Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel.

Kibbutz Nir Oz, where she was taking a walk with her husband on the morning of the attack, announced her demise on Thursday.

While sharing the tragic development, US President Joe Biden said that he was utterly "devastated" by Weinstein's passing and that Washington will "not stop working" with its ally Israel to bring the remaining hostages home.

"This tragic development cuts deep, coming on the heels of last week’s news that Judith’s beloved husband, Gad Haggai, is believed to have been killed by Hamas," Biden said in a statement, vowing to continue attempting for the release of other hostages still held by Hamas.

Six days back, the kibbutz had announced that her husband&nbsp;was killed on Oct&nbsp;7 after which the Hamas militants took his body&nbsp;to Gaza.&nbsp;Judith Weinstein's body is also being held in Gaza.

Weinstein was an Israeli,&nbsp;American and Canadian national. She was the last missing Canadian from the Oct 7 attack. Last week, Biden informed that her husband, Gadi Haggai, 73, was killed on Oct. 7.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Ottawa also mourned the tragic passing of Weinstein.&nbsp;

Biden, recalling what the couple's daughter and the family members of other Americans held hostage in Gaza told him when he met with them earlier this month, said that no family should ever go through such an ordeal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-several-killed-in-strike-near-south-gaza-hospital-un-asks-israel-to-end-unlawful-killings-674387">Israel-Hamas war: UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’ in West Bank</a>

"They have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal," Biden said.

<h2>Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid</h2>

Biden and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Tuesday (Dec 26) held talks discussing the need to release hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza and also the efforts to boost humanitarian aid.

"The two leaders discussed the urgent effort to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens," the White House readout said, adding they also talked about increasing access to aid.

The Qatari State News Agency said that Biden and the emir had a telephonic discussion where the two spoke about the latest developments in the West Bank and also about the joint mediation efforts to calm the ongoing upsurge of violence in the besieged Palestinian enclave in order to reach a permanent ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel.

Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel. Kibbutz Nir Oz, where she was taking a walk with her husband on the morning of the attack, announced her demise on Thursday. While sharing the tragic development, US President Joe Biden said that he was utterly "devastated" by Weinstein's passing and that Washington will "not stop working" with its ally Israel to bring the remaining hostages home. "This tragic development cuts deep, coming on the heels of last week’s news that Judith’s beloved husband, Gad Haggai, is believed to have been killed by Hamas," Biden said in a statement, vowing to continue attempting for the release of other hostages still held by Hamas. Six days back, the kibbutz had announced that her husband was killed on Oct 7 after which the Hamas militants took his body to Gaza. Judith Weinstein's body is also being held in Gaza. Weinstein was an Israeli, American and Canadian national. She was the last missing Canadian from the Oct 7 attack. Last week, Biden informed that her husband, Gadi Haggai, 73, was killed on Oct. 7. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Ottawa also mourned the tragic passing of Weinstein. Biden, recalling what the couple's daughter and the family members of other Americans held hostage in Gaza told him when he met with them earlier this month, said that no family should ever go through such an ordeal. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’ in West Bank "They have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal," Biden said. Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid Biden and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Tuesday (Dec 26) held talks discussing the need to release hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza and also the efforts to boost humanitarian aid. "The two leaders discussed the urgent effort to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens," the White House readout said, adding they also talked about increasing access to aid. The Qatari State News Agency said that Biden and the emir had a telephonic discussion where the two spoke about the latest developments in the West Bank and also about the joint mediation efforts to calm the ongoing upsurge of violence in the besieged Palestinian enclave in order to reach a permanent ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

'Devastated', says Biden as 70-year-old American woman is confirmed dead in Oct 7 attack

Australia, on Thursday (Dec 28) confirmed the death of two of its citizens, including an alleged Hezbollah fighter following an Israeli air strike in south Lebanon. This comes after Canberra said it is looking into the Iran-backed Lebanon-based militant group’s claims that one of the Australian citizens killed had links to the militant group.

<h2>What did Australia say?</h2>

Ibrahim Bazzi and his brother Ali Bazzi were killed in the airstrike on Tuesday (Dec 26) in the town of Bint Jbel in southern Lebanon, said Australia’s acting Foreign Minister Mark Dreyfus.&nbsp;

Dreyfus said Australia was investigating Hezbollah’s claim that Ali Bazzi was one of its fighters. “We will continue to make inquiries about this particular person, with whom Hezbollah has claimed links,” said Australia’s acting foreign minister.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-claims-to-have-destroyed-hamas-tunnels-under-gazas-rantisi-hospital-674235">Israeli army claims to have destroyed Hamas' tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital</a>

He added, “Hezbollah has claimed this Australian as one of its fighters. Our inquiries are continuing.” Dreyfus also noted that Hezbollah is a “listed terrorist organisation” in Australia and it is an offence for any Australian to provide it financial support or fight in its ranks.&nbsp;

Ibrahim Bazzi had arrived in Lebanon recently from Sydney to accompany his Lebanese wife Shorouq Hammoud to Australia, according to a report by the Associated Press. Hammoud had recently received an Australian visa and was also among those killed in the attack.&nbsp;

Australia’s acting foreign minister said that the Australian embassy in Beirut was ready to provide consular assistance to the Bazzi family if required.&nbsp;

<h2>Australia talks to Israel about attack</h2>

Dreyfus said his government had communicated with Israel about the airstrike but declined to disclose what was discussed.&nbsp;

He also reiterated a warning by his government calling on Australians not to travel to Lebanon and also urged those in Lebanon to leave the country while commercial flight options remained available.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-deaths-soar-as-israel-says-war-to-last-many-more-months-674161">Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months'</a>

“In the context of the current conflict, Australia has consistently called for civilian lives to be protected and we have consistently raised our concerns about the risk of this conflict spreading,” said Dreyfus.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza on October 7, Hezbollah, an ally of the Palestinian militant group, has been exchanging near-daily fire with Israel across Lebanon’s southern border.&nbsp;

The Israeli airstrike&nbsp;on Tuesday, which is said to have killed the Australian citizens, was part of a flare-up of border area hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in the town of Bint Jbeil where the militants, as per Reuters, enjoy widespread support.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia, on Thursday (Dec 28) confirmed the death of two of its citizens, including an alleged Hezbollah fighter following an Israeli air strike in south Lebanon.

Australia, on Thursday (Dec 28) confirmed the death of two of its citizens, including an alleged Hezbollah fighter following an Israeli air strike in south Lebanon. This comes after Canberra said it is looking into the Iran-backed Lebanon-based militant group’s claims that one of the Australian citizens killed had links to the militant group. What did Australia say? Ibrahim Bazzi and his brother Ali Bazzi were killed in the airstrike on Tuesday (Dec 26) in the town of Bint Jbel in southern Lebanon, said Australia’s acting Foreign Minister Mark Dreyfus. Dreyfus said Australia was investigating Hezbollah’s claim that Ali Bazzi was one of its fighters. “We will continue to make inquiries about this particular person, with whom Hezbollah has claimed links,” said Australia’s acting foreign minister. ALSO READ | Israeli army claims to have destroyed Hamas' tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital He added, “Hezbollah has claimed this Australian as one of its fighters. Our inquiries are continuing.” Dreyfus also noted that Hezbollah is a “listed terrorist organisation” in Australia and it is an offence for any Australian to provide it financial support or fight in its ranks. Ibrahim Bazzi had arrived in Lebanon recently from Sydney to accompany his Lebanese wife Shorouq Hammoud to Australia, according to a report by the Associated Press. Hammoud had recently received an Australian visa and was also among those killed in the attack. Australia’s acting foreign minister said that the Australian embassy in Beirut was ready to provide consular assistance to the Bazzi family if required. Australia talks to Israel about attack Dreyfus said his government had communicated with Israel about the airstrike but declined to disclose what was discussed. He also reiterated a warning by his government calling on Australians not to travel to Lebanon and also urged those in Lebanon to leave the country while commercial flight options remained available. ALSO READ | Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months' “In the context of the current conflict, Australia has consistently called for civilian lives to be protected and we have consistently raised our concerns about the risk of this conflict spreading,” said Dreyfus. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza on October 7, Hezbollah, an ally of the Palestinian militant group, has been exchanging near-daily fire with Israel across Lebanon’s southern border. The Israeli airstrike on Tuesday, which is said to have killed the Australian citizens, was part of a flare-up of border area hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in the town of Bint Jbeil where the militants, as per Reuters, enjoy widespread support. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia confirms death of two citizens after Israeli strike in Lebanon

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war. During his Christmas address, he particularly mentioned Ukraine war as well as Israel-Hamas war and prayed for peace. Pope was speaking from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica to scores of people who had gathered below.&nbsp;

The Pope said he grieved the “abominable attack” carried out by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7 and made an appeal for release of hostages. He begged for an end to Irsael's military campaign in the Gaza Strip and the “appalling harvest of innocent civilians”. He said that humanitarian aid should reach all those who are in need.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages &amp; end Israel-Hamas war

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During his address, Pope Francis said that the story of Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem was one of peace. But he added that today, Bethlehem "is a place of sorrow and silence”, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Pope's annual 'Urbi et Orbi' ("To the City and the World") speech typically has laments about misery facing the world. The speech made on Monday was no exception. the Pope appealed for humanitarian initiatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan to Syria and Yemen, Ukraine to South Sudan and Congo and the Korean peninsula.

<h2>Aim at the weapons industry</h2>

Pope Francis lashed out at the weapons industry saying that the industry was helping fuel conflicts around the world.

“It should be talked about and written about, so as to bring to light the interests and the profits that move the puppet strings of war,” he said. “And how can we even speak of peace, when arms production, sales and trade are on the rise?”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-visited-gaza-vows-to-intensify-fighting-673432">Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting</a>

Pope Francis has frequently blasted the arms industry, calling it “merchants of death”. He has even said that wars like the one being waged in Ukraine are used to test new weapons and use up old stockpiles.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-six-killed-after-attacks-on-kherson-horlivka-moscow-will-be-defeated-says-zelensky-673397">Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky</a>

On the Israel-Hamas war, he called for peace. He said that the conflict should be resolved “through sincere and persevering dialogue between the parties, sustained by strong political will and the support of the international community.”

According to the Vatican officials, about 70,000 people filled St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' speech and blessing. There were people flying Palestinian and Ukrainian flags.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war.

Pope Francis, during his Christmas Day blessings called for peace in the world and lashed out at the weapons industry and the "instruments of death" that fuel war. During his Christmas address, he particularly mentioned Ukraine war as well as Israel-Hamas war and prayed for peace. Pope was speaking from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica to scores of people who had gathered below. The Pope said he grieved the “abominable attack” carried out by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7 and made an appeal for release of hostages. He begged for an end to Irsael's military campaign in the Gaza Strip and the “appalling harvest of innocent civilians”. He said that humanitarian aid should reach all those who are in need. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages & end Israel-Hamas war × During his address, Pope Francis said that the story of Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem was one of peace. But he added that today, Bethlehem "is a place of sorrow and silence”, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Pope's annual 'Urbi et Orbi' ("To the City and the World") speech typically has laments about misery facing the world. The speech made on Monday was no exception. the Pope appealed for humanitarian initiatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan to Syria and Yemen, Ukraine to South Sudan and Congo and the Korean peninsula. Aim at the weapons industry Pope Francis lashed out at the weapons industry saying that the industry was helping fuel conflicts around the world. “It should be talked about and written about, so as to bring to light the interests and the profits that move the puppet strings of war,” he said. “And how can we even speak of peace, when arms production, sales and trade are on the rise?” Also Read | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting Pope Francis has frequently blasted the arms industry, calling it “merchants of death”. He has even said that wars like the one being waged in Ukraine are used to test new weapons and use up old stockpiles. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky On the Israel-Hamas war, he called for peace. He said that the conflict should be resolved “through sincere and persevering dialogue between the parties, sustained by strong political will and the support of the international community.” According to the Vatican officials, about 70,000 people filled St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' speech and blessing. There were people flying Palestinian and Ukrainian flags. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis calls for global peace in Christmas Day address

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets in New York City on Monday (Dec 25) chanting “Christmas is cancelled here.” Some protesters clashed with the police officers and injured one, said the New York Police Department (NYPD), adding that several arrests were made following the incident.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Christmas is cancelled here’</h2>

The crowd of about 500 demonstrators raised slogans including “Long live the intifada,” using the Arabic word for “rebellion” or “uprising,” reported the New York Post. Some protesters were seen throwing fake blood on the Nativity scene – which celebrates the birth of Jesus – chanting “Christmas is cancelled here.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-comes-out-with-peace-proposal-plant-to-end-israel-hamas-war-report-673593">Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas</a>

The protest began at the News Corporation Building on 6th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan around 2:00 pm (local time), according to the local media reports. The building is home to newsrooms and media organisations including Fox News, The Post and the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

The building has been at the centre of several demonstrations since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-pro-palestinian-protesters-disrupt-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-662128">pro-Palestinian</a> activist group, Within Our Lifetime, earlier this month shared a map which included newsrooms in NYC, businesses and landmark buildings saying that each of these locations is “an office of an enemy of both the Palestinian people and colonized people all over the world.”

From there, the protesters marched to Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree where people were enjoying the holidays. “While Ur Shopping Bombs are Dropping,” read one of the signs carried by the demonstrators.&nbsp;

<h2>Clashes and arrests</h2>

As the day progressed, several scuffles were reported amid the ongoing protest prompting the NYPD to reportedly request&nbsp;for a Level Three mobilisation to deal with the pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: NYPD Calls for Level Three Mobilization Amidst Numerous Fights Between Pro-Palestine Protesters and Police at a Large Protest⁰ 
📌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Manhattan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Manhattan</a> l <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewYork</a> 
 
Currently, the New York Police Department has requested a Level Three mobilization for a large protest that is… <a href="https://t.co/j2ZAUvERF3">pic.twitter.com/j2ZAUvERF3</a>
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/rawsalerts/status/1739434702258258317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The NYPD measure ranges from Level 1 to Level 4, indicating the severity of the situation may involve a request for additional resources, personnel or equipment to effectively handle the situation.

According to the NYPD, one officer sustained minor injuries during the demonstration.&nbsp;

While the number of people arrested was not immediately known, the New York Post citing law enforcement said at least six people have been arrested in connection with the protest on Monday.&nbsp;

According to the media report, the six arrests – four for disorderly conduct, one for menacing and one for graffiti – took place near Grand Central Station and Union Square, as protesters and cops clashed.&nbsp;

<h2>Christmas sombre in Bethlehem</h2>

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-christ-marks-sombre-christmas-eve-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on.&nbsp;

The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets in New York City on Monday (Dec 25) chanting “Christmas is cancelled here.” Some protesters clashed with the police officers and injured one, said the New York Police Department (NYPD), adding that several arrests were made following the incident.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets in New York City on Monday (Dec 25) chanting “Christmas is cancelled here.” Some protesters clashed with the police officers and injured one, said the New York Police Department (NYPD), adding that several arrests were made following the incident. ‘Christmas is cancelled here’ The crowd of about 500 demonstrators raised slogans including “Long live the intifada,” using the Arabic word for “rebellion” or “uprising,” reported the New York Post. Some protesters were seen throwing fake blood on the Nativity scene – which celebrates the birth of Jesus – chanting “Christmas is cancelled here.” ALSO READ | Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas The protest began at the News Corporation Building on 6th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan around 2:00 pm (local time), according to the local media reports. The building is home to newsrooms and media organisations including Fox News, The Post and the Wall Street Journal. The building has been at the centre of several demonstrations since the pro-Palestinian activist group, Within Our Lifetime, earlier this month shared a map which included newsrooms in NYC, businesses and landmark buildings saying that each of these locations is “an office of an enemy of both the Palestinian people and colonized people all over the world.” From there, the protesters marched to Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree where people were enjoying the holidays. “While Ur Shopping Bombs are Dropping,” read one of the signs carried by the demonstrators. Clashes and arrests As the day progressed, several scuffles were reported amid the ongoing protest prompting the NYPD to reportedly request for a Level Three mobilisation to deal with the pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. 🚨#BREAKING: NYPD Calls for Level Three Mobilization Amidst Numerous Fights Between Pro-Palestine Protesters and Police at a Large Protest⁰ 📌#Manhattan l #NewYork Currently, the New York Police Department has requested a Level Three mobilization for a large protest that is… pic.twitter.com/j2ZAUvERF3 — R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) December 25, 2023 × The NYPD measure ranges from Level 1 to Level 4, indicating the severity of the situation may involve a request for additional resources, personnel or equipment to effectively handle the situation. According to the NYPD, one officer sustained minor injuries during the demonstration. While the number of people arrested was not immediately known, the New York Post citing law enforcement said at least six people have been arrested in connection with the protest on Monday. According to the media report, the six arrests – four for disorderly conduct, one for menacing and one for graffiti – took place near Grand Central Station and Union Square, as protesters and cops clashed. Christmas sombre in Bethlehem Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. ALSO READ | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on. The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Christmas is cancelled here’: Pro-Palestinian protesters clash with police in NYC, several arrested

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on.&nbsp;

The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians.&nbsp;

<h2>‘We feel sad’</h2>

The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-didnt-talk-about-ceasefire-during-private-conversation-with-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-673116">Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza.

This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas.

“This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square.

“This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-amid-israel-hamas-war-the-turmoil-in-top-us-universities-over-antisemitism-668405">Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row</a>

The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans.&nbsp;

<h2>People of&nbsp;Bethlehem&nbsp;</h2>

Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza.

The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;

“My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-cancels-christmas-in-solidarity-with-gaza-668430">Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza</a>

He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.”&nbsp;

He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born.

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on. The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians. ‘We feel sad’ The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday. ALSO READ | Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza. This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas. “This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square. “This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press. He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering. ALSO READ | Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans. People of Bethlehem Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza. The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry. “My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.” He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports.

In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas.

The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians.

Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group.

Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale".&nbsp;

It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat.

The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-commit-to-new-ceasefire-agree-to-un-led-peace-process-672932">Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process</a>

The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

<h2>Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22).

The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north.

This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27.

<h2>UN resolution urges more aid</h2>

On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale".

Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday&nbsp;"in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank. Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports. In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas. The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians. Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group. Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale". It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat. The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza. Also read: Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said. Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22). The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north. This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27. UN resolution urges more aid On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale". Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday "in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open. (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 strikes on Gaza killed 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all... routes to and throughout the entire Gaza Strip, including border crossings... for the provision of humanitarian assistance."

The resolution also requests the appointment of a UN humanitarian coordinator who will oversee and verify aid to Gaza coming from a third country.

AFP reported that an earlier text of the resolution said that in order for aid mechanism to accelerate, the function of aid delivery should be "exclusively" under UN control.&nbsp;

The resolution now states that delivery of relief&nbsp;material will be managed consulting "all relevant parties". This is likely to practically mean that Israel would have operational oversight of relief material delivery.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping | WION Dispatch

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The UNSC is under mounting criticism from across the world that it is not doing enough to improve situation with respect to the war. Israel, backed by the United States, continues to oppose the term 'ceasefire'. The US has twice used its veto to block resolutions.

The United States and Russia both are permanent members of the UNSC and a veto from either of them would have meant that the resolution wouldn't pass.

<h2>The reactions</h2>

USA's Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield welcomed the resolution and said that it was "a strong step forward".

"This council provided a glimmer of hope among a sea of suffering," she said.

Diplomatic tussle at the UN headquarters caused postponement of the vote several times.

Russia called the text of resolution "toothless" and hit out at the United States.

"...they have resorted to their favorite tactic... of twisting of arms," said Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-starvation-used-as-a-weapon-of-war-in-gaza-strip-says-hrw-670872">Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW</a>

The United Arab Emirates sponsored the resolution. Several amendments were made to it to seek compromise between parties.&nbsp;UAE's ambassador to the UN said that the resolution " responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation."

We know this is not a perfect text... We will never tire of calling for a humanitarian cease-fire," the ambassador said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oversight-board-criticises-meta-for-removing-two-israel-hamas-war-videos-671819">Oversight Board criticises Meta for removing two Israel-Hamas war videos</a>

Hamas fighters crossed border from Gaza Strip on October 7 and mounted attack in southern Israel that caused 1200 death, as per Israeli estimates. Hamas fighters also took more than 200 hostages. Israel has since responded with a massive military action that has seen it carry out hundreds of air attacks on the Palestinian enclave. A ground assault has also been launched with tanks and troops entering Gaza Strip. The war has caused immense suffering for civilians in Gaza and as per Hamas-run health ministry, the death toll in the enclave has crossed the 20,000 mark.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all.

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all... routes to and throughout the entire Gaza Strip, including border crossings... for the provision of humanitarian assistance." The resolution also requests the appointment of a UN humanitarian coordinator who will oversee and verify aid to Gaza coming from a third country. AFP reported that an earlier text of the resolution said that in order for aid mechanism to accelerate, the function of aid delivery should be "exclusively" under UN control. The resolution now states that delivery of relief material will be managed consulting "all relevant parties". This is likely to practically mean that Israel would have operational oversight of relief material delivery. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping | WION Dispatch × The UNSC is under mounting criticism from across the world that it is not doing enough to improve situation with respect to the war. Israel, backed by the United States, continues to oppose the term 'ceasefire'. The US has twice used its veto to block resolutions. The United States and Russia both are permanent members of the UNSC and a veto from either of them would have meant that the resolution wouldn't pass. The reactions USA's Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield welcomed the resolution and said that it was "a strong step forward". "This council provided a glimmer of hope among a sea of suffering," she said. Diplomatic tussle at the UN headquarters caused postponement of the vote several times. Russia called the text of resolution "toothless" and hit out at the United States. "...they have resorted to their favorite tactic... of twisting of arms," said Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW The United Arab Emirates sponsored the resolution. Several amendments were made to it to seek compromise between parties. UAE's ambassador to the UN said that the resolution " responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation." We know this is not a perfect text... We will never tire of calling for a humanitarian cease-fire," the ambassador said. Also Read | Oversight Board criticises Meta for removing two Israel-Hamas war videos Hamas fighters crossed border from Gaza Strip on October 7 and mounted attack in southern Israel that caused 1200 death, as per Israeli estimates. Hamas fighters also took more than 200 hostages. Israel has since responded with a massive military action that has seen it carry out hundreds of air attacks on the Palestinian enclave. A ground assault has also been launched with tanks and troops entering Gaza Strip. The war has caused immense suffering for civilians in Gaza and as per Hamas-run health ministry, the death toll in the enclave has crossed the 20,000 mark. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UNSC passes Gaza resolution, but stops short of calling 'ceasefire'

Israel used its most destructive MK-84 bombs in the first week of counter-offensive military operations in Gaza, following the events of October 7, US media reports have claimed.

Israel used its most destructive MK-84 bombs in the first week of counter-offensive military operations in Gaza, following the events of October 7, US media reports have claimed. The New York Times, using artificial intelligence tool to scan satellite imagery of south Gaza for bomb craters claimed that Israel used the terrifying 2,000-pound bombs on areas it called "safe" for civilians and along the evacuation routes it claimed were "safe" for innocent Gazans to escape the bombings. The investigation identified as many as 208 craters through satellite imagery and drone footage. According to munitions experts, only 2,000-pound bombs can form craters that measure 40 feet across or larger as was identified in the imagery. The report added the bombs were used at least 200 times and that "even for those who followed every evacuation order, there was still no safety to be found". Meanwhile, CNN also cited similar findings, stating that Tel Aviv's bombing in the first month of the war "had not been seen since Vietnam". Notably, the US has sent more than 5,000 MK-84 munitions to Israel since the war began, despite President Joe Biden urging his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu to reduce civilian casualties. When quizzed about the use of the bombs on civilians, an Israeli military spokesman said Tel Aviv's priority was destroying Hamas and such questions would be looked into at a later stage. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: British team helping Palestinian authority prepare for governance Israel-Hamas war Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas expired earlier this month, the war has only intensified. Reports about another truce deal in the works have been doing the rounds but Israel, especially Netanyahu appears averse to any such agreement. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said on Wednesday (Dec 20). "Anyone who thinks we’ll stop is unmoored from reality. We’re raining fire on Hamas, hell fire. All Hamas terrorists, from first to last face death. They have two options only: surrender or die," he added. Also read | US: Coffee shop fires three antisemitic staffers for blocking Jewish customer from using washroom Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed 19,667 people, mostly women and children. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel used 2,000-pound bombs to kill civilians in Gaza: Reports

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Dec 21) said that the Israeli counter-offensive in Gaza will not stop until the goals are achieved.

Netanyahu said that the Israeli forces would fight until Hamas was destroyed and all the remaining hostages that were held captive by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7 were released.

"We are fighting until victory. We will not stop the war until we achieve all its goals - destroying Hamas and releasing all our hostages," Netanyahu said.

"What I suggest for Hamas is very simple: Surrender or die. They will not have any other choice," he said.

"And after we destroy Hamas, I will do everything in my power to ensure that Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel. Not 'Hamas-istan' and not 'Fatah-istan' (referring to the party headed by Ramallah-based Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas)," the Israeli PM added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoke-bombs-in-albanian-parliament-as-former-leader-stripped-of-immunity-amid-corruption-charges-672274">Smoke bombs in Albanian parliament as former leader stripped of immunity amid corruption charges</a>

<h2>Hamas says Israel's objective to eliminate it 'doomed to fail'</h2>

On the other hand, the Palestinian military group on Thursday claimed that the Israeli military's goal of eliminating it in the besieged Palestinian enclave was "doomed to fail".

Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, said in an audio recording that any further release of hostages held in Gaza depended on a "cessation of aggression".

Neither Israel's continued offensive nor "direct military operations" would bring the hostages home, he said.

"It is not possible to release enemy prisoners alive except by entering into negotiations."

As per the Israeli authorities, 129 hostages remain held in Gaza.

Abu Obeida further said that there was "no alternative" to negotiations, warning that Israeli fire could lead to the deaths of more hostages.

He then took a dig at Israel's leader saying that their "decision... evades facing and recognising the truth".

After releasing the spokesman's recording, Hamas' armed wing also shared a video that showcased three Israeli hostages, who they claimed had been killed in Israeli strikes.

The fighting in Gaza has so far claimed the lives of at least 1,140 people, mostly civilians inside Israel with Hamas taking some 250 hostages.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Dec 21) said that the Israeli counter-offensive in Gaza will not stop until the goals are achieved. Netanyahu said that the Israeli forces would fight until Hamas was destroyed and all the remaining hostages that were held captive by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7 were released.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Dec 21) said that the Israeli counter-offensive in Gaza will not stop until the goals are achieved. Netanyahu said that the Israeli forces would fight until Hamas was destroyed and all the remaining hostages that were held captive by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7 were released. "We are fighting until victory. We will not stop the war until we achieve all its goals - destroying Hamas and releasing all our hostages," Netanyahu said. "What I suggest for Hamas is very simple: Surrender or die. They will not have any other choice," he said. "And after we destroy Hamas, I will do everything in my power to ensure that Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel. Not 'Hamas-istan' and not 'Fatah-istan' (referring to the party headed by Ramallah-based Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas)," the Israeli PM added. Also read: Smoke bombs in Albanian parliament as former leader stripped of immunity amid corruption charges Hamas says Israel's objective to eliminate it 'doomed to fail' On the other hand, the Palestinian military group on Thursday claimed that the Israeli military's goal of eliminating it in the besieged Palestinian enclave was "doomed to fail". Abu Obeida, spokesman for Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, said in an audio recording that any further release of hostages held in Gaza depended on a "cessation of aggression". Neither Israel's continued offensive nor "direct military operations" would bring the hostages home, he said. "It is not possible to release enemy prisoners alive except by entering into negotiations." As per the Israeli authorities, 129 hostages remain held in Gaza. Abu Obeida further said that there was "no alternative" to negotiations, warning that Israeli fire could lead to the deaths of more hostages. He then took a dig at Israel's leader saying that their "decision... evades facing and recognising the truth". After releasing the spokesman's recording, Hamas' armed wing also shared a video that showcased three Israeli hostages, who they claimed had been killed in Israeli strikes. The fighting in Gaza has so far claimed the lives of at least 1,140 people, mostly civilians inside Israel with Hamas taking some 250 hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says 'won't stop until victory'

The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The US-led “multinational security initiative” will be joined by Bahrain, Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.&nbsp;

The 10-nation coalition comes amid a rise in attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen who have waded into the Israel-Hamas war by launching missiles and drones on commercial vessels on the key trading route which carries up to 12 per cent of global trade.&nbsp;

<h2>About the 10-nation coalition</h2>

“This is an international challenge that demands collective action. Therefore today I am announcing the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an important new multinational security initiative,” said US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who is on a visit to Bahrain, in a statement, on Tuesday (Dec 19).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-options-to-retaliate-against-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-report-670514">US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report</a>

“Countries that seek to uphold the foundational principle of freedom of navigation must come together to tackle the challenge posed by this non-state actor,” it added. It was not immediately clear if the countries would be willing to do what the American warships have been doing in recent days.&nbsp;

US-deployed warships have shot down Houthi missiles and drones as well as rushed to the aid of commercial ships under attack. The recent attacks have prompted many shipping companies to halt transit through the troubled but vital waterway which might disrupt global trade.&nbsp;

American forces have also reportedly shot down drones and missiles fired at Israel from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa to prevent the current war from spreading to the rest of the region.&nbsp;

<h2>Two commercial ships attacked</h2>

Houthis, on Monday (Dec 18) attacked two more commercial shipping vessels in the southern Red Sea, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a statement.&nbsp;

According to the US forces in the region, the Norwegian-owned chemical/oil tanker Swan Atlantic was attacked by a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shoots-down-drones-assists-multiple-commercial-vessels-attacked-in-red-sea-by-yemens-houthis-665938">US shoots down drones, assists multiple commercial vessels attacked in Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthis</a>

Around the same time, in a separate incident, a bulk cargo ship MSC Clara reported an explosion in the water near its location. There were no injuries reported on both vessels.&nbsp;

<h2>Houthis claim responsibility for attacks</h2>

The Yemeni rebels claimed responsibility for the attacks on what they called two “Israeli-linked” vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. In a statement, Houthis said that they carried out a “military operation against two ships linked to the Zionist entity” using naval drones.

Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea later claimed that the crews failed to respond to calls from the group. The Iran-backed group has threatened to target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality and warned international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vessel-attacked-in-red-sea-off-yemen-coast-us-blames-houthis-671002">Vessel attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast, US blames Houthis</a>

Swan Atlantic’s owner, as per AFP said that the ship was carrying biofuel feedstock from France to Reunion Island and that their vessel had “no Israeli link” given that it is managed by a Singaporean firm and was run by an Indian crew, which was unharmed in&nbsp;the incident.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Al Jazeera that his group would be able to confront any US-led coalition that was deployed to the Red Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The United States announced that several countries have agreed to jointly carry out patrols in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships from missile and drone attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, who say they are doing so in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The US-led “multinational security initiative” will be joined by Bahrain, Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain. The 10-nation coalition comes amid a rise in attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen who have waded into the Israel-Hamas war by launching missiles and drones on commercial vessels on the key trading route which carries up to 12 per cent of global trade. About the 10-nation coalition “This is an international challenge that demands collective action. Therefore today I am announcing the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an important new multinational security initiative,” said US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who is on a visit to Bahrain, in a statement, on Tuesday (Dec 19). ALSO READ | US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report “Countries that seek to uphold the foundational principle of freedom of navigation must come together to tackle the challenge posed by this non-state actor,” it added. It was not immediately clear if the countries would be willing to do what the American warships have been doing in recent days. US-deployed warships have shot down Houthi missiles and drones as well as rushed to the aid of commercial ships under attack. The recent attacks have prompted many shipping companies to halt transit through the troubled but vital waterway which might disrupt global trade. American forces have also reportedly shot down drones and missiles fired at Israel from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa to prevent the current war from spreading to the rest of the region. Two commercial ships attacked Houthis, on Monday (Dec 18) attacked two more commercial shipping vessels in the southern Red Sea, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a statement. According to the US forces in the region, the Norwegian-owned chemical/oil tanker Swan Atlantic was attacked by a drone and an anti-ship ballistic missile. ALSO READ | US shoots down drones, assists multiple commercial vessels attacked in Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthis Around the same time, in a separate incident, a bulk cargo ship MSC Clara reported an explosion in the water near its location. There were no injuries reported on both vessels. Houthis claim responsibility for attacks The Yemeni rebels claimed responsibility for the attacks on what they called two “Israeli-linked” vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. In a statement, Houthis said that they carried out a “military operation against two ships linked to the Zionist entity” using naval drones. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea later claimed that the crews failed to respond to calls from the group. The Iran-backed group has threatened to target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality and warned international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports. ALSO READ | Vessel attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast, US blames Houthis Swan Atlantic’s owner, as per AFP said that the ship was carrying biofuel feedstock from France to Reunion Island and that their vessel had “no Israeli link” given that it is managed by a Singaporean firm and was run by an Indian crew, which was unharmed in the incident. Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Al Jazeera that his group would be able to confront any US-led coalition that was deployed to the Red Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations&nbsp;over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on. However, he said that Hamas was open to negotiations to end the war which he termed 'genocidal'.

"We affirm our position of categorically rejecting to hold any form of negotiations over prisoners exchange under the continuing Israeli genocidal war,"&nbsp;Basem Naem said in a statement

"We are, however, open to any initiative that contributes to ending the aggression on our people and opening the crossings to bring in aid and provide relief to the Palestinian people," he added.

Basem Naem was quoted by Israeli media.

Tuesday saw Israel launch more strikes on Gaza. These strikes have taken place amid expectations that United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is preparing to hold another vote on ceasefire demand. The Israel-Hamas war has begun to lead to regional ramifications with Yemen's Houthi Rebels attacking shipping in the Red Sea, attacks they say are mounted to show solidarity with&nbsp;Palestinians. These attacks have started disrupting shipping through the crucial waterway.

Watch | Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks

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US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin said that USA would continue to provide arms and ammunition to Israel.

In order to tackle the menace of Houthi attack, the US is trying to cobble together an international alliance which may include warships from Britain, France, Italy, Spain and other countries.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-10-nation-coalition-to-respond-to-attacks-by-yemens-houthis-in-red-sea-671127">US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea</a>

<h2>Director of Gaza hospital admits Hamas used facility for military operations: IDF</h2>

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have published a video from their official handle on X (formerly Twitter) saying that Ahmad Kahalot, a senior member of Hamas and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza Strip has revealed during interrogation that Hamas fighters used the hospital to hide and as a base for their military operations.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-new-hostage-video-israel-terms-it-atrocious-terror-671283">Hamas releases new hostage video, Israel terms it ‘atrocious terror’</a>

In the video, neither the interrogator nor Kahalot are speaking in English and viewers get information through English subtitles.

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Hamas in their own words: 
 
Ahmad Kahalot—Senior Hamas Member since 2010 and director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabalya in northern Gaza admits that Hamas has used hospitals as military facilities under their control. 
 
Video credit: ISA Spokesperson <a href="https://t.co/QGLclR94at">pic.twitter.com/QGLclR94at</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1737118015509147970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Israel has been claiming that Hamas was using hospitals as bases for their military operations and Hamas has regularly denied the accusation.

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on.

A senior Hamas official said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the militant group does not want to hold negotiations over prisoner exchange while the war with Israel is going on. However, he said that Hamas was open to negotiations to end the war which he termed 'genocidal'. "We affirm our position of categorically rejecting to hold any form of negotiations over prisoners exchange under the continuing Israeli genocidal war," Basem Naem said in a statement "We are, however, open to any initiative that contributes to ending the aggression on our people and opening the crossings to bring in aid and provide relief to the Palestinian people," he added. Basem Naem was quoted by Israeli media. Tuesday saw Israel launch more strikes on Gaza. These strikes have taken place amid expectations that United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is preparing to hold another vote on ceasefire demand. The Israel-Hamas war has begun to lead to regional ramifications with Yemen's Houthi Rebels attacking shipping in the Red Sea, attacks they say are mounted to show solidarity with Palestinians. These attacks have started disrupting shipping through the crucial waterway. Watch | Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks × US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel in a joint press conference with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. Austin said that USA would continue to provide arms and ammunition to Israel. In order to tackle the menace of Houthi attack, the US is trying to cobble together an international alliance which may include warships from Britain, France, Italy, Spain and other countries. Also Read | US announces 10-nation coalition to respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in Red Sea Director of Gaza hospital admits Hamas used facility for military operations: IDF Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have published a video from their official handle on X (formerly Twitter) saying that Ahmad Kahalot, a senior member of Hamas and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza Strip has revealed during interrogation that Hamas fighters used the hospital to hide and as a base for their military operations. Also Read | Hamas releases new hostage video, Israel terms it ‘atrocious terror’ In the video, neither the interrogator nor Kahalot are speaking in English and viewers get information through English subtitles. Hamas in their own words: Ahmad Kahalot—Senior Hamas Member since 2010 and director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabalya in northern Gaza admits that Hamas has used hospitals as military facilities under their control. Video credit: ISA Spokesperson pic.twitter.com/QGLclR94at — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 19, 2023 × Israel has been claiming that Hamas was using hospitals as bases for their military operations and Hamas has regularly denied the accusation. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready to negotiate to end war, but not prisoner exchange, says Hamas: Reports

The Israeli army on Sunday (Dec 17) said that it had uncovered an unusually large concrete and iron-girded Hamas tunnel in the Gaza Strip, just a few hundred metres from a key border crossing.

As per news agency AFP, the size of the tunnel was such that small vehicles could easily travel inside it.

The Israeli army released a statement saying that the tunnel cost millions of dollars and took years to construct. The project they said was helmed by Mohamed Yahya, brother of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, who reportedly was the mastermind of the Oct 7 assault against Hamas.

"We're going to enter the biggest tunnel we found in Gaza. The biggest secret of Sinwar. His project. His subterranean tunnel project. We gonna enter. It was a secret, that we have revealed that was meant to target the (Erez) crossing," chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said.

"Tunnel, the subterranean tunnel, constructed by Mohammed Sinwar. This is the Sinwar project tunnel that was meant to do a terror attack," he said.

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EXPOSED: The biggest Hamas terrorist tunnel discovered. 
 
This massive tunnel system branches out and spans well over four kilometers (2.5 miles). Its entrance is located only 400 meters (1,310 feet) from the Erez Crossing—used by Gazans on a daily basis to enter Israel for work… <a href="https://t.co/RcjK5LbvGL">pic.twitter.com/RcjK5LbvGL</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1736407306311475360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Hagari put the full length of the tunnel at 4 km (2.5 miles), which was enough to reach the northern Gaza City, once the heart of Hamas governance and now a devastated combat zone.

It was "the biggest tunnel we found in Gaza ... meant to target the (Erez) crossing," Hagari said, without specifying whether it was used by Hamas for the Oct&nbsp;7 attack.

"For this tunnel that ends 400 metres from the Erez crossing. Erez crossing, symbolised hope for Palestinians. Thousands of Palestinians were going to work from this crossing inside Israel," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-options-to-retaliate-against-houthi-attacks-in-red-sea-report-670514">US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report</a>

"Millions of dollars were invested in this tunnel. It took years to build this tunnel ... Vehicles could drive through," he added. 
&nbsp; 
This tunnel, shown by Hagari, had poles descending vertically downward that, which he claimed, indicated part of a wider network.

<h2>Israel discovers tunnels under Gaza vacation homes&nbsp;</h2>

The Israeli forces on Sunday said they had found tunnels under vacation homes in Gaza which were used by senior Hamas leaders along with another shaft located under a baby’s crib in the northern Strip, amid the ongoing offensive in the besieged Palestinian enclave, as per the Times of Israel reports.

The military said that they raided the offices of the commander of Hamas' Khan Younis battalion and the vacation homes of several senior Hamas commanders, including the Palestinian terror group’s leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar.

In Gaza, more than 18,800 people, mostly women and children, have lost their lives in the war, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, whereas Hamas' assault in Israel claimed the lives of around &nbsp;1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to&nbsp;Israeli figures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

The Israeli army on Sunday (Dec 17) said that it had uncovered an unusually large concrete and iron-girded Hamas tunnel in the Gaza Strip, just a few hundred metres from a key border crossing.

The Israeli army on Sunday (Dec 17) said that it had uncovered an unusually large concrete and iron-girded Hamas tunnel in the Gaza Strip, just a few hundred metres from a key border crossing. As per news agency AFP, the size of the tunnel was such that small vehicles could easily travel inside it. The Israeli army released a statement saying that the tunnel cost millions of dollars and took years to construct. The project they said was helmed by Mohamed Yahya, brother of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, who reportedly was the mastermind of the Oct 7 assault against Hamas. "We're going to enter the biggest tunnel we found in Gaza. The biggest secret of Sinwar. His project. His subterranean tunnel project. We gonna enter. It was a secret, that we have revealed that was meant to target the (Erez) crossing," chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said. "Tunnel, the subterranean tunnel, constructed by Mohammed Sinwar. This is the Sinwar project tunnel that was meant to do a terror attack," he said. EXPOSED: The biggest Hamas terrorist tunnel discovered. This massive tunnel system branches out and spans well over four kilometers (2.5 miles). Its entrance is located only 400 meters (1,310 feet) from the Erez Crossing—used by Gazans on a daily basis to enter Israel for work… pic.twitter.com/RcjK5LbvGL — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 17, 2023 × Hagari put the full length of the tunnel at 4 km (2.5 miles), which was enough to reach the northern Gaza City, once the heart of Hamas governance and now a devastated combat zone. It was "the biggest tunnel we found in Gaza ... meant to target the (Erez) crossing," Hagari said, without specifying whether it was used by Hamas for the Oct 7 attack. "For this tunnel that ends 400 metres from the Erez crossing. Erez crossing, symbolised hope for Palestinians. Thousands of Palestinians were going to work from this crossing inside Israel," he said. Also read: US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report "Millions of dollars were invested in this tunnel. It took years to build this tunnel ... Vehicles could drive through," he added. This tunnel, shown by Hagari, had poles descending vertically downward that, which he claimed, indicated part of a wider network. Israel discovers tunnels under Gaza vacation homes The Israeli forces on Sunday said they had found tunnels under vacation homes in Gaza which were used by senior Hamas leaders along with another shaft located under a baby’s crib in the northern Strip, amid the ongoing offensive in the besieged Palestinian enclave, as per the Times of Israel reports. The military said that they raided the offices of the commander of Hamas' Khan Younis battalion and the vacation homes of several senior Hamas commanders, including the Palestinian terror group’s leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar. In Gaza, more than 18,800 people, mostly women and children, have lost their lives in the war, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, whereas Hamas' assault in Israel claimed the lives of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures. (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 army uncovers 'biggest Hamas tunnel' with 4-km long network near Gaza border

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced.&nbsp;

Inbar Haiman was said to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival and described as a “creative girl full of joy.”&nbsp;

<h2>About her reported death</h2>

The Forum said Haiman’s family were informed of her death by authorities, but no other details about how or when she was killed were immediately known. Haiman is survived by her parents and a brother, reported Times of Israel.&nbsp;

According to the forum, her body is believed to remain held by Hamas in Gaza. Haiman was among dozens of hostages taken by the Palestinian militant group from the Supernova desert rave which turned into a massacre during the attacks after Hamas fighters, according to Israeli officials, killed at least 360 partygoers.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened to her at the festival?</h2>

The visual communications student from the city of Haifa, in northern Israel was volunteering at the festival, according to her boyfriend Noam Alon.&nbsp;

She had texted him when the Palestinian militant group attacked and he told her to avoid the roads where Hamas fighters were reportedly shooting people who were trying to escape.&nbsp;

When they lost touch with her, Inbar’s family and Alon posted her details on social media and eventually they heard from two witnesses. They recognised her from her distinctive leggings and said Haiman first hid under a stage with friends and then took cover under a bush, reported Times of Israel.&nbsp;

The two witnesses also reportedly told her family that she later was found by a pair of Hamas fighters armed with knives, who hauled the 27-year-old out and placed her on a motorbike.&nbsp;

Her family and Alon later received a video posted by Hamas on Telegram, showing Haiman looking bloody and beaten, surrounded by four men, according to Times of Israel. &nbsp;

“The video came as a kind of relief,” Alon told the Guardian, in an interview last month after the video emerged. “The other option – that she was dead – was far worse. Knowing that she’s now a hostage in Gaza isn’t easy – it’s something you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy – but it’s better than the alternative.”

The news of her reported death came a day after the Israeli military said that they found the bodies of two soldiers and one civilian hostage who were taken captive by Hamas. The civilian was later identified as Elia Toledano, a 28-year-old French-Israeli citizen.

It is believed that around 128 people are still in Hamas captivity, but not all of them are thought to be alive. Some 105 Israeli hostages were released from Gaza during the week-long truce last month. Additionally, the bodies of eight hostages have been recovered so far, according to the Israeli army.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, families of hostages have ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure their release, particularly since the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted three hostages were mistakenly killed by their troops in Gaza.&nbsp;

More than 18,700 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its retaliatory attacks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&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.

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced.

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced. Inbar Haiman was said to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival and described as a “creative girl full of joy.” About her reported death The Forum said Haiman’s family were informed of her death by authorities, but no other details about how or when she was killed were immediately known. Haiman is survived by her parents and a brother, reported Times of Israel. According to the forum, her body is believed to remain held by Hamas in Gaza. Haiman was among dozens of hostages taken by the Palestinian militant group from the Supernova desert rave which turned into a massacre during the attacks after Hamas fighters, according to Israeli officials, killed at least 360 partygoers. What happened to her at the festival? The visual communications student from the city of Haifa, in northern Israel was volunteering at the festival, according to her boyfriend Noam Alon. She had texted him when the Palestinian militant group attacked and he told her to avoid the roads where Hamas fighters were reportedly shooting people who were trying to escape. When they lost touch with her, Inbar’s family and Alon posted her details on social media and eventually they heard from two witnesses. They recognised her from her distinctive leggings and said Haiman first hid under a stage with friends and then took cover under a bush, reported Times of Israel. The two witnesses also reportedly told her family that she later was found by a pair of Hamas fighters armed with knives, who hauled the 27-year-old out and placed her on a motorbike. Her family and Alon later received a video posted by Hamas on Telegram, showing Haiman looking bloody and beaten, surrounded by four men, according to Times of Israel. “The video came as a kind of relief,” Alon told the Guardian, in an interview last month after the video emerged. “The other option – that she was dead – was far worse. Knowing that she’s now a hostage in Gaza isn’t easy – it’s something you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy – but it’s better than the alternative.” The news of her reported death came a day after the Israeli military said that they found the bodies of two soldiers and one civilian hostage who were taken captive by Hamas. The civilian was later identified as Elia Toledano, a 28-year-old French-Israeli citizen. It is believed that around 128 people are still in Hamas captivity, but not all of them are thought to be alive. Some 105 Israeli hostages were released from Gaza during the week-long truce last month. Additionally, the bodies of eight hostages have been recovered so far, according to the Israeli army. Meanwhile, families of hostages have ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure their release, particularly since the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted three hostages were mistakenly killed by their troops in Gaza. More than 18,700 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its retaliatory attacks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. (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 hostage, 27-year-old woman Inbar Haiman, confirmed dead in Hamas captivity: Report

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade.&nbsp;

<h2>Will US respond to Houthi attacks?</h2>

Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthi-red-sea-attacks-iran-warns-against-proposed-us-backed-red-sea-force-670380/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-in-bab-al-mandab-strait-attacked-by-missiles-from-houthi-controlled-yemen-gunmen-on-speedboats-669295">Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats</a>

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran.&nbsp;

<h2>Recent attacks</h2>

As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports.&nbsp;

On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels.&nbsp;

American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone.

This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-confirms-houthis-hijacked-ship-in-red-sea-but-says-its-not-israeli-vessel-660542">IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel</a>

One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack.

<h2>Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal&nbsp;</h2>

Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials.

Top officials in Washington are actively weighing options to strike back at Yemen’s Houthis after the Iran-backed militant group launched a number of attacks against naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea, reported Politico citing two United States officials. This comes a day after major shipping firms announced that they would be avoiding the Suez Canal, a key trade route between Europe and Asia, a move which could potentially affect global trade. Will US respond to Houthi attacks? Over the last few weeks, the Yemen-based Houthis have launched a number of attacks against commercial ships passing through the Red Sea amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The attacks have mostly been thwarted by the American forces in the region but given the rise of such incidents, the US may be planning to ramp up its forces to now retaliate. WATCH | Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential US response to attacks, one of the American officials told Politico on the condition of anonymity. The report citing officials also said that the US military has provided options to commanders to strike the Houthis. However, President Joe Biden’s administration is reluctant to respond to these attacks amid fear of provoking Iran. Earlier, the Pentagon itself had reportedly recommended against it but given the significant uptick in attacks, US officials may be looking to change their tactics. ALSO READ | Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is in the midst of a trip to the Middle East, said Houthis were a “material threat” to shipping and commerce in the region but the ultimate responsibility for the attacks lies with Iran. Recent attacks As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages on, Houthis who have expressed support for the Palestinian militant group have issued multiple warnings saying that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports. On Saturday (Dec 16) morning, the US and United Kingdom navy vessels shot down suspected attack drones which were said to have been targeting shipping vessels. American destroyer USS Carney shot down 14 one-way attack drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, said the US Central Command. HMS Diamond, a British destroyer, which was recently deployed in the Red Sea to help protect commercial shipping, also shot down one suspected Houthi drone. This was a day after two cargo ships in the Red Sea had been attacked by missiles and drones fired from a Houthi-controlled part of Yemen. The attacks took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key route for global trade. ALSO READ | IDF confirms Houthis hijacked India-bound ship in Red Sea, but says it's not Israeli vessel One ship was also attacked by a suspected Houthi drone but the Iran-backed group did not claim responsibility for it. “We are aware that something launched from a Houthi-controlled region of Yemen struck this vessel which was damaged, and there was a report of a fire,” a US military official told AFP referring to the drone attack. Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal Major shipping firms, including MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping line, on Saturday said that they will avoid the Suez Canal in light of the attacks in the Red Sea. Denmark’s AP Moller-Maersk, on Friday (Dec 15) said that they are pausing all its container shipments through Bab al-Mandab until further notice, Swiss-based MSC and French shipping group CMA CGM followed suit the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

US weighs options to retaliate against Houthi attacks in Red Sea: Report

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they&nbsp;were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops</h2>

Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”.&nbsp;

The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official.&nbsp;

All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”.&nbsp;

The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing.&nbsp;

The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe.&nbsp;

Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity.

“We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian.&nbsp;

<h2>New negotiations are underway?</h2>

Netanyahu made an&nbsp;appearance on TV&nbsp;to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of&nbsp;hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday.&nbsp;

The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three&nbsp;hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas.&nbsp;

“The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.”

<h2>Netanyahu government under pressure</h2>

Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF.

The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!”&nbsp;

Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action.

“Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin.&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.

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official.

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”. The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official. All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”. The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing. The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe. Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity. “We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian. New negotiations are underway? Netanyahu made an appearance on TV to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday. The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”. Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas. “The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM. Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.” Netanyahu government under pressure Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF. The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!” Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action. “Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin. (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 hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag when troops shot them, reveals initial probe

Amid raging Arab-Israel tensions,&nbsp;Iranian authorities on Saturday (Dec 16) executed a man who was handed over the death sentence after he was found working for the intelligence services of Israel, Mossad, said the judiciary. 
 
"The death sentence was carried out this morning against a spy of the Zionist regime in Zahedan prison” in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, said the judiciary's Mizan Online website. 
 
The identity of the man was not revealed but Iran said that he was convicted of "intelligence co-operation and espionage for the benefit of the hostile Zionist regime (Israel)".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-starts-flooding-seawater-in-gaza-tunnels-to-dismantle-hamas-network-report-669279">Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report</a>

Meanwhile, the official IRNA news agency said, "This person communicated with foreign services, specifically Mossad, collecting classified information, and with participation with associates, provided documents to foreign services, including the Mossad.” 
 
It added the accused man had provided classified information to a "Mossad officer" which was aimed at spreading "propaganda for groups and organisations opposed to the Islamic Republic". 
 
It was not immediately known when and in which place the accused was arrested or put on trial.

<h2>Several hangings, multiple arrests in Iran</h2>

Previously, Iran announced the arrests of alleged agents who, as per the authorities, were working for foreign countries, which includes Israel, which remains its regional arch-foe. 
 
The Islamic Republic in December 2022 executed four people who were accused of collaborating with the intelligence services of Israel. 
 
Iran has refused to recognise Israel and the two countries have been involved in a shadow war for years. Israel has been accused by Tehran of carrying out multiple sabotage attacks and assassinations which targeted its nuclear programme.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: WION takes you inside an IDF base near Gaza | WION Ground Report

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Iran has been accused by the United States and Israel of using drones and missiles to attack US forces and Israel-linked ships in the Gulf. 
 
As per the human rights groups, which included Amnesty International, the countries which carry out maximum executions are Iran and China. 
 
As per a November report, the Iran Human Rights group – which is based in Norway – said that more than 600 people have been executed by the Islamic Republic so far this year, which marks the highest figure in eight years. Generally, Iran carries out executions by hanging people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid raging Arab-Israel tensions, Iranian authorities on Saturday (Dec 16) executed a man who was handed over the death sentence after he was found working for the intelligence services of Israel, Mossad, said the judiciary.

Amid raging Arab-Israel tensions, Iranian authorities on Saturday (Dec 16) executed a man who was handed over the death sentence after he was found working for the intelligence services of Israel, Mossad, said the judiciary. "The death sentence was carried out this morning against a spy of the Zionist regime in Zahedan prison” in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, said the judiciary's Mizan Online website. The identity of the man was not revealed but Iran said that he was convicted of "intelligence co-operation and espionage for the benefit of the hostile Zionist regime (Israel)". Also read: Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report Meanwhile, the official IRNA news agency said, "This person communicated with foreign services, specifically Mossad, collecting classified information, and with participation with associates, provided documents to foreign services, including the Mossad.” It added the accused man had provided classified information to a "Mossad officer" which was aimed at spreading "propaganda for groups and organisations opposed to the Islamic Republic". It was not immediately known when and in which place the accused was arrested or put on trial. Several hangings, multiple arrests in Iran Previously, Iran announced the arrests of alleged agents who, as per the authorities, were working for foreign countries, which includes Israel, which remains its regional arch-foe. The Islamic Republic in December 2022 executed four people who were accused of collaborating with the intelligence services of Israel. Iran has refused to recognise Israel and the two countries have been involved in a shadow war for years. Israel has been accused by Tehran of carrying out multiple sabotage attacks and assassinations which targeted its nuclear programme. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: WION takes you inside an IDF base near Gaza | WION Ground Report Iran has been accused by the United States and Israel of using drones and missiles to attack US forces and Israel-linked ships in the Gulf. As per the human rights groups, which included Amnesty International, the countries which carry out maximum executions are Iran and China. As per a November report, the Iran Human Rights group – which is based in Norway – said that more than 600 people have been executed by the Islamic Republic so far this year, which marks the highest figure in eight years. Generally, Iran carries out executions by hanging people. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran executes man linked with Israel's intelligence service amid raging war in Gaza

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

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

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

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

The United States on Thursday (Dec 14) said that it wants the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas to "end as soon as possible," the White House said.

The comments by the White House came amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Israel as the international pressure mounted over Tel Aviv due to a rise in the number of civilian casualties in Gaza more than two months into the Israel-Hamas war.

Sullivan, during his visit to Tel Aviv, discussed Israel moving to "low-intensity operations" against Gaza "in the near future", White House spokesman John Kirby said.&nbsp;

The top White House official also met Defence Minister Yoav Gallant who told him that the war would last for "more than several months", according to Gallant's office.

"Hamas is a terrorist organization that built itself over a decade to fight Israel, and they built infrastructure under the ground and above the ground and it is not easy to destroy them," his office said in a statement.

"It will require a period of time -- it will last more than several months, but we will win and we will destroy them," it added.

Ahead of his trip, Sullivan said at a Wall Street Journal event that he would discuss a timetable to end the war and urge Israeli leaders "to move to a different phase from the kind of high-intensity operations that we see today."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-is-confident-over-victory-in-war-says-goals-have-not-changed-in-ukraine-669620">Vladimir Putin is confident of victory in war, says goals have not changed in Ukraine</a>

Israel has come under mounting pressure even from its key backer US as President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support.

<h2>Spain FM urges Israel to distinguish 'terrorists' from Gaza civilians</h2>

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares on Thursday called on Israel to differentiate between its "terrorist targets" and civilians in Gaza, adding that places of worship, hospitals and UN buildings should be spared.

"Spain's voice will always be raised to protect the rights of the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza," Albares said on a visit to Morocco.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-will-stop-us-until-victory-in-gaza-says-israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-669443"> 'Nothing will stop us' until victory is achieved in Gaza, says Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

"We must make a distinction between terrorist targets and the civilian population. We cannot have places of worship, hospitals, United Nations offices as targets," he said at a joint press conference with his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita.

Albares further setting the record straight about Spain's backing to Israel in its war against Hamas said that his country had condemned the attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group and that Tel Aviv had the right to defend itself but "this defence against this terrorist attack must be done within the limits of international humanitarian law".

This comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

"We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office.

While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there."

Around 1,200 Israelis, most of them civilians, lost their lives in the Oct 7 attacks, in which Hamas gunmen also took some 240 hostages, according to Israeli officials.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States on Thursday (Dec 14) said that it wants the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas to "end as soon as possible," the White House said.

The United States on Thursday (Dec 14) said that it wants the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas to "end as soon as possible," the White House said. The comments by the White House came amid US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to Israel as the international pressure mounted over Tel Aviv due to a rise in the number of civilian casualties in Gaza more than two months into the Israel-Hamas war. Sullivan, during his visit to Tel Aviv, discussed Israel moving to "low-intensity operations" against Gaza "in the near future", White House spokesman John Kirby said. The top White House official also met Defence Minister Yoav Gallant who told him that the war would last for "more than several months", according to Gallant's office. "Hamas is a terrorist organization that built itself over a decade to fight Israel, and they built infrastructure under the ground and above the ground and it is not easy to destroy them," his office said in a statement. "It will require a period of time -- it will last more than several months, but we will win and we will destroy them," it added. Ahead of his trip, Sullivan said at a Wall Street Journal event that he would discuss a timetable to end the war and urge Israeli leaders "to move to a different phase from the kind of high-intensity operations that we see today." Also read: Vladimir Putin is confident of victory in war, says goals have not changed in Ukraine Israel has come under mounting pressure even from its key backer US as President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support. Spain FM urges Israel to distinguish 'terrorists' from Gaza civilians Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares on Thursday called on Israel to differentiate between its "terrorist targets" and civilians in Gaza, adding that places of worship, hospitals and UN buildings should be spared. "Spain's voice will always be raised to protect the rights of the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza," Albares said on a visit to Morocco. Also read: 'Nothing will stop us' until victory is achieved in Gaza, says Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "We must make a distinction between terrorist targets and the civilian population. We cannot have places of worship, hospitals, United Nations offices as targets," he said at a joint press conference with his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita. Albares further setting the record straight about Spain's backing to Israel in its war against Hamas said that his country had condemned the attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group and that Tel Aviv had the right to defend itself but "this defence against this terrorist attack must be done within the limits of international humanitarian law". This comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group. "We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office. While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there." Around 1,200 Israelis, most of them civilians, lost their lives in the Oct 7 attacks, in which Hamas gunmen also took some 240 hostages, according to Israeli officials. (With inputs from agencies)

United States wants Israel-Hamas war to end 'as soon as possible', says White House

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

"We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office.

While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there."

Israel announced its worst combat casualties in more than a month on Wednesday after an ambush in the ruins of Gaza City and fronted growing diplomatic seclusion as civilian deaths ascended and a humanitarian catastrophe deepened.

Tel Aviv said that 10 of its soldiers lost their lives in the intense fighting in the past 24 hours, including a full colonel commanding a forward base and a lieutenant colonel commanding a regiment.

Hamas said the incident showed that Israeli forces could never subdue Gaza: "The longer you stay there, the greater the bill of your deaths and losses will be, and you will emerge from it carrying the tail of disappointment and loss, God willing."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-starts-flooding-seawater-in-gaza-tunnels-to-dismantle-hamas-network-report-669279">Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report</a>

The intense fighting between the two warring sides continued a day after the United Nations demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.&nbsp;

Israel also came under mounting pressure from its key backer United States when President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support.

<h2>Biden meets families of US hostages</h2>

Meanwhile, Biden on Wednesday met the families of the people held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.

According to the officials, the gathering took place in the White House where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also present.

Approximately eight US hostages are being held in Gaza, according to the Biden administration.

As per the Israeli officials, after the swap that happened during the truce between both sides, nearly 135 hostages are still held captive in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group. "We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office. While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there." Israel announced its worst combat casualties in more than a month on Wednesday after an ambush in the ruins of Gaza City and fronted growing diplomatic seclusion as civilian deaths ascended and a humanitarian catastrophe deepened. Tel Aviv said that 10 of its soldiers lost their lives in the intense fighting in the past 24 hours, including a full colonel commanding a forward base and a lieutenant colonel commanding a regiment. Hamas said the incident showed that Israeli forces could never subdue Gaza: "The longer you stay there, the greater the bill of your deaths and losses will be, and you will emerge from it carrying the tail of disappointment and loss, God willing." Also read: Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report The intense fighting between the two warring sides continued a day after the United Nations demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Israel also came under mounting pressure from its key backer United States when President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support. Biden meets families of US hostages Meanwhile, Biden on Wednesday met the families of the people held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. According to the officials, the gathering took place in the White House where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also present. Approximately eight US hostages are being held in Gaza, according to the Biden administration. As per the Israeli officials, after the swap that happened during the truce between both sides, nearly 135 hostages are still held captive in Gaza. (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.

'Nothing will stop us' until victory is achieved in Gaza, says Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12).

“As members of the Harvard Corporation, we today reaffirm our support for President Gay’s continued leadership of Harvard University,” the Harvard Corporation, one of the university's two governing boards, said.

“Our extensive deliberations affirm our confidence that President Gay is the right leader to help our community heal and to address the very serious societal issues we are facing,” it added.

The Harvard Corporation announced the decision on Tuesday after the board's meeting concluded.

“In this tumultuous and difficult time, we unanimously stand in support of President Gay,” the Corporation added.

However, the body denounced the initial response by the university over the unprecedented attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel on Oct 7 which, as per Tel Aviv, has by far claimed the lives of 1,200 people and witnessed around 240 people taken hostage.

A petition was also signed by at least 570 professors and was given on Sunday evening to the 13-member Harvard Corporation, which has the power to make the final decision on President Gay's firing. More professors suggested that they also wanted to sign, according to a co-author of the petition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haleys-prez-campaign-may-get-support-from-new-hampshir-governor-sununu-669004">Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu</a>

"What they're arguing is that to remove her would essentially be bending to political pressure," said Megan Zahneis, Senior Reporter at the Chronicle of Higher Education.

<h2>President Gay under fire</h2>

Harvard University's president courted controversy for the testimony she delivered about antisemitism on campus.

Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in the West Bank, there has been a significant rise in the number of hate attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims.

Such attacks have also been reported in the universities.

"So many people have suffered tremendous damage and pain because of Hamas's brutal terrorist attack, and the University's initial statement should have been an immediate, direct, and unequivocal condemnation," the corporation said.&nbsp;

"Calls for genocide are despicable and contrary to fundamental human values.&nbsp;

"President Gay has apologised for how she handled her congressional testimony."

(With inputs from agencies)

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12).

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12). “As members of the Harvard Corporation, we today reaffirm our support for President Gay’s continued leadership of Harvard University,” the Harvard Corporation, one of the university's two governing boards, said. “Our extensive deliberations affirm our confidence that President Gay is the right leader to help our community heal and to address the very serious societal issues we are facing,” it added. The Harvard Corporation announced the decision on Tuesday after the board's meeting concluded. “In this tumultuous and difficult time, we unanimously stand in support of President Gay,” the Corporation added. However, the body denounced the initial response by the university over the unprecedented attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel on Oct 7 which, as per Tel Aviv, has by far claimed the lives of 1,200 people and witnessed around 240 people taken hostage. A petition was also signed by at least 570 professors and was given on Sunday evening to the 13-member Harvard Corporation, which has the power to make the final decision on President Gay's firing. More professors suggested that they also wanted to sign, according to a co-author of the petition. Also read: Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu "What they're arguing is that to remove her would essentially be bending to political pressure," said Megan Zahneis, Senior Reporter at the Chronicle of Higher Education. President Gay under fire Harvard University's president courted controversy for the testimony she delivered about antisemitism on campus. Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in the West Bank, there has been a significant rise in the number of hate attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims. Such attacks have also been reported in the universities. "So many people have suffered tremendous damage and pain because of Hamas's brutal terrorist attack, and the University's initial statement should have been an immediate, direct, and unequivocal condemnation," the corporation said. "Calls for genocide are despicable and contrary to fundamental human values. "President Gay has apologised for how she handled her congressional testimony." (With inputs from agencies)

Harvard's president receives university board's backing amid antisemitism row

Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked a major highway in the United States city of Los Angeles&nbsp;on Wednesday (Dec 13), calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The California police detained 75 people following tense physical confrontations between commuters and protesters who caused the highway to shut down during the morning rush hour.&nbsp;

<h2>Protests on highway in LA</h2>

At least 75 people who were related to the pro-Palestinian protest were detained by the California highway patrol after dozens gathered on the 110 Freeway in downtown LA. Images and videos show several demonstrators sitting in a row stretching from one edge of the multi-lane highway to the other.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-one-civilian-killed-11-injured-after-russian-drone-missile-attacks-in-south-ukraine-kyiv-669564">At least one civilian killed, 11 injured after Russian drone, missile attacks in southern Ukraine: Kyiv</a>

The protest was organised by the progressive Jewish organisation IfNotNow which said that&nbsp;it had been timed for Hanukkah. They could also be heard singing the phrase “ceasefire now” while appearing to link arms and blocking the highway.&nbsp;

Images and videos also show protesters&nbsp;wearing black t-shirts which read “not in our name” and “Jews say ceasefire now”. The organisation in a statement said, “We cannot allow business as usual to continue, as Palestinians are murdered with impunity.”&nbsp;

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Protestors calling for a Ceasefire in Gaza have blocked the 110 southbound freeway in Los Angeles <a href="https://t.co/iIxksmvFlN">pic.twitter.com/iIxksmvFlN</a>
— Sergio Olmos (@MrOlmos) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrOlmos/status/1734988800303190401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Protesters demanding a cease-fire in Gaza shut down the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles Wednesday morning. All lanes were blocked as protesters lined up, sitting down along the southbound side of the freeway. 75 people were arrested, according to the California Highway Patrol. <a href="https://t.co/zpWv3lCaoS">pic.twitter.com/zpWv3lCaoS</a>
— The Associated Press (@AP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AP/status/1735069713275744492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Protesters also sang in Hebrew and erected a seven-foot menorah in the middle of the freeway, reported Los Angeles Times.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Just hurting working people’</h2>

Since the protest disrupted LA’s major highway during the morning rush, safe to say people who were trying to get to work were not happy about it.&nbsp;

Some videos posted by American media outlets show angry commuters stepping out of their vehicles and trying to move the demonstrators from the road.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-mother-wrongfully-jailed-for-death-of-four-babies-has-convictions-overturned-669517">Australian mother wrongfully jailed for death of four babies has convictions overturned</a>

Some commuters were seen dragging and shoving the protesters. “You idiots are just hurting working people,” one person was heard saying in a video posted by a journalist on-scene.&nbsp;

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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More people on the freeway attack protesters - with one being thrown to the street - and CHP steps in: <a href="https://t.co/yHW9IhP5Xh">pic.twitter.com/yHW9IhP5Xh</a>
— Jon peltz (@JonnyPeltz) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonnyPeltz/status/1734993154477281650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Is it over? I’m in support of a cease-fire but we’re late,” said a woman with her daughter in the backseat off the freeway, as quoted by the LA Times.&nbsp;

As per the media report, the last demonstrator left at about 10:30 am (local time) and two lanes of the highway reopened.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, the US in particular has witnessed a number of protests and rallies.&nbsp;

The protest in LA also comes days after at least 50 people were arrested in Washington DC by the police after they held pro-Palestinian protests inside the Capitol building.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked a major highway in the United States city of Los Angeles on Wednesday (Dec 13), calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked a major highway in the United States city of Los Angeles on Wednesday (Dec 13), calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The California police detained 75 people following tense physical confrontations between commuters and protesters who caused the highway to shut down during the morning rush hour. Protests on highway in LA At least 75 people who were related to the pro-Palestinian protest were detained by the California highway patrol after dozens gathered on the 110 Freeway in downtown LA. Images and videos show several demonstrators sitting in a row stretching from one edge of the multi-lane highway to the other. ALSO READ | At least one civilian killed, 11 injured after Russian drone, missile attacks in southern Ukraine: Kyiv The protest was organised by the progressive Jewish organisation IfNotNow which said that it had been timed for Hanukkah. They could also be heard singing the phrase “ceasefire now” while appearing to link arms and blocking the highway. Images and videos also show protesters wearing black t-shirts which read “not in our name” and “Jews say ceasefire now”. The organisation in a statement said, “We cannot allow business as usual to continue, as Palestinians are murdered with impunity.” Protestors calling for a Ceasefire in Gaza have blocked the 110 southbound freeway in Los Angeles pic.twitter.com/iIxksmvFlN — Sergio Olmos (@MrOlmos) December 13, 2023 × Protesters demanding a cease-fire in Gaza shut down the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles Wednesday morning. All lanes were blocked as protesters lined up, sitting down along the southbound side of the freeway. 75 people were arrested, according to the California Highway Patrol. pic.twitter.com/zpWv3lCaoS — The Associated Press (@AP) December 13, 2023 × Protesters also sang in Hebrew and erected a seven-foot menorah in the middle of the freeway, reported Los Angeles Times. ‘Just hurting working people’ Since the protest disrupted LA’s major highway during the morning rush, safe to say people who were trying to get to work were not happy about it. Some videos posted by American media outlets show angry commuters stepping out of their vehicles and trying to move the demonstrators from the road. ALSO READ | Australian mother wrongfully jailed for death of four babies has convictions overturned Some commuters were seen dragging and shoving the protesters. “You idiots are just hurting working people,” one person was heard saying in a video posted by a journalist on-scene. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. More people on the freeway attack protesters - with one being thrown to the street - and CHP steps in: pic.twitter.com/yHW9IhP5Xh — Jon peltz (@JonnyPeltz) December 13, 2023 × “Is it over? I’m in support of a cease-fire but we’re late,” said a woman with her daughter in the backseat off the freeway, as quoted by the LA Times. As per the media report, the last demonstrator left at about 10:30 am (local time) and two lanes of the highway reopened. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, the US in particular has witnessed a number of protests and rallies. The protest in LA also comes days after at least 50 people were arrested in Washington DC by the police after they held pro-Palestinian protests inside the Capitol building. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Pro-Palestinian protesters block major highway in Los Angeles, at least 75 arrested

Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired two missiles at a commercial tanker carrying Indian-manufactured jet fuel near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, on Wednesday (Dec 13), reported the Associated Press citing an American official. The vessel was also attacked by a speedboat with armed men off the coast of Yemen’s Red Sea port of Hodeidah, said the British maritime security company.

The attack comes a day after a senior official from the Iran-backed group warned cargo ships in the Red Sea to avoid travelling toward Israel and claimed the attack on a Norwegian commercial tanker.&nbsp;

<h2>Missiles fired from rebel-held Yemen</h2>

A report by the AP citing an anonymous United States official said that an American warship in the region shot down a suspected Houthi drone flying in its direction during the incident.&nbsp;

The incident which involved a tanker, Ardmore Encounter, marks an escalation by the Houthis who have repeatedly attacked ships close to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel forces deploy 'Sa'ar 6' to counter Houthis as their attacks rise in Red Sea

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The Marshall Islands-flagged tanker was travelling north toward the Suez Canal in the Red Sea, reported AP citing satellite tracking data, adding that the vessel had left from the Indian city of Mangalore and had an armed security crew aboard it.

The guards apparently opened fire at the armed men on speedboats trying to board the vessel, said Ambrey, a British maritime security company.&nbsp;

Earlier, on Wednesday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said it had received reports of an incident in the vicinity of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, without giving more details.

Ambrey said a Marshall Islands-flagged chemical tanker reported an “exchange of fire” with a speedboat around 102 kilometres off Hodeidah, adding that the boat approached the tanker and initiated the gunfire at a distance of 300 metres.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-ship-cruise-missile-from-houthi-controlled-yemen-strikes-tanker-causes-fire-us-military-668788">Anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi-controlled Yemen strikes tanker, causes fire: US military</a>

The British private intelligence firm also said that the tanker was hailed by an entity claiming to be the Yemeni Navy – both Yemen’s internationally recognised government and Houthi rebels self-identify as the Yemeni Navy – which asked the vessel to alter course but a “coalition” warship advised the ship to maintain it, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear which coalition Ambrey was referring to.&nbsp;

<h2>Shipping company confirms attack</h2>

Ardmore Shipping Corp, which owns and operates the ship, issued a statement to the AP acknowledging the attack and said that no one was injured and “all crew members are safe and accounted for,” adding that the vessel was also “fully operational with no loss of cargo or damage on board.”

“Ardmore is in close contact with the relevant authorities and military assistance is now in the area providing support as required,” said the shipping company.&nbsp;

The ship, carrying jet fuel from Shell MRPL Aviation Fuels &amp; Services Ltd and India’s national oil company was reportedly headed to either Rotterdam, Netherlands or Gavle, Sweden. &nbsp;

<h2>Houthis issue another warning&nbsp;</h2>

The recent incident came after an anti-ship cruise missile launched from Houthi-controlled Yemen, struck a Norwegian-flagged tanker STRINDA and caused a fire, according to the United States military.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-they-attacked-israeli-ships-in-red-sea-665844">Yemen's Houthis say they attacked Israeli ships in Red Sea</a>

The Iran-backed group had issued a warning on Saturday (Dec 9) that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports.&nbsp;

Mohamed Ali al-Houthi, head of Yemen’s Houthi supreme revolutionary committee took to X, on Tuesday (Dec 12) and reiterated the warning and asked ships that pass Yemen to keep radios turned on, and quickly respond to Houthi attempts at communication.&nbsp;

Al-Houthi also warned cargo ships against “falsifying their identity” or raising flags different from the country belonging to the cargo ship owner.

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired two missiles at a commercial tanker carrying Indian-manufactured jet fuel near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, on Wednesday (Dec 13), reported the Associated Press citing an American official.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired two missiles at a commercial tanker carrying Indian-manufactured jet fuel near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, on Wednesday (Dec 13), reported the Associated Press citing an American official. The vessel was also attacked by a speedboat with armed men off the coast of Yemen’s Red Sea port of Hodeidah, said the British maritime security company. The attack comes a day after a senior official from the Iran-backed group warned cargo ships in the Red Sea to avoid travelling toward Israel and claimed the attack on a Norwegian commercial tanker. Missiles fired from rebel-held Yemen A report by the AP citing an anonymous United States official said that an American warship in the region shot down a suspected Houthi drone flying in its direction during the incident. The incident which involved a tanker, Ardmore Encounter, marks an escalation by the Houthis who have repeatedly attacked ships close to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. WATCH | Israel forces deploy 'Sa'ar 6' to counter Houthis as their attacks rise in Red Sea The Marshall Islands-flagged tanker was travelling north toward the Suez Canal in the Red Sea, reported AP citing satellite tracking data, adding that the vessel had left from the Indian city of Mangalore and had an armed security crew aboard it. The guards apparently opened fire at the armed men on speedboats trying to board the vessel, said Ambrey, a British maritime security company. Earlier, on Wednesday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said it had received reports of an incident in the vicinity of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, without giving more details. Ambrey said a Marshall Islands-flagged chemical tanker reported an “exchange of fire” with a speedboat around 102 kilometres off Hodeidah, adding that the boat approached the tanker and initiated the gunfire at a distance of 300 metres. ALSO READ | Anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi-controlled Yemen strikes tanker, causes fire: US military The British private intelligence firm also said that the tanker was hailed by an entity claiming to be the Yemeni Navy – both Yemen’s internationally recognised government and Houthi rebels self-identify as the Yemeni Navy – which asked the vessel to alter course but a “coalition” warship advised the ship to maintain it, reported Reuters. It was not immediately clear which coalition Ambrey was referring to. Shipping company confirms attack Ardmore Shipping Corp, which owns and operates the ship, issued a statement to the AP acknowledging the attack and said that no one was injured and “all crew members are safe and accounted for,” adding that the vessel was also “fully operational with no loss of cargo or damage on board.” “Ardmore is in close contact with the relevant authorities and military assistance is now in the area providing support as required,” said the shipping company. The ship, carrying jet fuel from Shell MRPL Aviation Fuels & Services Ltd and India’s national oil company was reportedly headed to either Rotterdam, Netherlands or Gavle, Sweden. Houthis issue another warning The recent incident came after an anti-ship cruise missile launched from Houthi-controlled Yemen, struck a Norwegian-flagged tanker STRINDA and caused a fire, according to the United States military. ALSO READ | Yemen's Houthis say they attacked Israeli ships in Red Sea The Iran-backed group had issued a warning on Saturday (Dec 9) that they would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned international shipping companies against dealing in Israeli ports. Mohamed Ali al-Houthi, head of Yemen’s Houthi supreme revolutionary committee took to X, on Tuesday (Dec 12) and reiterated the warning and asked ships that pass Yemen to keep radios turned on, and quickly respond to Houthi attempts at communication. Al-Houthi also warned cargo ships against “falsifying their identity” or raising flags different from the country belonging to the cargo ship owner. (With inputs from agencies)

Tanker carrying jet fuel from India hit by missiles from Houthi-controlled Yemen, gunmen on speedboats

The number of journalists killed in the line of duty fell this year, despite reporter deaths in Gaza in the past two months, media advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said Thursday (Dec 14).

The number of journalists killed in the line of duty fell this year, despite reporter deaths in Gaza in the past two months, media advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said Thursday (Dec 14). In the first 11 months of 2023, 45 journalists were killed carrying out their work, down from 61 last year, according to the annual report by RSF. It was the smallest number since 33 died in 2002, largely due to a major drop in Latin America. While some 63 journalists have been killed in the Middle East since the October 7 start of fighting between Israel and Islamist group Hamas, only 17 of those deaths fell under RSF's definition. "It takes nothing away from the tragedy in Gaza but we are observing a regular decline, and are very far from the 140 journalists killed in 2012 and again in 2013" because of the wars in Syria and Iraq, RSF secretary-general Christophe Deloire told AFP. The decline is due to efforts by inter-governmental organisations and NGOs to combat impunity, as well as due to greater "prudence" by reporters themselves, he said. Of the 17 journalists RSF counted as killed carrying out their profession in the Middle East since October 7, 13 were killed by Israeli fire in Gaza, three died in Lebanon and one was killed in Israel by Hamas. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: 45 Palestinian, 4 Israeli journalists killed since war began × RSF in November said it filed a complaint at the International Criminal Court for "war crimes" for these deaths. AFP last week said its investigation showed that Israeli tank fire was responsible for killing Reuters cameraman Issam Abdallah on October 13 and wounding six others, including AFP photographer Christina Assi. A spokesperson for the Israeli army said the journalists were in an "active combat zone" in southern Lebanon, an answer that Deloire called "not satisfactory." The war in Ukraine cost the lives of two reporters in 2023, including AFP reporter Arman Soldin, "the only reporter to have lost their life outside their own country", RSF said. A total of 11 reporters have been killed since the start of the conflict in February 2022. Fall in Latin America There was a sharp drop in Latin America where six reporters were killed, down from 26 in 2022. In Mexico alone, the number fell to four from 11 the previous year. RSF warned that Mexico remains dangerous for journalists, citing continued kidnappings and attacks. Of the 84 journalists counted as missing worldwide, about a third are Mexican. Also read | Two journalists, Hamas terrorist killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon The number of jailed reporters declined to 521 from 569 in 2022, with Belarus joining China and Myanmar as "one of the three biggest prisons in the world". Turkey and Iran also repeatedly jail journalists, the report said. A total of 54 journalists are being held hostage, compared to 65 in 2022.

Despite Israel-Hamas war, number of journalists killed on job declines in 2023: Report

India's Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement in the Lok Sabha rectifying the response given to a question raised last week on the designation of Hamas.

"I rise to lay a statement correcting the reply given on December 8, 2023, to unstarred question number 980 by Kumbakudi Sudhakaran, MP, regarding the declaration of Hamas as a terrorist organisation," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in the House.

The correction was made after Minister of State Meenakshi Lekhi, took to her official X account and wrote in a posting clarifying that she had not signed any paper with the question related to the declaration of Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

"You have been misinformed as I have not signed any paper with this question and this answer," Lekhi stated on X in reply to a post citing the report.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday (Dec 9) said that the answer needs a technical correction.

'"We have noted that Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 980 answered on 8 December 2023 needs a technical correction in terms of reflecting Shri V. Muraleedharan as the Minister of State replying to the Parliament Question. This is being suitably undertaken," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

Lekhi, in a press conference later that day, denied signing any such paper and said that she had asked for an inquiry into the matter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-approves-modi-govts-2019-move-that-stripped-jammu-and-kashmir-of-its-special-status-668426">India: SC approves Modi govt's 2019 move that stripped J&amp;K's special status</a>

"I would like to clarify that I have not signed any paper regarding that question. I have tagged PMO and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar regarding the breach. I have also called the Foreign Secretary and asked for an investigation and action should be taken against those responsible," the MoS stated.

She added, "It has to be found out who committed this from the MEA without the signature of the concerned minister. I hope that there will be a prompt inquiry into the matter."

Congress MP K Sudhakaran had raised a question asking if the government had proposed a plan to declare Hamas as a terrorist organisation or if the government of Israel had raised a demand asking the same.

"Designation of an organisation as terrorist is covered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and declaring any organisation as terrorist is considered as per the provisions of the Act by the relevant government departments," the government said in a reply.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement in the Lok Sabha rectifying the response given to a question raised last week on the designation of Hamas.

India's Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan on Monday (Dec 11) released a statement in the Lok Sabha rectifying the response given to a question raised last week on the designation of Hamas. "I rise to lay a statement correcting the reply given on December 8, 2023, to unstarred question number 980 by Kumbakudi Sudhakaran, MP, regarding the declaration of Hamas as a terrorist organisation," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in the House. The correction was made after Minister of State Meenakshi Lekhi, took to her official X account and wrote in a posting clarifying that she had not signed any paper with the question related to the declaration of Hamas as a terrorist organisation. "You have been misinformed as I have not signed any paper with this question and this answer," Lekhi stated on X in reply to a post citing the report. The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday (Dec 9) said that the answer needs a technical correction. '"We have noted that Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 980 answered on 8 December 2023 needs a technical correction in terms of reflecting Shri V. Muraleedharan as the Minister of State replying to the Parliament Question. This is being suitably undertaken," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. Lekhi, in a press conference later that day, denied signing any such paper and said that she had asked for an inquiry into the matter. Also read: India: SC approves Modi govt's 2019 move that stripped J&K's special status "I would like to clarify that I have not signed any paper regarding that question. I have tagged PMO and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar regarding the breach. I have also called the Foreign Secretary and asked for an investigation and action should be taken against those responsible," the MoS stated. She added, "It has to be found out who committed this from the MEA without the signature of the concerned minister. I hope that there will be a prompt inquiry into the matter." Congress MP K Sudhakaran had raised a question asking if the government had proposed a plan to declare Hamas as a terrorist organisation or if the government of Israel had raised a demand asking the same. "Designation of an organisation as terrorist is covered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and declaring any organisation as terrorist is considered as per the provisions of the Act by the relevant government departments," the government said in a reply. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian government 'corrects reply' in Lok Sabha on question concerning designation of Hamas

A new report published by the World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed that 91 per cent of households in Gaza reported going to bed hungry while 63 per cent reported enduring entire days without food.

A new report published by the World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed that 91 per cent of households in Gaza reported going to bed hungry while 63 per cent reported enduring entire days without food. The rapid food security assessment was carried out during the humanitarian pause (November 24-30) and the findings were published last week. As the war between Israel and Hamas escalates, the agencies are having a tough time providing food and related assistance to the Palestinians in Gaza. Since the conflict started after the events of October 7, the Gaza Strip has remained under siege with only one border crossing open for humanitarian aid. The report stated that "42 per cent of the households in the Northern governorates (Gaza and North Gaza) and 35 per cent of households in the Southern governorates (Deir Al Balah, Khan Younis and Rafah) reported knowing of people who were compelled to consume wild or raw food to cope with hunger". The food scarcity situation is significantly worse in the north than in the south, according to the report. The aid is concentrated in the south of the strip where it is received through the border with Egypt at the Rafah crossing. However, since the second truce deal expired on December 1 and the fight intensified, the aid delivery has slowed down significantly. The acute shortage of cooking gas has also led to heavy dependence on less clean sources such as firewood, wood residues, and waste burning, raising the risk of respiratory diseases. Additionaly, the people in north Gaza have only 1.8 litre of clean water per person/per day while the volume comes down to 1.5 litre per person/per day in south Gaza. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: British team helping Palestinian authority prepare for governance UN agency staff feels abandoned While ordinary Palestinians are scurrying around for food, the agencies serving them are faring no better. United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) chief Philippe Lazzarini said the agency feels abandoned in Gaza after the US vetoed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. “It's beyond disappointment. They feel abandoned by the international community,” Lazzarini told CNN. “They still cannot understand why, after 17,000 people have been killed, after the almost entire population has been displaced, we still cannot agree on a ceasefire.” Also read | US: Coffee shop fires three antisemitic staffers for blocking Jewish customer from using washroom “Too many people haven't eaten now for two, three days in the Gaza Strip,” Lazzarini continued. “The more [that] we will see breakdown of civil order, the more [UNRWA] will be at risk not to be able to operate anymore.” According to the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, nearly 18,000 people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 91% of households in Gaza go to bed hungry: UN report

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met&nbsp;commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9).&nbsp;

The event was hosted months after Kozbar’s remarks about the Hamas founder, raising&nbsp;questions about Met’s links to the activist&nbsp;amid criticism over its response to the pro-Palestinian protests in London.&nbsp;

The British capital city like many major cities across the world has witnessed pro-Palestinian protests and pro-Israel rallies since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In the UK several people at pro-Palestinian rallies have been detained for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antisemitic-banners-during-pro-palestinian-march-in-london-calling-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-662995">raising antisemitic slogans</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>About the event at Scotland Yard</h2>

According to the Telegraph, Kozbar attended an evening event alongside senior Met officers in July, &nbsp;five months after he praised Hamas’ founder as “the master of the martyrs of the resistance” and was cited in the official counter-extremism review.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-death-toll-mounts-to-17770-as-heavy-fighting-continues-668051">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas</a>

When asked by the British media about Kozbar’s presence at Scotland Yard, Met police’s headquarters, the London police force told the Telegraph, “We can confirm that Mr Mohammed Kozbar is a member of the London Muslim Communities Forum.”&nbsp;

The event was reportedly organised by the London Muslim Communities Forum or LMCF, a Met “strategic advisory body” and was also addressed by Attiq Malik, a hard-left activist who led the LMCF until November.&nbsp;

The Sunday Telegraph also revealed that he had been filmed chanting “from the river to the sea” and railing against “global censorship by the Zionists”.

Hamas launched one of the deadliest attacks on Israel, on October 7, killing at least 1,200 people and taking around 240 people as hostages, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza and a ground operation which according to the Hamas-run government and health ministry has killed more than 17,700 people.&nbsp; 
 
Amid the mounting death toll in Gaza, the Israeli government has faced pressure and criticism to minimise civilian casualties in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

<h2>Met cuts ties with Malik</h2>

Earlier this year, in an official review of Prevent, the government’s counter-extremism programme, raised concerns that the London branch of the National Association of Muslim Police had praised Kozbar despite evidence that he had “previously supported the founder…of Hamas.”

The Telegraph, citing an image of the event on July 7 said Malik and Kozbar were seen having a conversation which was attended by around 50 representatives of the Muslim community in London to mark Eid.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunaks-political-enemies-allegedly-plotting-the-end-of-his-career-in-london-restaurant-report-668134">UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report</a>

The Met police has since cut ties with Malik saying that some “past language and views” were “contrary with our values”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kozbar&nbsp;and his deputy secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain in recent posts on X have&nbsp;repeatedly accused Israel of carrying out a “genocide” in Gaza.

Hamas was proscribed by the UK in March 2001, according to the British government’s website.&nbsp;

In response to The Telegraph’s recent report, Kozbar claimed that he was being subjected to “repeated attempts to smear me as I pursue work to foster better community relations”.&nbsp;

He added, “I condemn the targeting of all civilians, whoever they are. It is criminal to indiscriminately murder innocent men, women, and children.”&nbsp;

The mosque chairman also told The Telegraph, that he supports “the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom, as clearly expressed as a basic right within international law”.

(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.

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9).

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9). The event was hosted months after Kozbar’s remarks about the Hamas founder, raising questions about Met’s links to the activist amid criticism over its response to the pro-Palestinian protests in London. The British capital city like many major cities across the world has witnessed pro-Palestinian protests and pro-Israel rallies since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In the UK several people at pro-Palestinian rallies have been detained for raising antisemitic slogans. About the event at Scotland Yard According to the Telegraph, Kozbar attended an evening event alongside senior Met officers in July, five months after he praised Hamas’ founder as “the master of the martyrs of the resistance” and was cited in the official counter-extremism review. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas When asked by the British media about Kozbar’s presence at Scotland Yard, Met police’s headquarters, the London police force told the Telegraph, “We can confirm that Mr Mohammed Kozbar is a member of the London Muslim Communities Forum.” The event was reportedly organised by the London Muslim Communities Forum or LMCF, a Met “strategic advisory body” and was also addressed by Attiq Malik, a hard-left activist who led the LMCF until November. The Sunday Telegraph also revealed that he had been filmed chanting “from the river to the sea” and railing against “global censorship by the Zionists”. Hamas launched one of the deadliest attacks on Israel, on October 7, killing at least 1,200 people and taking around 240 people as hostages, according to Israeli officials. Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza and a ground operation which according to the Hamas-run government and health ministry has killed more than 17,700 people. Amid the mounting death toll in Gaza, the Israeli government has faced pressure and criticism to minimise civilian casualties in the Palestinian enclave. Met cuts ties with Malik Earlier this year, in an official review of Prevent, the government’s counter-extremism programme, raised concerns that the London branch of the National Association of Muslim Police had praised Kozbar despite evidence that he had “previously supported the founder…of Hamas.” The Telegraph, citing an image of the event on July 7 said Malik and Kozbar were seen having a conversation which was attended by around 50 representatives of the Muslim community in London to mark Eid. ALSO READ | UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report The Met police has since cut ties with Malik saying that some “past language and views” were “contrary with our values”. Meanwhile, Kozbar and his deputy secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain in recent posts on X have repeatedly accused Israel of carrying out a “genocide” in Gaza. Hamas was proscribed by the UK in March 2001, according to the British government’s website. In response to The Telegraph’s recent report, Kozbar claimed that he was being subjected to “repeated attempts to smear me as I pursue work to foster better community relations”. He added, “I condemn the targeting of all civilians, whoever they are. It is criminal to indiscriminately murder innocent men, women, and children.” The mosque chairman also told The Telegraph, that he supports “the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom, as clearly expressed as a basic right within international law”. (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.

Prominent mosque chairman who praised Hamas founder invited to dinner with London’s Met police: Report

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other&nbsp;United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally.

Thirteen other members voted in favour of the draft resolution moved by the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom abstained.&nbsp;

The voting came after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a rare move, formally warned the 15-member council of a global threat from the war, which has now been going on for over two months.

"What is the message we are sending Palestinians if we cannot unite behind a call to halt the relentless bombardment of Gaza?," Deputy UAE U.N. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab asked the council. 
 
"Indeed, what is the message we are sending civilians across the world who may find themselves in similar situations?"

"The United Arab Emirates is deeply disappointed," said the representative of the UAE. "Regrettably... this council is unable to demand a humanitarian ceasefire."

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<h2>US defends veto</h2>

The United States, defending its veto, said that the resolution still held a call for an unconditional ceasefire.

"This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7," said US deputy UN representative Robert Wood.

Wood further denounced the UAE stating that the draft resolution was a rushed, imbalanced text "that was divorced from reality, that would not move the needle forward on the ground in any concrete way."

"We do not support this resolution's call for an unsustainable ceasefire that will only plant the seeds for the next war," said Wood.

UK's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward said that her country abstained because there was no denunciation of Hamas.

"Israel needs to be able to address the threat posed by Hamas and it needs to do so in a manner that abides by international humanitarian law so that such an attack can never be carried out again," she told the council.

Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan did not address the Security Council after the vote, but in a statement said: "A ceasefire will be possible only with the return of all the hostages and the destruction of Hamas."

Washington, being the permanent member of the Security Council, can veto any resolution.

Ahead of the vote, Guterres had said that "the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally.

The United States on Friday (Dec 8) vetoed the proposed demand by the other United Nations Security Council countries for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, in a bid to shield its longtime ally. Thirteen other members voted in favour of the draft resolution moved by the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom abstained. The voting came after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a rare move, formally warned the 15-member council of a global threat from the war, which has now been going on for over two months. "What is the message we are sending Palestinians if we cannot unite behind a call to halt the relentless bombardment of Gaza?," Deputy UAE U.N. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab asked the council. "Indeed, what is the message we are sending civilians across the world who may find themselves in similar situations?" "The United Arab Emirates is deeply disappointed," said the representative of the UAE. "Regrettably... this council is unable to demand a humanitarian ceasefire." Also read: Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March US defends veto The United States, defending its veto, said that the resolution still held a call for an unconditional ceasefire. "This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7," said US deputy UN representative Robert Wood. Wood further denounced the UAE stating that the draft resolution was a rushed, imbalanced text "that was divorced from reality, that would not move the needle forward on the ground in any concrete way." "We do not support this resolution's call for an unsustainable ceasefire that will only plant the seeds for the next war," said Wood. UK's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward said that her country abstained because there was no denunciation of Hamas. "Israel needs to be able to address the threat posed by Hamas and it needs to do so in a manner that abides by international humanitarian law so that such an attack can never be carried out again," she told the council. Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan did not address the Security Council after the vote, but in a statement said: "A ceasefire will be possible only with the return of all the hostages and the destruction of Hamas." Washington, being the permanent member of the Security Council, can veto any resolution. Ahead of the vote, Guterres had said that "the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people." (With inputs from agencies)

US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that if Lebanon's Hezbollah opened a second front in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, then he would bring devastation in southern Lebanon and turn Beirut into today's Gaza. 
 
"If Hezbollah decides to open an all-out war, then with its own hands it will turn Beirut and southern Lebanon, which are not far from here, into Gaza and Khan Yunis," Netanyahu said. 
 
The warning was issued by Netanyahu during his visit to the Israel Defense Force's (IDF) northern command's headquarters.

The northern command oversees units which have exchanged fire with Hezbollah along Israeli border with Lebanon in the weeks since the Hamas terror attack of October 7.

Praising the military reservists, Netanyahu said they have shown "great spirit in their readiness for battle."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humanitys-first-space-war-occurred-during-thick-of-israel-hamas-conflict-heres-how-666812">Humanity's 'first' space war occurred during thick of Israel-Hamas conflict. Here's how</a>

Netanyahu's warning to Hezbollah was an indication of the&nbsp;widespread destruction unleashed by Israel's military in the northern Gaza Strip in response&nbsp;to the attack by Hamas, which has been recognised as a terrorist group by the US and the European Union. 
 
The focus of Israel has now turned to the south of Gaza as troops reportedly enter Khan Yunis. Cross-border firing has been happening daily between Israel and Hezbollah after the latter expressed solidarity with Hamas.

<h2>Israel says not using white phosphorus in southern Lebanon</h2>

Responding to the allegations of using white phosphorus in southern Lebanon, the Israeli military said it “only used legal weapons and ammunition.” 
 
The Lebanon National News Agency (NNA) alleged that “phosphorus” was shelled by the Israeli artillery on the outskirts of the town of Rmeish.

Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu says Israel will turn Beirut into Gaza if Hezbollah starts war

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“The primary smoke-screen shells used by the IDF do not contain white phosphorus. Like many Western militaries, the IDF also possesses smoke-screen shells that include white phosphorous that are legal under international law. These shells are used by the IDF for creating smoke screens and not for targeting or causing fires and are not defined under law as incendiary weapons," read the statement. 
 
“IDF procedures require that such shells are not used in densely populated areas, subject to certain exceptions. This complies and goes beyond the requirements of international law,” it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that if Lebanon's Hezbollah opened a second front in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, then he would bring devastation in southern Lebanon and turn Beirut into today's Gaza.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that if Lebanon's Hezbollah opened a second front in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, then he would bring devastation in southern Lebanon and turn Beirut into today's Gaza. "If Hezbollah decides to open an all-out war, then with its own hands it will turn Beirut and southern Lebanon, which are not far from here, into Gaza and Khan Yunis," Netanyahu said. The warning was issued by Netanyahu during his visit to the Israel Defense Force's (IDF) northern command's headquarters. The northern command oversees units which have exchanged fire with Hezbollah along Israeli border with Lebanon in the weeks since the Hamas terror attack of October 7. Praising the military reservists, Netanyahu said they have shown "great spirit in their readiness for battle." Also read: Humanity's 'first' space war occurred during thick of Israel-Hamas conflict. Here's how Netanyahu's warning to Hezbollah was an indication of the widespread destruction unleashed by Israel's military in the northern Gaza Strip in response to the attack by Hamas, which has been recognised as a terrorist group by the US and the European Union. The focus of Israel has now turned to the south of Gaza as troops reportedly enter Khan Yunis. Cross-border firing has been happening daily between Israel and Hezbollah after the latter expressed solidarity with Hamas. Israel says not using white phosphorus in southern Lebanon Responding to the allegations of using white phosphorus in southern Lebanon, the Israeli military said it “only used legal weapons and ammunition.” The Lebanon National News Agency (NNA) alleged that “phosphorus” was shelled by the Israeli artillery on the outskirts of the town of Rmeish. Watch: Netanyahu says Israel will turn Beirut into Gaza if Hezbollah starts war “The primary smoke-screen shells used by the IDF do not contain white phosphorus. Like many Western militaries, the IDF also possesses smoke-screen shells that include white phosphorous that are legal under international law. These shells are used by the IDF for creating smoke screens and not for targeting or causing fires and are not defined under law as incendiary weapons," read the statement. “IDF procedures require that such shells are not used in densely populated areas, subject to certain exceptions. This complies and goes beyond the requirements of international law,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu threatens Hezbollah, says 'will turn Beirut into Gaza if...'

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement.

"The president emphasized the critical need to protect civilians and to separate the civilian population from Hamas including through corridors that allow people to move safely from defined areas of hostilities," the White House said in a statement.

This comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday urged Israel to do more to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and make necessary efforts to protect civilians in the Palestinian territory, in a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Ron Dermer, said a US official.

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Today I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to express my concern for the remaining hostages — and to note that it was Hamas’s refusal to release women civilian hostages that broke down the humanitarian pause.⁰⁰We will continue to pursue every opportunity to free them.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1732923046061593081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Blinken welcomed Israel's decision to approve a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to the conflict-torn besieged Palestinian enclave.

However, he also asked Dermer to make more efforts in that direction, a senior State Department official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-china-bound-russian-plane-goes-up-in-flames-moments-after-terrifying-explosion-667280">Video: Russian plane goes up in flames moments after terrifying explosion</a>

<h2>Israel approves 'minimal' increase in fuel supply to Gaza</h2>

Israel allowed a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to conflict-torn Gaza to prevent a "humanitarian collapse", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The Security Cabinet, this evening, approved the recommendation of the War Cabinet to allow a minimal supplement of fuel – necessary to prevent a humanitarian collapse and the outbreak of epidemics – into the southern Gaza Strip," Netanyahu's office wrote on X.

"The minimal amount will be determined from time to time by the War Cabinet according to the morbidity situation and humanitarian situation in the Strip," it added.

The move by Israel came after the United Nations warned of a complete breakdown of public order in Gaza as the conflict intensifies in the south of the Palestinian territory.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres feared the public order would "completely break down soon" in Gaza.

"Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible," he said in a letter to the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

Guterres told the council in his letter that the war "may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security."

He invoked Article 99 of the founding UN Charter, allowing him to "bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement.

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Dec 7) held a telephonic discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he stressed the "critical" need to safeguard the civilians as grave urban battle seethed around Gaza's biggest cities, the White House said in a statement. "The president emphasized the critical need to protect civilians and to separate the civilian population from Hamas including through corridors that allow people to move safely from defined areas of hostilities," the White House said in a statement. This comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday urged Israel to do more to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and make necessary efforts to protect civilians in the Palestinian territory, in a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Ron Dermer, said a US official. Today I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu to express my concern for the remaining hostages — and to note that it was Hamas’s refusal to release women civilian hostages that broke down the humanitarian pause.⁰⁰We will continue to pursue every opportunity to free them. — President Biden (@POTUS) December 8, 2023 × Blinken welcomed Israel's decision to approve a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to the conflict-torn besieged Palestinian enclave. However, he also asked Dermer to make more efforts in that direction, a senior State Department official told reporters on condition of anonymity. Also read: Video: Russian plane goes up in flames moments after terrifying explosion Israel approves 'minimal' increase in fuel supply to Gaza Israel allowed a "minimal" increase in the fuel supply to conflict-torn Gaza to prevent a "humanitarian collapse", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on Wednesday. "The Security Cabinet, this evening, approved the recommendation of the War Cabinet to allow a minimal supplement of fuel – necessary to prevent a humanitarian collapse and the outbreak of epidemics – into the southern Gaza Strip," Netanyahu's office wrote on X. "The minimal amount will be determined from time to time by the War Cabinet according to the morbidity situation and humanitarian situation in the Strip," it added. The move by Israel came after the United Nations warned of a complete breakdown of public order in Gaza as the conflict intensifies in the south of the Palestinian territory. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres feared the public order would "completely break down soon" in Gaza. "Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible," he said in a letter to the UN Security Council. Guterres told the council in his letter that the war "may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security." He invoked Article 99 of the founding UN Charter, allowing him to "bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden holds telephonic discussion with Netanyahu, underlines 'critical need to safeguard civilians'

Amid the escalating Israel-Hamas war, images of men detained in huge numbers by the Israeli military and stripped to their underwear, blindfolded as well as kneeling&nbsp;on the street and later taken in the cargo bed of a military vehicle circulated on&nbsp;social media. 
 
The dates and exact circumstances of the detentions remained unclear, however, some of the detainees were identified by either their family members or colleagues. Some of the men were civilians and were not affiliated with any militant groups, according to CNN. 
 
An image of one detainment was shared by the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor on its website Thursday and said that “the Israeli army detained and severely abused dozens of Palestinian civilians.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-holds-telephonic-discussion-with-netanyahu-emphasizes-on-critical-need-to-safeguard-civilians-667387">Biden holds telephonic discussion with Netanyahu, underlines 'critical need to safeguard civilians'</a>

“Euro-Med Monitor received reports that Israeli forces launched random and arbitrary arrest campaigns against displaced people, including doctors, academics, journalists, and elderly men,” it added. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not respond to the images circulating on social media.

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The IDF has conducted mass arrests in the northern Gaza Strip, with footage emerging of detainees stripped to their underwear and packed into the back of military trucks. 
 
Israeli media is claiming the pictures show the mass surrender of Hamas fighters of the Shejaya battalion.… <a href="https://t.co/nCYNAkmNbI">pic.twitter.com/nCYNAkmNbI</a>
— Mary McAuliffe (@mcauliffe_marym) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcauliffe_marym/status/1732806015366685001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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When IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari was questioned about the images in a press conference, he said, “We’ve seen images of many captives, Hamas terrorists, that the IDF arrested during the ground manoeuvring.” 
 
Hagari added that, in their fight against Hamas, “those left in the area gradually come out.” “We investigate and check who has ties to Hamas, and who does not. We arrest them all and question them. We will continue dismantling each one of those strongholds until we are done,” he said.

<h2>Detainees identified</h2>

News outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed in a statement on Thursday confirmed the presence of one of its correspondents and several members of his family among those seen detained in the images.

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The slippers and flip-flops littering the ground in the first image appear to lean more toward the latter explanation. New Arab journalist <a href="https://twitter.com/will_christou?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@will_christou</a> 
says his colleague, Al-Araby Correspondent Diaa Kahlot, was among those taken into detention, along with other members of… <a href="https://t.co/1546RsMyzs">pic.twitter.com/1546RsMyzs</a>
— Mary McAuliffe (@mcauliffe_marym) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcauliffe_marym/status/1732807191789277400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Today, Thursday, the Israeli occupation army arrested the journalist and the director of ‘The New Arab’ office in Gaza, our colleague Diaa Al-Kahlot, from Market Street in Beit Lahia, along with a group of his brothers, relatives, and other civilians,” wrote Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, as reported by CNN.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli army breaks through Hamas' defensive line in Gaza

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“The occupation deliberately forced Gazans to take off their clothes, searched them, and humiliated them when they were arrested before taking them to an unknown destination, according to what the people there told us. Pictures and video clips spread showing soldiers arresting dozens of Gazans using criminal and humiliating method,” it added. 
 
In a statement, Al-Araby Al-Jadeed editor-in-chief Hussam Kanafani said that Al-Kahlot and his family were still missing. 
 
“We will make every effort possible, in cooperation with international institutions and organizations concerned with the rights and freedom of journalists in the world, to determine the whereabouts of our colleague Diaa and release him as soon as possible,” Kanafani added.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalating Israel-Hamas war, images of men detained in huge numbers by the Israeli military and stripped to their underwear, blindfolded as well as kneeling on the street and later taken in the cargo bed of a military vehicle circulated on social media.

Amid the escalating Israel-Hamas war, images of men detained in huge numbers by the Israeli military and stripped to their underwear, blindfolded as well as kneeling on the street and later taken in the cargo bed of a military vehicle circulated on social media. The dates and exact circumstances of the detentions remained unclear, however, some of the detainees were identified by either their family members or colleagues. Some of the men were civilians and were not affiliated with any militant groups, according to CNN. An image of one detainment was shared by the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor on its website Thursday and said that “the Israeli army detained and severely abused dozens of Palestinian civilians.” Also read: Biden holds telephonic discussion with Netanyahu, underlines 'critical need to safeguard civilians' “Euro-Med Monitor received reports that Israeli forces launched random and arbitrary arrest campaigns against displaced people, including doctors, academics, journalists, and elderly men,” it added. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not respond to the images circulating on social media. The IDF has conducted mass arrests in the northern Gaza Strip, with footage emerging of detainees stripped to their underwear and packed into the back of military trucks. Israeli media is claiming the pictures show the mass surrender of Hamas fighters of the Shejaya battalion.… pic.twitter.com/nCYNAkmNbI — Mary McAuliffe (@mcauliffe_marym) December 7, 2023 × When IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari was questioned about the images in a press conference, he said, “We’ve seen images of many captives, Hamas terrorists, that the IDF arrested during the ground manoeuvring.” Hagari added that, in their fight against Hamas, “those left in the area gradually come out.” “We investigate and check who has ties to Hamas, and who does not. We arrest them all and question them. We will continue dismantling each one of those strongholds until we are done,” he said. Detainees identified News outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed in a statement on Thursday confirmed the presence of one of its correspondents and several members of his family among those seen detained in the images. The slippers and flip-flops littering the ground in the first image appear to lean more toward the latter explanation. New Arab journalist @will_christou says his colleague, Al-Araby Correspondent Diaa Kahlot, was among those taken into detention, along with other members of… pic.twitter.com/1546RsMyzs — Mary McAuliffe (@mcauliffe_marym) December 7, 2023 × “Today, Thursday, the Israeli occupation army arrested the journalist and the director of ‘The New Arab’ office in Gaza, our colleague Diaa Al-Kahlot, from Market Street in Beit Lahia, along with a group of his brothers, relatives, and other civilians,” wrote Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, as reported by CNN. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli army breaks through Hamas' defensive line in Gaza “The occupation deliberately forced Gazans to take off their clothes, searched them, and humiliated them when they were arrested before taking them to an unknown destination, according to what the people there told us. Pictures and video clips spread showing soldiers arresting dozens of Gazans using criminal and humiliating method,” it added. In a statement, Al-Araby Al-Jadeed editor-in-chief Hussam Kanafani said that Al-Kahlot and his family were still missing. “We will make every effort possible, in cooperation with international institutions and organizations concerned with the rights and freedom of journalists in the world, to determine the whereabouts of our colleague Diaa and release him as soon as possible,” Kanafani added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Images circulate of dozens of men purportedly stripped naked, detained by IDF

Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight&nbsp;of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

The researchers, law professors Robert Jackson Jr from New York University and Joshua Mitts of Columbia University, uncovered substantial short-selling of shares leading up to the attacks, which has ignited the ongoing conflict.<o:p></o:p>

Signals of anticipation<o:p></o:p>

Days preceding the attack, traders seemingly anticipated the unfolding events, as outlined by the researchers. They noted a surge in short interest in the MSCI Israel Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) on October 2, based on data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Furthermore, just before the attack, short selling of Israeli securities on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) notably surged. <o:p></o:p>

The researchers highlighted the unprecedented nature of this short-selling, surpassing levels observed during other periods of crisis, including the 2008 financial crisis, the 2014 Israel-Gaza war, and the COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Israeli response and ongoing investigation<o:p></o:p>

In response to these findings, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) redirected inquiries to the Israel Securities Authority, stating, "The matter is known to the authority and is under investigation by all the relevant parties." The Israel Securities Authority confirmed the investigation but provided no further details. Israeli police did not immediately comment on the matter.<o:p></o:p>

Profits and unusual trading activity<o:p></o:p>

The researchers brought to light the profits reaped through short-selling, particularly focusing on Leumi, Israel's largest bank. Between September 14 and October 5, 4.43 million new shares sold short yielded profits of 3.2 billion shekels ($862 million). It was further pointed out that a sharp and unusual increase in trading risky short-dated options on Israeli companies took place just before the attacks, emphasising the potential exploitation of tragic events by informed traders. <o:p></o:p>

The study indicates a pattern reminiscent of early April when initial reports suggested Hamas was planning an attack. Short volume in the MSCI Israel ETF peaked on April 3, resembling patterns observed just before the October 7 attacks.<o:p></o:p>

Traders profiting from tragic events<o:p></o:p>

The researchers concluded that traders informed about the impending attacks profited from the tragic events, highlighting a concerning gap in U.S. and international enforcement of legal prohibitions on informed trading.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

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Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday.

Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday. The researchers, law professors Robert Jackson Jr from New York University and Joshua Mitts of Columbia University, uncovered substantial short-selling of shares leading up to the attacks, which has ignited the ongoing conflict. Signals of anticipation Days preceding the attack, traders seemingly anticipated the unfolding events, as outlined by the researchers. They noted a surge in short interest in the MSCI Israel Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) on October 2, based on data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Furthermore, just before the attack, short selling of Israeli securities on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) notably surged. The researchers highlighted the unprecedented nature of this short-selling, surpassing levels observed during other periods of crisis, including the 2008 financial crisis, the 2014 Israel-Gaza war, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Israeli response and ongoing investigation In response to these findings, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) redirected inquiries to the Israel Securities Authority, stating, "The matter is known to the authority and is under investigation by all the relevant parties." The Israel Securities Authority confirmed the investigation but provided no further details. Israeli police did not immediately comment on the matter. Profits and unusual trading activity The researchers brought to light the profits reaped through short-selling, particularly focusing on Leumi, Israel's largest bank. Between September 14 and October 5, 4.43 million new shares sold short yielded profits of 3.2 billion shekels ($862 million). It was further pointed out that a sharp and unusual increase in trading risky short-dated options on Israeli companies took place just before the attacks, emphasising the potential exploitation of tragic events by informed traders. The study indicates a pattern reminiscent of early April when initial reports suggested Hamas was planning an attack. Short volume in the MSCI Israel ETF peaked on April 3, resembling patterns observed just before the October 7 attacks. Traders profiting from tragic events The researchers concluded that traders informed about the impending attacks profited from the tragic events, highlighting a concerning gap in U.S. and international enforcement of legal prohibitions on informed trading. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli authorities probe suspected insider trading linked to Hamas attack

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