The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year.

The troops said that the hostage was killed in captivity in the war-torn Gaza Strip.

Identified as Elad Katzir, the victim was a 47-year-old farmer from Kibbutz Nir Oz who was dragged into the besieged Palestinian enclave along with 253 others during the October 7 cross-border firing by the Hamas militant group after which Israel launched its ongoing counter-offensive in Gaza.

The recovery of Katzir's body brings the number of killed hostages to 12 which the military says it has brought home from Gaza during the war.

The Israeli army released a statement saying that "the body of the abductee Elad Katzir, who according to intelligence was murdered in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation, was rescued overnight from Khan Yunis and returned to Israeli territory".

Katzir was abducted along with his mother Hanna at the time of the attack.

Hanna was released on Nov 24 during a one-week truce during the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charity-questions-credibility-of-israeli-inquiry-findings-on-aid-worker-killings-708219">Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry findings on killing of aid workers</a>

Katzir's father was killed during the attack at the kibbutz, said the army.

The military said that as per its intelligence, Katzir was murdered in mid-January after the Islamic Jihad released a video of him in captivity.

"He was buried in the ground," a military official told journalists at a briefing, as per news agency AFP reports.

The officials said that following the suggestions shared by the Israeli intelligence, the troops reached the site and "began excavation" work to recover Katzir's body.

"Their efforts resulted in the discovery of the body, which was then transported to Israel for further examination," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Katzir's sister blames authorities for brother's death</h2>

Katzir's sister denounced the authorities calling them "cowardly and driven by political consideration" and blamed them for his brother's death.

"Elad was kidnapped from his home in Nir Oz in one piece," Carmit Palty Katzir wrote on her Facebook page.

"Our leadership is cowardly and driven by political consideration, which is why this deal has not happened yet," she wrote.

"Prime Minister, war cabinet, and coalition members: Look at yourself in the mirror and say if your hands didn't spill blood."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year.

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year. The troops said that the hostage was killed in captivity in the war-torn Gaza Strip. Identified as Elad Katzir, the victim was a 47-year-old farmer from Kibbutz Nir Oz who was dragged into the besieged Palestinian enclave along with 253 others during the October 7 cross-border firing by the Hamas militant group after which Israel launched its ongoing counter-offensive in Gaza. The recovery of Katzir's body brings the number of killed hostages to 12 which the military says it has brought home from Gaza during the war. The Israeli army released a statement saying that "the body of the abductee Elad Katzir, who according to intelligence was murdered in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation, was rescued overnight from Khan Yunis and returned to Israeli territory". Katzir was abducted along with his mother Hanna at the time of the attack. Hanna was released on Nov 24 during a one-week truce during the war in Gaza. Also read: Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry findings on killing of aid workers Katzir's father was killed during the attack at the kibbutz, said the army. The military said that as per its intelligence, Katzir was murdered in mid-January after the Islamic Jihad released a video of him in captivity. "He was buried in the ground," a military official told journalists at a briefing, as per news agency AFP reports. The officials said that following the suggestions shared by the Israeli intelligence, the troops reached the site and "began excavation" work to recover Katzir's body. "Their efforts resulted in the discovery of the body, which was then transported to Israel for further examination," he said. Katzir's sister blames authorities for brother's death Katzir's sister denounced the authorities calling them "cowardly and driven by political consideration" and blamed them for his brother's death. "Elad was kidnapped from his home in Nir Oz in one piece," Carmit Palty Katzir wrote on her Facebook page. "Our leadership is cowardly and driven by political consideration, which is why this deal has not happened yet," she wrote. "Prime Minister, war cabinet, and coalition members: Look at yourself in the mirror and say if your hands didn't spill blood." (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says

Seven foreign aid workers, who were heading back after completing food delivery, were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza, as per the health officials present in the occupied territory.

The deaths of the aid workers were reported by the Hamas-run Gaza government media office late on Monday (April 1).&nbsp;

The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that the dead bodies of the aid workers and their Palestinian driver were brought to a hospital in Deir el-Balah, central Gaza.

The aid group,&nbsp;World Central Kitchen, claimed that their six international aid workers along with&nbsp;their Palestinian driver were killed in the attack.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-approve-operational-plans-on-rafah-says-netanyahu-706324">‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah</a>

In a statement, the Israeli military said that it was "conducting a thorough review at the highest levels to understand the circumstances of this tragic incident", and added that it had been "working closely with WCK" in the efforts to give aid to Palestinians.

The aid workers were working for World Central Kitchen and were travelling in a convoy which was hit by a strike south of Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, as per local officials.

Earlier in&nbsp;a statement, Hamas said that the aid workers included "British, Australian and Polish nationalities, with the fourth nationality not known", and that the fifth person who died was a Palestinian driver and translator.&nbsp;

<h2>World Central Kitchen decries attack on aid workers, calls it a 'tragedy'</h2>

In a statement, World Central Kitchen said, “We are aware of reports that members of the World Central Kitchen team have been killed in an IDF attack while working to support our humanitarian food delivery efforts in Gaza. This is a tragedy. Humanitarian aid workers and civilians should never be a target.”

The World Central Kitchen organisation also announced that they are immediately suspending their work in the Gaza Strip. “World Central Kitchen is pausing our operations immediately in the region. We will be making decisions about the future of our work soon,” said CEO Erin Gore.

Meanwhile, Israel Defence Forces spokesperson Avichay Adraee, in a statement said that they are investigating the incident.

“Following the reports regarding the World Central Kitchen personnel in Gaza today, the IDF is conducting a thorough review at the highest levels to understand the circumstances of this tragic incident. The IDF makes extensive efforts to enable the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, and has been working closely with WCK in their vital efforts to provide food and humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza,” the statement read.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Thousands demand Netanyahu government's resignation

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-thousands-demand-netanyahu-governments-resignation-706533/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is “urgently” looking into the reports an Australian had been killed.

“I’m very concerned about the loss of life that is occurring in Gaza. My government has supported a sustainable ceasefire,” he said while speaking to ABC Radio on Tuesday (April 2).

“We’ve called for the release of hostages and there have been far too many innocent lives, Palestinian and Israeli, lost during the Gaza-Hamas conflict," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven foreign aid workers, who were heading back after completing food delivery, were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza, as per the health officials present in the occupied territory.

Seven foreign aid workers, who were heading back after completing food delivery, were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza, as per the health officials present in the occupied territory. The deaths of the aid workers were reported by the Hamas-run Gaza government media office late on Monday (April 1). The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that the dead bodies of the aid workers and their Palestinian driver were brought to a hospital in Deir el-Balah, central Gaza. The aid group, World Central Kitchen, claimed that their six international aid workers along with their Palestinian driver were killed in the attack. Also Read: ‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah In a statement, the Israeli military said that it was "conducting a thorough review at the highest levels to understand the circumstances of this tragic incident", and added that it had been "working closely with WCK" in the efforts to give aid to Palestinians. The aid workers were working for World Central Kitchen and were travelling in a convoy which was hit by a strike south of Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, as per local officials. Earlier in a statement, Hamas said that the aid workers included "British, Australian and Polish nationalities, with the fourth nationality not known", and that the fifth person who died was a Palestinian driver and translator. World Central Kitchen decries attack on aid workers, calls it a 'tragedy' In a statement, World Central Kitchen said, “We are aware of reports that members of the World Central Kitchen team have been killed in an IDF attack while working to support our humanitarian food delivery efforts in Gaza. This is a tragedy. Humanitarian aid workers and civilians should never be a target.” The World Central Kitchen organisation also announced that they are immediately suspending their work in the Gaza Strip. “World Central Kitchen is pausing our operations immediately in the region. We will be making decisions about the future of our work soon,” said CEO Erin Gore. Meanwhile, Israel Defence Forces spokesperson Avichay Adraee, in a statement said that they are investigating the incident. “Following the reports regarding the World Central Kitchen personnel in Gaza today, the IDF is conducting a thorough review at the highest levels to understand the circumstances of this tragic incident. The IDF makes extensive efforts to enable the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, and has been working closely with WCK in their vital efforts to provide food and humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza,” the statement read. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Thousands demand Netanyahu government's resignation Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is “urgently” looking into the reports an Australian had been killed. “I’m very concerned about the loss of life that is occurring in Gaza. My government has supported a sustainable ceasefire,” he said while speaking to ABC Radio on Tuesday (April 2). “We’ve called for the release of hostages and there have been far too many innocent lives, Palestinian and Israeli, lost during the Gaza-Hamas conflict," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli strike on Gaza kills foreign aid workers just after they delivered food, NGO decries attack

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US&nbsp;and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation.

Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave.

The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel under pressure over aid workers' deaths

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-israel-under-pressure-over-aid-workers-deaths-706941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

WCK, which was founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, said they had been travelling in two armoured cars emblazoned with the charity's logo and another vehicle.

"Unfortunately in the past day there was a tragic event in which our forces unintentionally harmed non-combatants in the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu said in a video statement.&nbsp;

"This happens in war. We are conducting a thorough inquiry and are in contact with the governments. We will do everything to prevent a recurrence."

The Israeli military (IDF) pledged an investigation by "an independent, professional and expert body".

Britain summoned Israel's ambassador in London to express its "unequivocal condemnation of the appalling killing" of the WCK workers, three of whom were British nationals, and called for an urgent explanation from Israel of how this had occurred.

The United States, Israel's closest ally, said that there was no evidence Israel deliberately targeted the aid workers but that it was outraged by their deaths and Israel had an obligation to ensure aid workers in Gaza were not harmed.

The White House said it expected a broad and impartial investigation to be carried out with appropriate accountability.

"These people are heroes, they run into the fire, not away from it," US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken said of the seven aid workers, speaking to reporters in Paris. "We shouldn't have a situation where people who are simply trying to help their fellow human beings are themselves at grave risk."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691">Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate</a>

Israel has long denied accusations that it is hindering the distribution of urgently needed food aid in Gaza, which it has besieged in a war since October, saying the problem is caused by international aid groups' inability to get it to those in need.

Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military, the convoy was hit as it was leaving its Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea, WCK said.

"This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organisations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war," said Erin Gore, chief executive of World Central Kitchen.

"This is unforgivable."

In Cyprus, officials said seaborne aid for Gaza civilians was returning to the eastern Mediterranean island following the killing of the WCK workers, after the US-based charity said it would pause work in the enclave.

The United Arab Emirates, which had been the main financier for WCK's aid efforts through the maritime corridor, said it was pausing such shipments from Cyprus pending further safety guarantees from Israel and a full investigation.

<h2>INCREASING ISRAELI ISOLATION</h2>

Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza.

At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October&nbsp;7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave, and the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN&nbsp;spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

Asked by reporters what the UN&nbsp;would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job."

Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced.

The United Nations and other international groups have accused Israel of hindering aid distribution with bureaucratic obstacles and failing to ensure the security of food convoys, underlined by a disaster on February&nbsp;29, in which around 100 people were killed as they awaited an aid delivery.

Hamas, Gaza's dominant group, has said the main problem with aid distribution is Israeli targeting of aid workers. After the latest incident, it issued a statement saying the attack aimed to terrorise workers of international humanitarian agencies, deterring them from their missions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-netanyahu-speaks-on-aid-workers-death-in-gaza-after-getting-discharged-in-excellent-condition-706934">‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital</a>

Andres, who started WCK in 2010 by sending cooks and food to Haiti after an earthquake, said he was heartbroken and grieving for the families and friends of those who died in the airstrike.

"The Israeli government needs to stop this indiscriminate killing. It needs to stop restricting humanitarian aid, stop killing civilians and aid workers, and stop using food as a weapon," he said.

Video obtained by Reuters showed a large hole in the roof of a four-wheel-drive WCK vehicle and its burned and torn interior, as well as paramedics moving bodies into a hospital and displaying the passports of three of those killed.

Conditions in Gaza remain extremely precarious with fighting going on in several areas on Tuesday and 71 people killed in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, according to Gaza health authorities.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation. Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave. The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. WATCH | Israel under pressure over aid workers' deaths WCK, which was founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, said they had been travelling in two armoured cars emblazoned with the charity's logo and another vehicle. "Unfortunately in the past day there was a tragic event in which our forces unintentionally harmed non-combatants in the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu said in a video statement. "This happens in war. We are conducting a thorough inquiry and are in contact with the governments. We will do everything to prevent a recurrence." The Israeli military (IDF) pledged an investigation by "an independent, professional and expert body". Britain summoned Israel's ambassador in London to express its "unequivocal condemnation of the appalling killing" of the WCK workers, three of whom were British nationals, and called for an urgent explanation from Israel of how this had occurred. The United States, Israel's closest ally, said that there was no evidence Israel deliberately targeted the aid workers but that it was outraged by their deaths and Israel had an obligation to ensure aid workers in Gaza were not harmed. The White House said it expected a broad and impartial investigation to be carried out with appropriate accountability. "These people are heroes, they run into the fire, not away from it," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said of the seven aid workers, speaking to reporters in Paris. "We shouldn't have a situation where people who are simply trying to help their fellow human beings are themselves at grave risk." Also Read | Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate Israel has long denied accusations that it is hindering the distribution of urgently needed food aid in Gaza, which it has besieged in a war since October, saying the problem is caused by international aid groups' inability to get it to those in need. Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military, the convoy was hit as it was leaving its Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea, WCK said. "This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organisations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war," said Erin Gore, chief executive of World Central Kitchen. "This is unforgivable." In Cyprus, officials said seaborne aid for Gaza civilians was returning to the eastern Mediterranean island following the killing of the WCK workers, after the US-based charity said it would pause work in the enclave. The United Arab Emirates, which had been the main financier for WCK's aid efforts through the maritime corridor, said it was pausing such shipments from Cyprus pending further safety guarantees from Israel and a full investigation. INCREASING ISRAELI ISOLATION Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza. At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave, and the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday. Asked by reporters what the UN would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job." Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced. The United Nations and other international groups have accused Israel of hindering aid distribution with bureaucratic obstacles and failing to ensure the security of food convoys, underlined by a disaster on February 29, in which around 100 people were killed as they awaited an aid delivery. Hamas, Gaza's dominant group, has said the main problem with aid distribution is Israeli targeting of aid workers. After the latest incident, it issued a statement saying the attack aimed to terrorise workers of international humanitarian agencies, deterring them from their missions. Also Read | ‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital Andres, who started WCK in 2010 by sending cooks and food to Haiti after an earthquake, said he was heartbroken and grieving for the families and friends of those who died in the airstrike. "The Israeli government needs to stop this indiscriminate killing. It needs to stop restricting humanitarian aid, stop killing civilians and aid workers, and stop using food as a weapon," he said. Video obtained by Reuters showed a large hole in the roof of a four-wheel-drive WCK vehicle and its burned and torn interior, as well as paramedics moving bodies into a hospital and displaying the passports of three of those killed. Conditions in Gaza remain extremely precarious with fighting going on in several areas on Tuesday and 71 people killed in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, according to Gaza health authorities.

Israel says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza, allies demand explanations

Iran's embassy in Syria's capital city Damascus was bombed on Monday (Apr 1) in what is being described as an Israeli airstrike by Syrian as well as Iranian media.

The move is being termed as an apparent escalation of the conflict in the Middle East that would put Israel against Iran and its international backers.

The air offensive claimed the life of Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander in Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), reported news agency Reuters citing a Lebanese security source. 
 
Zahedi is reported to be a top commander in IRGC’s Quds Force — responsible for the unit’s operations in Syria and Lebanon, and thus the most senior commander of Iranian forces in Syria and Lebanon.

As per the Iranian state television, several Iranian diplomats were killed in the strike.

Israel, which usually does not comment about attacks by its forces on Syria, on being asked about the offensive, said, "We do not comment on reports in the foreign media." 
 
Iran’s Tasnim news agency cited sources who indicated that at least six people were killed in the strike. It said the number was not yet officially confirmed.

Tasnim reported that Zahedi’s deputy was also killed in the strike.

Iran’s ambassador in Syria warned that Iran’s response to the strike would be harsh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-on-al-aqsa-hospital-kills-4-fighting-rages-across-gaza-amid-truce-talks-706352">Dozens of bodies found in Al-Shifa Hospital after Israeli military's withdrawal, claims Hamas</a>

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian&nbsp;called up his Syrian counterpart and said that Tehran holds Israel responsible for the attack on its consulate in Damascus.

The strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus is “a breach of all international conventions,” Amirabdollahian added.

<h2>Syrian FM condemns Israeli attack</h2>

Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad denounced the Israeli offensive on the Iranian consulate.

“(We expressed) our condolences for the casualties and our sadness for these strikes that are unjustified against any diplomatic corps and we ensured the importance of continuing Syrian-Iranian relations based on morals and values,” Mekdad said.

"The Israeli occupation entity will not be able to impact ties between Iran and Syria," he added. &nbsp;

<h2>'Aware of reports of Israeli air strike on Iranian consulate in Damascus,' says White House</h2>

White House spokesperson Karine Jean Pierre said that US President Joe Biden is aware of Israeli air strikes in Damascus and that the "team is looking into it".

"I'm aware of the reports. Our team is looking into it, so I'm not going to get ahead of anything just yet. But obviously, we're aware of the reports and our team is looking into it. I'm just not going to go beyond that," said Jean Pierre.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's embassy in Syria's capital city Damascus was bombed on Monday (Apr 1) in what is being described as an Israeli airstrike by Syrian as well as Iranian media.

Iran's embassy in Syria's capital city Damascus was bombed on Monday (Apr 1) in what is being described as an Israeli airstrike by Syrian as well as Iranian media. The move is being termed as an apparent escalation of the conflict in the Middle East that would put Israel against Iran and its international backers. The air offensive claimed the life of Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander in Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), reported news agency Reuters citing a Lebanese security source. Zahedi is reported to be a top commander in IRGC’s Quds Force — responsible for the unit’s operations in Syria and Lebanon, and thus the most senior commander of Iranian forces in Syria and Lebanon. As per the Iranian state television, several Iranian diplomats were killed in the strike. Israel, which usually does not comment about attacks by its forces on Syria, on being asked about the offensive, said, "We do not comment on reports in the foreign media." Iran’s Tasnim news agency cited sources who indicated that at least six people were killed in the strike. It said the number was not yet officially confirmed. Tasnim reported that Zahedi’s deputy was also killed in the strike. Iran’s ambassador in Syria warned that Iran’s response to the strike would be harsh. Also read: Dozens of bodies found in Al-Shifa Hospital after Israeli military's withdrawal, claims Hamas Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian called up his Syrian counterpart and said that Tehran holds Israel responsible for the attack on its consulate in Damascus. The strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus is “a breach of all international conventions,” Amirabdollahian added. Syrian FM condemns Israeli attack Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad denounced the Israeli offensive on the Iranian consulate. “(We expressed) our condolences for the casualties and our sadness for these strikes that are unjustified against any diplomatic corps and we ensured the importance of continuing Syrian-Iranian relations based on morals and values,” Mekdad said. "The Israeli occupation entity will not be able to impact ties between Iran and Syria," he added. 'Aware of reports of Israeli air strike on Iranian consulate in Damascus,' says White House White House spokesperson Karine Jean Pierre said that US President Joe Biden is aware of Israeli air strikes in Damascus and that the "team is looking into it". "I'm aware of the reports. Our team is looking into it, so I'm not going to get ahead of anything just yet. But obviously, we're aware of the reports and our team is looking into it. I'm just not going to go beyond that," said Jean Pierre. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Guards commander killed in Israeli strike on consulate in Damascus

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted&nbsp;that Israeli&nbsp;forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven&nbsp;World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. The message came as he was discharged&nbsp;from Hadassah Medical Center-Ein Kerem in Jerusalem.

“Unfortunately, yesterday there was a tragic incident in which our forces accidentally struck innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said adding that Israel will do everything it can to ensure an incident like that doesn’t happen again.

Netanyahu is reported to be in good condition after&nbsp;he underwent a successful hernia operation on Sunday (March 31) night.&nbsp;“The prime minister’s condition is excellent, and we are discharging him in a state in which he is fully capable of continuing with his work,” Prof. Alon Pikarsky, who headed the team that performed the surgery told The Times of Israel.

"I am now being released from Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. It became my office in the last day, we continued to operate from here as well," the official account of the Prime Minister's Office in Hebrew wrote on X.

Netanyahu expresses&nbsp;regret at&nbsp;deaths of World Central Kitchen workers

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret at the deaths of seven workers for the World Central Kitchen&nbsp;in Gaza, calling the incident unfortunate and unplanned.&nbsp;“Our forces unintentionally hit innocent people in the Gaza Strip,”&nbsp;Netanyahu said in a video released on X.&nbsp;

"This happens in wartime. We are thoroughly looking into it, are in contact with the governments (of the foreigners among the dead) and will do everything to ensure it does not happen again," Netanyahu said in a video statement.

On April 02,&nbsp;the Israel Defense Forces launched an independent probe into the attack that killed aid workers with World Central Kitchen in Gaza.&nbsp;World Central Kitchen blamed IDF for the strike. World Central Kitchen claimed that IDF was aware of their location because they were coordinating their movements with IDF. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that Israeli forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza.

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that Israeli forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. The message came as he was discharged from Hadassah Medical Center-Ein Kerem in Jerusalem. “Unfortunately, yesterday there was a tragic incident in which our forces accidentally struck innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said adding that Israel will do everything it can to ensure an incident like that doesn’t happen again. Netanyahu is reported to be in good condition after he underwent a successful hernia operation on Sunday (March 31) night. “The prime minister’s condition is excellent, and we are discharging him in a state in which he is fully capable of continuing with his work,” Prof. Alon Pikarsky, who headed the team that performed the surgery told The Times of Israel. "I am now being released from Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. It became my office in the last day, we continued to operate from here as well," the official account of the Prime Minister's Office in Hebrew wrote on X. Netanyahu expresses regret at deaths of World Central Kitchen workers Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret at the deaths of seven workers for the World Central Kitchen in Gaza, calling the incident unfortunate and unplanned. “Our forces unintentionally hit innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said in a video released on X. "This happens in wartime. We are thoroughly looking into it, are in contact with the governments (of the foreigners among the dead) and will do everything to ensure it does not happen again," Netanyahu said in a video statement. On April 02, the Israel Defense Forces launched an independent probe into the attack that killed aid workers with World Central Kitchen in Gaza. World Central Kitchen blamed IDF for the strike. World Central Kitchen claimed that IDF was aware of their location because they were coordinating their movements with IDF. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started. He also refuted claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah.&nbsp;He said that is no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said.&nbsp;

It is worth noting that US President Joe Biden earlier cautioned Israel that its offensive in Rafah city in southern Gaza is a 'red line'. However, Biden at the time downplayed his remarks immediately and said, "it is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel".

The remarks raised speculations over deteriorating relations between the leaders.&nbsp;

The tension between US and Israel was also visible when Israeli PM was asked about the cancellation of delegation to Washington.&nbsp;Netanyahu said, “I told them, ‘Don’t do it. It will send an extremely grave message to Hamas: They don’t have to release a single hostage, and they can get a ceasefire.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-disaster-japan-says-experts-met-in-china-to-ease-concerns-over-radioactive-water-706329">Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water</a>

This came after US allowed UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire to pass by abstaining and not exercising its veto.&nbsp;“We will find the way to dialogue on this issue. But I thought it was important to send the message on that very day to the entire international community, and also to Hamas. And that was an important message that I stand behind," Netanyahu said.

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Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday wherein he said the war cabinet has approved 'operational plans' for Rafah. Bibi also asserted that the Israeli defence forces are all geared up to operate in Rafah in a bid to evacuate the civilians as well as to support the distribution of humanitarian aid.

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“It’s the right thing to do operationally and internationally,” he reportedly said while adding, "Whoever says that I am not doing everything to return our abductees is wrong and misleading."&nbsp;Meanwhile, while responding to those who are calling for elections, Netanyahu said, "They will silence Israel. The first to bless this&nbsp;will&nbsp;be&nbsp;Hamas". 
 
He further added that the whole world was ganging up against&nbsp;Israel and blamed it on a combination of ignorance and antisemitism.

“What has happened in the past few months was that the terrible massacre&nbsp;of October 7 was quickly forgotten, and the whole world is ganging up on us. And there are people here and abroad who say maybe there’s something to this;&nbsp;maybe we’re really not ok,” the Israeli PM added.

Netanyahu, during the presser before his scheduled surgery at 9 pm local time, said that during his talks with the US President Joe Biden he thanked him for the solidarity, “but I did not appreciate the decision in the Security Council. I thought it was a deplorable decision, since for the first time it disconnected the ceasefire…and the release of hostages. That’s why I thought I had to send a clear message on this issue.”

Netanyahu says he told Biden that “If we have to, we will fight with our fingernails.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started. He also refuted claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah. He said that is no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said. It is worth noting that US President Joe Biden earlier cautioned Israel that its offensive in Rafah city in southern Gaza is a 'red line'. However, Biden at the time downplayed his remarks immediately and said, "it is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel". The remarks raised speculations over deteriorating relations between the leaders. The tension between US and Israel was also visible when Israeli PM was asked about the cancellation of delegation to Washington. Netanyahu said, “I told them, ‘Don’t do it. It will send an extremely grave message to Hamas: They don’t have to release a single hostage, and they can get a ceasefire.” Also Read | Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water This came after US allowed UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire to pass by abstaining and not exercising its veto. “We will find the way to dialogue on this issue. But I thought it was important to send the message on that very day to the entire international community, and also to Hamas. And that was an important message that I stand behind," Netanyahu said. Also Read | 200-tonne chunk of collapsed Baltimore bridge lifted out by workers Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday wherein he said the war cabinet has approved 'operational plans' for Rafah. Bibi also asserted that the Israeli defence forces are all geared up to operate in Rafah in a bid to evacuate the civilians as well as to support the distribution of humanitarian aid. Watch | Turkey local elections: Voting marred by violent incidents; fierce contest for Istabul, Ankara × “It’s the right thing to do operationally and internationally,” he reportedly said while adding, "Whoever says that I am not doing everything to return our abductees is wrong and misleading." Meanwhile, while responding to those who are calling for elections, Netanyahu said, "They will silence Israel. The first to bless this will be Hamas". He further added that the whole world was ganging up against Israel and blamed it on a combination of ignorance and antisemitism. “What has happened in the past few months was that the terrible massacre of October 7 was quickly forgotten, and the whole world is ganging up on us. And there are people here and abroad who say maybe there’s something to this; maybe we’re really not ok,” the Israeli PM added. Netanyahu, during the presser before his scheduled surgery at 9 pm local time, said that during his talks with the US President Joe Biden he thanked him for the solidarity, “but I did not appreciate the decision in the Security Council. I thought it was a deplorable decision, since for the first time it disconnected the ceasefire…and the release of hostages. That’s why I thought I had to send a clear message on this issue.” Netanyahu says he told Biden that “If we have to, we will fight with our fingernails.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday (Mar 31) said that the senior Hamas militants, who were held by Israel's armed forces from war-torn Gaza, during interrogation revealed that “the group is collapsing from within.”

“In the last week or two, hundreds of terrorists have been captured and what they say about what happened to them tells the whole story. They say that Hamas is collapsing from within, the price they are paying is very heavy,” the Times Of Israel quoted Gallant as saying.

“We’re going to eliminate everyone who was involved in the events of October 7, the junior [officials], the senior ones and the very senior ones; those who were inside [Israel] or who gave instructions,” he added while referring to the date the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented assault against Israel.

He then said that the Israeli Defense Forces would continue with the battle until they reached all "terrorists" in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Referring to Israeli Defence Forces' operations at Shifa Hospital, where more than 500 members of Hamas were captured and over 200 were killed, Gallant said, “In the last few days, we have also seen very great progress, both in [reaching] the terrorists in the field and the more senior commanders, even very senior ones.”

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<h2>Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah</h2>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by the US is not the reason why the Rafah operation has not yet started.&nbsp;

He also went on to rebuff claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah.&nbsp;

He said that there was no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said.&nbsp;

Netanyahu has been detected with a hernia and will be undergoing surgery on Sunday (Mar 31), media reports said citing his office.

(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 Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday (Mar 31) said that the senior Hamas militants, who were held by Israel's armed forces from war-torn Gaza, during interrogation revealed that “the group is collapsing from within.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday (Mar 31) said that the senior Hamas militants, who were held by Israel's armed forces from war-torn Gaza, during interrogation revealed that “the group is collapsing from within.” “In the last week or two, hundreds of terrorists have been captured and what they say about what happened to them tells the whole story. They say that Hamas is collapsing from within, the price they are paying is very heavy,” the Times Of Israel quoted Gallant as saying. “We’re going to eliminate everyone who was involved in the events of October 7, the junior [officials], the senior ones and the very senior ones; those who were inside [Israel] or who gave instructions,” he added while referring to the date the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented assault against Israel. He then said that the Israeli Defense Forces would continue with the battle until they reached all "terrorists" in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Referring to Israeli Defence Forces' operations at Shifa Hospital, where more than 500 members of Hamas were captured and over 200 were killed, Gallant said, “In the last few days, we have also seen very great progress, both in [reaching] the terrorists in the field and the more senior commanders, even very senior ones.” Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu to be put under full anaesthesia for hernia surgery Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by the US is not the reason why the Rafah operation has not yet started. He also went on to rebuff claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah. He said that there was no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said. Netanyahu has been detected with a hernia and will be undergoing surgery on Sunday (Mar 31), media reports said citing his office. (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.

Hamas militant group 'collapsing' from within, claims Israeli Defence Minister Gallant

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza on Monday (April 1) said that after tanks and vehicles were withdrawn by the Israeli military from the Al-Shifa complex, dozens of bodies were discovered in the besieged territory's main hospital.

The operation on Al-Shifa hospital was launched by the Israeli Army on March 18 which was described as a "precise" one that targets Hamas militants, whom they accused of operating from the complex.

"Dozens of bodies, some of them decomposed, have been recovered from in and around the Al-Shifa medical complex," said the health ministry, in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
The Israeli military "withdrew from the Al-Shifa medical complex after burning down the complex buildings and putting it completely out of service", it added.

"The scale of the destruction inside the complex and the buildings around it is very large," it said.

<h2>Israeli airstrikes on Al-Aqsa hospital kill 4, fighting rages across Gaza amid truce talks</h2>

Four people were killed and 17 others injured in an Israeli airstrike on Al-Aqsa hospital in Gaza, said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a post on X as United States prepares to send more bombs to Israel.

The airstrike was reported by a World Health Organization team which was present at the hospital to look into the needs and collect incubators required for the north of Gaza, Ghebreyesus wrote, adding, "WHO staff are all accounted for."

"A WHO team was on a humanitarian mission at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza when a tent camp inside the hospital compound was hit by an Israeli airstrike today. We again call for protection of patients, health personnel and humanitarian missions," he said.

"The ongoing attacks and militarisation of hospitals must stop. International humanitarian law must be respected," Ghebreyesus added.

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A <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> team was on a humanitarian mission at Al-Aqsa Hospital in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a>, when a tent camp inside the hospital compound was hit by an Israeli airstrike today. Four people were killed and 17 injured. WHO staff are all accounted for. 
 
The team was at the hospital assessing the needs…
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1774477221278765248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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WHO chief appealed to all the parties involved in the conflict to comply with the resolution of the UN Security Council which calls for a ceasefire.

Meanwhile, a fresh stock of bombs is being sent to Israel by the United States, confirmed two senior administration officials to NBC News.

The bombs, which are part of a weapons package that was approved long back, contain more than 1,800 Mark 84 (MK84) 2,000-pound bombs and approximately 500 Mark 82 (MK82) 500-pound bombs.

<h2>Fighting escalates in Gaza</h2>

In the past 24 hours, 77 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza, said the health authorities on Sunday (Mar 31). The strikes were carried out at a time when an Israeli delegation was being hosted by Egypt to carry out a new round of truce talks with Hamas.&nbsp;

The Israeli military claimed that they had killed a senior Islamic Jihad militant while carrying out the strike on a command centre in the Al-Aqsa Hospital's courtyard in central Gaza.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-approve-operational-plans-on-rafah-says-netanyahu-706324">‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah</a>

"The command centre and terrorists were struck precisely," the military said, adding that the strike was intended to minimise "harm to uninvolved civilians in the area of the hospital".

"The Al-Aqsa Hospital building was not damaged and its functioning was not affected," it said.

<h2>Israel says Hezbollah commander 'eliminated' in Lebanon Strike</h2>

Israel's military claimed that they had "eliminated" a Hezbollah missile unit commander on Sunday (Mar 31) in an airstrike in Lebanon.

The Israeli Air Force "struck a vehicle in the area of Kunin in Lebanon in which Ismail al-Zin was located," said the military. 
 
"Al-Zin was a significant commander in the Anti-Tank Missile Unit of Hezbollah's Radwan Forces," it added.

The death of Al-Zin was confirmed by Hezbollah in a statement in which it was not clarified if he was part of Radwan, which is an elite unit.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant later said that the military will continue its operations against Hezbollah.

"We will make them pay a price for every attack that comes out from Lebanon," Gallant said.

Watch:&nbsp;ISIS calls for more attack in the Israel-Hamas war, Intelligence Agencies on high alert

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<h2>Israel submits proposal to dismantle UNRWA</h2>

Meanwhile, a proposal has been submitted by Israel to dismantle UNRWA, which is the relief agency in the Palestinian territories, and move its staff to a replacement agency to ensure large-scale food deliveries are being made in Gaza, as per media reports.

Over the weekend, Israel was rocked by protests carried out by thousands of people and the families of hostages against the government as they demanded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down from his position.&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.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza on Monday (April 1) said that after tanks and vehicles were withdrawn by the Israeli military from the Al-Shifa complex, dozens of bodies were discovered in the besieged territory's main hospital.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza on Monday (April 1) said that after tanks and vehicles were withdrawn by the Israeli military from the Al-Shifa complex, dozens of bodies were discovered in the besieged territory's main hospital. The operation on Al-Shifa hospital was launched by the Israeli Army on March 18 which was described as a "precise" one that targets Hamas militants, whom they accused of operating from the complex. "Dozens of bodies, some of them decomposed, have been recovered from in and around the Al-Shifa medical complex," said the health ministry, in a statement. The Israeli military "withdrew from the Al-Shifa medical complex after burning down the complex buildings and putting it completely out of service", it added. "The scale of the destruction inside the complex and the buildings around it is very large," it said. Israeli airstrikes on Al-Aqsa hospital kill 4, fighting rages across Gaza amid truce talks Four people were killed and 17 others injured in an Israeli airstrike on Al-Aqsa hospital in Gaza, said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a post on X as United States prepares to send more bombs to Israel. The airstrike was reported by a World Health Organization team which was present at the hospital to look into the needs and collect incubators required for the north of Gaza, Ghebreyesus wrote, adding, "WHO staff are all accounted for." "A WHO team was on a humanitarian mission at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza when a tent camp inside the hospital compound was hit by an Israeli airstrike today. We again call for protection of patients, health personnel and humanitarian missions," he said. "The ongoing attacks and militarisation of hospitals must stop. International humanitarian law must be respected," Ghebreyesus added. A @WHO team was on a humanitarian mission at Al-Aqsa Hospital in #Gaza, when a tent camp inside the hospital compound was hit by an Israeli airstrike today. Four people were killed and 17 injured. WHO staff are all accounted for. The team was at the hospital assessing the needs… — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) March 31, 2024 × WHO chief appealed to all the parties involved in the conflict to comply with the resolution of the UN Security Council which calls for a ceasefire. Meanwhile, a fresh stock of bombs is being sent to Israel by the United States, confirmed two senior administration officials to NBC News. The bombs, which are part of a weapons package that was approved long back, contain more than 1,800 Mark 84 (MK84) 2,000-pound bombs and approximately 500 Mark 82 (MK82) 500-pound bombs. Fighting escalates in Gaza In the past 24 hours, 77 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza, said the health authorities on Sunday (Mar 31). The strikes were carried out at a time when an Israeli delegation was being hosted by Egypt to carry out a new round of truce talks with Hamas. The Israeli military claimed that they had killed a senior Islamic Jihad militant while carrying out the strike on a command centre in the Al-Aqsa Hospital's courtyard in central Gaza. Also Read: ‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah "The command centre and terrorists were struck precisely," the military said, adding that the strike was intended to minimise "harm to uninvolved civilians in the area of the hospital". "The Al-Aqsa Hospital building was not damaged and its functioning was not affected," it said. Israel says Hezbollah commander 'eliminated' in Lebanon Strike Israel's military claimed that they had "eliminated" a Hezbollah missile unit commander on Sunday (Mar 31) in an airstrike in Lebanon. The Israeli Air Force "struck a vehicle in the area of Kunin in Lebanon in which Ismail al-Zin was located," said the military. "Al-Zin was a significant commander in the Anti-Tank Missile Unit of Hezbollah's Radwan Forces," it added. The death of Al-Zin was confirmed by Hezbollah in a statement in which it was not clarified if he was part of Radwan, which is an elite unit. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant later said that the military will continue its operations against Hezbollah. "We will make them pay a price for every attack that comes out from Lebanon," Gallant said. Watch: ISIS calls for more attack in the Israel-Hamas war, Intelligence Agencies on high alert Israel submits proposal to dismantle UNRWA Meanwhile, a proposal has been submitted by Israel to dismantle UNRWA, which is the relief agency in the Palestinian territories, and move its staff to a replacement agency to ensure large-scale food deliveries are being made in Gaza, as per media reports. Over the weekend, Israel was rocked by protests carried out by thousands of people and the families of hostages against the government as they demanded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down from his position. (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.

Dozens of bodies found in Al-Shifa Hospital after Israeli military's withdrawal, claims Hamas

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack which left three UN observers and a translator injured, on Saturday (Mar 30), when a shell exploded near them as they were patrolling the southern Lebanese border on foot.&nbsp;

<h2>Three UN observers, one translator injured</h2>

Unarmed technical observers of the UN peacekeeping mission known as UNIFIL and&nbsp;United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO),&nbsp;had been stationed in southern Lebanon amid the clashes between the Israeli military and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah along the demarcation line between the two countries known as the Blue Line.

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Both sides have exchanged fire amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The UNIFIL, in a statement called the attack on peacekeepers “unacceptable” and said that the staff wounded had been evacuated for treatment.

“This morning, three OGL (UNTSO) military observers and one Lebanese language assistant on a foot patrol along the Blue Line were injured when an explosion occurred near their location,”&nbsp;Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), said in a statement.

The origin of the explosion is being investigated, said Tenenti. The spokesperson further speaking to&nbsp;news agency AFP said that two observers were from Australia and Chile and that all four were in “stable” condition.&nbsp;

A Norwegian UN observer was “lightly injured” and had been taken to the hospital, Norway’s defence ministry spokesperson Hanne Olafsen told Norwegian news agency NTB. Olafsen added that the circumstances surrounding the attack were unclear.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-in-gaza-aid-delivery-chaos-several-hit-by-moving-trucks-medics-706074">Five killed in Gaza aid delivery chaos, several hit by moving trucks: Medics</a>

Reports by news agencies citing sources said that an Israeli drone strike targeted the observers in the village of Wadi Katmoun outside the border town of Rmeish.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Grave concern’</h2>

Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson for the UN chief, said Guterres condemned the explosion and expressed “grave concern” over the exchange of fire between the Israeli army and Hezbollah.&nbsp;

“These hostile actions have not only disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of people, but they also pose a grave threat to the security and stability of Lebanon, Israel, and the region,” said Dujarric.&nbsp;

The safety of peacekeepers should be ensured, said the spokesperson.&nbsp;

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Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati spoke to UNIFIL commander Aroldo Lozaro and condemned the “targeting” and wounding of UN staff, a release by the PM’s office stated.

<h2>Israel denies allegations</h2>

In response to the allegations the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) took to social media to deny&nbsp;any involvement in the incident.

“Contrary to the reports, the IDF did not strike a @UNIFIL_ vehicle in the area of Rmeish this morning,” said the Israeli military.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack which left three UN observers and a translator injured, on Saturday (Mar 30), when a shell exploded near them as they were patrolling the southern Lebanese border on foot.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack which left three UN observers and a translator injured, on Saturday (Mar 30), when a shell exploded near them as they were patrolling the southern Lebanese border on foot. Three UN observers, one translator injured Unarmed technical observers of the UN peacekeeping mission known as UNIFIL and United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), had been stationed in southern Lebanon amid the clashes between the Israeli military and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah along the demarcation line between the two countries known as the Blue Line. WATCH | Anti-Netanyahu protests in Tel Aviv Both sides have exchanged fire amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The UNIFIL, in a statement called the attack on peacekeepers “unacceptable” and said that the staff wounded had been evacuated for treatment. “This morning, three OGL (UNTSO) military observers and one Lebanese language assistant on a foot patrol along the Blue Line were injured when an explosion occurred near their location,” Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), said in a statement. The origin of the explosion is being investigated, said Tenenti. The spokesperson further speaking to news agency AFP said that two observers were from Australia and Chile and that all four were in “stable” condition. A Norwegian UN observer was “lightly injured” and had been taken to the hospital, Norway’s defence ministry spokesperson Hanne Olafsen told Norwegian news agency NTB. Olafsen added that the circumstances surrounding the attack were unclear. Also Read | Five killed in Gaza aid delivery chaos, several hit by moving trucks: Medics Reports by news agencies citing sources said that an Israeli drone strike targeted the observers in the village of Wadi Katmoun outside the border town of Rmeish. ‘Grave concern’ Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson for the UN chief, said Guterres condemned the explosion and expressed “grave concern” over the exchange of fire between the Israeli army and Hezbollah. “These hostile actions have not only disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of people, but they also pose a grave threat to the security and stability of Lebanon, Israel, and the region,” said Dujarric. The safety of peacekeepers should be ensured, said the spokesperson. Also Read | Eight Chinese migrants headed to the US found dead on Mexico beach after boat capsized Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati spoke to UNIFIL commander Aroldo Lozaro and condemned the “targeting” and wounding of UN staff, a release by the PM’s office stated. Israel denies allegations In response to the allegations the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) took to social media to deny any involvement in the incident. “Contrary to the reports, the IDF did not strike a @UNIFIL_ vehicle in the area of Rmeish this morning,” said the Israeli military. (With inputs from agencies)

United Nations chief condemns explosion that injured several UN observers in southern Lebanon

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Famine is setting in’</h2>

In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life.&nbsp;

“The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges.

The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon

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The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;

The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza.

Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added.&nbsp;

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The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land</h2>

The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.”

It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-authority-announces-new-cabinet-amid-calls-for-reform-705265">Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza</a>

This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast.&nbsp;

However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. ‘Famine is setting in’ In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life. “The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges. The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”. WATCH | Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza. The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza. Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added. Also Read | Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order. ‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.” It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.” Also Read | Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast. However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave. (With inputs from agencies)

International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food

At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, one person in northern Israel was killed after the strike prompted Hezbollah to fire dozens of rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-idf-conducts-fresh-strikes-in-lebanon-704686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Israeli strike on the Lebanese village of Hebbariye came a day after the airstrikes and rocket attacks between Israel’s military and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border.&nbsp;

The exchange of fire took place after a brief lull in fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group along the border, raising concerns about further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Both Israel and Lebanon have said that they do not want an all-out war and are open to diplomatic process but the number of strikes has increased this week.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the strikes and rocket attacks</h2>

Israeli emergency services, on Wednesday, said that the rocket attack by Hezbollah killed a factory worker in Kiryat Shmona and another person was lightly injured.&nbsp;

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The paramedics and the Magen David Adom (MDA) said that a 25-year-old man was pulled from the wreckage of the factory. He had sustained severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;

The rocket attack on Israel was reportedly in retaliation for the Israeli strike on Hebbariyeh, which news agencies citing sources said killed at least seven people.&nbsp;

The airstrike after midnight on Tuesday (Mar 26) hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, said the Lebanese Ambulance Association.

The Lebanese paramedics association released the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike and called it a “flagrant violation of humanitarian work,” reported AP.&nbsp;

It was reportedly one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah has also launched attacks against Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protecting-palestinians-a-moral-imperative-pentagon-chief-tells-israeli-counterpart-704762">Protecting Palestinians a moral imperative, Pentagon chief tells Israeli Defence Minister Gallant</a>

Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told the AP that those killed were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Hezbollah, earlier on Wednesday, condemned the strikes and hours later retaliated by firing dozens of rockets Wednesday morning on Kiryat Shmona and a military base there.

According to the Israeli military, around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel.&nbsp;

Israeli strikes on Tuesday near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, said the militant group. Israel has since confirmed the strikes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials.

At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials. Meanwhile, one person in northern Israel was killed after the strike prompted Hezbollah to fire dozens of rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona. WATCH | Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon The Israeli strike on the Lebanese village of Hebbariye came a day after the airstrikes and rocket attacks between Israel’s military and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border. The exchange of fire took place after a brief lull in fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group along the border, raising concerns about further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Both Israel and Lebanon have said that they do not want an all-out war and are open to diplomatic process but the number of strikes has increased this week. What we know about the strikes and rocket attacks Israeli emergency services, on Wednesday, said that the rocket attack by Hezbollah killed a factory worker in Kiryat Shmona and another person was lightly injured. Also Read | Raw sewage spills into England rivers and seas doubles in 2023 The paramedics and the Magen David Adom (MDA) said that a 25-year-old man was pulled from the wreckage of the factory. He had sustained severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. The rocket attack on Israel was reportedly in retaliation for the Israeli strike on Hebbariyeh, which news agencies citing sources said killed at least seven people. The airstrike after midnight on Tuesday (Mar 26) hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, said the Lebanese Ambulance Association. The Lebanese paramedics association released the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike and called it a “flagrant violation of humanitarian work,” reported AP. It was reportedly one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah has also launched attacks against Israel. Also Read | Protecting Palestinians a moral imperative, Pentagon chief tells Israeli Defence Minister Gallant Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told the AP that those killed were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise on Wednesday. Hezbollah, earlier on Wednesday, condemned the strikes and hours later retaliated by firing dozens of rockets Wednesday morning on Kiryat Shmona and a military base there. According to the Israeli military, around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel. Israeli strikes on Tuesday near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, said the militant group. Israel has since confirmed the strikes. (With inputs from agencies)

At least eight killed in Israel and Hezbollah counterstrikes across Lebanon border

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 25) called off his senior aides’ trip to Washington after the United States abstained from vetoing a United Nations Security Council proposal calling for a ceasefire in war-torn Gaza.

The Israeli prime minister released a statement saying that the United States inability to veto the proposal&nbsp;showed a "clear retreat" from its prior stance and would harm both the combat operation against Palestinian militant group Hamas as well as the endeavour to free more than 130 hostages who were still held captive in the Gaza Strip.

"In light of the change in the American position, Prime Minister Netanyahu decided the delegation would not leave," his office said.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The UNSC adopted the resolution with 14 council members voting in favour of the measure while the United States abstained. &nbsp;

The text demanded an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.”

The White House, however, denied that the abstention reflected a diversion in American policy.

The high-level delegation was scheduled to fly to Washington to hold talks around a planned Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where reportedly over a million Palestinians are seeking refuge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-to-vote-on-new-gaza-ceasefire-draft-as-un-chief-indicates-growing-international-consensus-704087">UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza as US abstains</a>

<h2>We're very disappointed that they won't be coming:&nbsp;John Kirby</h2>

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Netanyahu's decision to call off the meeting was unfortunate, however, the US would put forward its concerns regarding Israeli policies as part of the discussions between the two governments.

"It's disappointing. We're very disappointed that they won't be coming to Washington DC to allow us to have a fulsome conversation with them about viable alternatives to them going in on the ground in Rafah," Kirby said.

“Nothing has changed about our view that a major ground offensive in Rafah would be a major mistake."

<h2>Israel bars aid delivery to north Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees on Sunday stated that Israel had permanently banned them from delivering aid to the northern Gaza region, where the threat of starvation was at its peak.

"Despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any @UNRWA food convoys to the north," Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the agency, said on X.

"This is outrageous and makes it intentional to obstruct lifesaving assistance during a man-made famine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 25) called off his senior aides’ trip to Washington after the United States abstained from vetoing a United Nations Security Council proposal calling for a ceasefire in war-torn Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 25) called off his senior aides’ trip to Washington after the United States abstained from vetoing a United Nations Security Council proposal calling for a ceasefire in war-torn Gaza. The Israeli prime minister released a statement saying that the United States inability to veto the proposal showed a "clear retreat" from its prior stance and would harm both the combat operation against Palestinian militant group Hamas as well as the endeavour to free more than 130 hostages who were still held captive in the Gaza Strip. "In light of the change in the American position, Prime Minister Netanyahu decided the delegation would not leave," his office said. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave. The UNSC adopted the resolution with 14 council members voting in favour of the measure while the United States abstained. The text demanded an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.” The White House, however, denied that the abstention reflected a diversion in American policy. The high-level delegation was scheduled to fly to Washington to hold talks around a planned Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where reportedly over a million Palestinians are seeking refuge. Also read: UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza as US abstains We're very disappointed that they won't be coming: John Kirby White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Netanyahu's decision to call off the meeting was unfortunate, however, the US would put forward its concerns regarding Israeli policies as part of the discussions between the two governments. "It's disappointing. We're very disappointed that they won't be coming to Washington DC to allow us to have a fulsome conversation with them about viable alternatives to them going in on the ground in Rafah," Kirby said. “Nothing has changed about our view that a major ground offensive in Rafah would be a major mistake." Israel bars aid delivery to north Gaza Meanwhile, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees on Sunday stated that Israel had permanently banned them from delivering aid to the northern Gaza region, where the threat of starvation was at its peak. "Despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any @UNRWA food convoys to the north," Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the agency, said on X. "This is outrageous and makes it intentional to obstruct lifesaving assistance during a man-made famine." (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu calls off high-level delegation's visit to US over UN Gaza vote

Benny Gantz, a member of Israel's war cabinet, announced on Sunday his intention to resign from the national emergency government if a proposed legislation, which continues to exempt ultra-Orthodox Jews from mandatory military service, is passed into law.

In a statement, the centrist cabinet minister said, "The nation cannot accept it, the Knesset (parliament) must not vote for it, and my colleagues and I will not be members of the emergency government should such legislation pass in the Knesset."

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"The conscription law being drawn up by the government is a serious moral failure that will create a deep rift within us at a time when we need to fight together against our enemies," said Gantz.

Gantz, a former military chief who holds significant support, joined the unity government to help oversee the conflict with Hamas following its October 7 attack. As per recent opinion polls, he has more support than Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

While Gantz's party alone may not have the power to bring down Netanyahu's government, Israel's defence minister&nbsp;Yoav Gallant has also expressed opposition to the bill, indicating dissent within Netanyahu's own right-wing Likud party.

Gallant, who is currently on an official visit to the United States, stated that he would not support the bill which is scheduled to be presented to the cabinet on Tuesday.

<h2>What is the legislation about?</h2>

Although the proposed legislation has not been publicly disclosed, as per a Reuters report, leaks to Israeli media suggest it revises disputed military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews of the&nbsp;Haredi community and may even expand them.

Additionally, it downplays the economic consequences of the longstanding policy, which top Israeli economists have repeatedly warned carries a heavy price.

Once approved by the cabinet, the bill would proceed to parliament for further review, a process that is expected to take several weeks or even months, according to officials.

As per Israel Times citing the IDF's Personnel Directorate,&nbsp;a record 66,000 young men from the Haredi community received exemptions from military service over the past year. This figure is the highest ever recorded.

The law that previously authorised these exemptions expired in June 2023. A temporary regulation that extended the exemptions is set to expire next week. After this point, the military will no longer be legally permitted to exempt Haredi young men from the draft and will be required to start enlisting them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-donald-trump-call-barack-obama-founder-of-isis-after-moscow-terror-attack-heres-the-truth-703813">Did Donald Trump call Barack Obama ‘founder of ISIS’ after Moscow terror attack? Here’s the truth</a>

The exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews have long been a point of contention in Israel. The issue is further exacerbated by the country's costly mobilisation during the conflict in Gaza.&nbsp;

Ultra-Orthodox parties, which represent approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population, have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military.

Critics argue that the draft exemption stops many of them from participating in the workforce, while opposition lawmakers have denounced it as an unfair and an insulting policy to other Israelis.

(With inputs from agencies)

Benny Gantz, a member of Israel's war cabinet, announced on Sunday his intention to resign from the national emergency government if a proposed legislation, which continues to exempt ultra-Orthodox Jews from mandatory military service, is passed into law.

Benny Gantz, a member of Israel's war cabinet, announced on Sunday his intention to resign from the national emergency government if a proposed legislation, which continues to exempt ultra-Orthodox Jews from mandatory military service, is passed into law. In a statement, the centrist cabinet minister said, "The nation cannot accept it, the Knesset (parliament) must not vote for it, and my colleagues and I will not be members of the emergency government should such legislation pass in the Knesset." Also read | Moscow concert hall attack: Russia charges four suspects amid reports they did it 'for money' "The conscription law being drawn up by the government is a serious moral failure that will create a deep rift within us at a time when we need to fight together against our enemies," said Gantz. Gantz, a former military chief who holds significant support, joined the unity government to help oversee the conflict with Hamas following its October 7 attack. As per recent opinion polls, he has more support than Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While Gantz's party alone may not have the power to bring down Netanyahu's government, Israel's defence minister Yoav Gallant has also expressed opposition to the bill, indicating dissent within Netanyahu's own right-wing Likud party. Gallant, who is currently on an official visit to the United States, stated that he would not support the bill which is scheduled to be presented to the cabinet on Tuesday. What is the legislation about? Although the proposed legislation has not been publicly disclosed, as per a Reuters report, leaks to Israeli media suggest it revises disputed military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews of the Haredi community and may even expand them. Additionally, it downplays the economic consequences of the longstanding policy, which top Israeli economists have repeatedly warned carries a heavy price. Once approved by the cabinet, the bill would proceed to parliament for further review, a process that is expected to take several weeks or even months, according to officials. As per Israel Times citing the IDF's Personnel Directorate, a record 66,000 young men from the Haredi community received exemptions from military service over the past year. This figure is the highest ever recorded. The law that previously authorised these exemptions expired in June 2023. A temporary regulation that extended the exemptions is set to expire next week. After this point, the military will no longer be legally permitted to exempt Haredi young men from the draft and will be required to start enlisting them. Also read | Did Donald Trump call Barack Obama ‘founder of ISIS’ after Moscow terror attack? Here’s the truth The exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews have long been a point of contention in Israel. The issue is further exacerbated by the country's costly mobilisation during the conflict in Gaza. Ultra-Orthodox parties, which represent approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population, have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military. Critics argue that the draft exemption stops many of them from participating in the workforce, while opposition lawmakers have denounced it as an unfair and an insulting policy to other Israelis. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel cabinet minister Gantz threatens to quit if bill exempts ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25)&nbsp;passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Hamas during the&nbsp;month of Ramadan and an&nbsp;unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>What happened at the UNSC?</h2>

The UNSC adopted the resolution with&nbsp;14 council members voting in favour of the measure and the United States abstained. &nbsp;

The text demanded&nbsp;an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.”

The resolution passed also "emphasises the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip and reiterates its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale."

On Friday (Mar 22),&nbsp;the UNSC had turned down the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the US-led draft. Out of the 15 council members, 11 voted in favour of the resolution, but the vetoes stopped its passage.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israeli-offensive-in-rafah-would-be-a-huge-mistake-says-us-vice-president-kamala-harris-704011">Gaza war: Israeli offensive in Rafah would be a huge mistake, says US Vice President Kamala Harris</a>

The measure passed&nbsp;on Monday is&nbsp;an alternative resolution drafted by the 10 elected members of the UNSC.&nbsp;Notably, the resolution on Friday was the first time that the US backed a draft that came up for a vote with the word “ceasefire” in it since the beginning of the war.

<h2>UN chief calls for implementation</h2>

The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after the vote called for the implementation of the resolution and said "failure&nbsp;would be unforgivable."

"The Security Council just approved a long-awaited resolution on Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages," said the UN chief in a post on X.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, Guterres&nbsp;said that there is growing international consensus to tell Israel that a ceasefire is necessary and that any ground invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza would lead to a humanitarian disaster.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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During his visit, Guterres also visited the Wihdat camp in Jordan where the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) provides health and education services.&nbsp;

“We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing. In a darkening world, UNRWA is the one ray of light for millions of people,” said the UN chief. Jordan is home to around 2.4 million Palestinian refugees.

The funding for UNRWA hangs in balance after Israel accused a dozen of the agency’s staff members of being a part of the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel. This has led a number of countries including some of its biggest donors to pause the funding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave. What happened at the UNSC? The UNSC adopted the resolution with 14 council members voting in favour of the measure and the United States abstained. The text demanded an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.” The resolution passed also "emphasises the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip and reiterates its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale." On Friday (Mar 22), the UNSC had turned down the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the US-led draft. Out of the 15 council members, 11 voted in favour of the resolution, but the vetoes stopped its passage. Also Read | Gaza war: Israeli offensive in Rafah would be a huge mistake, says US Vice President Kamala Harris The measure passed on Monday is an alternative resolution drafted by the 10 elected members of the UNSC. Notably, the resolution on Friday was the first time that the US backed a draft that came up for a vote with the word “ceasefire” in it since the beginning of the war. UN chief calls for implementation The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after the vote called for the implementation of the resolution and said "failure would be unforgivable." "The Security Council just approved a long-awaited resolution on Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages," said the UN chief in a post on X. Earlier on Monday, Guterres said that there is growing international consensus to tell Israel that a ceasefire is necessary and that any ground invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza would lead to a humanitarian disaster. Also Read | Moscow concert hall attack: Russia charges four suspects amid reports they did it 'for money' During his visit, Guterres also visited the Wihdat camp in Jordan where the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) provides health and education services. “We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing. In a darkening world, UNRWA is the one ray of light for millions of people,” said the UN chief. Jordan is home to around 2.4 million Palestinian refugees. The funding for UNRWA hangs in balance after Israel accused a dozen of the agency’s staff members of being a part of the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel. This has led a number of countries including some of its biggest donors to pause the funding. (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza during Ramadan; US abstains from voting

Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. Meanwhile, Britain’s deputy prime minister defended Israel’s right to protect itself while calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza on humanitarian grounds.&nbsp;

<h2>Canada to halt arms sales to Israel</h2>

In an interview with the Toronto Star, Joly confirmed that her government would halt future arms shipments to Israel after a parliamentary motion, introduced by the New Democratic Party (NDP), passed 204-117.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-military-troops-raid-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-702120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The NDP, which supports Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s minority government, introduced the motion following frustration over what they said was his failure to do enough to protect civilians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

The motion passed&nbsp;Monday (Mar 18) night after a last-minute deal between Trudeau’s Liberal Party and the NDP. The Canadian government previously said that it had paused issuing military export permits to Israel and it would be assessing applications on “a case-by-case basis”.

After the motion was passed, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a lobby group, called it “misguided” as it does not “effectively address the humanitarian crisis” in Gaza or “liberate Gazans from the tyrannical rule” of Hamas.&nbsp;

Since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, the Trudeau government has asserted Israel’s right to defend itself but has eventually grown critical of its current assault on Gaza.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-slams-trudeau-after-canada-tells-israel-killing-of-babies-in-gaza-must-end-658656">Netanyahu slams Trudeau after Canada PM tells Israel ‘killing of babies’ in Gaza must end</a>

In November, the Canadian PM, in his first sharp criticism of Israel since the beginning of the war, urged the Israeli government to “exercise maximum restraint” and said the “killing of women, of children, of babies” must stop.&nbsp;

<h2>Britain’s deputy PM defends Israel</h2>

The United Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, on Tuesday, said that Israel has a right to protect itself, amid the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza prompting mounting international criticism of the Israeli government’s assault on the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

Dowden said that the British government is “continuously” urging Israel to abide by international humanitarian law and raised concerns about getting aid into Gaza.&nbsp;

“That’s why we are calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow that aid in, and crucially, the hostages to come out,” he told the news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

The United Nations human rights chief&nbsp;Volker Türk&nbsp;on Tuesday said Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid for Gaza may amount to a starvation tactic and could be a war crime.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a>

The UK deputy PM went on to stress his support for Israel, saying there is a risk that the world is forgetting the horrors of October 7, when Hamas launched attacks and according to Israeli officials killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians.&nbsp;

“I continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself, not only for the sake of Israel but also I think around the world we should be standing up to this kind of barbarism,” said Dowden.&nbsp;

Subsequently, he also noted that Israel should “show restraint and proportionality in the way that they prosecute the legitimate war against Hamas.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons.

Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. Meanwhile, Britain’s deputy prime minister defended Israel’s right to protect itself while calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza on humanitarian grounds. Canada to halt arms sales to Israel In an interview with the Toronto Star, Joly confirmed that her government would halt future arms shipments to Israel after a parliamentary motion, introduced by the New Democratic Party (NDP), passed 204-117. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital The NDP, which supports Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s minority government, introduced the motion following frustration over what they said was his failure to do enough to protect civilians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The motion passed Monday (Mar 18) night after a last-minute deal between Trudeau’s Liberal Party and the NDP. The Canadian government previously said that it had paused issuing military export permits to Israel and it would be assessing applications on “a case-by-case basis”. After the motion was passed, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a lobby group, called it “misguided” as it does not “effectively address the humanitarian crisis” in Gaza or “liberate Gazans from the tyrannical rule” of Hamas. Since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, the Trudeau government has asserted Israel’s right to defend itself but has eventually grown critical of its current assault on Gaza. Also Read | Netanyahu slams Trudeau after Canada PM tells Israel ‘killing of babies’ in Gaza must end In November, the Canadian PM, in his first sharp criticism of Israel since the beginning of the war, urged the Israeli government to “exercise maximum restraint” and said the “killing of women, of children, of babies” must stop. Britain’s deputy PM defends Israel The United Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, on Tuesday, said that Israel has a right to protect itself, amid the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza prompting mounting international criticism of the Israeli government’s assault on the Palestinian enclave. Dowden said that the British government is “continuously” urging Israel to abide by international humanitarian law and raised concerns about getting aid into Gaza. “That’s why we are calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow that aid in, and crucially, the hostages to come out,” he told the news agency Reuters. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk on Tuesday said Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid for Gaza may amount to a starvation tactic and could be a war crime. Also Read | Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan The UK deputy PM went on to stress his support for Israel, saying there is a risk that the world is forgetting the horrors of October 7, when Hamas launched attacks and according to Israeli officials killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. “I continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself, not only for the sake of Israel but also I think around the world we should be standing up to this kind of barbarism,” said Dowden. Subsequently, he also noted that Israel should “show restraint and proportionality in the way that they prosecute the legitimate war against Hamas.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat. This comes after the group’s spokesperson Yahya Sarea, on Tuesday (Mar 19) said that they had targeted the Israeli port city.&nbsp;

<h2>Houthi cruise missile hits Israeli territory</h2>

A “suspicious aerial target” from the direction of the Red Sea, which was later identified by the IDF as a cruise missile,&nbsp;landed in an open area near Eilat early Monday (Mar 18) morning.&nbsp;

However, the Israeli army did not specify the origins of the missile. Houthis later claimed responsibility for the attack. Israel has not reported any damage or injuries due to the incident.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital

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The IDF also said that the missile was being tracked by the Air Force throughout the incident and has since launched an investigation.&nbsp;

The missile which hit Israeli territory on Sunday (Mar 17) night, as per the country’s media reports, marks the first time that a Houthi projectile has hit Israeli territory.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a>

Prior to the recent incident, all the missiles fired by the Houthis had been shot down, often by the United States-built Arrow 1 or 3 anti-ballistic missile defence system.

<h2>Houthi’s attacks amid ongoing war</h2>

Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack, Houthis have tried to strike Israel with ballistic missiles several times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Houthi spokesperson, Sarea, on Tuesday, said that they targeted the Israeli port and resort city with winged missiles as well as a fuel tanker, MADO, in the Red Sea with a naval missile.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-to-halt-arms-sales-to-israel-uk-deputy-pm-calls-for-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-702194">Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza</a>

The Marshall-Islands flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker was heading to Singapore from Saudi Arabia, reported Reuters citing maritime shipping trackers.&nbsp;

The Yemen-based group described MADO as an American vessel. However, Equasis’ shipping database showed that it is owned by Greece-based Naftomar Shipping &amp; Trading Co Ltd.&nbsp;

The Iranian-backed group, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Gazans amid the ongoing war, have repeatedly launched drones and missiles at ships in the Red Sea and disrupted international commercial shipping since mid-November.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat. This comes after the group’s spokesperson Yahya Sarea, on Tuesday (Mar 19) said that they had targeted the Israeli port city. Houthi cruise missile hits Israeli territory A “suspicious aerial target” from the direction of the Red Sea, which was later identified by the IDF as a cruise missile, landed in an open area near Eilat early Monday (Mar 18) morning. However, the Israeli army did not specify the origins of the missile. Houthis later claimed responsibility for the attack. Israel has not reported any damage or injuries due to the incident. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital The IDF also said that the missile was being tracked by the Air Force throughout the incident and has since launched an investigation. The missile which hit Israeli territory on Sunday (Mar 17) night, as per the country’s media reports, marks the first time that a Houthi projectile has hit Israeli territory. Also Read | Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan Prior to the recent incident, all the missiles fired by the Houthis had been shot down, often by the United States-built Arrow 1 or 3 anti-ballistic missile defence system. Houthi’s attacks amid ongoing war Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack, Houthis have tried to strike Israel with ballistic missiles several times. Houthi spokesperson, Sarea, on Tuesday, said that they targeted the Israeli port and resort city with winged missiles as well as a fuel tanker, MADO, in the Red Sea with a naval missile. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza The Marshall-Islands flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker was heading to Singapore from Saudi Arabia, reported Reuters citing maritime shipping trackers. The Yemen-based group described MADO as an American vessel. However, Equasis’ shipping database showed that it is owned by Greece-based Naftomar Shipping & Trading Co Ltd. The Iranian-backed group, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Gazans amid the ongoing war, have repeatedly launched drones and missiles at ships in the Red Sea and disrupted international commercial shipping since mid-November. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis claim missile attack on Israel, IDF confirms “suspicious aerial target” hit port town Eilat

Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex.&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the Al-Shifa raid</h2>

The Israeli forces reportedly raided the largest hospital in the besieged Palestinian enclave, early Monday (Mar 18) for the fourth time since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas triggered by the militant group’s attack on southern Israel&nbsp;on October 7.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening

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Israeli army vehicles were stationed inside&nbsp;Al-Shifa’s courtyard and its forces launched missiles and opened fire at the hospital’s specialised surgery building, said the Hamas-run health ministry, in a statement on Telegram.&nbsp;

It also reported that dozens of Palestinians were seen fleeing the compound, where hundreds of displaced people, patients and medical staff had been taking shelter amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

The raid, according to the ministry, began around 2:00 am (local time) and resulted in a “number of martyrs and wounded”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Gaza’s government media office said Israeli troops along with tanks and drones launched the offensive and began shooting inside the complex.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-to-head-to-doha-for-temporary-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-talks-reports-701290">Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports</a>

A report by AFP citing witnesses said tanks were seen surrounding the hospital site. According to Israeli media reports, the troops have taken control of Al-Shifa and detained 80 people.

<h2>Around 30,000 trapped: Gaza health ministry</h2>

The Gaza health ministry released a statement calling on international organisations to “immediately stop this massacre against the sick, the wounded, the displaced, and the medical staff inside Al-Shifa Hospital”.

According to the Hamas-run ministry, around 30,000 people, including displaced civilians and medical staff were trapped inside the hospital amid the Israeli raid and called it “a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.”

<h2>‘High-precision operation’</h2>

Amid reports about the Israeli raid, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari released a statement claiming that the hospital is being used by “senior Hamas terrorists to conduct and promote terrorist activity.”

The IDF conducted the raid following “concrete intelligence that demanded immediate action. We know senior Hamas terrorists have regrouped inside the Shifa hospital and are using it to command attacks against Israel,” said Hagari.&nbsp;

The Israeli military also claimed that Hamas gunmen opened fire on them from inside the hospital “during the encirclement”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-germanys-olaf-scholz-says-we-need-temporary-ceasefire-very-quickly-701262">Israel-Hamas war: Germany's Olaf Scholz says, 'We need temporary ceasefire very quickly'</a>

The Gaza health ministry has since dismissed the allegations calling them “fabricated narratives to deceive the world” to justify the storming of Al-Shifa.&nbsp;

Monday’s raid comes after the Israeli army carried out a similar&nbsp;operation in November at the hospital complex which sparked an international outcry.&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.

Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex.

Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital. What we know about the Al-Shifa raid The Israeli forces reportedly raided the largest hospital in the besieged Palestinian enclave, early Monday (Mar 18) for the fourth time since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas triggered by the militant group’s attack on southern Israel on October 7. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening Israeli army vehicles were stationed inside Al-Shifa’s courtyard and its forces launched missiles and opened fire at the hospital’s specialised surgery building, said the Hamas-run health ministry, in a statement on Telegram. It also reported that dozens of Palestinians were seen fleeing the compound, where hundreds of displaced people, patients and medical staff had been taking shelter amid the ongoing war. The raid, according to the ministry, began around 2:00 am (local time) and resulted in a “number of martyrs and wounded”. Meanwhile, Gaza’s government media office said Israeli troops along with tanks and drones launched the offensive and began shooting inside the complex. Also Read | Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports A report by AFP citing witnesses said tanks were seen surrounding the hospital site. According to Israeli media reports, the troops have taken control of Al-Shifa and detained 80 people. Around 30,000 trapped: Gaza health ministry The Gaza health ministry released a statement calling on international organisations to “immediately stop this massacre against the sick, the wounded, the displaced, and the medical staff inside Al-Shifa Hospital”. According to the Hamas-run ministry, around 30,000 people, including displaced civilians and medical staff were trapped inside the hospital amid the Israeli raid and called it “a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.” ‘High-precision operation’ Amid reports about the Israeli raid, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari released a statement claiming that the hospital is being used by “senior Hamas terrorists to conduct and promote terrorist activity.” The IDF conducted the raid following “concrete intelligence that demanded immediate action. We know senior Hamas terrorists have regrouped inside the Shifa hospital and are using it to command attacks against Israel,” said Hagari. The Israeli military also claimed that Hamas gunmen opened fire on them from inside the hospital “during the encirclement”. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Germany's Olaf Scholz says, 'We need temporary ceasefire very quickly' The Gaza health ministry has since dismissed the allegations calling them “fabricated narratives to deceive the world” to justify the storming of Al-Shifa. Monday’s raid comes after the Israeli army carried out a similar operation in November at the hospital complex which sparked an international outcry. (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 forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported

An Israeli delegation is expected to head to Doha, Qatar on Monday (Mar 18) for indirect talks about a temporary truce in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, reported the Israeli media. This comes after Israel’s security cabinet reportedly approved the dispatch of the delegation led by the head of Israeli intelligence the night prior.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli delegation to head to Qatar</h2>

The Israeli delegation led by the head of Mossad, David Barnea received a “general mandate” to conduct negotiations amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas via Qatari and Egyptian mediators, the Israeli media reported on Sunday night.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening

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According to the media reports, some of the issues pertaining to the negotiations will also be considered and approved by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant separately.&nbsp;

A report by Ynet said that the Israeli delegation has requested a “significant amount of time” for the negotiations to improve the deal and deliver an outline that “we can stand behind.”&nbsp;

The report citing an Israeli official said that they need to “change the deal” and that “it is important that we arrive with significant flexibility.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-of-japan-as-blinken-attends-seoul-summit-701275">North Korea fires ballistic missiles toward Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit</a>

A report by Reuters citing a source close to the talks said that the discussions will be in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas and will focus on the remaining gaps between Israel and the militant group.&nbsp;

Last week, Hamas proposed a new ceasefire deal to mediators and Israel’s ally the United States which would see the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freeing Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

In a separate report, Reuters citing an&nbsp;Israeli official confirmed that the&nbsp;negotiators are expected in Doha, on Monday to secure a&nbsp;six-week truce with Hamas and the release of 40 hostages.

The negotiations will reportedly take&nbsp;at least two weeks, said the Israeli official citing&nbsp;difficulties communicating with&nbsp;Hamas'&nbsp;delegates in Gaza amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

A report by AFP citing a source also said&nbsp;Barnea will hold talks with&nbsp;Qatar PM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egyptian envoys.&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu vows to push for assault on Rafah</h2>

Netanyahu, on Sunday (Mar 17) questioned if the international community had forgotten the October 7 attack as several countries have expressed concerns over Israel’s plans to send troops into Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

“To our friends in the international community, I say: Is your memory so short? So quickly you forgot about October 7, the worst massacre committed against Jews since the Holocaust?”&nbsp;

The Israeli PM also vowed that he would send troops to Rafah and that no amount of international pressure would stop Israel from achieving its war aims.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-asks-friends-in-international-community-did-you-already-forget-oct-7-701132">Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you already forget Oct 7?’</a>

“It’s the only way to eliminate what remains of Hamas’ legions of murderers, and the only way to exert military pressure required to bring about the release of our loved ones,” said Netanyahu.

Israeli military officials have claimed that Rafah is Hamas’ last stronghold in Gaza and that there are thousands of militants as well as senior leaders present there.&nbsp;

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urged Israel “in the name of humanity” to not go ahead with the assault on Rafah and warned that “this humanitarian catastrophe must not be allowed to worsen”.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

An Israeli delegation is expected to head to Doha, Qatar on Monday (Mar 18) for indirect talks about a temporary truce in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, reported the Israeli media.

An Israeli delegation is expected to head to Doha, Qatar on Monday (Mar 18) for indirect talks about a temporary truce in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, reported the Israeli media. This comes after Israel’s security cabinet reportedly approved the dispatch of the delegation led by the head of Israeli intelligence the night prior. Israeli delegation to head to Qatar The Israeli delegation led by the head of Mossad, David Barnea received a “general mandate” to conduct negotiations amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas via Qatari and Egyptian mediators, the Israeli media reported on Sunday night. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening According to the media reports, some of the issues pertaining to the negotiations will also be considered and approved by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant separately. A report by Ynet said that the Israeli delegation has requested a “significant amount of time” for the negotiations to improve the deal and deliver an outline that “we can stand behind.” The report citing an Israeli official said that they need to “change the deal” and that “it is important that we arrive with significant flexibility.” Also Read | North Korea fires ballistic missiles toward Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit A report by Reuters citing a source close to the talks said that the discussions will be in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas and will focus on the remaining gaps between Israel and the militant group. Last week, Hamas proposed a new ceasefire deal to mediators and Israel’s ally the United States which would see the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freeing Palestinian prisoners. In a separate report, Reuters citing an Israeli official confirmed that the negotiators are expected in Doha, on Monday to secure a six-week truce with Hamas and the release of 40 hostages. The negotiations will reportedly take at least two weeks, said the Israeli official citing difficulties communicating with Hamas' delegates in Gaza amid the ongoing war. A report by AFP citing a source also said Barnea will hold talks with Qatar PM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egyptian envoys. Netanyahu vows to push for assault on Rafah Netanyahu, on Sunday (Mar 17) questioned if the international community had forgotten the October 7 attack as several countries have expressed concerns over Israel’s plans to send troops into Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge amid the ongoing war. “To our friends in the international community, I say: Is your memory so short? So quickly you forgot about October 7, the worst massacre committed against Jews since the Holocaust?” The Israeli PM also vowed that he would send troops to Rafah and that no amount of international pressure would stop Israel from achieving its war aims. Also Read | Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you already forget Oct 7?’ “It’s the only way to eliminate what remains of Hamas’ legions of murderers, and the only way to exert military pressure required to bring about the release of our loved ones,” said Netanyahu. Israeli military officials have claimed that Rafah is Hamas’ last stronghold in Gaza and that there are thousands of militants as well as senior leaders present there. World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urged Israel “in the name of humanity” to not go ahead with the assault on Rafah and warned that “this humanitarian catastrophe must not be allowed to worsen”. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and&nbsp;calling&nbsp;for new elections in Israel. The speech has since garnered criticism from Israeli officials and the country’s media with some calling it a “watershed” moment for relations between Tel Aviv and Washington.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Good speech’</h2>

“He made a good speech, and I think he expressed serious concern shared not only by him, but by many Americans,” said the US president during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar in the Oval Office, when asked about the Democratic Senator’s speech.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: Tensions between US, Israel over Gaza war

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The White House had been notified about the remarks Schumer would make on the Senate floor. “Senator Schumer contacted my staff, my senior staffer, that he was going to make that speech,” said the US president. However, Biden refused to elaborate further on the matter.&nbsp;

Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the US, called Netanyahu a “major obstacle to peace,” and said how he has lost his way by prioritising his “political survival” over the “best interests of Israel.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-approves-potential-assault-on-rafah-but-keeps-truce-hopes-alive-700608">Israel-Hamas war: Israel approves potential assault on Rafah as first aid ship reaches Gaza shore</a>

“He has been too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza, which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows,” said the Senate majority leader in a speech, on Thursday (Mar 14), adding that “Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.”

Schumer also called for a “new election once the war starts to wind down.”&nbsp;

He added that if Netanyahu does not step down after the war and “continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies” the US would have “no choice” but to “play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course.”

The US president has supported Israel’s right to defend itself after the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas in southern Israel. However, Biden, ahead of the presidential election in November is facing growing backlash from Democrats as well as many in the US calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli officials fume over Schumer’s speech</h2>

Meanwhile, the Senate majority leader’s speech has sparked outrage in Israel. The country's&nbsp;newspaper Haaretz described the speech as a “watershed” moment. While several Israeli officials warned the US over meddling in the country’s internal politics.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schumer-calls-for-new-leadership-in-israel-says-significant-course-corrections-needed-for-peace-700183">Chuck Schumer calls for replacing Israel's Netnyahu, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace</a>

Netanyahu’s Likud party in a statement asked Schumer not to “undermine” Israel’s elected government calling the country “an independent, proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.”&nbsp;

“Israel is a sovereign democracy,” said Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog. He added, “It is unhelpful, all the more so as Israel is at war against the genocidal terror organization Hamas, to comment on the domestic political scene of a democratic ally. It is counterproductive to our common goals.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for new elections in Israel.

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for new elections in Israel. The speech has since garnered criticism from Israeli officials and the country’s media with some calling it a “watershed” moment for relations between Tel Aviv and Washington. ‘Good speech’ “He made a good speech, and I think he expressed serious concern shared not only by him, but by many Americans,” said the US president during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar in the Oval Office, when asked about the Democratic Senator’s speech. WATCH | Israel war: Tensions between US, Israel over Gaza war The White House had been notified about the remarks Schumer would make on the Senate floor. “Senator Schumer contacted my staff, my senior staffer, that he was going to make that speech,” said the US president. However, Biden refused to elaborate further on the matter. Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the US, called Netanyahu a “major obstacle to peace,” and said how he has lost his way by prioritising his “political survival” over the “best interests of Israel.” Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Israel approves potential assault on Rafah as first aid ship reaches Gaza shore “He has been too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza, which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows,” said the Senate majority leader in a speech, on Thursday (Mar 14), adding that “Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.” Schumer also called for a “new election once the war starts to wind down.” He added that if Netanyahu does not step down after the war and “continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies” the US would have “no choice” but to “play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course.” The US president has supported Israel’s right to defend itself after the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas in southern Israel. However, Biden, ahead of the presidential election in November is facing growing backlash from Democrats as well as many in the US calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Israeli officials fume over Schumer’s speech Meanwhile, the Senate majority leader’s speech has sparked outrage in Israel. The country's newspaper Haaretz described the speech as a “watershed” moment. While several Israeli officials warned the US over meddling in the country’s internal politics. Also Read | Chuck Schumer calls for replacing Israel's Netnyahu, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace Netanyahu’s Likud party in a statement asked Schumer not to “undermine” Israel’s elected government calling the country “an independent, proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.” “Israel is a sovereign democracy,” said Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog. He added, “It is unhelpful, all the more so as Israel is at war against the genocidal terror organization Hamas, to comment on the domestic political scene of a democratic ally. It is counterproductive to our common goals.” (With inputs from agencies)

Biden praises Schumer’s ‘anti-Netanyahu’ speech calling for new elections, Israel fumes over remarks

The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15).

The talks between Mossad head David Barnea, Qatar’s prime minister and Egyptian officials will focus on remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas including over prisoner releases and humanitarian aid, the source said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUyIPNqfmEAxW5bWwGHR_1AkUQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AXemKDhtuXhb84myB7Mo_&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365" target="_blank">Gaza&nbsp;war: Hamas presents&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;proposal to mediators</a>

Israel had said on Friday (March 14) it would be sending a delegation to Doha, but did not spell out when it would do so or who would take part. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to convene the security cabinet before the talks.

Israeli officials were not immediately available to comment on Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath.

Barnea was involved in previous significant pushes for a deal. A short-lived truce in November was agreed and came into effect after his participation in talks in Doha. His last meeting with Qatar's prime minister in January led to a proposal for a temporary ceasefire that Hamas ultimately rejected.

Hamas this week presented a new ceasefire proposal to mediators and Israel's ally the United States that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUyIPNqfmEAxW5bWwGHR_1AkUQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2pikuHAdANBl3xuv9SuQZd&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717" target="_blank">Ramadan begins without&nbsp;ceasefire: What it means for&nbsp;Gaza</a>

Repeated efforts to agree a ceasefire and exchange hostages for prisoners have fallen apart this year, despite mounting international pressure over the human cost of Israel's ground and air assault in Gaza.

The war began on October&nbsp;7 when Hamas sent fighters into Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.

Israel's military campaign has killed more than 31,500 Palestinians, about 70% of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15).

The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15). The talks between Mossad head David Barnea, Qatar’s prime minister and Egyptian officials will focus on remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas including over prisoner releases and humanitarian aid, the source said. Also read: Gaza war: Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators Israel had said on Friday (March 14) it would be sending a delegation to Doha, but did not spell out when it would do so or who would take part. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to convene the security cabinet before the talks. Israeli officials were not immediately available to comment on Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath. Barnea was involved in previous significant pushes for a deal. A short-lived truce in November was agreed and came into effect after his participation in talks in Doha. His last meeting with Qatar's prime minister in January led to a proposal for a temporary ceasefire that Hamas ultimately rejected. Hamas this week presented a new ceasefire proposal to mediators and Israel's ally the United States that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners. Also read: Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza Repeated efforts to agree a ceasefire and exchange hostages for prisoners have fallen apart this year, despite mounting international pressure over the human cost of Israel's ground and air assault in Gaza. The war began on October 7 when Hamas sent fighters into Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies. Israel's military campaign has killed more than 31,500 Palestinians, about 70% of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Mossad chief expected to lead Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha on Sunday

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals. In other news, Yulia Navalnaya, wife of deceased Russian opposition member Alexei Navalny arrived at the Russian embassy in Berlin on Sunday (Mar 17) to cast her vote in Russia's presidential election.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals.&nbsp;

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Yulia Navalnaya, wife of deceased Russian opposition member Alexei Navalny arrived at the Russian embassy in Berlin on Sunday (Mar 17) to cast her vote in Russia's presidential election.&nbsp;She was welcomed with loud cheers from the crowds when she joined them outside the polling station on the final day of voting, before erupting into a chant of her name.&nbsp;

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A group of four foreign students residing at Gujarat University's international boys' hostel in Ahmedabad were assaulted by a mob on Saturday night, allegedly due to their observance of namaaz in the campus ground, media reports said. Two students were injured in the incident, including one sustaining severe injuries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-property-dealer-shot-then-beaten-in-suspected-gang-rivalry-at-highway-eatery-near-pune-701215">VIDEO: Property dealer in India shot, then beaten in 'gang rivalry' at eatery</a>

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A property dealer met a gruesome end at a highway restaurant near Pune, as captured by CCTV cameras. Avinash Balu Dhanve (34) fell victim to a fatal attack orchestrated by assailants suspected to be part of a rival gang, leading to a horrifying scene on the Pune-Solapur highway. The place of the incident was nearly 140 kilometres from Pune.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/crash-involving-passenger-bus-fuel-truck-kills-21-injures-38-in-afghanistan-701107">Afghanistan: 21 killed, 38 injured in crash involving bus, fuel truck and bike</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/17/419066-afghanistan-3.png?imwidth=400" />

A horrific collision of a passenger bus with an oil tanker and a motorbike killed 21 people and injured 38 others on Sunday (Mar 17) in southern Afghanistan's Helmand province.&nbsp;In a post on social media platform X, the provincial information department said: "On (March 17), 21 people were killed and 38 people were injured due to a collision between a tanker, a motorcycle and a passenger bus."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-foreign-minister-penny-wong-ties-knot-with-partner-sophie-allouache-701169">Australian foreign minister Penny Wong ties knot with partner Sophie Allouache</a>

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Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong&nbsp;and her partner Sophie Allouache have exchanged vows in a ceremony held in Adelaide after being together for nearly 20 years.&nbsp;Penny Wong is a prominent Australian politician, belonging to the Australian Labor Party (ALP). She held various ministerial positions, including minister for finance, and minister for climate change.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-refused-to-drop-kohli-for-t20-world-cup-sends-clear-message-to-jay-shah-reports-701106">Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/17/419069-rohit-refused-to-drop-kohli-for-t20-wc-sends-clear-message-to-shah-reports.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India’s World Cup winner&nbsp;Kirti Azad’s latest social media post has created quite a stir in the cricket circuit surrounding speculations on Virat Kohli’s future in T20I cricket. Taking to the micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Azad revealed that BCCI secretary Jay Shah had asked chief selector Ajit Agarkar to convince others to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup (to be held in June in the Caribbean and the USA).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ongoing-manhunt-in-philadelphia-ends-with-police-arresting-killer-of-three-700978">Ongoing manhunt in Philadelphia ends with police arresting killer of three</a>

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An ongoing manhunt for a suspect involved in the fatal shootings of three people outside a Philadelphia-area suburb ended after authorities arrested 26-year-old Andre Gordon from New Jersey. The man reportedly barricaded himself after killing his 52-year-old stepmother, Karen Gordon, his 13-year-old sister Kera Gordon and the mother of his children, 25-year-old Taylor Daniel, authorities said, who had launched the search operation Saturday morning (Mar 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-hold-third-high-level-core-group-meeting-review-deputation-of-indian-technical-personnel-701172">India and Maldives hold third high-level core group meeting, review deputation of Indian technical personnel</a>

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The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male on Sunday (March 17).&nbsp;During the meeting, New Delhi and Male reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical experts in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide the people of Maldives with humanitarian and medvac services, said India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-urges-people-to-climb-down-from-light-tower-during-rally-in-andhra-pradesh-701217">Watch: PM Modi urges people to climb down from light tower during rally in Andhra Pradesh</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/17/419112-succession-2024-03-17t213953825.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA)'s rally 'Prajagalam' was briefly disrupted on Sunday evening (March 17) after a group of people ascended a light tower to listen to their leaders speak.&nbsp;However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotted people climbing atop the structure with lights attached to it and immediately interrupted Jana Sena Party president Pawan Kalyan in the middle of his speech urging them to get down.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals. In other news, Yulia Navalnaya, wife of deceased Russian opposition member Alexei Navalny arrived at the Russian embassy in Berlin on Sunday (Mar 17) to cast her vote in Russia's presidential election. Click on the headlines to read more: Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you forget Oct 7?’ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals. Russia election: Navalny’s wife arrives at embassy in Berlin to cast vote Yulia Navalnaya, wife of deceased Russian opposition member Alexei Navalny arrived at the Russian embassy in Berlin on Sunday (Mar 17) to cast her vote in Russia's presidential election. She was welcomed with loud cheers from the crowds when she joined them outside the polling station on the final day of voting, before erupting into a chant of her name. Mob assaults foreign students in Gujarat over location for Ramadan prayers A group of four foreign students residing at Gujarat University's international boys' hostel in Ahmedabad were assaulted by a mob on Saturday night, allegedly due to their observance of namaaz in the campus ground, media reports said. Two students were injured in the incident, including one sustaining severe injuries. VIDEO: Property dealer in India shot, then beaten in 'gang rivalry' at eatery A property dealer met a gruesome end at a highway restaurant near Pune, as captured by CCTV cameras. Avinash Balu Dhanve (34) fell victim to a fatal attack orchestrated by assailants suspected to be part of a rival gang, leading to a horrifying scene on the Pune-Solapur highway. The place of the incident was nearly 140 kilometres from Pune. Afghanistan: 21 killed, 38 injured in crash involving bus, fuel truck and bike A horrific collision of a passenger bus with an oil tanker and a motorbike killed 21 people and injured 38 others on Sunday (Mar 17) in southern Afghanistan's Helmand province. In a post on social media platform X, the provincial information department said: "On (March 17), 21 people were killed and 38 people were injured due to a collision between a tanker, a motorcycle and a passenger bus." Australian foreign minister Penny Wong ties knot with partner Sophie Allouache Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong and her partner Sophie Allouache have exchanged vows in a ceremony held in Adelaide after being together for nearly 20 years. Penny Wong is a prominent Australian politician, belonging to the Australian Labor Party (ALP). She held various ministerial positions, including minister for finance, and minister for climate change. Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports India’s World Cup winner Kirti Azad’s latest social media post has created quite a stir in the cricket circuit surrounding speculations on Virat Kohli’s future in T20I cricket. Taking to the micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Azad revealed that BCCI secretary Jay Shah had asked chief selector Ajit Agarkar to convince others to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup (to be held in June in the Caribbean and the USA). Ongoing manhunt in Philadelphia ends with police arresting killer of three An ongoing manhunt for a suspect involved in the fatal shootings of three people outside a Philadelphia-area suburb ended after authorities arrested 26-year-old Andre Gordon from New Jersey. The man reportedly barricaded himself after killing his 52-year-old stepmother, Karen Gordon, his 13-year-old sister Kera Gordon and the mother of his children, 25-year-old Taylor Daniel, authorities said, who had launched the search operation Saturday morning (Mar 16). India and Maldives hold third high-level core group meeting, review deputation of Indian technical personnel The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male on Sunday (March 17). During the meeting, New Delhi and Male reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical experts in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide the people of Maldives with humanitarian and medvac services, said India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement. Watch: PM Modi urges people to climb down from light tower during rally in Andhra Pradesh The National Democratic Alliance (NDA)'s rally 'Prajagalam' was briefly disrupted on Sunday evening (March 17) after a group of people ascended a light tower to listen to their leaders speak. However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotted people climbing atop the structure with lights attached to it and immediately interrupted Jana Sena Party president Pawan Kalyan in the middle of his speech urging them to get down.

Top 10 news: Netanyahu slams international community for stand against war; Russia election updates, & more

Security at Israel's Ben-Gurion Airport was beefed up on Thursday evening (March 14) after reports of a "serious security incident" emerged near Lod, said Israeli media citing airport authorities.

"Somebody told me snipers were present," the Jerusalem Post quoted Itay Cohen, a photojournalist at the airport as saying.

"When I got off the bus, I saw two security guards with drawn weapons. We got rushed into the building and could not see a thing," Cohen said. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
"This incident is extremely unusual," she added.

The incident, as per Israel's Airports Authority, did not disrupt regular airport operations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-group-claims-to-have-successfully-tested-hypersonic-missile-700121">Yemen's Houthi group successfully tests hypersonic missile: Report</a>

<h2>Netanyahu says at least 13,000 'terrorists' killed</h2>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (March 10) said that at least 13,000 "terrorists" were among Palestinians killed during the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

He further vowed to continue with the offensive in the south of the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu told German media company Axel Springer that pushing Israel's military offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza was a significant move in defeating Hamas.

"We are very close to victory ... Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks" until the intensive phase of fighting is concluded, Bild newspaper quoted Netanyahu as saying.

The move has been termed a "red line" by US President Joe Biden, who along with his aides has urged Netanyahu to not press ahead with an offensive in Rafah until he comes up with a plan for mass evacuation of civilians.

"It is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," said Biden on being asked by MSNBC if the invasion of Rafah would be a red line.

(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.

Security at Israel's Ben-Gurion Airport was beefed up on Thursday evening (March 14) after reports of a "serious security incident" emerged near Lod, said Israeli media citing airport authorities.

Security at Israel's Ben-Gurion Airport was beefed up on Thursday evening (March 14) after reports of a "serious security incident" emerged near Lod, said Israeli media citing airport authorities. "Somebody told me snipers were present," the Jerusalem Post quoted Itay Cohen, a photojournalist at the airport as saying. "When I got off the bus, I saw two security guards with drawn weapons. We got rushed into the building and could not see a thing," Cohen said. "This incident is extremely unusual," she added. The incident, as per Israel's Airports Authority, did not disrupt regular airport operations. Also read: Yemen's Houthi group successfully tests hypersonic missile: Report Netanyahu says at least 13,000 'terrorists' killed Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (March 10) said that at least 13,000 "terrorists" were among Palestinians killed during the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. He further vowed to continue with the offensive in the south of the besieged Palestinian enclave. Netanyahu told German media company Axel Springer that pushing Israel's military offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza was a significant move in defeating Hamas. "We are very close to victory ... Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks" until the intensive phase of fighting is concluded, Bild newspaper quoted Netanyahu as saying. The move has been termed a "red line" by US President Joe Biden, who along with his aides has urged Netanyahu to not press ahead with an offensive in Rafah until he comes up with a plan for mass evacuation of civilians. "It is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," said Biden on being asked by MSNBC if the invasion of Rafah would be a red line. (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.

Security beefed up at Israel's Ben-Gurion Airport after 'serious incident'

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and updated him on recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

Netanyahu released a statement saying that both sides also had a discussion surrounding the efforts for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza.

"The sides also discussed the effort to release the hostages and the issue of humanitarian assistance," he said.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met today with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and updated him on recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip. The sides also discussed the effort to release the hostages and the issue of humanitarian assistance. <a href="https://t.co/EJzlR2dupE">pic.twitter.com/EJzlR2dupE</a>
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1767239531080667399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The Director of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's Foreign Policy Advisor and the Indian Ambassador to Israel also participated in the meeting," the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a>

<h2>Netanyahu says at least 13,000 'terrorists' killed</h2>

The Israeli prime minister on Sunday&nbsp;(March 10) said that at least 13,000 "terrorists" were among Palestinians killed during the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

He further vowed to continue with the offensive in the south of the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu told German media company Axel Springer that pushing Israel's military offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza was a significant move in defeating Hamas.

"We are very close to victory ... Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks" until the intensive phase of fighting is concluded, Bild newspaper quoted Netanyahu as saying.

The move has been termed a "red line" by US President Joe Biden, who along with his aides has urged Netanyahu to not press ahead with an offensive in Rafah until he comes up with a plan for mass evacuation of civilians.

"It is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," said Biden on being asked by MSNBC if the invasion of Rafah would be a red line.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and updated him on recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip.

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and updated him on recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu released a statement saying that both sides also had a discussion surrounding the efforts for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza. "The sides also discussed the effort to release the hostages and the issue of humanitarian assistance," he said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met today with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and updated him on recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip. The sides also discussed the effort to release the hostages and the issue of humanitarian assistance. pic.twitter.com/EJzlR2dupE — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) March 11, 2024 × "The Director of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's Foreign Policy Advisor and the Indian Ambassador to Israel also participated in the meeting," the statement said. Also read: Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza Netanyahu says at least 13,000 'terrorists' killed The Israeli prime minister on Sunday (March 10) said that at least 13,000 "terrorists" were among Palestinians killed during the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. He further vowed to continue with the offensive in the south of the besieged Palestinian enclave. Netanyahu told German media company Axel Springer that pushing Israel's military offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza was a significant move in defeating Hamas. "We are very close to victory ... Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks" until the intensive phase of fighting is concluded, Bild newspaper quoted Netanyahu as saying. The move has been termed a "red line" by US President Joe Biden, who along with his aides has urged Netanyahu to not press ahead with an offensive in Rafah until he comes up with a plan for mass evacuation of civilians. "It is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," said Biden on being asked by MSNBC if the invasion of Rafah would be a red line. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu apprises India's National Security Advisor Doval about Gaza war

In continued effort to secure the release of hostages still held captive in Gaza, Israeli spy chief met with his US counterpart on Saturday (March 9) Tel Aviv said.

"The head of the Mossad, David Barnea, met yesterday (Friday) with the head of the CIA, Bill Burns, as part of the ceaseless efforts to advance another hostage release deal," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on behalf of the Mossad.

"Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time in an effort to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," said Mossad.

The statement comes amid mediators scrambling to secure a new ceasefire deal in the Gaza war before Ramadan which could begin as early as Sunday, depending on the lunar calendar.

The Israelis did not specify if the meeting took place on Friday (March 8) between Barnea and Burns.

"At this stage, Hamas is entrenching its positions like someone who is not interested in a deal and is striving to inflame the region during Ramadan at the expense of Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip," it said.

Mossad also stated that Hamas was aiming for&nbsp;unrest in the area to worsen during Ramadan.&nbsp;

Israeli officials have stated that the conflict between the warring sides would come to an end only with the defeat of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-key-residential-tower-in-southern-rafah-as-ceasefire-talks-stall-698374">Israel strikes residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall</a>

<h2>Without truce before Ramadan, Israel and Jerusalem could be very, very dangerous, says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden issued a warning this week stating that without a truce before Ramadan, "Israel and Jerusalem could be very, very dangerous" as he expressed doubt on Friday (Mar 8) about the possibility of achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas before the Muslim holy month.

His remarks on the ceasefire come after he recently spoke in his State of the Union about addressing the increasing humanitarian crisis in Gaza since October 7.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In continued effort to secure the release of hostages still held captive in Gaza, Israeli spy chief met with his US counterpart on Saturday (March 9) Tel Aviv said.

In continued effort to secure the release of hostages still held captive in Gaza, Israeli spy chief met with his US counterpart on Saturday (March 9) Tel Aviv said. "The head of the Mossad, David Barnea, met yesterday (Friday) with the head of the CIA, Bill Burns, as part of the ceaseless efforts to advance another hostage release deal," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on behalf of the Mossad. "Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time in an effort to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," said Mossad. The statement comes amid mediators scrambling to secure a new ceasefire deal in the Gaza war before Ramadan which could begin as early as Sunday, depending on the lunar calendar. The Israelis did not specify if the meeting took place on Friday (March 8) between Barnea and Burns. "At this stage, Hamas is entrenching its positions like someone who is not interested in a deal and is striving to inflame the region during Ramadan at the expense of Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip," it said. Mossad also stated that Hamas was aiming for unrest in the area to worsen during Ramadan. Israeli officials have stated that the conflict between the warring sides would come to an end only with the defeat of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Also read: Israel strikes residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall Without truce before Ramadan, Israel and Jerusalem could be very, very dangerous, says Biden United States President Joe Biden issued a warning this week stating that without a truce before Ramadan, "Israel and Jerusalem could be very, very dangerous" as he expressed doubt on Friday (Mar 8) about the possibility of achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas before the Muslim holy month. His remarks on the ceasefire come after he recently spoke in his State of the Union about addressing the increasing humanitarian crisis in Gaza since October 7. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says Hamas hardening stance on hostage deal to 'inflame region' during Ramadan

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