa. Patients suffocating The medical organisation in a statement said that "the Israeli army deliberately continues to launch rockets directly near Al-Quds hospital with the aim of forcing medical staff, displaced individuals and patients to evacuate the hospital." Also read | West Asia: Concerns mount over regional war. Will the Israel-Hamas war spread? This, as per The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, has "caused significant damage to hospital departments and exposed residents and patients to suffocation". Furthermore, as per the organisation, some 14,000 displaced people sheltering in the hospital are also affected by the Israeli bombing. Evacuation ordered Talking to news agency AFP, Hospital director Bashar Murad revealed that, on Sunday, twice, they received calls, and threats from Israeli forces asking them to evacuate the facility. "We received strongly worded threats from the occupation (Israeli) forces to immediately evacuate Al-Quds hospital in the Gaza Strip as it will be bombed," he said. Also read | Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune On Facebook, the group said, "Since this morning, there has been raids 50 metres away from the hospital." However, as per a military spokesperson, these calls were not threats, rather they were "part of the military's overall call asking people to head to the south" of the Gaza Strip. Direct targeting near Al-Quds Hospital in Tel Al-Hawa. This hospital houses over 14,000 displaced people and hundreds of patients. The occupation warned the hospital that it would be bombed and that it must be evacuated. It is not logical or reasonable in this situation to… pic.twitter.com/fvsovRmg1d — Dunia🇵🇸 (@Dunian98) October 29, 2023 × 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. Deeply concerning: WHO Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of World Health Organization (WHO) has labelled the reports of threats to the Al-Quds hospital "deeply concerning". Taking to social media platform X, he reiterated, "It's impossible to evacuate hospitals full of patients without endangering their lives". Meanwhile, militant group Hamas has urged the "United Nations and the international community to take immediate action to stop the threat by the occupation (Israel) to target Al-Quds hospital". Hamas-ruled Gaza's health ministry claims that during the course of war that erupted on October 7th, there have been 57 attacks on medical facilities. In a statement, the ministry said that as the fighting rages on, a dozen hospitals in Gaza are no longer functioning. Additionally, it claimed said that the war has claimed the lives of 116 health workers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: 1,400 displaced, hundreds of patients under threat as Israel bombs Al-Quds hospital vicinity

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians.

This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry&nbsp;released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes.

<h2>A mockery of tragedy</h2>

In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms.&nbsp;

An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children&nbsp;who can be seen taking part in the taunting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-nearly-7000-people-killed-amid-israeli-strikes-651766">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes</a>

Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes.

One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children.

In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days.&nbsp;

<h2>A wave of outrage</h2>

The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight.&nbsp;

On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?"

Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469">US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</a>

One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!"

Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!"

Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

(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.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy. As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians. This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes. A mockery of tragedy In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms. An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children who can be seen taking part in the taunting. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes. One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children. In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days. A wave of outrage The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight. On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?" Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters." Also read | US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!" Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!" Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (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

Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians

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.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions.&nbsp;

Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants.

<h2>How the 'Sponge Bomb' works</h2>

The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon&nbsp;and are different from traditional explosives.&nbsp;

They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead&nbsp;they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies.&nbsp;

In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-israel-hamas-war-cause-a-global-jihad-against-the-west-652050">Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West?</a>

Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages.&nbsp;

As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war".&nbsp;

These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier.&nbsp;

When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens.&nbsp;

<h2>Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units</h2>

As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021.

Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border.&nbsp;

Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-putin-russia-gets-orthodox-about-abortions-restricts-access-651903">Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access</a>

Additionally,&nbsp;troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without.

Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions.

Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance.

Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves.

<h2>Risks, complications and more</h2>

These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind.

Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-before-and-after-satellite-images-show-destruction-in-gaza-651992">Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza</a>

Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their&nbsp;purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks.&nbsp;

However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks.

<h2>A moral quandary</h2>

As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back&nbsp;in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas.

Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas."

While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives.

This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation.&nbsp;

"Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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.

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. As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions. Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants. How the 'Sponge Bomb' works The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon and are different from traditional explosives. They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies. In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways. Also read | Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West? Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages. As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war". These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier. When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens. Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021. Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border. Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph. Also read | Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access Additionally, troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without. Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions. Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance. Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves. Risks, complications and more These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind. Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks. However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks. A moral quandary As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions." Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas. Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas." While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives. This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation. "Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

<h2>'End of the world'</h2>

Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life".

"Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon."

They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-wont-hesitate-to-act-in-case-of-conflict-escalation-says-austin-650024">Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin</a>

"Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here."

The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while&nbsp;their father was still missing.

Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC.

"For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters'&nbsp;uncle.

<h2>Extended family&nbsp;in shambles</h2>

Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19.&nbsp;

Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048">Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu</a>

The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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>.

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne. 'End of the world' Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life". "Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon." They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin "Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here." The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while their father was still missing. Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC. "For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters' uncle. Extended family in shambles Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19. Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year. Also read | Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing. (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.

A family destroyed: UK girl Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in Hamas attack along with mom, sister

A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd).

Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now.&nbsp;

<h2>Gunshot heard</h2>

As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds.

The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>

At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration.

Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot.&nbsp;

However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration.&nbsp;

<h2>Who was behind this act?</h2>

Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors.

Have a look here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. <a href="https://t.co/m3jkVutLWB">pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB</a>
— Nick Estes (@nickwestes) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickwestes/status/1716225860607295877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests.

People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror.

However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car.

<h2>Arrest and suspicions&nbsp;</h2>

The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far.&nbsp;

The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/will-wikipedia-become-diipedia-elon-musk-offers-1-billion-for-nsfw-name-change-650212">Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change</a>

This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd.

A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now. Gunshot heard As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds. The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue. Also read | A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration. Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot. However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration. Who was behind this act? Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors. Have a look here: Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB — Nick Estes (@nickwestes) October 22, 2023 × Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests. People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror. However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car. Arrest and suspicions The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far. The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon. Also read | Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion. (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.

Video shows car ploughing through pro-Palestine rally in Minneapolis

The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following&nbsp;a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the&nbsp;Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis.&nbsp;

Gaza's only oncology hospital is suffering under the Israeli-imposed "total blockade," and is running out of fuel, water and medicines.

<h2>A 'total blockade'</h2>

Two days into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israel imposed a total blockade on the Gaza Strip. This effectively barred essential supplies — including fuel and medicines, from entering the region.

"We are trying to keep the essential services," Dr Subhi&nbsp;Sukeyk, the director of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, told Al Jazeera, adding that services like radiology had already ground to a halt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-gazas-al-ahli-hospital-before-and-after-rocket-strike-648618">Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike</a>

As per Sukeyk, the facility was running perilously low on the fuel needed to keep the hospital's essential services running. She also said that the hospital was running low on medicines needed for chemotherapy treatment.&nbsp;

Gaza's electricity, which is partially reliant on Israeli power lines, had been severed. Furthermore, the local power plant, which is dependent on Israeli fuel imports, was shut down over a week ago due to the siege following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which has already claimed over 1,400 lives.&nbsp;

On the Gazan side, the relentless Israeli airstrikes have further claimed over 3,300 lives — a third of this, as per Al Jazeera, are children.

<h2>Why is the cancer hospital important?</h2>

With the potential closure of the sole cancer hospital, a different kind of devastation is gripping Gaza.&nbsp;

The enclave, as per the Al Jazeera report citing Gaza health ministry data, houses over 9,000 cancer patients.&nbsp;

Operational solely on a local generator, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital now teeters on the brink of closure. The high number of patients makes the continuity of the hospital's operations a matter of life and death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-envoy-calls-netanyahu-a-liar-claims-to-have-proof-of-israels-involvement-in-hospital-attack-648272">Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement</a>

"The intensive care unit needs a lot of electricity to operate, and so do the oxygen machines," stressed Sukeyk, highlighting the critical need to keep the facility operational.

A shutdown would jeopardize the lives of countless patients reliant on the hospital for timely and indispensable cancer treatments.

"Some patients' chemotherapy had to be delayed. But they are due, they must have this treatment to prevent the tumour from spreading to their bodies, and organs," added Sukeyk.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis.

The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis. Gaza's only oncology hospital is suffering under the Israeli-imposed "total blockade," and is running out of fuel, water and medicines. A 'total blockade' Two days into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israel imposed a total blockade on the Gaza Strip. This effectively barred essential supplies — including fuel and medicines, from entering the region. "We are trying to keep the essential services," Dr Subhi Sukeyk, the director of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, told Al Jazeera, adding that services like radiology had already ground to a halt. Also read | Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike As per Sukeyk, the facility was running perilously low on the fuel needed to keep the hospital's essential services running. She also said that the hospital was running low on medicines needed for chemotherapy treatment. Gaza's electricity, which is partially reliant on Israeli power lines, had been severed. Furthermore, the local power plant, which is dependent on Israeli fuel imports, was shut down over a week ago due to the siege following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which has already claimed over 1,400 lives. On the Gazan side, the relentless Israeli airstrikes have further claimed over 3,300 lives — a third of this, as per Al Jazeera, are children. Why is the cancer hospital important? With the potential closure of the sole cancer hospital, a different kind of devastation is gripping Gaza. The enclave, as per the Al Jazeera report citing Gaza health ministry data, houses over 9,000 cancer patients. Operational solely on a local generator, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital now teeters on the brink of closure. The high number of patients makes the continuity of the hospital's operations a matter of life and death. Also read | Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement "The intensive care unit needs a lot of electricity to operate, and so do the oxygen machines," stressed Sukeyk, highlighting the critical need to keep the facility operational. A shutdown would jeopardize the lives of countless patients reliant on the hospital for timely and indispensable cancer treatments. "Some patients' chemotherapy had to be delayed. But they are due, they must have this treatment to prevent the tumour from spreading to their bodies, and organs," added Sukeyk. (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.

Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report

TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union.

<h2>Mobilisation of 'significant resources'</h2>

In a statement, the company said, that&nbsp;it&nbsp;had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform."

The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-tiktok-to-tackle-spread-of-disinformation-amid-israel-hamas-conflict-646011">EU warns TikTok to tackle spread of disinformation amid Israel-Hamas conflict</a>

TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and&nbsp;that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war".

"We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week."

"We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app.

<h2>Actions taken by TikTok</h2>

TikTok said that it has launched a command centre to monitor content about the latest conflict. The company, as per The Guardian, has also updated its automated detection systems to look for graphic and violent content.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-iran-threatens-to-intervene-if-israel-doesnt-stops-attacking-gaza-says-report-647270">Israel vs Hamas: Iran threatens to intervene if Israel doesn’t stop attacking Gaza, says report</a>

It has also appointed a number of Arabic and Hebrew-speaking moderators, and has restricted live broadcasts due to the "heightened safety risk in the context of the current hostage situation."

<h2>EU warning</h2>

On Thursday (Oct 12) the European Union warned TikTok about the surge of disinformation and gave the social media platform a 24-hour ultimatum to provide details of the measures it will take to counter this spread of misinformation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTok?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTok</a> has a particular obligation to protect children &amp; teenagers from violent content &amp; terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges &amp; potentially life-threatening content.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DSA</a> sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. 
 
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"Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," EU's industry chief Thierry Breton said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew.

(With inputs from agencies)

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TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union.

TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union. Mobilisation of 'significant resources' In a statement, the company said, that it had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform." The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region. Also read | EU warns TikTok to tackle spread of disinformation amid Israel-Hamas conflict TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war". "We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week." "We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app. Actions taken by TikTok TikTok said that it has launched a command centre to monitor content about the latest conflict. The company, as per The Guardian, has also updated its automated detection systems to look for graphic and violent content. Also read | Israel vs Hamas: Iran threatens to intervene if Israel doesn’t stop attacking Gaza, says report It has also appointed a number of Arabic and Hebrew-speaking moderators, and has restricted live broadcasts due to the "heightened safety risk in the context of the current hostage situation." EU warning On Thursday (Oct 12) the European Union warned TikTok about the surge of disinformation and gave the social media platform a 24-hour ultimatum to provide details of the measures it will take to counter this spread of misinformation. #TikTok has a particular obligation to protect children & teenagers from violent content & terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges & potentially life-threatening content.#DSA sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. Letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew⤵️ pic.twitter.com/J1tpVzXaYR — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) October 12, 2023 × "Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," EU's industry chief Thierry Breton said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew. (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.

TikTok 'stands against terrorism,' launches measures to control misinformation amid Israel-Hamas war

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants. Responding to the accusations, a spokesperson for the militant outfit said that allegations were "unethically and unprofessionally adopted by western media outlets."&nbsp;

<h2>Hamas allege media bias</h2>

In a video statement, Basim Naim, an official with Hamas' information office, as quoted by CNN, called on the media "to abide by the journalistic code of ethics".

"We firmly deny these allegations as we reject this media bias, and we call on media to abide by the journalistic code of ethics," said Naim.

Calling Hamas' recent large-scale surprise attack on Israel a "defensive" and "internally Palestinian" operation, the official said that it "targeted only the Israeli military bases and compounds."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

Naim further stated that there were explicit directives "from the top commanders of Al Qassam Brigades (Hamas' military wing) to avoid targeting civilians or killing them."

The Hamas spokesperson also commented on the hostages held by the group and said that they will be treated "in accordance with our religious values and the rules of international humanitarian law".&nbsp;As per Israeli authorities, Hamas militants are currently holding as many as 150 people hostage in Gaza.

Naim also claimed that the group was "really worried" about their safety due to Israeli aggression.

"We are really worried that since the Israeli aggression is everywhere in Gaza, they might be the victims of the Israeli army bombardment just like our people," he claimed.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas | Gravitas

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<h2>Israel releases&nbsp;horrifying photos</h2>

This statement by Hamas comes, as on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released "horrifying images" of two babies, their bodies burned beyond recognition and one of an infant's bloodstained body.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Images blurred due to their sensitive nature.

These images were shared in an apparent attempt to stoke global anger against the militants who, on October 7th, launched an unprecedented surprise attack on Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who on Thursday reached Israel in a show of solidarity, was shown these pictures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israel-pms-x-account-shares-photos-of-babies-allegedly-killed-by-hamas-646017">TRIGGER WARNING: Israel PM's X account shares photos of babies allegedly killed by Hamas</a>

Talking to the press, Blinken&nbsp;said he has seen photographs and videos of a baby riddled with bullets, soldiers beheaded and young people burned alive in their cars or hiding places.

Calling it "simply depravity in the worst imaginable way," the US Secretary of State stated that "Images are worth a thousand words," but that "these images may be worth a million."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants. Responding to the accusations, a spokesperson for the militant outfit said that allegations were "unethically and unprofessionally adopted by western media outlets." Hamas allege media bias In a video statement, Basim Naim, an official with Hamas' information office, as quoted by CNN, called on the media "to abide by the journalistic code of ethics". "We firmly deny these allegations as we reject this media bias, and we call on media to abide by the journalistic code of ethics," said Naim. Calling Hamas' recent large-scale surprise attack on Israel a "defensive" and "internally Palestinian" operation, the official said that it "targeted only the Israeli military bases and compounds." Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies Naim further stated that there were explicit directives "from the top commanders of Al Qassam Brigades (Hamas' military wing) to avoid targeting civilians or killing them." The Hamas spokesperson also commented on the hostages held by the group and said that they will be treated "in accordance with our religious values and the rules of international humanitarian law". As per Israeli authorities, Hamas militants are currently holding as many as 150 people hostage in Gaza. Naim also claimed that the group was "really worried" about their safety due to Israeli aggression. "We are really worried that since the Israeli aggression is everywhere in Gaza, they might be the victims of the Israeli army bombardment just like our people," he claimed. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas | Gravitas Israel releases horrifying photos This statement by Hamas comes, as on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released "horrifying images" of two babies, their bodies burned beyond recognition and one of an infant's bloodstained body. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Images blurred due to their sensitive nature. These images were shared in an apparent attempt to stoke global anger against the militants who, on October 7th, launched an unprecedented surprise attack on Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who on Thursday reached Israel in a show of solidarity, was shown these pictures. Also read | TRIGGER WARNING: Israel PM's X account shares photos of babies allegedly killed by Hamas Talking to the press, Blinken said he has seen photographs and videos of a baby riddled with bullets, soldiers beheaded and young people burned alive in their cars or hiding places. Calling it "simply depravity in the worst imaginable way," the US Secretary of State stated that "Images are worth a thousand words," but that "these images may be worth a million." (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.

Hamas denies involvement in killing and beheading of babies, alleges 'media bias'

North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false.&nbsp;

On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country.

<h2>Blame-shifting</h2>

North Korea's official news broadcaster KCNA on Friday called reports of the nation's weapons being in the hands of Hamas militants "groundless and false rumour(s)".

"The US administration's reptile press bodies and quasi-experts are spreading a groundless and false rumour that 'North Korea's weapons' seemed to be used for the attack on Israel," it said, as reported by Reuters.

As per the broadcaster, such reports were "a bid to shift the blame," by what it labelled "the empire of evil".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

"It is nothing but a bid to shift the blame for the Middle East crisis caused by its wrong hegemonic policy onto a third country and thus evade the international criticism focused on the empire of evil."

KCNA said that in addition to the more than a year-long Ukraine-Russia crisis, the Israel-Hamas conflict has emerged as another "huge strategic burden" for Washington. It also remarked that the crises showed the limitations of the US strategy for hegemony and the nation's goal of becoming the global superpower.

Earlier this week, the North Korean state media had blamed Israel for causing bloodshed in Gaza.

<h2>North Korea weapons and the Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

Over the past few days, media reports have alleged that Hamas militants may have used North Korean weapons in their unprecedented surprise attack on Israel.&nbsp;

Radio Free Asia, a US-funded news service, earlier this week reported that footage of Palestinian fighters showed what appeared to be a rocket launcher suspected to be from North Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-studies-israel-hamas-war-to-learn-lessons-avoid-similar-conflict-with-china-645683">Taiwan studies Israel-Hamas war to learn lessons, avoid similar conflict with China</a>

Another news service, the US government-owned Voice of America, also cited an intelligence expert to say that some weapons used by Hamas likely originated from North Korea.

<h2>Is there any proof of this?</h2>

Speaking to the press on Thursday, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said he could not confirm whether the reports about the origins of the rockets being used by Hamas were true.

Furthermore, he emphasised that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict would not affect the United States' security strategy in the world, including the Korean peninsula.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false. On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country.

North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false. On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country. Blame-shifting North Korea's official news broadcaster KCNA on Friday called reports of the nation's weapons being in the hands of Hamas militants "groundless and false rumour(s)". "The US administration's reptile press bodies and quasi-experts are spreading a groundless and false rumour that 'North Korea's weapons' seemed to be used for the attack on Israel," it said, as reported by Reuters. As per the broadcaster, such reports were "a bid to shift the blame," by what it labelled "the empire of evil". Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies "It is nothing but a bid to shift the blame for the Middle East crisis caused by its wrong hegemonic policy onto a third country and thus evade the international criticism focused on the empire of evil." KCNA said that in addition to the more than a year-long Ukraine-Russia crisis, the Israel-Hamas conflict has emerged as another "huge strategic burden" for Washington. It also remarked that the crises showed the limitations of the US strategy for hegemony and the nation's goal of becoming the global superpower. Earlier this week, the North Korean state media had blamed Israel for causing bloodshed in Gaza. North Korea weapons and the Hamas Over the past few days, media reports have alleged that Hamas militants may have used North Korean weapons in their unprecedented surprise attack on Israel. Radio Free Asia, a US-funded news service, earlier this week reported that footage of Palestinian fighters showed what appeared to be a rocket launcher suspected to be from North Korea. Also read | Taiwan studies Israel-Hamas war to learn lessons, avoid similar conflict with China Another news service, the US government-owned Voice of America, also cited an intelligence expert to say that some weapons used by Hamas likely originated from North Korea. Is there any proof of this? Speaking to the press on Thursday, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said he could not confirm whether the reports about the origins of the rockets being used by Hamas were true. Furthermore, he emphasised that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict would not affect the United States' security strategy in the world, including the Korean peninsula. (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.

North Korea denies weapon supply to Hamas, calls US 'empire of evil' of blame-shifting

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions during its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.&nbsp;

The human rights organisation emphasised that Israel's deployment of such weapons poses a severe threat to the safety of civilians, and can potentially cause significant and long-lasting injuries.

<h2>White phosphorus&nbsp;</h2>

Human Rights Watch, as per a Reuters report, claimed to have verified the authenticity of videos captured in Lebanon on October 10 and in Gaza on October 11. These videos reportedly depict "multiple airbursts of artillery-fired white phosphorus over the Gaza City port and two rural locations along the Israel-Lebanon border."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-denies-weapon-supply-to-hamas-accuses-us-the-empire-of-evil-of-blame-shifting-646120">North Korea denies weapon supply to Hamas, accuses US 'the empire of evil' of blame-shifting</a>

The organisation further shared links to two videos that were circulated on social media platforms, asserting that they showcase the use of "155mm white phosphorus artillery projectiles, seemingly for the purpose of creating smokescreens, marking, or signalling." Both videos show scenes near the border shared by Israel and Lebanon, said Human Rights Watch.

However, as per Reuters, the group did not provide links to videos showing their alleged use in Gaza.

<h2>Israel denies accusation</h2>

Reuters reports that when asked for comments on the Human Rights Watch's accusations, the Israeli military said it was "currently not aware of the use of weapons containing white phosphorus in Gaza."

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War: Israel accused of using White Phosphorus in Gaza

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However, the military made no mention of the allegations of the weapon's use in Lebanon.

<h2>What are white phosphorus munitions?</h2>

White phosphorus refers to weaponised phosphorus, which, as per Reuters, is used to incinerate enemy positions.

Its use on the battlefield is legal for the purposes of making smoke screens, generating illumination, marking targets or burning bunkers and buildings.

Because of its legal uses, international conventions don't ban its use as a chemical weapon. However, white phosphorus is known to cause serious burns and spark fires.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

It is considered an incendiary weapon under Protocol III of the Convention on the Prohibition of Use of Certain Conventional Weapons, which prohibits its use against military targets located among civilians. However, Israel has not signed this protocol and is not bound by its provisions.

Previously, in 2013, Israel's military announced plans to phase out the use of white phosphorus smokescreen munitions. It had used the munitions during the 2008-2009 offensive in Gaza, this had drawn allegations of war crimes from several rights organisations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions during its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. The human rights organisation emphasised that Israel's deployment of such weapons poses a severe threat to the safety of civilians, and can potentially cause significant and long-lasting injuries.

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions during its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. The human rights organisation emphasised that Israel's deployment of such weapons poses a severe threat to the safety of civilians, and can potentially cause significant and long-lasting injuries. White phosphorus Human Rights Watch, as per a Reuters report, claimed to have verified the authenticity of videos captured in Lebanon on October 10 and in Gaza on October 11. These videos reportedly depict "multiple airbursts of artillery-fired white phosphorus over the Gaza City port and two rural locations along the Israel-Lebanon border." Also read | North Korea denies weapon supply to Hamas, accuses US 'the empire of evil' of blame-shifting The organisation further shared links to two videos that were circulated on social media platforms, asserting that they showcase the use of "155mm white phosphorus artillery projectiles, seemingly for the purpose of creating smokescreens, marking, or signalling." Both videos show scenes near the border shared by Israel and Lebanon, said Human Rights Watch. However, as per Reuters, the group did not provide links to videos showing their alleged use in Gaza. Israel denies accusation Reuters reports that when asked for comments on the Human Rights Watch's accusations, the Israeli military said it was "currently not aware of the use of weapons containing white phosphorus in Gaza." Watch | Israel-Palestine War: Israel accused of using White Phosphorus in Gaza However, the military made no mention of the allegations of the weapon's use in Lebanon. What are white phosphorus munitions? White phosphorus refers to weaponised phosphorus, which, as per Reuters, is used to incinerate enemy positions. Its use on the battlefield is legal for the purposes of making smoke screens, generating illumination, marking targets or burning bunkers and buildings. Because of its legal uses, international conventions don't ban its use as a chemical weapon. However, white phosphorus is known to cause serious burns and spark fires. Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies It is considered an incendiary weapon under Protocol III of the Convention on the Prohibition of Use of Certain Conventional Weapons, which prohibits its use against military targets located among civilians. However, Israel has not signed this protocol and is not bound by its provisions. Previously, in 2013, Israel's military announced plans to phase out the use of white phosphorus smokescreen munitions. It had used the munitions during the 2008-2009 offensive in Gaza, this had drawn allegations of war crimes from several rights organisations. (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.

Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of using white phosphorus in Gaza and Lebanon

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iran's President, Ebrahim Raisi, held their first phone call since the landmark restoration of ties between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia&nbsp;in March.

The two leaders reportedly discussed the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and delved upon prevailing situation in Gaza following massive retaliation by Israel.

The Saudi Crown Prince also spoke by phone on Wednesday (Oct 11) with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, during which the 38-year-old he was "exerting unremitting efforts through regional and international communication to achieve coordination that pushes for a halt of the current escalation".

Iran-backed Hamas militant group launched a sudden attack on Israel last weekend which so far has claimed nearly 1,200 lives in Israel while more than 1,100 are reported to have been killed in Gaza.

<h2>Hostage crisis in spotlight</h2>

Concerns have grown regarding the fate of over 150 hostages, mainly Israelis, along with foreign and dual nationals, held by Hamas in Gaza. But in the first sign of ease of the hostage crisis, Hamas on October 11 said it had released an Israeli mother and two children who were held as captives by the militant groups.

The ongoing war has put pressure on the potential normalisation deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, which has been driven by the US President Joe Biden's administration.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a>

The deal includes security guarantees and assistance in developing a civilian nuclear programme in exchange for Saudi support.

Saudi Arabia and Iran restored diplomatic ties in March, ending a seven-year thaw, with China playing a pivotal role in brokering the deal.

Also watch |&nbsp;Hamas' off-the-shelf drone damages Israel's high-tech infrastructure

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During his conversation with Erdogan, the Crown Prince reportedly underscored the need for talks between parties concerned through regional and international channels in order to&nbsp;halt the ongoing escalation of the state of war in and beyond Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iran's President, Ebrahim Raisi, held their first phone call since the landmark restoration of ties between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia in March.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iran's President, Ebrahim Raisi, held their first phone call since the landmark restoration of ties between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia in March. The two leaders reportedly discussed the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and delved upon prevailing situation in Gaza following massive retaliation by Israel. The Saudi Crown Prince also spoke by phone on Wednesday (Oct 11) with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, during which the 38-year-old he was "exerting unremitting efforts through regional and international communication to achieve coordination that pushes for a halt of the current escalation". Iran-backed Hamas militant group launched a sudden attack on Israel last weekend which so far has claimed nearly 1,200 lives in Israel while more than 1,100 are reported to have been killed in Gaza. Hostage crisis in spotlight Concerns have grown regarding the fate of over 150 hostages, mainly Israelis, along with foreign and dual nationals, held by Hamas in Gaza. But in the first sign of ease of the hostage crisis, Hamas on October 11 said it had released an Israeli mother and two children who were held as captives by the militant groups. The ongoing war has put pressure on the potential normalisation deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, which has been driven by the US President Joe Biden's administration. Also read | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West The deal includes security guarantees and assistance in developing a civilian nuclear programme in exchange for Saudi support. Saudi Arabia and Iran restored diplomatic ties in March, ending a seven-year thaw, with China playing a pivotal role in brokering the deal. Also watch | Hamas' off-the-shelf drone damages Israel's high-tech infrastructure × During his conversation with Erdogan, the Crown Prince reportedly underscored the need for talks between parties concerned through regional and international channels in order to halt the ongoing escalation of the state of war in and beyond Israel. (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.

Israel vs Hamas: Iran's President Raisi dials Saudi Crown Prince to address the crisis

The United States is urging its international partners to make use of their influence with Hamas and its supporters in Iran. The nation is encouraging global partners to do this to get the militants to stand down their assault on Israel, said a senior US official, as reported by AFP.

This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday headed to Israel on a Middle East Mission, showing his nation's solidarity with the war-torn nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-irans-president-raisi-dials-saudi-crown-prince-to-address-the-crisis-645636">Israel vs Hamas: Iran's President Raisi dials Saudi Crown Prince to address the crisis</a>

Speaking to press during a refuelling stop in Ireland, an official accompanying Blinken said: "Frankly, we're asking all of our partners to engage with Hamas, Hezbollah or Iran — with any of that trifecta — with whom they have any channels or relations or what have you, to get Hamas to stand down from its attacks, to release those hostages, and to keep Hezbollah out, and to keep Iran out of the fray."

<h2>Blinken in Israel</h2>

Blinken as per Reuters is due to meet senior Israeli officials, including the nation's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;

US further boosting military support to Israel will feature among the topics of discussion.

Before boarding a plane for Israel, he told reporters: "I'm going with a very simple and clear message ... that the United States has Israel's back."

A top objective for Blinken during this visit will be to deliver a message, largely directed at Iran and Iran-backed groups like Lebanon's Hezbollah, to stand down and stop an escalation of the conflict.

Also on the agenda is a visit to Jordan and other countries in the region. However, as per Reuters, it seems like a visit to West Bank is not on the cards.

<h2>Biden warns Iran</h2>

US President Joe Biden has warned Iran against getting involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-he-saw-evidence-of-hamas-beheading-israeli-children-645631">Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children</a>

Speaking to a roundtable of Jewish community leaders in Washington, the US President stressed that US' deployment of military ships and aircraft closer to Israel should be seen as a signal.&nbsp;

"We made it clear to the Iranians: Be careful," said Biden.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States is urging its international partners to make use of their influence with Hamas and its supporters in Iran. The nation is encouraging global partners to do this to get the militants to stand down their assault on Israel, said a senior US official, as reported by AFP.

The United States is urging its international partners to make use of their influence with Hamas and its supporters in Iran. The nation is encouraging global partners to do this to get the militants to stand down their assault on Israel, said a senior US official, as reported by AFP. This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday headed to Israel on a Middle East Mission, showing his nation's solidarity with the war-torn nation. Also read | Israel vs Hamas: Iran's President Raisi dials Saudi Crown Prince to address the crisis Speaking to press during a refuelling stop in Ireland, an official accompanying Blinken said: "Frankly, we're asking all of our partners to engage with Hamas, Hezbollah or Iran — with any of that trifecta — with whom they have any channels or relations or what have you, to get Hamas to stand down from its attacks, to release those hostages, and to keep Hezbollah out, and to keep Iran out of the fray." Blinken in Israel Blinken as per Reuters is due to meet senior Israeli officials, including the nation's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. US further boosting military support to Israel will feature among the topics of discussion. Before boarding a plane for Israel, he told reporters: "I'm going with a very simple and clear message ... that the United States has Israel's back." A top objective for Blinken during this visit will be to deliver a message, largely directed at Iran and Iran-backed groups like Lebanon's Hezbollah, to stand down and stop an escalation of the conflict. Also on the agenda is a visit to Jordan and other countries in the region. However, as per Reuters, it seems like a visit to West Bank is not on the cards. Biden warns Iran US President Joe Biden has warned Iran against getting involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Also read | Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children Speaking to a roundtable of Jewish community leaders in Washington, the US President stressed that US' deployment of military ships and aircraft closer to Israel should be seen as a signal. "We made it clear to the Iranians: Be careful," said Biden. (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.

As Blinken heads to Israel, US urges nations to use influence to get Hamas to stand down 

Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has set up a task force to draw lessons from the surprise attack by Hamas on Israel.

Talking to media on Thursday, Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that intelligence is key to preventing a war.

<h2>Chinese threat</h2>

Hamas' surprise attack on Israel and the resulting conflict has focused attention on the possibility of a Chinese attack on Taiwan.

The island nation faces constant pressure from Beijing. Since August 2022, it has seen two major sets of Chinese war games near its territory.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-blinken-heads-to-israel-us-urges-nations-to-use-influence-to-get-hamas-to-stand-down-645640">As Blinken heads to Israel, US urges nations to use influence to get Hamas to stand down&nbsp;</a>

When asked by reporters about the lessons Taiwan has learnt from Israel-Hamas conflict, the Taiwanese defence minister said, "the initial (lesson) is that intelligence work is very important. With intelligence, many countermeasures can be made. A war can even be avoided."

"It is everyone's shared expectations to avoid a war," said Chiu, as reported by Reuters.

Even as the island works to counter China's military threats, the Taiwan minister said that even as Taiwan's military works to boost its combat readiness, it will not initiate a conflict. He stated that the ongoing conflict demonstrated the horror of war.

<h3>Constant threat</h3>

During a forum in Taipei on Wednesday, former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison voiced his support for Taiwan's strengthening of its defences.

He said that in light of China's threats against the island nation, it is essential for Taiwan to strengthen its resilience. He also said that Taiwan needs to show "urgency" and do more.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-he-saw-evidence-of-hamas-beheading-israeli-children-645631">Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children; White House clarifies</a>

Addressing an audience that included Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, Morrison said: "Such urgency must also be demonstrated by Taiwan itself. Israel is an even smaller nation than Taiwan and likewise lives under constant threat." 
&nbsp; 
"But they spend considerably more proportionally on its defence than here in Taiwan," he added.

Taiwan's government has proposed designating around 2.5 per cent of the country's overall GDP to defence next year. In comparison, as per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Israel's defence budget this year amounted to 4.5 per cent of its GDP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has set up a task force to draw lessons from the surprise attack by Hamas on Israel. Talking to media on Thursday, Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that intelligence is key to preventing a war.

Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has set up a task force to draw lessons from the surprise attack by Hamas on Israel. Talking to media on Thursday, Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that intelligence is key to preventing a war. Chinese threat Hamas' surprise attack on Israel and the resulting conflict has focused attention on the possibility of a Chinese attack on Taiwan. The island nation faces constant pressure from Beijing. Since August 2022, it has seen two major sets of Chinese war games near its territory. Also read | As Blinken heads to Israel, US urges nations to use influence to get Hamas to stand down When asked by reporters about the lessons Taiwan has learnt from Israel-Hamas conflict, the Taiwanese defence minister said, "the initial (lesson) is that intelligence work is very important. With intelligence, many countermeasures can be made. A war can even be avoided." "It is everyone's shared expectations to avoid a war," said Chiu, as reported by Reuters. Even as the island works to counter China's military threats, the Taiwan minister said that even as Taiwan's military works to boost its combat readiness, it will not initiate a conflict. He stated that the ongoing conflict demonstrated the horror of war. Constant threat During a forum in Taipei on Wednesday, former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison voiced his support for Taiwan's strengthening of its defences. He said that in light of China's threats against the island nation, it is essential for Taiwan to strengthen its resilience. He also said that Taiwan needs to show "urgency" and do more. Also read | Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children; White House clarifies Addressing an audience that included Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, Morrison said: "Such urgency must also be demonstrated by Taiwan itself. Israel is an even smaller nation than Taiwan and likewise lives under constant threat." "But they spend considerably more proportionally on its defence than here in Taiwan," he added. Taiwan's government has proposed designating around 2.5 per cent of the country's overall GDP to defence next year. In comparison, as per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Israel's defence budget this year amounted to 4.5 per cent of its GDP. (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.

Taiwan studies Israel-Hamas war to learn lessons, avoid similar conflict with China

(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised)

The international war correspondent who initially broke the story of Hamas' alleged beheading of Israeli children is standing by her reporting.

Despite doubts circulating on social media, i24News reporter Nicole Zedeck strongly defended her account and said, "I wish that it wasn't true."

She had reported that on Tuesday, at a kibbutz near the Gaza border, 40 infants and young children were brutally murdered, with some decapitated.

<h2>'Apocalyptic scene'</h2>

Appearing on "The Clay Travis &amp; Buck Sexton Show," Zedeck recalled the gruesome scenes she witnessed while walking through a community near the Gaza border.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-blinken-heads-to-israel-us-urges-nations-to-use-influence-to-get-hamas-to-stand-down-645640">As Blinken heads to Israel, US urges nations to use influence to get Hamas to stand down&nbsp;</a>

"I witnessed some of those scenes with my own eyes as we were walking through this community that may be a quarter of a mile from the Gaza border. The atrocities that were still left behind, children, cribs, baby cribs overturned on their side, splattered with blood... Horrible, horrible images," she said.

Calling the bloodshed witnessed by Israeli soldiers as an "apocalyptic scene," she said that there were no "words to describe what they've seen."

"Babies' heads cut off. That's what they encountered when they came there."

"So as horrible as it is, and I wish that it wasn't true. And I see how those images and those words are hard to comprehend because it's hard to comprehend how anyone could commit such heinous, heinous crimes. But that's exactly what happened in just one of the kibbutz communities," she added.

<h2>'Why aren’t you showing the babies?'</h2>

When a commentator's sound bite doubting her report was played, she slammed the nay-sayers and said, "You know, it's sickening, really, that people are asking, 'Where are the babies? Why aren’t you showing the babies?'".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-claims-of-beheaded-israeli-babies-at-massacre-site-create-shockwaves-645154">Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves</a>

She asked, "Is that something that anyone would want to see the first thing with their own eyes? Because after the graphic images that I saw of just children's beds covered in blood, I don't think I would be able to stomach those atrocities as well."

"I didn’t know anyone was capable of committing something like that, so that’s the only way I could report it by speaking to these soldiers, these commanders, who witnessed it first hand," said the war correspondent.

Zedeck also credited Israeli soldiers for undertaking the agonising task of transporting the children's lifeless bodies into ambulances.

<h2>Reports of 'beheaded' babies</h2>

A spokesperson for Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday confirmed reports of babies and toddlers found with their "heads decapitated," in southern Israel.

US President Joe Biden, too, claimed to have seen photos corroborating claims of decapitated bodies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-he-saw-evidence-of-hamas-beheading-israeli-children-645631">Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children; White House clarifies</a>

"I never really thought that I would see and have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children," he said. However, his claims were later clarified by the White House, who said that neither the president nor US officials had viewed images or independently confirmed such reports. They also said that the statement was based on claims made by a spokesperson for Israel's prime minister and media reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised) The international war correspondent who initially broke the story of Hamas' alleged beheading of Israeli children is standing by her reporting.

(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised) The international war correspondent who initially broke the story of Hamas' alleged beheading of Israeli children is standing by her reporting. Despite doubts circulating on social media, i24News reporter Nicole Zedeck strongly defended her account and said, "I wish that it wasn't true." She had reported that on Tuesday, at a kibbutz near the Gaza border, 40 infants and young children were brutally murdered, with some decapitated. 'Apocalyptic scene' Appearing on "The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show," Zedeck recalled the gruesome scenes she witnessed while walking through a community near the Gaza border. Also read | As Blinken heads to Israel, US urges nations to use influence to get Hamas to stand down "I witnessed some of those scenes with my own eyes as we were walking through this community that may be a quarter of a mile from the Gaza border. The atrocities that were still left behind, children, cribs, baby cribs overturned on their side, splattered with blood... Horrible, horrible images," she said. Calling the bloodshed witnessed by Israeli soldiers as an "apocalyptic scene," she said that there were no "words to describe what they've seen." "Babies' heads cut off. That's what they encountered when they came there." "So as horrible as it is, and I wish that it wasn't true. And I see how those images and those words are hard to comprehend because it's hard to comprehend how anyone could commit such heinous, heinous crimes. But that's exactly what happened in just one of the kibbutz communities," she added. 'Why aren’t you showing the babies?' When a commentator's sound bite doubting her report was played, she slammed the nay-sayers and said, "You know, it's sickening, really, that people are asking, 'Where are the babies? Why aren’t you showing the babies?'". Also read | Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves She asked, "Is that something that anyone would want to see the first thing with their own eyes? Because after the graphic images that I saw of just children's beds covered in blood, I don't think I would be able to stomach those atrocities as well." "I didn’t know anyone was capable of committing something like that, so that’s the only way I could report it by speaking to these soldiers, these commanders, who witnessed it first hand," said the war correspondent. Zedeck also credited Israeli soldiers for undertaking the agonising task of transporting the children's lifeless bodies into ambulances. Reports of 'beheaded' babies A spokesperson for Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday confirmed reports of babies and toddlers found with their "heads decapitated," in southern Israel. US President Joe Biden, too, claimed to have seen photos corroborating claims of decapitated bodies. Also read | Biden says he saw evidence of Hamas 'beheading' Israeli children; White House clarifies "I never really thought that I would see and have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children," he said. However, his claims were later clarified by the White House, who said that neither the president nor US officials had viewed images or independently confirmed such reports. They also said that the statement was based on claims made by a spokesperson for Israel's prime minister and media reports. (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.

I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies

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