<p>Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem, who was held captive by Hamas fighters in war-torn Gaza for 54 days, recently revealed shocking details about her ordeal with a local media outlet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing her harrowing experience with Israel Channel 13, she said that she "went through a Holocaust".</p>

<p>"It is important for me to reflect the real situation with regard to people living in Gaza, who they really are and what I went through over there," the 21-year-old Israeli-French tattoo artist said. "I went through a Holocaust, everyone there is a terrorist," said Schem, who was released on Nov 30 during a ceasefire.</p>

<p>Schem&nbsp;told the Israeli broadcaster how she was kidnapped from the music festival near Reim on Oct 7 during the Hamas attack and held captive at a family house in Gaza which was under the Palestinian militant group's control.</p>

<p>"It's families under Hamas (control). You know, in retrospect, I suddenly realised that I was with a family. Suddenly I start asking myself questions, why am I at a family's house? Why are there children here? Why is there a woman here?" she said.</p>

<p>Further describing her ordeal, Schem said she was constantly scared of being raped or killed.</p>

<p>"(I was) closed in a dark room, not allowed to talk, not allowed to be seen, to be heard, hidden. There is a terrorist looking at you 24/7, looking, raping you with his eyes." She said. "There is a fear of being raped, there is a fear of dying.. I was frightened."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-dance-again-freed-hamas-hostage-mia-schem-strikes-defiance-with-new-tattoo-668602">'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo</a></p>

<p>"I didn't sleep for the entire 54 days, maybe an hour, at night. How can you sleep when a terrorist is looking at you?" she added.</p>

<p>The 21-year-old was seized at the Nova dance party along with many of the other hostages taken captive into Gaza.</p>

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<h2><strong>Schem was operated on by vet</strong></h2>

<p>She made international headlines after a chilling video released by Hamas showed her receiving treatment from a veterinarian on her right arm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At the moment, I am in Gaza,” Schem could be heard saying in Hebrew in the 60-second clip.</p>

<p>She said she was injured and taken across the border, where she underwent a three-hour surgery to treat her undisclosed injuries.</p>

<p>“They are taking care of me, giving me medicine, everything is fine. I only ask that they bring me home as soon as possible to my parents, to my siblings. Get me out of here as soon as possible. Please.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem, who was held captive by Hamas fighters in war-torn Gaza for 54 days, recently revealed shocking details about her ordeal with a local media outlet.

Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem, who was held captive by Hamas fighters in war-torn Gaza for 54 days, recently revealed shocking details about her ordeal with a local media outlet. Sharing her harrowing experience with Israel Channel 13, she said that she "went through a Holocaust". "It is important for me to reflect the real situation with regard to people living in Gaza, who they really are and what I went through over there," the 21-year-old Israeli-French tattoo artist said. "I went through a Holocaust, everyone there is a terrorist," said Schem, who was released on Nov 30 during a ceasefire. Schem told the Israeli broadcaster how she was kidnapped from the music festival near Reim on Oct 7 during the Hamas attack and held captive at a family house in Gaza which was under the Palestinian militant group's control. "It's families under Hamas (control). You know, in retrospect, I suddenly realised that I was with a family. Suddenly I start asking myself questions, why am I at a family's house? Why are there children here? Why is there a woman here?" she said. Further describing her ordeal, Schem said she was constantly scared of being raped or killed. "(I was) closed in a dark room, not allowed to talk, not allowed to be seen, to be heard, hidden. There is a terrorist looking at you 24/7, looking, raping you with his eyes." She said. "There is a fear of being raped, there is a fear of dying.. I was frightened." Also read: 'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo "I didn't sleep for the entire 54 days, maybe an hour, at night. How can you sleep when a terrorist is looking at you?" she added. The 21-year-old was seized at the Nova dance party along with many of the other hostages taken captive into Gaza. View this post on Instagram A post shared by מייה שם (@mia_schem) × Schem was operated on by vet She made international headlines after a chilling video released by Hamas showed her receiving treatment from a veterinarian on her right arm. “At the moment, I am in Gaza,” Schem could be heard saying in Hebrew in the 60-second clip. She said she was injured and taken across the border, where she underwent a three-hour surgery to treat her undisclosed injuries. “They are taking care of me, giving me medicine, everything is fine. I only ask that they bring me home as soon as possible to my parents, to my siblings. Get me out of here as soon as possible. Please.” (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.

Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem reveals details about 54-day Hamas captivity, says 'went through holocaust'

<p>Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over. The minister also said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that Palestinians should be encouraged to emigrate out of Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>"To have security we must control the territory," Smotrich said as quoted by Israel's Army Radio. He was responding to a question which asked him about prospects of re-estabilshing settlements in Gaza.</p>

<p>"In order to control the territory militarily for a long time, we need a civilian presence," he said.</p>

<p>In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its soldiers and settlers. This ended their presence in the enclave since 1967. However, Israel has been maintaining tight control over the territory’s borders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll climbs to over 21800: Hamas health ministry</strong></p>

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<p>Under international law, all settlements on occupied Palestinian land are considered illegal irrespective of state of their approval by Israel.</p>

<p>Smotrich is chief of the far-right Religious Zionism party, which is part of the ruling coalition.</p>

<p>"If we act in a strategically correct way and encourage emigration, if there are 100,000 or 200,000 Arabs in Gaza and not two million, the whole discourse of the day after (the war) will be completely different," he said.</p>

<p>"We will help rehabilitate these refugees in other countries in a good and humane manner with the cooperation of the international community and Arab countries around us."</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas reacts sharply</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas has condemned Smotrich's comments saying it was a "vile mockery and a war crime". In its statement quoted by AFP, Hamas said that Gazans "will stand firm and steadfast in the face of all attempts to displace them from their land and homes".</p>

<p>The plan to make Gazans emigrate has not been officially presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It has also has not said officially that Israeli settlers should be sent back to Gaza Strip after the war is over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-conflict-looms-large-for-many-months-in-2024-675368">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>Israel has mounted a serious military response since Hamas fighters crossed borders in northern Gaza on October 7 and killed at least 1200 people in Israeli territory and took hostages.</p>

<p>The Israeli response has seen the country carry out hundreds of air attacks inside Gaza Strip as Israeli tanks and troops were deployed for ground operation.</p>

<p>According to Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, more than 21,000 civilians have died so far in the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over. The minister also said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that Palestinians should be encouraged to emigrate out of Gaza Strip. "To have security we must control the territory," Smotrich said as quoted by Israel's Army Radio. He was responding to a question which asked him about prospects of re-estabilshing settlements in Gaza. "In order to control the territory militarily for a long time, we need a civilian presence," he said. In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its soldiers and settlers. This ended their presence in the enclave since 1967. However, Israel has been maintaining tight control over the territory’s borders. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll climbs to over 21800: Hamas health ministry × Under international law, all settlements on occupied Palestinian land are considered illegal irrespective of state of their approval by Israel. Smotrich is chief of the far-right Religious Zionism party, which is part of the ruling coalition. "If we act in a strategically correct way and encourage emigration, if there are 100,000 or 200,000 Arabs in Gaza and not two million, the whole discourse of the day after (the war) will be completely different," he said. "We will help rehabilitate these refugees in other countries in a good and humane manner with the cooperation of the international community and Arab countries around us." Hamas reacts sharply Hamas has condemned Smotrich's comments saying it was a "vile mockery and a war crime". In its statement quoted by AFP, Hamas said that Gazans "will stand firm and steadfast in the face of all attempts to displace them from their land and homes". The plan to make Gazans emigrate has not been officially presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It has also has not said officially that Israeli settlers should be sent back to Gaza Strip after the war is over. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024 Israel has mounted a serious military response since Hamas fighters crossed borders in northern Gaza on October 7 and killed at least 1200 people in Israeli territory and took hostages. The Israeli response has seen the country carry out hundreds of air attacks inside Gaza Strip as Israeli tanks and troops were deployed for ground operation. According to Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, more than 21,000 civilians have died so far in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel minister says Israeli settlers should return to Gaza

<p>McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel.</p>

<p>The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.3 million.</p>

<p>It released a statement saying that the civil suit it filed against BDS Malaysia was aimed at safeguarding its "rights and interests in accordance with the law".</p>

<p>McDonald's said it "does not support nor condone the current conflict in the Middle East".</p>

<p>"While we understand and respect that the act of boycotting is an individual decision, we believe that it should be based on facts and not false allegations," McDonald's said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>McDonald's has sought six million ringgit in damages for alleged defamation, according to a copy of the legal document seen by news agency AFP.</p>

<p>BDS Malaysia shared a post on social media platform X saying, "We categorically deny this" alleged defamation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removes-nine-army-officials-from-parliament-in-a-reshuffle-675032">China expels nine army officials from parliament in a sweeping reshuffle</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>BDS Malaysia is part of the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which was launched by Palestinian civil society organisations in the year 2005.</p>

<p>The campaign advocates political and economic action against Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.</p>

<p>BDS Malaysia heightened its call for Malaysians to boycott Western brands, including McDonald's, KFC and Zara, in its response to Israel's counter-offensive in Gaza as it alleges these brands are "complicit with Israeli atrocities towards Palestinians".</p>

<p>Israel launched a counter-offensive in Gaza after Hamas' Oct 7 assault on Israel, which claimed the lives of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per news agency AFP's tally based on Israeli figures.</p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group also held approximately 250 people hostage with some of them still trapped in war zone and some believed to be dead.</p>

<p>Israel's relentless military campaign since then has killed at least 21,507 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel. The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.

McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel. The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.3 million. It released a statement saying that the civil suit it filed against BDS Malaysia was aimed at safeguarding its "rights and interests in accordance with the law". McDonald's said it "does not support nor condone the current conflict in the Middle East". "While we understand and respect that the act of boycotting is an individual decision, we believe that it should be based on facts and not false allegations," McDonald's said. McDonald's has sought six million ringgit in damages for alleged defamation, according to a copy of the legal document seen by news agency AFP. BDS Malaysia shared a post on social media platform X saying, "We categorically deny this" alleged defamation. Also read: China expels nine army officials from parliament in a sweeping reshuffle BDS Malaysia is part of the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which was launched by Palestinian civil society organisations in the year 2005. The campaign advocates political and economic action against Israel over its treatment of Palestinians. BDS Malaysia heightened its call for Malaysians to boycott Western brands, including McDonald's, KFC and Zara, in its response to Israel's counter-offensive in Gaza as it alleges these brands are "complicit with Israeli atrocities towards Palestinians". Israel launched a counter-offensive in Gaza after Hamas' Oct 7 assault on Israel, which claimed the lives of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per news agency AFP's tally based on Israeli figures. The Palestinian militant group also held approximately 250 people hostage with some of them still trapped in war zone and some believed to be dead. Israel's relentless military campaign since then has killed at least 21,507 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

McDonald’s Malaysia sues pro-Palestinian group over boycott calls

<p>Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28).<br />
<br />
As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in&nbsp;Gaza City's district of Shejaiya.<br />
<br />
It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape.<br />
<br />
As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/son-of-hamas-deputy-commander-marwan-issa-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-reports-674444">Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports</a></p>

<p>Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe.<br />
<br />
When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank.</p>

<h2><strong>Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building</strong></h2>

<p>All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot.<br />
<br />
The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-un-deplores-rapid-deterioration-of-rights-in-west-bank-674512/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart".<br />
<br />
The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning.<br />
<br />
The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28).

Israeli soldiers failed to heed the cries for "help" of three hostages when they entered a building in Gaza just days before they were killed by the troops by mistake, revealed a military investigation which was published on Thursday (Dec 28). As per the probe, the soldiers heard "hostages" shout in the Hebrew language on December 10, however, it was interpreted as a "terrorist deception attempt" being made by Hamas operatives to lure them into the building which was located in Gaza City's district of Shejaiya. It added that the soldiers believed the building was rigged with explosives and they exited it and killed five Hamas militants trying to escape. As per the investigation, the hostages then probably also escaped from the building and were shot dead by Israeli soldiers on December 15 after they were mistakenly identified as a threat. Also read: Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports Two of the hostages were instantly killed by the soldiers. The third hostage escaped and soldiers were asked to hold fire so as to identify them, said the probe. When the Israeli commanders heard cries of "help!" and "they're shooting at me", they asked the surviving hostage to move towards the soldiers. However, two soldiers "who did not hear the order" because of "noise", shot the hostage dead from a nearby tank. Signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" in building All three hostages were shirtless and a white flag was being carried by one of them. On December 14, signs of "SOS" and "help, three hostages" were identified by an army drone on a building which was close to where the three hostages were shot. The army "failed in its mission to rescue the hostages in this event," said army chief Herzi Halevi, in a statement published with the investigation report. The three fatalities "could have been prevented", he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: UN deplores 'rapid deterioration' of rights in West Bank After the three hostages' killing was announced, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the news "broke my heart" and "broke the whole nation's heart". The deaths of the hostages – who were identified as Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa – left entire Israel in a state of mourning. The death of the three hostages also triggered protests in Tel Aviv where demonstrators asked the authorities to come up with a fresh plan for bringing home the rest of the 129 hostages, who are still being held in the Gaza Strip. 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)

Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Probe report

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tunnels&nbsp;were&nbsp;being used as Hamas ‘command centre’: IDF</strong></h2>

<p>The three shafts “are connected by a wide underground network that runs under the hospital, is several kilometres long and leads to strategic points in the heart of Gaza City,” said the Israeli army, as quoted by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tunnel shafts were said to have been destroyed using explosives. According to the Israeli military, the tunnel at Rantisi was used by Hamas as a command centre.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">IDF troops are uncovering Hamas’ tunnels inside and around multiple hospitals within Gaza.<br />
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The Rantisi Hospital is just another terrorist stronghold used to connect and transfer terrorists and weapons throughout Gaza to be used against Israelis. <a href="https://t.co/aYBkpgsfn9">pic.twitter.com/aYBkpgsfn9</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1740084607762973123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Back in November, the IDF showed what it said was proof that the basement of Rantisi was used by Hamas to hide weapons and possibly hold hostages that were taken to Gaza following Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, in November, showed what he claimed was an underground command centre under the Rantisi Hospital and had suicide vests, rocket-propelled grenades, along with&nbsp;baby bottles and improvised toilets which he said indicated that Hamas held hostages there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-holds-wide-ranging-talks-with-lavrov-says-india-russia-relations-reflect-geopolitical-realities-674165">Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the Israeli army, one of the three shafts found in a high school adjacent to Rantisi was equipped with an elevator heading down some 20 metres. While another shaft was said to be the home of a commander in Hamas’ naval forces and was equipped with a blast door.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tunnel network was demolished by combat engineers after being investigated, said the IDF.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>WHO says Gazans in ‘grave peril’</strong></h2>

<p>The World Health Organization, on Wednesday, said that the people in Gaza are in “grave peril” citing acute hunger and desperation throughout the war-torn Palestinian territory. This comes as Israel is facing growing criticism from across the world over mounting civilian casualties amid its war with Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations health agency said that it delivered supplies to two hospitals on Tuesday (Dec 26), and only 15 out of 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are functioning in any capacity at all.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on the international community to take “urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza".</p>

<p>The Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that the death toll since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory attacks has killed at least 21,110 people and left around 55,243 others injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel on October 7 resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. Palestinian militants also took over 200&nbsp;hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, says Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced that they have located and destroyed three tunnel shafts near Rantisi Children’s Hospital and a nearby school in Gaza City which they claim are connected to passages beneath the medical centre and are used by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Tunnels were being used as Hamas ‘command centre’: IDF The three shafts “are connected by a wide underground network that runs under the hospital, is several kilometres long and leads to strategic points in the heart of Gaza City,” said the Israeli army, as quoted by the Times of Israel. The tunnel shafts were said to have been destroyed using explosives. According to the Israeli military, the tunnel at Rantisi was used by Hamas as a command centre. IDF troops are uncovering Hamas’ tunnels inside and around multiple hospitals within Gaza. The Rantisi Hospital is just another terrorist stronghold used to connect and transfer terrorists and weapons throughout Gaza to be used against Israelis. pic.twitter.com/aYBkpgsfn9 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 27, 2023 × Back in November, the IDF showed what it said was proof that the basement of Rantisi was used by Hamas to hide weapons and possibly hold hostages that were taken to Gaza following Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, in November, showed what he claimed was an underground command centre under the Rantisi Hospital and had suicide vests, rocket-propelled grenades, along with baby bottles and improvised toilets which he said indicated that Hamas held hostages there. ALSO READ | Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner' According to the Israeli army, one of the three shafts found in a high school adjacent to Rantisi was equipped with an elevator heading down some 20 metres. While another shaft was said to be the home of a commander in Hamas’ naval forces and was equipped with a blast door. The tunnel network was demolished by combat engineers after being investigated, said the IDF. WHO says Gazans in ‘grave peril’ The World Health Organization, on Wednesday, said that the people in Gaza are in “grave peril” citing acute hunger and desperation throughout the war-torn Palestinian territory. This comes as Israel is facing growing criticism from across the world over mounting civilian casualties amid its war with Hamas in Gaza. The United Nations health agency said that it delivered supplies to two hospitals on Tuesday (Dec 26), and only 15 out of 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are functioning in any capacity at all. ALSO READ | Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months' WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on the international community to take “urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza". The Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that the death toll since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory attacks has killed at least 21,110 people and left around 55,243 others injured. The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel on October 7 resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. Palestinian militants also took over 200 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, says Israel. (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 claims to have destroyed Hamas tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital

<p>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.</p>

<p>Kibbutz Nir Oz, where she was taking a walk with her husband on the morning of the attack, announced her demise on Thursday.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Ottawa also mourned the tragic passing of Weinstein.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>"They have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal," Biden said.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Australia say?</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Australia talks to Israel about attack</strong></h2>

<p>Dreyfus said his government had communicated with Israel about the airstrike but declined to disclose what was discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>“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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages &amp; end Israel-Hamas war</strong></p>

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<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Aim at the weapons industry</strong></h2>

<p>Pope Francis lashed out at the weapons industry saying that the industry was helping fuel conflicts around the world.</p>

<p>“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?”</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.”</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Christmas is cancelled here’</strong></h2>

<p>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.”</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.”</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Clashes and arrests</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨<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<br />
📌<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><br />
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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></p>
— 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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<p>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.</p>

<p>According to the NYPD, one officer sustained minor injuries during the demonstration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Christmas sombre in Bethlehem</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘We feel sad’</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>“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;</p>

<p>He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>People of&nbsp;Bethlehem&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat.</p>

<p>The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p>The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.</p>

<h2><strong>Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>UN resolution urges more aid</strong></h2>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


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

<p>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."</p>

<p>The resolution also requests the appointment of a UN humanitarian coordinator who will oversee and verify aid to Gaza coming from a third country.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping | WION Dispatch</strong></p>

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<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>The reactions</strong></h2>

<p>USA's Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield welcomed the resolution and said that it was "a strong step forward".</p>

<p>"This council provided a glimmer of hope among a sea of suffering," she said.</p>

<p>Diplomatic tussle at the UN headquarters caused postponement of the vote several times.</p>

<p>Russia called the text of resolution "toothless" and hit out at the United States.</p>

<p>"...they have resorted to their favorite tactic... of twisting of arms," said Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>We know this is not a perfect text... We will never tire of calling for a humanitarian cease-fire," the ambassador said.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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'

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<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>The New York Times</em>, 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"&nbsp;for civilians and along the evacuation routes it claimed were "safe" for innocent Gazans to escape the bombings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, CNN also cited similar findings, stating that&nbsp;&nbsp;Tel Aviv's bombing in the first month of the war "had not been seen since Vietnam".</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-british-team-helping-palestinian-authority-prepare-for-governance-667592"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: British team helping Palestinian authority prepare for governance</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"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).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"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.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-coffee-shop-fires-three-antisemitic-staffers-for-blocking-jewish-customer-from-using-washroom-668616"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US: Coffee shop fires three antisemitic staffers for blocking Jewish customer from using washroom</strong></a></p>

<p>Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed 19,667 people, mostly women and children.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"What I suggest for Hamas is very simple: Surrender or die. They will not have any other choice," he said.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<h2><strong>Hamas says Israel's objective to eliminate it 'doomed to fail'</strong></h2>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>Neither Israel's continued offensive nor "direct military operations" would bring the hostages home, he said.</p>

<p>"It is not possible to release enemy prisoners alive except by entering into negotiations."</p>

<p>As per the Israeli authorities, 129 hostages remain held in Gaza.</p>

<p>Abu Obeida further said that there was "no alternative" to negotiations, warning that Israeli fire could lead to the deaths of more hostages.</p>

<p>He then took a dig at Israel's leader saying that their "decision... evades facing and recognising the truth".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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'

<p>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.</p>

<p>The US-led “multinational security initiative” will be joined by Bahrain, Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>About the 10-nation coalition</strong></h2>

<p>“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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>“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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Two commercial ships attacked</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Houthis claim responsibility for attacks</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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'.</p>

<p>"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</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>Basem Naem was quoted by Israeli media.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Red Sea attacks disrupt sea shipping: 10 nation-coalition to combat Houthi attacks</strong></p>

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<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Director of Gaza hospital admits Hamas used facility for military operations: IDF</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>In the video, neither the interrogator nor Kahalot are speaking in English and viewers get information through English subtitles.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hamas in their own words:<br />
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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.<br />
<br />
Video credit: ISA Spokesperson <a href="https://t.co/QGLclR94at">pic.twitter.com/QGLclR94at</a></p>
— 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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<p>Israel has been claiming that Hamas was using hospitals as bases for their military operations and Hamas has regularly denied the accusation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>As per news agency AFP, the size of the tunnel was such that small vehicles could easily travel inside it.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"Tunnel, the subterranean tunnel, constructed by Mohammed Sinwar. This is the Sinwar project tunnel that was meant to do a terror attack," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">EXPOSED: The biggest Hamas terrorist tunnel discovered.<br />
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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></p>
— 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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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>"Millions of dollars were invested in this tunnel. It took years to build this tunnel ... Vehicles could drive through," he added.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
This tunnel, shown by Hagari, had poles descending vertically downward that, which he claimed, indicated part of a wider network.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel discovers tunnels under Gaza vacation homes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>Inbar Haiman was said to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival and described as a “creative girl full of joy.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About her reported death</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to her at the festival?</strong></h2>

<p>The visual communications student from the city of Haifa, in northern Israel was volunteering at the festival, according to her boyfriend Noam Alon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>“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.”</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>More than 18,700 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its retaliatory attacks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


A 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

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Will US respond to Houthi attacks?</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Houthi Red Sea attacks: Iran warns against proposed US-backed Red Sea force</strong></p>

<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>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>Recent attacks</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Shipping firms to avoid Suez Canal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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;</p>

<h2><strong>New negotiations are underway?</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>“The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.”</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu government under pressure</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


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

<p>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.<br />
<br />
"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.<br />
<br />
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)".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p>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.”<br />
<br />
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".<br />
<br />
It was not immediately known when and in which place the accused was arrested or put on trial.</p>

<h2><strong>Several hangings, multiple arrests in Iran</strong></h2>

<p>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.<br />
<br />
The Islamic Republic in December 2022 executed four people who were accused of collaborating with the intelligence services of Israel.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: WION takes you inside an IDF base near Gaza | WION Ground Report</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-wion-takes-you-inside-an-idf-base-near-gaza-wion-ground-report-658752/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>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.<br />
<br />
As per the human rights groups, which included Amnesty International, the countries which carry out maximum executions are Iran and China.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

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


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

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

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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Spain FM urges Israel to distinguish 'terrorists' from Gaza civilians</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong><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></p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


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

<p>Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>The intense fighting between the two warring sides continued a day after the United Nations demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden meets families of US hostages</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Biden on Wednesday met the families of the people held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.</p>

<p>According to the officials, the gathering took place in the White House where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also present.</p>

<p>Approximately eight US hostages are being held in Gaza, according to the Biden administration.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>


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

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