<p>Multiple media reports across countries have said that a dead body being paraded naked by Hamas in a pickup truck&nbsp;as seen in a viral social media post&nbsp;is that of a German woman.</p>

<p>It is being widely reported that the body is of Shani Louk, a German tattoo artist. The claim that it is her is being made online by users who said they have made comparison of tattoos on the dead body with those seen sported by Louk in previous pictures she herself clicked and posted on social media.</p>

<p>Louk's mother has said in another video doing rounds on social media that her 30-year-old daughter was in Israel with a tourist group. She has&nbsp;confirmed having seen the viral video in question and said that it was Shani but has also made an appeal to&nbsp;public for more information and help.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The mother of Shani Louk, the woman whose body was seen on video in the back of a pick-up truck driven by Palestinian terrorists to Gaza, released a statement earlier today.<br />
<br />
She confirmed she had seen her daughter on the video &amp; asked the public for help with more information <a href="https://t.co/LDcPsjGHP8">pic.twitter.com/LDcPsjGHP8</a></p>
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) <a href="https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1710820667686285406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>News.com.au has quoted Shani's cousin Tomasina who has claimed that it is Shani in the viral video. She however, has hoped for a positive news.</p>

<p>"It is definitely Shani. She was at a music festival for peace. This is a nightmare for our family," Tomsina said according to the news outlet.</p>

<p>Shani Louk was attending a music festival. The site was reportedly one of the first locations to be attacked by Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Unprecedented hostage situation in Israel</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Her 'last' video?</strong></h2>

<p>An account on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has posted a video purportedly showing Fani Louk as she danced at a music festival near the Gaza border. The account claims that these were Shani's 'last moments' before getting captured by Hamas.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">She is Shani Louk, A German-Israel citizen, Who's dead body was Paraded by Hamas after attack<br />
<br />
These are probably the last moments of her before Hamas attacked music festival.. Where she took part<br />
<br />
RIP 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelPalestineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelPalestineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%A5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#อิสราเอล</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestinian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestinian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B7%D9%88%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%86_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%82%D8%B5%D9%89?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#طوفان_الأقصى</a>… <a href="https://t.co/xo65xaNtr5">pic.twitter.com/xo65xaNtr5</a></p>
— Dr Jain (@DrJain21) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJain21/status/1711255021088878863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas terrorists caught several civilians in the crossfire. Hamas terrorists also targeted civilians to hold them hostage for bargaining the release of Palestinians in Israeli jails.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another shocking video, purportedly showing 25-year-old Noa Argamani being kidnapped by Hamas militants from a peace festival, has also gone viral. In the video, the woman can be seen begging for her life while being seated on militants' motorcycle.</p>

<p>The video reportedly also shows her boyfriend Avi Nathan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-shielding-skies-with-iron-dome-defence-system-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work-643921">Israel shielding skies with Iron Dome defence system. What is it and how does it work?</a></strong></p>

<p>The escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas has shifted global focus to West Asia. There have been hundreds of casualties on both sides and thousands of others have been injured.</p>

<p>Global diplomacy is in overdrive trying to diffuse the situation. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu has, however, said that the current 'war' will go on for a long time.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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Multiple media reports across countries have said that a dead body being paraded naked by Hamas in a pickup truck as seen in a viral social media post is that of a German woman.

Multiple media reports across countries have said that a dead body being paraded naked by Hamas in a pickup truck as seen in a viral social media post is that of a German woman. It is being widely reported that the body is of Shani Louk, a German tattoo artist. The claim that it is her is being made online by users who said they have made comparison of tattoos on the dead body with those seen sported by Louk in previous pictures she herself clicked and posted on social media. Louk's mother has said in another video doing rounds on social media that her 30-year-old daughter was in Israel with a tourist group. She has confirmed having seen the viral video in question and said that it was Shani but has also made an appeal to public for more information and help. The mother of Shani Louk, the woman whose body was seen on video in the back of a pick-up truck driven by Palestinian terrorists to Gaza, released a statement earlier today. She confirmed she had seen her daughter on the video & asked the public for help with more information pic.twitter.com/LDcPsjGHP8 — Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) October 8, 2023 × News.com.au has quoted Shani's cousin Tomasina who has claimed that it is Shani in the viral video. She however, has hoped for a positive news. "It is definitely Shani. She was at a music festival for peace. This is a nightmare for our family," Tomsina said according to the news outlet. Shani Louk was attending a music festival. The site was reportedly one of the first locations to be attacked by Hamas. Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Unprecedented hostage situation in Israel × Her 'last' video? An account on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has posted a video purportedly showing Fani Louk as she danced at a music festival near the Gaza border. The account claims that these were Shani's 'last moments' before getting captured by Hamas. She is Shani Louk, A German-Israel citizen, Who's dead body was Paraded by Hamas after attack These are probably the last moments of her before Hamas attacked music festival.. Where she took part RIP 🙏#IsraelPalestineWar #Gaza #อิสราเอล #Palestine #Palestinian #طوفان_الأقصى… pic.twitter.com/xo65xaNtr5 — Dr Jain (@DrJain21) October 9, 2023 × The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas terrorists caught several civilians in the crossfire. Hamas terrorists also targeted civilians to hold them hostage for bargaining the release of Palestinians in Israeli jails. Another shocking video, purportedly showing 25-year-old Noa Argamani being kidnapped by Hamas militants from a peace festival, has also gone viral. In the video, the woman can be seen begging for her life while being seated on militants' motorcycle. The video reportedly also shows her boyfriend Avi Nathan. Also Read | Israel shielding skies with Iron Dome defence system. What is it and how does it work? The escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas has shifted global focus to West Asia. There have been hundreds of casualties on both sides and thousands of others have been injured. Global diplomacy is in overdrive trying to diffuse the situation. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu has, however, said that the current 'war' will go on for a long time. 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. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

German woman’s body paraded naked by Hamas terrorists; mother appeals for info and help

<p>Israel's representative to the United Nations Gilad Erdan shared a video in which the leaders of Hamas were seen purportedly thanking Iran for supporting the terrorist organisation with arms, money and other means.<br />
<br />
In the video shared, as per the translation provided by the ambassador, the leader can be seen saying, “Thanks to all those individuals, groups and countries, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran, who have supported us generously with money, arms and other means, providing us with the missiles that have battered the zionist strongholds during past confrontations with the occupiers. They have also supported us with anti-tank type missiles which, by the grace of god, and the faith of our fighters, shattered the myth of zionist superiority.”<br />
<br />
While sharing the video, the envoy wrote, “If you had any doubt about who is funding and supporting this barbaric terror attack: here’s a video of Hamas terrorists thanking none other than IRAN for the weapons, money and rockets that helped the terrorists to slaughter and kidnap Israelis. The Ayatollah regime is the head of the octopus. Don’t look away.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you had any doubt about who is funding and supporting this barbaric terror attack: here’s a video of Hamas terrorists thanking none other than IRAN for the weapons, money and rockets that helped the terrorists to slaughter and kidnap Israelis. The Ayatollah regime is the head… <a href="https://t.co/LMrRmlt5Xm">pic.twitter.com/LMrRmlt5Xm</a></p>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1711122242266857829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ambassador Gilad Erdan had earlier also stated that they were quite sure about Iran extending its support to the operations of Hamas, which has launched its biggest attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-brutal-hamas-attack-israeli-rescue-service-retrieve-260-bodies-from-music-festival-644281">After brutal Hamas attack, Israeli rescue service retrieves 260 bodies from music festival</a></p>

<p>The comment of Erdan came hours after Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi stated that the country supports the right to self-defence of Palestinians and said that Israel needs to be held accountable for endangering the region.<br />
<br />
"Iran supports the legitimate defence of the Palestinian nation," stated Raisi, as quoted by state television. "The Zionist regime (Israel) and its supporters are responsible for endangering the security of nations in the region, and they must be held accountable in this matter,” he added.<br />
<br />
He further appealed to Muslim governments to "support the Palestinian nation" while appreciating "resistance" efforts by Hamas and other groups in countries which include Syria, Lebanon and Iraq.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's UN mission denies Tehran's involvement in Hamas attacks</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Iran's mission to the United Nations on Sunday (Oct 8) refuted Tehran's involvement in one of the bloodiest attacks by Hamas on Israel.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War: US, European nationals feared dead in Israel</strong></p>

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<p>"The resolute measures taken by Palestine constitute a wholly legitimate defence against seven decades of oppressive occupation and heinous crimes committed by the illegitimate Zionist regime," said Iran's UN mission, in a statement.<br />
<br />
"We emphatically stand in unflinching support of Palestine; however, we are not involved in Palestine's response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself," Iran's UN mission stated.<br />
<br />
Iran's UN mission stated the Hamas operation achieved “success” because it was a surprise.<br />
<br />
"They are attempting to justify their failure and attribute it to Iran's intelligence power and operational planning," stated Iran's UN mission.</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>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Israel's representative to the United Nations Gilad Erdan shared a video in which the leaders of Hamas were seen purportedly thanking Iran for supporting the terrorist organisation with arms, money and other means.

Israel's representative to the United Nations Gilad Erdan shared a video in which the leaders of Hamas were seen purportedly thanking Iran for supporting the terrorist organisation with arms, money and other means. In the video shared, as per the translation provided by the ambassador, the leader can be seen saying, “Thanks to all those individuals, groups and countries, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran, who have supported us generously with money, arms and other means, providing us with the missiles that have battered the zionist strongholds during past confrontations with the occupiers. They have also supported us with anti-tank type missiles which, by the grace of god, and the faith of our fighters, shattered the myth of zionist superiority.” While sharing the video, the envoy wrote, “If you had any doubt about who is funding and supporting this barbaric terror attack: here’s a video of Hamas terrorists thanking none other than IRAN for the weapons, money and rockets that helped the terrorists to slaughter and kidnap Israelis. The Ayatollah regime is the head of the octopus. Don’t look away.” If you had any doubt about who is funding and supporting this barbaric terror attack: here’s a video of Hamas terrorists thanking none other than IRAN for the weapons, money and rockets that helped the terrorists to slaughter and kidnap Israelis. The Ayatollah regime is the head… pic.twitter.com/LMrRmlt5Xm — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 8, 2023 × Ambassador Gilad Erdan had earlier also stated that they were quite sure about Iran extending its support to the operations of Hamas, which has launched its biggest attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. ALSO READ | After brutal Hamas attack, Israeli rescue service retrieves 260 bodies from music festival The comment of Erdan came hours after Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi stated that the country supports the right to self-defence of Palestinians and said that Israel needs to be held accountable for endangering the region. "Iran supports the legitimate defence of the Palestinian nation," stated Raisi, as quoted by state television. "The Zionist regime (Israel) and its supporters are responsible for endangering the security of nations in the region, and they must be held accountable in this matter,” he added. He further appealed to Muslim governments to "support the Palestinian nation" while appreciating "resistance" efforts by Hamas and other groups in countries which include Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. Iran's UN mission denies Tehran's involvement in Hamas attacks Meanwhile, Iran's mission to the United Nations on Sunday (Oct 8) refuted Tehran's involvement in one of the bloodiest attacks by Hamas on Israel. WATCH | Israel-Palestine War: US, European nationals feared dead in Israel "The resolute measures taken by Palestine constitute a wholly legitimate defence against seven decades of oppressive occupation and heinous crimes committed by the illegitimate Zionist regime," said Iran's UN mission, in a statement. "We emphatically stand in unflinching support of Palestine; however, we are not involved in Palestine's response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself," Iran's UN mission stated. Iran's UN mission stated the Hamas operation achieved “success” because it was a surprise. "They are attempting to justify their failure and attribute it to Iran's intelligence power and operational planning," stated Iran's UN mission. 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. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Israel's representative at UN shares video of Hamas thanking Iran for support

<p>On the morning of October 7, the Palestinian group Hamas launched one of the biggest surprise attacks on Israel, in which it fired a barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip and the security barriers were breached by the gunmen. The attack was launched on Israel during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah.<br />
<br />
However, the date chosen for one of the bloodiest attacks, was just a day after the Yom Kippur War was launched, which started 50 years ago on October 6, with an aim to recapture the territory taken by Israel during a brief conflict in 1967.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the Yom Kippur war?</strong></h2>

<p>On October 6, 1973, which was the holiest day in Judaism – known as 'Yom Kippur', surprise attacks were launched by a coalition of Arab nations on Israeli-occupied territories, which started the Yom Kippur War.<br />
<br />
Most of the fighting took place in the Golan Heights, Sinai and the other areas which were under Israel's control since the Six-Day War in 1967. The geopolitical tensions between the countries reached a tipping point when a global nuclear alert was issued by the then-US President Richard Nixon.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-israels-famed-intelligence-service-fail-to-foresee-hamas-unprecedented-terror-attack-644377">Did Israel’s famed intelligence service fail to foresee Hamas’ unprecedented terror attack?</a></p>

<p>After the war between nations intensified, oil deliveries were suspended by the Arab members of The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to all Western nations, which had extended their support to Israel. This led to a global energy crisis.<br />
<br />
After two weeks of war which resulted in the death of 20,000 people, Israel achieved victory and gained more land under its occupation compared to what it had before the start of the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is Yom Kippur War being compared to Operation Al-Aqsa Flood?</strong></h2>

<p>Exactly after 50 years, more than 5,000 rockets were rained down on Israel as Hamas announced the initiation of 'Operation Al-Aqsa Flood', as it appealed to the "resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the war against Israel, which has been accused of "illegally occupying" Palestinian land.<br />
<br />
The recent violence has been attributed by Hamas officials to the long-standing tensions between Israel and Palestinians, especially the fight over the sacred Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. It has been compared to the Yom Kippur War of 1973, as it is one of the deadliest attacks on Israel since then.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine conflict: Dead bodies line up on Israeli streets, over 100 taken hostage</strong></p>

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<p>The second similarity between the two wars is the criticism faced by Israel for being unprepared at both times when the attack was launched. The attacks by Hamas came as a surprise to Israel even though it has advanced intelligence and interception systems.<br />
<br />
In the Yom Kippur war also, Israel was unprepared since many soldiers were on leave due to the Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement, which is considered the holiest day in Judaism.</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>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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On the morning of October 7, the Palestinian group Hamas launched one of the biggest surprise attacks on Israel, in which it fired a barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip and the security barriers were breached by the gunmen.

On the morning of October 7, the Palestinian group Hamas launched one of the biggest surprise attacks on Israel, in which it fired a barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip and the security barriers were breached by the gunmen. The attack was launched on Israel during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah. However, the date chosen for one of the bloodiest attacks, was just a day after the Yom Kippur War was launched, which started 50 years ago on October 6, with an aim to recapture the territory taken by Israel during a brief conflict in 1967. What was the Yom Kippur war? On October 6, 1973, which was the holiest day in Judaism – known as 'Yom Kippur', surprise attacks were launched by a coalition of Arab nations on Israeli-occupied territories, which started the Yom Kippur War. Most of the fighting took place in the Golan Heights, Sinai and the other areas which were under Israel's control since the Six-Day War in 1967. The geopolitical tensions between the countries reached a tipping point when a global nuclear alert was issued by the then-US President Richard Nixon. ALSO READ | Did Israel’s famed intelligence service fail to foresee Hamas’ unprecedented terror attack? After the war between nations intensified, oil deliveries were suspended by the Arab members of The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to all Western nations, which had extended their support to Israel. This led to a global energy crisis. After two weeks of war which resulted in the death of 20,000 people, Israel achieved victory and gained more land under its occupation compared to what it had before the start of the war. Why is Yom Kippur War being compared to Operation Al-Aqsa Flood? Exactly after 50 years, more than 5,000 rockets were rained down on Israel as Hamas announced the initiation of 'Operation Al-Aqsa Flood', as it appealed to the "resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the war against Israel, which has been accused of "illegally occupying" Palestinian land. The recent violence has been attributed by Hamas officials to the long-standing tensions between Israel and Palestinians, especially the fight over the sacred Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. It has been compared to the Yom Kippur War of 1973, as it is one of the deadliest attacks on Israel since then. WATCH | Israel-Palestine conflict: Dead bodies line up on Israeli streets, over 100 taken hostage The second similarity between the two wars is the criticism faced by Israel for being unprepared at both times when the attack was launched. The attacks by Hamas came as a surprise to Israel even though it has advanced intelligence and interception systems. In the Yom Kippur war also, Israel was unprepared since many soldiers were on leave due to the Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement, which is considered the holiest day in Judaism. 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. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Here's why Hamas chose October 7 to launch bloodiest attack on Israel

<p>Several countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and Nepal, on Sunday (Oct 8) have confirmed that their citizens were either killed or kidnapped, a day after Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel.</p>

<p>The Palestinian military group's&nbsp;attack on&nbsp;Israel marked the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-how-the-violence-unfolded-after-palestinian-militant-group-attacked-israel-a-timeline-644159">deadliest day of violence</a> in the country since the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nepal</strong></h2>

<p>Ten students from Nepal were among those killed after Hamas’ surprise attack, said Nepal’s embassy in Tel Aviv, in a statement, on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ten Nepalis have tragically died due to an attack by the Palestinian Hamas group in a place called Kibbutz Alumim,” said the embassy, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four others were being treated in a local hospital while a search was underway for a fifth who had been “out of contact,” the statement added. This comes after Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud said that 11 students were missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“265 Nepali students are participating in Israel’s learning and earning program, sponsored by the Israeli government,” said Saud, on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Nepali official, there are around 4,500 citizens working in Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thailand</strong></h2>

<p>Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that at least two of its citizens have been killed after the attacks on Israel. Pannabha Chandraramya, Thailand’s ambassador to Tel Aviv confirmed the death of one more person, said Thavisin, raising the toll to two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Foreign affairs minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said that eight Thai citizens have been injured and 11 others have been captured. The PM has since assured that he would use all diplomatic means available to rescue the Thai victims.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed&nbsp;that two Ukrainian citizens&nbsp;have died in Israel and&nbsp;more than 100 citizens had contacted the country's embassy. “Both citizens had been living in the country for a long time,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko.<br />
<br />
Earlier, the Ukrainian president spoke to&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and expressed "solidarity with Israel, which is enduring a brazen, large-scale attack".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>France</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>French lawmaker,&nbsp;Meyer Habib, who represents French people living abroad in a number of Mediterranean countries including Israel, took to X, on Monday (Oct 9), and said at least eight&nbsp;French nationals were missing, confirmed dead or taken hostage and&nbsp;Paris "should hold Hamas directly responsible for (hostages') safety and use every means to secure their release.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes a day after Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre confirmed that a French national had been killed in Israel while several others were missing.</p>

<p>“We were saddened to learn of the tragic death of a compatriot in Israel in the context of the terrorist attacks,” said Legendre, as quoted by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>UK</strong></h2>

<p>A London-born man who was serving in the Israeli army died on Saturday on the Gaza border and another British citizen is missing, said Israel’s embassy in London on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Israeli media reports, Nathanel Young was one of the many Israeli soldiers who were killed during the attack. &nbsp;The Israeli embassy in London said that a second man went missing early on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His mother, Lisa, told Jewish News that Jake Marlowe, 26 had been providing security at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-how-a-desert-music-festival-became-site-of-hamas-terror-attack-hostage-taking-643977">music festival</a> and last heard from her son via text message. Several Hamas fighters escaped back to Gaza with dozens of Israeli hostages, both soldiers and civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>United States</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli ambassador to the US, Michael Herzog said that an unknown number of Americans are among the hostages that Hamas took from Israel. “I understand there are, but I don’t have details,” Herzog told CBS News when asked if there were Americans among the soldiers and civilians abducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that officials are “actively working” to verify reports that several Americans may have been killed and/or taken hostage during the Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have reports that several Americans may be among the dead,” said Blinken.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Germany</strong></h2>

<p>A report by news agency AFP citing a German foreign ministry source said that several citizens who are also Israeli nationals are among those kidnapped by militants, without specifying the number of victims.</p>

<p>The source also refused to comment on the case of 22-year-old Shani Louk, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-womans-body-paraded-naked-by-hamas-say-multiple-reports-644078">German-Israeli woman </a>whose mother recognised her in a video circulating online.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Several countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and Nepal, on Sunday (Oct 8) have confirmed that their citizens were either killed or kidnapped, a day after Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel.

Several countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and Nepal, on Sunday (Oct 8) have confirmed that their citizens were either killed or kidnapped, a day after Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel. The Palestinian military group's attack on Israel marked the deadliest day of violence in the country since the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago. Nepal Ten students from Nepal were among those killed after Hamas’ surprise attack, said Nepal’s embassy in Tel Aviv, in a statement, on Sunday. “Ten Nepalis have tragically died due to an attack by the Palestinian Hamas group in a place called Kibbutz Alumim,” said the embassy, in a statement. Four others were being treated in a local hospital while a search was underway for a fifth who had been “out of contact,” the statement added. This comes after Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud said that 11 students were missing. “265 Nepali students are participating in Israel’s learning and earning program, sponsored by the Israeli government,” said Saud, on X. According to the Nepali official, there are around 4,500 citizens working in Israel. Thailand Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that at least two of its citizens have been killed after the attacks on Israel. Pannabha Chandraramya, Thailand’s ambassador to Tel Aviv confirmed the death of one more person, said Thavisin, raising the toll to two. Foreign affairs minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said that eight Thai citizens have been injured and 11 others have been captured. The PM has since assured that he would use all diplomatic means available to rescue the Thai victims. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that two Ukrainian citizens have died in Israel and more than 100 citizens had contacted the country's embassy. “Both citizens had been living in the country for a long time,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko. Earlier, the Ukrainian president spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and expressed "solidarity with Israel, which is enduring a brazen, large-scale attack". France French lawmaker, Meyer Habib, who represents French people living abroad in a number of Mediterranean countries including Israel, took to X, on Monday (Oct 9), and said at least eight French nationals were missing, confirmed dead or taken hostage and Paris "should hold Hamas directly responsible for (hostages') safety and use every means to secure their release. This comes a day after Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre confirmed that a French national had been killed in Israel while several others were missing. “We were saddened to learn of the tragic death of a compatriot in Israel in the context of the terrorist attacks,” said Legendre, as quoted by AFP. UK A London-born man who was serving in the Israeli army died on Saturday on the Gaza border and another British citizen is missing, said Israel’s embassy in London on Sunday. According to Israeli media reports, Nathanel Young was one of the many Israeli soldiers who were killed during the attack. The Israeli embassy in London said that a second man went missing early on Saturday. His mother, Lisa, told Jewish News that Jake Marlowe, 26 had been providing security at a music festival and last heard from her son via text message. Several Hamas fighters escaped back to Gaza with dozens of Israeli hostages, both soldiers and civilians. United States The Israeli ambassador to the US, Michael Herzog said that an unknown number of Americans are among the hostages that Hamas took from Israel. “I understand there are, but I don’t have details,” Herzog told CBS News when asked if there were Americans among the soldiers and civilians abducted. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that officials are “actively working” to verify reports that several Americans may have been killed and/or taken hostage during the Israel-Hamas conflict. “We have reports that several Americans may be among the dead,” said Blinken. Germany A report by news agency AFP citing a German foreign ministry source said that several citizens who are also Israeli nationals are among those kidnapped by militants, without specifying the number of victims. The source also refused to comment on the case of 22-year-old Shani Louk, a German-Israeli woman whose mother recognised her in a video circulating online. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Several foreign nationals killed, abducted amid attacks on Israel

<p>In light of the deteriorating situation in Israel, UEFA has decided to postpone all matches scheduled in the West Asian country in the next fortnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European football governing body said&nbsp;Israel's Euro 2024 qualifier against Switzerland on Thursday, scheduled to take place at Tel Aviv's Bloomfield Stadium, is among matches postponed "in light of the current security situation".</p>

<p>Apart from the senior team's match, the Under-21 qualifiers involving Israel, Estonia and Germany have been postponed while the Under-17 matches involving<strong data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-11.$bold-0">&nbsp;</strong>Israel, Belgium, Gibraltar and Wales have the same fate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Matches postponed:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-6"><strong data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-6.$bold-0">European Championship 2024 qualifier</strong></p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-7">12 October: Israel v Switzerland</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-8"><strong data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-8.$bold-0">European Under-21 Championship 2025 qualifiers</strong></p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-9">12 October: Israel v Estonia</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-10">17 October: Israel v Germany</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-11"><strong data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-11.$bold-0">European Under-17 Championship 2024</strong></p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-12">11-17 October: Mini tournament involving Israel, Belgium, Gibraltar and Wales</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-12"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-pm-modi-india-stands-in-solidarity-with-israel-israel-palestine-conflict-644398"><strong>Watch | Israel Hamas War | PM Modi: India stands in solidarity with Israel | Israel-Palestine Conflict</strong></a></p>

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<p>UEFA added that it will take a few more days to assess whether the European qualifiers match between Israel and Kosovo, scheduled to take place at the&nbsp;Pristina City Stadium in Kosovo on October 15 would go ahead or not.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-14">"Uefa will continue to closely monitor the situation and will remain in contact with all teams involved before making decisions on new dates and on potential changes to other upcoming fixtures," it said.</p>

<h2 data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-14"><strong>What is happening in Israel?</strong></h2>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-14">More than 700 Israelis have been killed after Hamas - a terror outfit operating from the Gaza Strip launched an indiscriminate attack on Israel. While thousands of missiles were fired that overwhelmed Israel's state-of-the-art Iron Dome system, a faction of ground fighters illegally entered Israel and kidnapped, raped and slaughtered civilians, before retreating.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-14">Since the attack, the fighting has only escalated as Israel has vowed to return the favour by flattening the strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has predicted a&nbsp;“long and difficult war”, with reports claiming that Jerusalem may try to take full control of Gaza for the first time since it unilaterally withdrew from the territory in 2005.</p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-12"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p data-reactid=".aodniyxqfi.0.0.0.1.$paragraph-12"><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In light of the deteriorating situation in Israel, UEFA has decided to postpone all matches scheduled in the West Asian country in the next fortnight. The European football governing body said Israel's Euro 2024 qualifier against Switzerland on Thursday, scheduled to take place at Tel Aviv's Bloomfield Stadium, is among matches postponed "in light of the current security situation".

In light of the deteriorating situation in Israel, UEFA has decided to postpone all matches scheduled in the West Asian country in the next fortnight. The European football governing body said Israel's Euro 2024 qualifier against Switzerland on Thursday, scheduled to take place at Tel Aviv's Bloomfield Stadium, is among matches postponed "in light of the current security situation". Apart from the senior team's match, the Under-21 qualifiers involving Israel, Estonia and Germany have been postponed while the Under-17 matches involving Israel, Belgium, Gibraltar and Wales have the same fate. Matches postponed: European Championship 2024 qualifier 12 October: Israel v Switzerland European Under-21 Championship 2025 qualifiers 12 October: Israel v Estonia 17 October: Israel v Germany European Under-17 Championship 2024 11-17 October: Mini tournament involving Israel, Belgium, Gibraltar and Wales Watch | Israel Hamas War | PM Modi: India stands in solidarity with Israel | Israel-Palestine Conflict × UEFA added that it will take a few more days to assess whether the European qualifiers match between Israel and Kosovo, scheduled to take place at the Pristina City Stadium in Kosovo on October 15 would go ahead or not. "Uefa will continue to closely monitor the situation and will remain in contact with all teams involved before making decisions on new dates and on potential changes to other upcoming fixtures," it said. What is happening in Israel? More than 700 Israelis have been killed after Hamas - a terror outfit operating from the Gaza Strip launched an indiscriminate attack on Israel. While thousands of missiles were fired that overwhelmed Israel's state-of-the-art Iron Dome system, a faction of ground fighters illegally entered Israel and kidnapped, raped and slaughtered civilians, before retreating. Since the attack, the fighting has only escalated as Israel has vowed to return the favour by flattening the strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has predicted a “long and difficult war”, with reports claiming that Jerusalem may try to take full control of Gaza for the first time since it unilaterally withdrew from the territory in 2005. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UEFA postpones matches in Israel amid deteriorating situation

<p>Germany debated on Sunday whether it should stop aid to Palestinians following the biggest attack on Israel in years by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, with the government saying it was reviewing the way it spent development funds in the region.</p>

<p>Development Minister Svenja Schulze of the ruling centre-left Social Democrats said the government had always been careful to check that the money was only used for peaceful ends.</p>

<p>"But these attacks on Israel mark a terrible fracture," she said. "We will now review our entire engagement for the Palestinian territories."</p>

<p>Germany would discuss with Israel how development projects in the region could best be served, and coordinate with international partners, said the minister.</p>

<p>Some German lawmakers, from the opposition conservatives in particular, called for an end to the aid.</p>

<p>"All of Europe, all 27 states, must now say: we need a new start and we will no longer finance terrorists," said Armin Laschet, chancellor candidate for the conservatives at the last federal election, calling for an end to EU cooperation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who is based in the West Bank.</p>

<p>But pushback came from the opposition Left party and the Greens, junior partner in the federal coalition.</p>

<p>Hamas, and not all Palestinians, were responsible for the attack, said Gregor Gysi, a prominent member of the Left party.</p>

<p>The commissioner for humanitarian assistance Luise Amtsberg in the Greens-run foreign ministry said that the government did not finance the Palestinian Authority but rather people who were suffering.</p>

<p>"In 2023 the foreign ministry distributed 72 million euros of humanitarian aid in the Palestinian territories through international organisations and the United Nations," she said.</p>

<p>"These funds above all gave suffering people in the Palestinian territories access to food provisions and health care."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Germany debated on Sunday whether it should stop aid to Palestinians following the biggest attack on Israel in years by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, with the government saying it was reviewing the way it spent development funds in the region.

Germany debated on Sunday whether it should stop aid to Palestinians following the biggest attack on Israel in years by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, with the government saying it was reviewing the way it spent development funds in the region. Development Minister Svenja Schulze of the ruling centre-left Social Democrats said the government had always been careful to check that the money was only used for peaceful ends. "But these attacks on Israel mark a terrible fracture," she said. "We will now review our entire engagement for the Palestinian territories." Germany would discuss with Israel how development projects in the region could best be served, and coordinate with international partners, said the minister. Some German lawmakers, from the opposition conservatives in particular, called for an end to the aid. "All of Europe, all 27 states, must now say: we need a new start and we will no longer finance terrorists," said Armin Laschet, chancellor candidate for the conservatives at the last federal election, calling for an end to EU cooperation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who is based in the West Bank. But pushback came from the opposition Left party and the Greens, junior partner in the federal coalition. Hamas, and not all Palestinians, were responsible for the attack, said Gregor Gysi, a prominent member of the Left party. The commissioner for humanitarian assistance Luise Amtsberg in the Greens-run foreign ministry said that the government did not finance the Palestinian Authority but rather people who were suffering. "In 2023 the foreign ministry distributed 72 million euros of humanitarian aid in the Palestinian territories through international organisations and the United Nations," she said. "These funds above all gave suffering people in the Palestinian territories access to food provisions and health care." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany mulls possible aid suspension to Palestinians after Hamas attack

<p>Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">Yom Kippur war 50 years ago</a> when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967.</p>

<p>As of Sunday (Oct 8) evening, the death toll in Israel has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">surpassed 600</a>, with more than 2,000 people injured, according to the Israeli health ministry. This comes a day after Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets fired at Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here’s how the brazen attack on Israel unfolded:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>6:35 am (local time): </strong>Sirens were sounded across Israel and heard as far as Tel Aviv and Beersheba after Hamas said that they fired over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel. However, the Israeli military said that 2,500 rockets were fired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We announce the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we announce that the first strike, which targeted enemy positions, airports, and military fortifications…” said Mohammed Deif, the supreme military commander of Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>7:40 am:</strong> The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirms that Hamas has entered southern Israel from Gaza. Israeli officials ask residents from multiple southern Israeli towns including Sderot, to stay safe in their homes.</p>

<p>A motorboat carrying fighters was seen heading to Zikim, an Israeli coastal town which also houses a military base, according to Al Jazeera. Hamas also released the image of a bulldozer tearing down a section of fence separating Israel and Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>8:15 am:</strong> First sirens go off in Jerusalem, the disputed city which rarely gets hit because of Israel’s Iron Dome defence system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>8:23 am:</strong> Hamas claims to have taken hostages in southern Israel and fired another wave of rockets while Israel declares a state of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>9:45 am:</strong> Blasts heard in Gaza and around 15 minutes later Israel’s military spokesperson said the air force was carrying out attacks in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>10:00 am:</strong> Israeli military confirms that Hamas fighters penetrated at least three military installations – border crossing Erez (as called by Israel), the Zikim base, and the Gaza division headquarters at Reim.</p>

<p><strong>10:46 am:</strong> Israeli fighters begin strikes against targets in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>11:35 am:</strong> Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-at-war-and-we-will-win-it-says-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-as-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643737">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> releases the first statement after the attack and tells the citizens that the country is “at war” and calls for unity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel calls up reservists for retaliatory attacks and dubbed the operation “Swords of Iron”.</p>

<p><strong>1:46 pm:</strong> The Israeli military said that it has struck 21 buildings that house Hamas military operations.</p>

<h2><strong>What else?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the course of the day, the death toll in both Israel and Gaza kept rising. The Israeli foreign ministry also accused Hamas fighters of going house-to-house and killing civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also reported that many residents opened their doors thinking it was military personnel only to be met with Hamas fighters who either shot them or took them hostage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most western countries India and Ukraine condemned Hamas’ attack and expressed solidarity with Israel while “celebrations” and rallies were seen across countries like Iran, and others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations Security Council has announced an urgent session scheduled for Sunday (Oct 8) in response to the recent violence in the Middle East.</p>

<p><strong>Saturday evening:</strong> Israeli air attacks continued late Saturday night. The military reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>10:16 pm:</strong> Netanyahu addresses the nation and calls today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.” He also vowed to use “all the power” of the IDF to destroy Hamas’ capabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overnight: Sirens kept sounding across Israel while Hamas kept launching rockets and Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967.

Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967. As of Sunday (Oct 8) evening, the death toll in Israel has surpassed 600, with more than 2,000 people injured, according to the Israeli health ministry. This comes a day after Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets fired at Israel. Here’s how the brazen attack on Israel unfolded: 6:35 am (local time): Sirens were sounded across Israel and heard as far as Tel Aviv and Beersheba after Hamas said that they fired over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel. However, the Israeli military said that 2,500 rockets were fired. “We announce the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we announce that the first strike, which targeted enemy positions, airports, and military fortifications…” said Mohammed Deif, the supreme military commander of Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas. 7:40 am: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirms that Hamas has entered southern Israel from Gaza. Israeli officials ask residents from multiple southern Israeli towns including Sderot, to stay safe in their homes. A motorboat carrying fighters was seen heading to Zikim, an Israeli coastal town which also houses a military base, according to Al Jazeera. Hamas also released the image of a bulldozer tearing down a section of fence separating Israel and Gaza. 8:15 am: First sirens go off in Jerusalem, the disputed city which rarely gets hit because of Israel’s Iron Dome defence system. 8:23 am: Hamas claims to have taken hostages in southern Israel and fired another wave of rockets while Israel declares a state of war. 9:45 am: Blasts heard in Gaza and around 15 minutes later Israel’s military spokesperson said the air force was carrying out attacks in Gaza. 10:00 am: Israeli military confirms that Hamas fighters penetrated at least three military installations – border crossing Erez (as called by Israel), the Zikim base, and the Gaza division headquarters at Reim. 10:46 am: Israeli fighters begin strikes against targets in Gaza. 11:35 am: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu releases the first statement after the attack and tells the citizens that the country is “at war” and calls for unity. Israel calls up reservists for retaliatory attacks and dubbed the operation “Swords of Iron”. 1:46 pm: The Israeli military said that it has struck 21 buildings that house Hamas military operations. What else? Over the course of the day, the death toll in both Israel and Gaza kept rising. The Israeli foreign ministry also accused Hamas fighters of going house-to-house and killing civilians. It was also reported that many residents opened their doors thinking it was military personnel only to be met with Hamas fighters who either shot them or took them hostage. Most western countries India and Ukraine condemned Hamas’ attack and expressed solidarity with Israel while “celebrations” and rallies were seen across countries like Iran, and others. The United Nations Security Council has announced an urgent session scheduled for Sunday (Oct 8) in response to the recent violence in the Middle East. Saturday evening: Israeli air attacks continued late Saturday night. The military reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants. 10:16 pm: Netanyahu addresses the nation and calls today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.” He also vowed to use “all the power” of the IDF to destroy Hamas’ capabilities. Overnight: Sirens kept sounding across Israel while Hamas kept launching rockets and Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel vs Hamas: How the violence unfolded after Palestinian militant group attacked Israel. A timeline

<p>London police said Sunday that they had boosted patrols across parts of the city following the attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.</p>

<p>"We are aware of a number of incidents... in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza," the Metropolitan Police said on social media.</p>

<p>"The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities," it said.</p>

<p>Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman said there should be "zero tolerance for anti-Semitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain".</p>

<p>"I expect the police to use the full force of the law against displays of support for Hamas, other proscribed terrorist groups or attempts to intimidate British Jews," Braverman wrote on X, formerly Twitter.</p>

<p>There was visible security around one synagogue in northwest London, an AFP journalist saw.</p>

<p>The flare-up of violence began with a massive rocket barrage and ground, air and sea offensive on Saturday that Israel's army said had killed more than 600 Israelis and wounded over 2,000, with soldiers and civilians taken hostage.</p>

<p>Police in Germany and France also said they had reinforced security around synagogues and Jewish schools and monuments, with some supporters of the Palestinians taking to the streets of Berlin to celebrate the attack.</p>

<p>"We are aware that the ongoing conflict may lead to protests over the coming days. We will ensure that an appropriate policing plan is in place," the Met said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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London police said Sunday that they had boosted patrols across parts of the city following the attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. "We are aware of a number of incidents.

London police said Sunday that they had boosted patrols across parts of the city following the attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. "We are aware of a number of incidents... in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza," the Metropolitan Police said on social media. "The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities," it said. Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman said there should be "zero tolerance for anti-Semitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain". "I expect the police to use the full force of the law against displays of support for Hamas, other proscribed terrorist groups or attempts to intimidate British Jews," Braverman wrote on X, formerly Twitter. There was visible security around one synagogue in northwest London, an AFP journalist saw. The flare-up of violence began with a massive rocket barrage and ground, air and sea offensive on Saturday that Israel's army said had killed more than 600 Israelis and wounded over 2,000, with soldiers and civilians taken hostage. Police in Germany and France also said they had reinforced security around synagogues and Jewish schools and monuments, with some supporters of the Palestinians taking to the streets of Berlin to celebrate the attack. "We are aware that the ongoing conflict may lead to protests over the coming days. We will ensure that an appropriate policing plan is in place," the Met said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

London Police step up patrols to check show of support for Hamas, bid to intimidate Jews

<p>Indian students stuck in Israel amid the ongoing attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched on Saturday (Oct 7) told WION that the situation in northern Israel was relatively peaceful. In light of the violence unfolding in Israel, the Indian embassies in Israel issued advisories for all its citizens to “remain vigilant”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in northern Israel&nbsp;‘relatively peaceful’</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to WION on Saturday, Vaasu Sharma, a PhD student at the University of Haifa, said, “The situation here in the north is comparatively peaceful. However, the situation in southern Israel continues to be grave…and of concern especially for international students.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We here at the University of Haifa have been advised that we should refrain from going to Tel Aviv and other certain cities in Israel. The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has also issued helpline numbers that we should contact in case of any emergency,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">&nbsp;Hamas vs Israel war LIVE: Israeli death toll crosses 400, another 2,048 injured</a></strong></p>

<p>He also said that they began receiving updates about the Hamas attack around 7:00 am (local time) and have been tracking them since as well as staying cautious and helping each other out.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Very nervous and scared’</strong></h2>

<p>Indian student, Goku Manavala in Israel told news agency ANI, “I am very nervous and scared...Thankfully we have shelter &amp; Israeli police forces nearby. So far we are safe...We are in touch with Indian Embassy people, we have a good Indian community around and we are connected.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another student Vimal Krishnasamy Manivannan Chitra said the attack was “very tense and scary”. He added, “Indian embassy is in touch with us in the group. They are keeping a check on us.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, an Indian student in Israel, Aditya Karunanithi Nivedita also told the news agency how the attack was “all very sudden we did not expect it” because of the ongoing religious holidays in Israel.</p>

<p>“We got the sirens early in the morning at around 5:30 am (local time). We were in bunkers for around 7-8 hours the sirens went off...We are asked to stay inside our homes...We are in contact with the Indian Embassy &amp; they will update us for the future things…” Nivedita told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-israel-issues-advisory-for-citizens-after-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643750">Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas launches surprise attack</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Indians in Israel</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation.</p>

<p>There are about 18,000 Indian citizens in Israel, primarily caregivers employed by Israeli elders, diamond traders, IT professionals and students, as per the details mentioned on the website of the Indian Embassy.</p>

<p>“Today was a very difficult day, we have never seen a situation (like this). Within 20 minutes, 5,000 rockets were fired, and they (Hamas militants) killed 22 people while 500 were injured. This is a very difficult situation for the country,” an Indian national working in Israel for the past 18 years, Soma Ravi, told PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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Indian students stuck in Israel amid the ongoing attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched on Saturday (Oct 7) told WION that the situation in northern Israel was relatively peaceful.

Indian students stuck in Israel amid the ongoing attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched on Saturday (Oct 7) told WION that the situation in northern Israel was relatively peaceful. In light of the violence unfolding in Israel, the Indian embassies in Israel issued advisories for all its citizens to “remain vigilant”. Situation in northern Israel ‘relatively peaceful’ Speaking to WION on Saturday, Vaasu Sharma, a PhD student at the University of Haifa, said, “The situation here in the north is comparatively peaceful. However, the situation in southern Israel continues to be grave…and of concern especially for international students.” “We here at the University of Haifa have been advised that we should refrain from going to Tel Aviv and other certain cities in Israel. The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has also issued helpline numbers that we should contact in case of any emergency,” he added. ALSO READ | Hamas vs Israel war LIVE: Israeli death toll crosses 400, another 2,048 injured He also said that they began receiving updates about the Hamas attack around 7:00 am (local time) and have been tracking them since as well as staying cautious and helping each other out. ‘Very nervous and scared’ Indian student, Goku Manavala in Israel told news agency ANI, “I am very nervous and scared...Thankfully we have shelter & Israeli police forces nearby. So far we are safe...We are in touch with Indian Embassy people, we have a good Indian community around and we are connected.” Another student Vimal Krishnasamy Manivannan Chitra said the attack was “very tense and scary”. He added, “Indian embassy is in touch with us in the group. They are keeping a check on us.” Meanwhile, an Indian student in Israel, Aditya Karunanithi Nivedita also told the news agency how the attack was “all very sudden we did not expect it” because of the ongoing religious holidays in Israel. “We got the sirens early in the morning at around 5:30 am (local time). We were in bunkers for around 7-8 hours the sirens went off...We are asked to stay inside our homes...We are in contact with the Indian Embassy & they will update us for the future things…” Nivedita told ANI. ALSO READ | Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas launches surprise attack Indians in Israel The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation. There are about 18,000 Indian citizens in Israel, primarily caregivers employed by Israeli elders, diamond traders, IT professionals and students, as per the details mentioned on the website of the Indian Embassy. “Today was a very difficult day, we have never seen a situation (like this). Within 20 minutes, 5,000 rockets were fired, and they (Hamas militants) killed 22 people while 500 were injured. This is a very difficult situation for the country,” an Indian national working in Israel for the past 18 years, Soma Ravi, told PTI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, in touch with officials amid Hamas attack

<p>At least two Israeli tourists and one Egyptian were killed after an Egyptian policeman opened fire on Israeli tourists in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, on Sunday (Oct 8), said Egypt’s interior ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Israel is in the midst of facing a surprise attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is in a state of war which has since prompted Western countries to ramp up security for its Jewish residents amid rise in tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in Egypt?</strong></h2>

<p>The policeman fired “at random” using “his personal weapon” at an Israeli tour group visiting Pompey’s Pillar site in Alexandria, the state-affiliated private television Extra News said, quoting a security source, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suspected assailant who had also injured one other person has since reportedly been detained. The security forces quickly cordoned off the site of the attack, as per local media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">Israel-Palestine war LIVE: PM Netanyahu in huddle with military chiefs to assess situation</a></strong></p>

<p>Images and videos of the incident on social media showed two figures lying motionless on the ground while a woman was heard screaming for the ambulance. Another person was seen being helped by a group of men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel’s Zaka rescue service confirmed that two people have been killed in Alexandria, as per the Associated Press.</p>

<p>The Israeli foreign ministry also&nbsp;confirmed two Israelis and an Egyptian tour guide were killed by a local and said it is looking into the reports about the incident. "In addition, there is a wounded Israeli in moderate condition," it added, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two Egyptian security sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the suspected gunman was a police officer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel ‘at war’</strong></h2>

<p>Sunday’s attack came as Israel in the midst of battling the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Saturday morning. This brazen attack has sent ripples of concern throughout the region and the world.</p>

<p>Notably, while Egypt made peace with Israel decades ago, anti-Israeli sentiment runs high in the country, especially during bouts of violence in the region. Egypt has also long served as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">&nbsp;Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel</a></strong></p>

<p>After the attack on Israel, Egypt warned of “grave consequences” and called for “both the Palestinian and Israeli sides to exercise the highest degrees of restraint”. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Saturday warned about a “vicious cycle” of violence in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sisi received a call from his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, Egypt’s presidency said, and the two discussed “coordinating efforts to stop the escalation in the Gaza Strip between the Palestinian and Israeli sides”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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At least two Israeli tourists and one Egyptian were killed after an Egyptian policeman opened fire on Israeli tourists in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, on Sunday (Oct 8), said Egypt’s interior ministry.

At least two Israeli tourists and one Egyptian were killed after an Egyptian policeman opened fire on Israeli tourists in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, on Sunday (Oct 8), said Egypt’s interior ministry. This comes as Israel is in the midst of facing a surprise attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is in a state of war which has since prompted Western countries to ramp up security for its Jewish residents amid rise in tensions. What happened in Egypt? The policeman fired “at random” using “his personal weapon” at an Israeli tour group visiting Pompey’s Pillar site in Alexandria, the state-affiliated private television Extra News said, quoting a security source, as per AFP. The suspected assailant who had also injured one other person has since reportedly been detained. The security forces quickly cordoned off the site of the attack, as per local media reports. ALSO READ | Israel-Palestine war LIVE: PM Netanyahu in huddle with military chiefs to assess situation Images and videos of the incident on social media showed two figures lying motionless on the ground while a woman was heard screaming for the ambulance. Another person was seen being helped by a group of men. Meanwhile, Israel’s Zaka rescue service confirmed that two people have been killed in Alexandria, as per the Associated Press. The Israeli foreign ministry also confirmed two Israelis and an Egyptian tour guide were killed by a local and said it is looking into the reports about the incident. "In addition, there is a wounded Israeli in moderate condition," it added, in a statement. Two Egyptian security sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the suspected gunman was a police officer. Israel ‘at war’ Sunday’s attack came as Israel in the midst of battling the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Saturday morning. This brazen attack has sent ripples of concern throughout the region and the world. Notably, while Egypt made peace with Israel decades ago, anti-Israeli sentiment runs high in the country, especially during bouts of violence in the region. Egypt has also long served as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. ALSO READ | Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel After the attack on Israel, Egypt warned of “grave consequences” and called for “both the Palestinian and Israeli sides to exercise the highest degrees of restraint”. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Saturday warned about a “vicious cycle” of violence in the region. Sisi received a call from his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, Egypt’s presidency said, and the two discussed “coordinating efforts to stop the escalation in the Gaza Strip between the Palestinian and Israeli sides”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Policeman in Egypt kills two Israeli tourists, one Egyptian in Alexandria: Reports

<p>More than 400 people have been killed while thousands of others have been injured, in Gaza and Israel after Palestinian Islamist group <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/hamas-the-undeniable-face-of-terrorism-in-israel-643798">Hamas</a> took Israel by surprise on Saturday (Oct 7) marking the&nbsp;deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the country was “at war” and swore fierce counterattack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack has also drawn some mixed reactions from across the world, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">most Western countries</a>, Ukraine and India have condemned the attacks on Israel and expressed solidarity with the Israelis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, countries like Iran have celebrated it as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/proud-operation-iranian-officials-show-support-for-deadly-attack-by-hamas-on-israel-643819">“proud operation”</a> and Qatar said that they “held Israel solely responsible” for the escalation in violence.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Operation Al-Aqsa Flood’</strong></h2>

<p>The Palestinian militant group launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-launches-barrage-of-rockets-at-israel-terrorists-infiltrate-border-towns-643577">“Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.”&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The Israeli media has reported that as many as 150 rockets fired into central Israel including the country’s major city of Tel Aviv, as of Saturday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said the assault that had begun in Gaza would spread to the West Bank and Jerusalem. “This was the morning of defeat and humiliation upon our enemy, its soldiers and its settlers,” said the militant group leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “What happened reveals the greatness of our preparation. What happened today reveals the weakness of the enemy.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli forces said that they are fighting Gaza militants who entered Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets was fired at Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was a combined ground raid which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground,” said army spokesman Richard Hecht.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has also reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants, adding that the Hamas attack included a “robust ground invasion”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 3,000 rockets had been fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel, said the army spokesman. “There will be a severe response to this inhumane attack, it’s unprecedented,” said Hecht.</p>

<p>AFP journalists witnessed attackers gather around a burning Israeli tank, and others driving a seized Israeli military Humvee back into Gaza, where they were met by cheering crowds. Hamas chief said that the group was on the “verge of a great victory and a clear conquest on the Gaza front”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘We are at war’</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu, in his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-at-war-and-we-will-win-it-says-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-as-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643737">first remarks</a> after the attack, said, “Citizens of Israel, we are at war...”&nbsp;He also went on to outline a plan and called on the citizens to unite&nbsp;and achieve victory in the war. Israel has since called up reservists for an ongoing operation called “Swords of Iron”.</p>

<p>Netanyahu, addressing&nbsp;the nation in the evening called&nbsp;today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.”</p>

<p>He also vowed to&nbsp;use “all the power” of the&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to&nbsp;destroy Hamas’&nbsp;capabilities. Addressing the&nbsp;“residents of Gaza”&nbsp;Netanyahu said, “get out now because we will operate everywhere with full force.”</p>

<p>This “black day” will be “avenged,” said the Israeli PM</p>

<p>Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a statement said that the people of his country have full right to defend themselves against the “terror of settlers and occupation troops,” as per official news agency WAFA.</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll in Israel and Gaza crosses 400</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli media report citing the country’s health ministry and emergency services said that at least 200 people have been killed as of 9:30 pm (local time), and over 1,425 others have been injured and taken to hospitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In southern Israel, near Gaza, Reuters reported that bodies of Israeli civilians lay strewn across a highway in Sderot. “I saw many bodies, of terrorists and civilians,” one man who gave his name as Shlomi told AFP in southern Israel.</p>

<p>An Israeli woman identified as Dorin told Israel N12 News that the militants had infiltrated her house. “They just came in again, please send help!” an Israeli woman who was sheltering with her two-year-old child in a bomb shelter pleaded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Gaza, images show orange flames and black smoke in the evening sky after Israel launched its retaliatory strike, while on the ground, crowds of mourners were seen carrying bodies of militants killed through the streets, wrapped in green Hamas flags.</p>

<p>At least 232 Palestinians were killed and over 1,600 were wounded in Gaza, said the Palestinian health ministry after Israel responded with air strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israelis held hostage</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri told Al Jazeera that they are holding a large number of Israeli captives, including senior officials and said that they had enough captives to make Israel free all Palestinians in its jails.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military has since confirmed Israelis were being held captive in Gaza and soldiers and officers had been killed. Hecht reported a “severe hostage situation in Beeri and also in Ofakim” two Israeli communities near the Gaza border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military said that the country could mobilise up to hundreds of thousands of reservists and was also prepared for war on its northern front against Lebanon’s Hezbollah group.</p>

<p>Hamas has long advocated for Israel’s destruction and fought four wars against Israel since 2007 after it seized control of Gaza in 2007.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack on Saturday came as a surprise to Israel’s security forces making it one of the worst intelligence failures in the country’s history.&nbsp;Israel’s ambassador to France Raphael Morav in an interview said that the country was not “sufficiently prepared” for the attack. “Following this surprise, we were not sufficiently prepared for it, we could even say barely prepared.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack also follows a recent rise in tensions with the Israeli army conducting near-nightly raids in the West Bank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-killed-amid-settler-violence-in-west-bank-over-50-injured-after-clashes-with-israeli-military-643488">recent&nbsp;settler violence</a>&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;deadly Palestinian attacks on Israelis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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More than 400 people have been killed while thousands of others have been injured, in Gaza and Israel after Palestinian Islamist group Hamas took Israel by surprise on Saturday (Oct 7) marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago.

More than 400 people have been killed while thousands of others have been injured, in Gaza and Israel after Palestinian Islamist group Hamas took Israel by surprise on Saturday (Oct 7) marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the country was “at war” and swore fierce counterattack. The attack has also drawn some mixed reactions from across the world, where most Western countries, Ukraine and India have condemned the attacks on Israel and expressed solidarity with the Israelis. On the other hand, countries like Iran have celebrated it as a “proud operation” and Qatar said that they “held Israel solely responsible” for the escalation in violence. ‘Operation Al-Aqsa Flood’ The Palestinian militant group launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.” The Israeli media has reported that as many as 150 rockets fired into central Israel including the country’s major city of Tel Aviv, as of Saturday evening. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said the assault that had begun in Gaza would spread to the West Bank and Jerusalem. “This was the morning of defeat and humiliation upon our enemy, its soldiers and its settlers,” said the militant group leader. He added, “What happened reveals the greatness of our preparation. What happened today reveals the weakness of the enemy.” Israeli forces said that they are fighting Gaza militants who entered Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets was fired at Israel. “It was a combined ground raid which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground,” said army spokesman Richard Hecht. Israel has also reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants, adding that the Hamas attack included a “robust ground invasion”. More than 3,000 rockets had been fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel, said the army spokesman. “There will be a severe response to this inhumane attack, it’s unprecedented,” said Hecht. AFP journalists witnessed attackers gather around a burning Israeli tank, and others driving a seized Israeli military Humvee back into Gaza, where they were met by cheering crowds. Hamas chief said that the group was on the “verge of a great victory and a clear conquest on the Gaza front”. ‘We are at war’ Netanyahu, in his first remarks after the attack, said, “Citizens of Israel, we are at war...” He also went on to outline a plan and called on the citizens to unite and achieve victory in the war. Israel has since called up reservists for an ongoing operation called “Swords of Iron”. Netanyahu, addressing the nation in the evening called today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.” He also vowed to use “all the power” of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to destroy Hamas’ capabilities. Addressing the “residents of Gaza” Netanyahu said, “get out now because we will operate everywhere with full force.” This “black day” will be “avenged,” said the Israeli PM Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a statement said that the people of his country have full right to defend themselves against the “terror of settlers and occupation troops,” as per official news agency WAFA. Death toll in Israel and Gaza crosses 400 Israeli media report citing the country’s health ministry and emergency services said that at least 200 people have been killed as of 9:30 pm (local time), and over 1,425 others have been injured and taken to hospitals. In southern Israel, near Gaza, Reuters reported that bodies of Israeli civilians lay strewn across a highway in Sderot. “I saw many bodies, of terrorists and civilians,” one man who gave his name as Shlomi told AFP in southern Israel. An Israeli woman identified as Dorin told Israel N12 News that the militants had infiltrated her house. “They just came in again, please send help!” an Israeli woman who was sheltering with her two-year-old child in a bomb shelter pleaded. In Gaza, images show orange flames and black smoke in the evening sky after Israel launched its retaliatory strike, while on the ground, crowds of mourners were seen carrying bodies of militants killed through the streets, wrapped in green Hamas flags. At least 232 Palestinians were killed and over 1,600 were wounded in Gaza, said the Palestinian health ministry after Israel responded with air strikes. Israelis held hostage Hamas deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri told Al Jazeera that they are holding a large number of Israeli captives, including senior officials and said that they had enough captives to make Israel free all Palestinians in its jails. The Israeli military has since confirmed Israelis were being held captive in Gaza and soldiers and officers had been killed. Hecht reported a “severe hostage situation in Beeri and also in Ofakim” two Israeli communities near the Gaza border. The military said that the country could mobilise up to hundreds of thousands of reservists and was also prepared for war on its northern front against Lebanon’s Hezbollah group. Hamas has long advocated for Israel’s destruction and fought four wars against Israel since 2007 after it seized control of Gaza in 2007. The attack on Saturday came as a surprise to Israel’s security forces making it one of the worst intelligence failures in the country’s history. Israel’s ambassador to France Raphael Morav in an interview said that the country was not “sufficiently prepared” for the attack. “Following this surprise, we were not sufficiently prepared for it, we could even say barely prepared.” The attack also follows a recent rise in tensions with the Israeli army conducting near-nightly raids in the West Bank, recent settler violence as well as deadly Palestinian attacks on Israelis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hundreds killed after Hamas launches biggest attack in decades on Israel

In pics | Israel witnesses deadliest day of violence in 50 years amid Hamas attack

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 7), voiced "rock solid and unwavering" support for Israel condemning the attacks launched by Hamas terrorists. He also pledged to ensure the citizens have all the means that they require to defend themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US President, describing the assault as "a terrible tragedy on a human level", said that he spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and offered him "all appropriate means of support".</p>

<p>"I told him the United States stands with the people of Israel in the face of these terrorist assaults," Biden said in a televised address from the White House.</p>

<p>"In my administration, support for Israel's security is rock solid and unwavering."</p>

<p>"We'll make sure that they have the help their citizens need and they can continue to defend themselves."</p>

<p>"Israel has a right to defend itself and its people - full stop. Let me say this as clearly as I can; this is not a moment for any party hostile to Israel to exploit these attacks, to seek advantage. The world is watching," he warned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">Hundreds killed after Hamas launches biggest attack in decades in Israel</a></p>

<p>He directed his national security team to stay in touch about the situation with countries throughout the region including Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and European allies.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump condemns Biden for funding attacks</strong></h2>

<p>Former US President Donald Trump took a dig at Biden accusing him of funding the attacks indirectly.</p>

<p>"These Hamas attacks are a disgrace and Israel has every right to defend itself with overwhelming force," Trump said in a statement.</p>

<p>"Sadly, American taxpayer dollars helped fund these attacks, which many reports are saying came from the Biden Administration."</p>

<p>The allegations made by Trump echoed the accusations made by Republicans that claimed the money which was given to Iran as a part of a prisoner exchange deal last month, was used to fund the Hamas attack.</p>

<p>"Iran has helped fund this war against Israel, and Joe Biden's policies that have gone easy on Iran has helped to fill their coffers. Israel is now paying the price for those policies," said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican running for his party's presidential nomination.</p>

<p>However, a Biden administration official asserted that not a single cent out of the $6 billion has been spent yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I can't comment on 2024 because of the Hatch Act. But I can clarify the facts: Not a single cent from these funds has been spent, and when it is spent, it can only be spent on things like food and medicine for the Iranian people," said White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 7), voiced "rock solid and unwavering" support for Israel condemning the attacks launched by Hamas terrorists.

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 7), voiced "rock solid and unwavering" support for Israel condemning the attacks launched by Hamas terrorists. He also pledged to ensure the citizens have all the means that they require to defend themselves. The US President, describing the assault as "a terrible tragedy on a human level", said that he spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and offered him "all appropriate means of support". "I told him the United States stands with the people of Israel in the face of these terrorist assaults," Biden said in a televised address from the White House. "In my administration, support for Israel's security is rock solid and unwavering." "We'll make sure that they have the help their citizens need and they can continue to defend themselves." "Israel has a right to defend itself and its people - full stop. Let me say this as clearly as I can; this is not a moment for any party hostile to Israel to exploit these attacks, to seek advantage. The world is watching," he warned. Also read: Hundreds killed after Hamas launches biggest attack in decades in Israel He directed his national security team to stay in touch about the situation with countries throughout the region including Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and European allies. Trump condemns Biden for funding attacks Former US President Donald Trump took a dig at Biden accusing him of funding the attacks indirectly. "These Hamas attacks are a disgrace and Israel has every right to defend itself with overwhelming force," Trump said in a statement. "Sadly, American taxpayer dollars helped fund these attacks, which many reports are saying came from the Biden Administration." The allegations made by Trump echoed the accusations made by Republicans that claimed the money which was given to Iran as a part of a prisoner exchange deal last month, was used to fund the Hamas attack. "Iran has helped fund this war against Israel, and Joe Biden's policies that have gone easy on Iran has helped to fill their coffers. Israel is now paying the price for those policies," said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican running for his party's presidential nomination. However, a Biden administration official asserted that not a single cent out of the $6 billion has been spent yet. "I can't comment on 2024 because of the Hatch Act. But I can clarify the facts: Not a single cent from these funds has been spent, and when it is spent, it can only be spent on things like food and medicine for the Iranian people," said White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden offers support to Netanyahu, says ‘US will always have Israel’s back’

<p>Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).</p>

<p>This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">“Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.”</a><br />
<br />
Countries like the United States and Italy have also ramped up security to protect the&nbsp;Jewish community in the country.</p>

<h2><strong>India</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said, "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>United States</strong></h2>

<p>The United States "unequivocally condemns" the "unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians," said&nbsp;White House National Security Council Spokesperson&nbsp;Adrienne Watson, on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, "We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"Over the coming days the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism," US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>European Union</strong></h2>

<p>The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said that the 27-nation bloc “unequivocally” condemns “terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel” and called for an immediate stop to the violence, adding that “terrorism in its most contemptible form”. She added, “Israel has the right to defend itself against such odious attack.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, said “This horrific violence must stop immediately. Terrorism and violence solve nothing. The EU expresses its solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.”</p>

<p>European Council president Charles Michel also condemned the “indiscriminate attacks launched against Israel and its people…” He added, “My thoughts are with all the victims. EU stands in solidarity with Israeli people in this horrific moment.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>United Kingdom&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Britain “unequivocally condemns” the surprise attack by Hamas, said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, adding, “The UK will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X and said he was “shocked” by the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice,” Sunak added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>France</strong></h2>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said that he “strongly condemn” the “terrorist attacks against Israel”. He added, “I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Germany</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Berlin “firmly condemns the terrorist attacks from Gaza against Israel”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas “contributes to the intensification of violence,” adding that “violence and rockets aimed at innocent people must stop immediately,” the German FM added, on social media. &nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that Israel “has our full solidarity” and the “right, guaranteed by international law, to defend itself against terrorism.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Terrifying news reaches us today from Israel.&nbsp;We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence. Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel," said German Chancellor Olaf&nbsp;Scholz.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Italy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Italian government backs “Israel’s right to defend itself” against the “brutal attack” underway and “condemns in the strongest terms the terror and the violence underway against innocent civilians.”</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office later released a statement which said that she&nbsp;chaired on the "dramatic situation unfolding in Israel which has been&nbsp;the target of a military and terrorist attack," adding that they are following the situation and "particular concern"&nbsp;is being paid to the security of the Jewish community in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>“Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We express our support for Israel in its right to defend itself and its people,” said the Ukrainian foreign ministry on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Horrible news from Israel. My condolences go out to everyone who lost relatives or close ones in the terrorist attack. We have faith that order will be restored and terrorists will be defeated."</p>

<p>"Israel's right to self-defense is unquestionable."&nbsp;He also urged all Ukrainian citizens who remain in the risk zone to "obey all orders issued by local security services and remain vigilant."<br />
<br />
The Ukrainian foreign ministry&nbsp;and&nbsp;embassy in Israel "are ready to assist in any situation," said Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Canada</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>"Canada strongly condemns the current terrorist attacks against Israel. These acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this. Civilian life must be protected," said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia</strong></h2>

<p>"Australia stands with our friend in this time. We condemn this indiscriminate and abhorrent attacks by Hamas on Israel, its cities and civilians. We recognise Israel's right to defend itself."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Czech Republic</strong></h2>

<p>The Czech government condemned Hamas for launching “terrorist attacks” on Prague’s traditional ally Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“My thoughts are with the innocent victims of the violence and I wish our friends in Israel the swiftest possible handling of the situation and the fulfilment of their ambitions to live in peace and security,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Czech Republic has always stood and will stand fully with Israel,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Poland</strong></h2>

<p>"I'm shocked by today's brutal attacks on Israel by Hamas. Rockets attacks and detention of civilians as hostages arouse our deepest opposition. Poland strongly condemns all acts of violence," said Polish President Andrezj Duda.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia urged restraint from all sides, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Russian news agency Interfax. “We are now in contact with everyone. With the Israelis, Palestinians, Arabs…we always call for restraint.”</p>

<h2><strong>Turkey&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who strongly supports the Palestinian cause, urged Israel and Palestinians “to act reasonably” and avoid a further escalation. "We call for restraint from all parties," said&nbsp;Erdogan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).

Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.” Countries like the United States and Italy have also ramped up security to protect the Jewish community in the country. India The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said, "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families." He added, "We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour." United States The United States "unequivocally condemns" the "unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians," said White House National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson, on X. She added, "We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks." "Over the coming days the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism," US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. European Union The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said that the 27-nation bloc “unequivocally” condemns “terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel” and called for an immediate stop to the violence, adding that “terrorism in its most contemptible form”. She added, “Israel has the right to defend itself against such odious attack.” Similarly, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, said “This horrific violence must stop immediately. Terrorism and violence solve nothing. The EU expresses its solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.” European Council president Charles Michel also condemned the “indiscriminate attacks launched against Israel and its people…” He added, “My thoughts are with all the victims. EU stands in solidarity with Israeli people in this horrific moment.” United Kingdom Britain “unequivocally condemns” the surprise attack by Hamas, said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, adding, “The UK will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X and said he was “shocked” by the attacks. “Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice,” Sunak added. France French President Emmanuel Macron said that he “strongly condemn” the “terrorist attacks against Israel”. He added, “I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones.” Germany German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Berlin “firmly condemns the terrorist attacks from Gaza against Israel”. Palestinian militant group Hamas “contributes to the intensification of violence,” adding that “violence and rockets aimed at innocent people must stop immediately,” the German FM added, on social media. She also said that Israel “has our full solidarity” and the “right, guaranteed by international law, to defend itself against terrorism.” "Terrifying news reaches us today from Israel. We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence. Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel," said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Italy The Italian government backs “Israel’s right to defend itself” against the “brutal attack” underway and “condemns in the strongest terms the terror and the violence underway against innocent civilians.” The Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office later released a statement which said that she chaired on the "dramatic situation unfolding in Israel which has been the target of a military and terrorist attack," adding that they are following the situation and "particular concern" is being paid to the security of the Jewish community in the country. Ukraine “Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We express our support for Israel in its right to defend itself and its people,” said the Ukrainian foreign ministry on social media. In a statement on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Horrible news from Israel. My condolences go out to everyone who lost relatives or close ones in the terrorist attack. We have faith that order will be restored and terrorists will be defeated." "Israel's right to self-defense is unquestionable." He also urged all Ukrainian citizens who remain in the risk zone to "obey all orders issued by local security services and remain vigilant." The Ukrainian foreign ministry and embassy in Israel "are ready to assist in any situation," said Zelensky. Canada "Canada strongly condemns the current terrorist attacks against Israel. These acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this. Civilian life must be protected," said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Australia "Australia stands with our friend in this time. We condemn this indiscriminate and abhorrent attacks by Hamas on Israel, its cities and civilians. We recognise Israel's right to defend itself." Czech Republic The Czech government condemned Hamas for launching “terrorist attacks” on Prague’s traditional ally Israel. “My thoughts are with the innocent victims of the violence and I wish our friends in Israel the swiftest possible handling of the situation and the fulfilment of their ambitions to live in peace and security,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala. “The Czech Republic has always stood and will stand fully with Israel,” he added. Poland "I'm shocked by today's brutal attacks on Israel by Hamas. Rockets attacks and detention of civilians as hostages arouse our deepest opposition. Poland strongly condemns all acts of violence," said Polish President Andrezj Duda. Russia Russia urged restraint from all sides, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Russian news agency Interfax. “We are now in contact with everyone. With the Israelis, Palestinians, Arabs…we always call for restraint.” Turkey Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who strongly supports the Palestinian cause, urged Israel and Palestinians “to act reasonably” and avoid a further escalation. "We call for restraint from all parties," said Erdogan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel

<p>Bollywood actress Nushrratt Bharuccha is stranded in Israel amidst the tense situation after the terrorist attack by Palestinian group Hamas&nbsp;on the country.&nbsp;Bharuccha travelled to Israel to participate in the Haifa International Film Festival, which ran from September 28 to October 7. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">Israel-Palestine crisis:</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">Check all the major updates here.&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>As per the recent updates, Nushrratt has reached the Airport area and soon she will be boarding a flight out of Israel.</p>

<p>Expressing their concern for Nushrratt, a member of her team told India Today that the last time they contacted her, she was in the bunker, and they are trying to get the actress back to India safely.</p>

<p>In a statement, a member of her team said: "Nushrratt has been unfortunately stranded in Israel. She had flown there to attend the Haifa International Film Festival."</p>

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<p>"The last time that I managed to get in touch with her was around 12.30 pm earlier today, when she was safe in a basement. For safety measures, further details cannot be disclosed. However, since then, we were not able to connect. We are trying to get Nushrratt back safely to India and hope she returns back in the best of health and unharmed," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nushrratt attended the film festival with her<em> Akeli </em>co-star Tsahi Halevi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx_Wed7sije/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ilana Segev-singer (@ilana_segev_singer)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Hamas terrorist attack on Israel</strong></p>

<p>On Saturday (Oct 7), the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel. More than 400 people have been killed while thousands of others have been injured. As per the reports, Hamas' armed wing had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel.</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country was at war&nbsp;and swore fierce counterattack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Citizens of Israel, we are at war, not in an operation or in (fighting) rounds, but at war. This morning, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the State of Israel and its citizens. We have been in this since the early morning hours. I convened the heads of the security establishment and ordered – first of all – to clear out the communities that have been infiltrated by terrorists," Netanyahu said.</p>

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Bollywood actress Nushrratt Bharuccha is stranded in Israel amidst the tense situation after the terrorist attack by Palestinian group Hamas on the country. Bharuccha travelled to Israel to participate in the Haifa International Film Festival, which ran from September 28 to October 7.

Bollywood actress Nushrratt Bharuccha is stranded in Israel amidst the tense situation after the terrorist attack by Palestinian group Hamas on the country. Bharuccha travelled to Israel to participate in the Haifa International Film Festival, which ran from September 28 to October 7. Israel-Palestine crisis: Check all the major updates here. As per the recent updates, Nushrratt has reached the Airport area and soon she will be boarding a flight out of Israel. Expressing their concern for Nushrratt, a member of her team told India Today that the last time they contacted her, she was in the bunker, and they are trying to get the actress back to India safely. In a statement, a member of her team said: "Nushrratt has been unfortunately stranded in Israel. She had flown there to attend the Haifa International Film Festival." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ilana Segev-singer (@ilana_segev_singer) × "The last time that I managed to get in touch with her was around 12.30 pm earlier today, when she was safe in a basement. For safety measures, further details cannot be disclosed. However, since then, we were not able to connect. We are trying to get Nushrratt back safely to India and hope she returns back in the best of health and unharmed," he added. Nushrratt attended the film festival with her Akeli co-star Tsahi Halevi. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ilana Segev-singer (@ilana_segev_singer) × Hamas terrorist attack on Israel On Saturday (Oct 7), the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel. More than 400 people have been killed while thousands of others have been injured. As per the reports, Hamas' armed wing had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country was at war and swore fierce counterattack. "Citizens of Israel, we are at war, not in an operation or in (fighting) rounds, but at war. This morning, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the State of Israel and its citizens. We have been in this since the early morning hours. I convened the heads of the security establishment and ordered – first of all – to clear out the communities that have been infiltrated by terrorists," Netanyahu said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Actor Nushrratt Bharuccha stranded in Israel amid ongoing conflict

<p>The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation.</p>

<p>“In view of the current situation in Israel, all Indian nationals in Israel are requested to remain vigilant and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities. Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement, and stay close to safety shelters,” the Embassy said in its advisory.</p>

<p>The advisory also provided relevant contact information and URLs for Israeli Home Front Command and Preparedness brochures in case of emergency.</p>

<p>There are about 18,000 Indian citizens in Israel, primarily caregivers employed by Israeli elders, diamond traders, IT professionals and students, as per the details mentioned on the website of the Indian Embassy.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📢*IMPORTANT ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN ISRAEL*<br />
<br />
For details visit-<br />
Israel Home Front Command website: <a href="https://t.co/Sk8uu2Mrd4">https://t.co/Sk8uu2Mrd4</a><br />
<br />
Preparedness brochure: <a href="https://t.co/18bDjO9gL5">https://t.co/18bDjO9gL5</a> <a href="https://t.co/LtAMGT9CwA">pic.twitter.com/LtAMGT9CwA</a></p>
— India in Israel (@indemtel) <a href="https://twitter.com/indemtel/status/1710569775145853162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>We stand in solidarity with Israel, says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing solidarity with Israel, said that India's thoughts and prayers were with the innocent victims and their families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-at-war-and-we-will-win-it-says-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-as-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643737">'We are at war and we will win it', says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as Hamas launches surprise attack</a></p>

<p>"Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour," PM Modi posted on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1710614655620534296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naor Gilon, Israel's Ambassador to India said that the "situation is not normal" but "Israel will prevail".</p>

<p>He also appreciated the support of the people of India, saying "We stand firm in the face of terrorism."</p>

<p>Hamas' armed wing reported that it had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood."</p>

<p>The group expressed its intent to halt what it referred to as Israel's unaccountable actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," said the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>It stated, "We declare Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, and within the initial 20-minute strike, we fired more than 5,000 rockets."</p>

<p>Israel's army said its forces were fighting Palestinian militants on the ground in several locations near the Strip. It dubbed its operation "Swords of Iron".</p>

<p>Army spokesman Richard Hecht said the militants conducted a combined raid "which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation.

The Indian Embassy on Saturday (Oct 7) issued an advisory asking all its nationals to “remain vigilant” and “observe safety protocols” after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel creating a war-like situation. “In view of the current situation in Israel, all Indian nationals in Israel are requested to remain vigilant and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities. Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement, and stay close to safety shelters,” the Embassy said in its advisory. The advisory also provided relevant contact information and URLs for Israeli Home Front Command and Preparedness brochures in case of emergency. There are about 18,000 Indian citizens in Israel, primarily caregivers employed by Israeli elders, diamond traders, IT professionals and students, as per the details mentioned on the website of the Indian Embassy. 📢*IMPORTANT ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN ISRAEL* For details visit- Israel Home Front Command website: https://t.co/Sk8uu2Mrd4 Preparedness brochure: https://t.co/18bDjO9gL5 pic.twitter.com/LtAMGT9CwA — India in Israel (@indemtel) October 7, 2023 × We stand in solidarity with Israel, says PM Modi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing solidarity with Israel, said that India's thoughts and prayers were with the innocent victims and their families. Also read: 'We are at war and we will win it', says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as Hamas launches surprise attack "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour," PM Modi posted on X. Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2023 × Naor Gilon, Israel's Ambassador to India said that the "situation is not normal" but "Israel will prevail". He also appreciated the support of the people of India, saying "We stand firm in the face of terrorism." Hamas' armed wing reported that it had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood." The group expressed its intent to halt what it referred to as Israel's unaccountable actions. "We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," said the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip. It stated, "We declare Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, and within the initial 20-minute strike, we fired more than 5,000 rockets." Israel's army said its forces were fighting Palestinian militants on the ground in several locations near the Strip. It dubbed its operation "Swords of Iron". Army spokesman Richard Hecht said the militants conducted a combined raid "which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas launches surprise attack

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (Oct 7), said the country was 'at war' and swore fierce counterattack after ordering an extensive mobilisation of the army reserve.</p>

<p>He further warned that the enemy will have to "pay a price the type of which it has never known" for their actions.</p>

<p>"Citizens of Israel, we are at war, not in an operation or in (fighting) rounds, but at war. This morning, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the State of Israel and its citizens. We have been in this since the early morning hours. I convened the heads of the security establishment and ordered – first of all – to clear out the communities that have been infiltrated by terrorists," Netanyahu said.</p>

<p>"This currently is being carried out. At the same time, I have ordered an extensive mobilisation of reserves and that we return fire of a magnitude that the enemy has not known. The enemy will pay an unprecedented price. In the meantime, I call on the citizens of Israel to strictly adhere to the directives of the army and Home Front Command. We are at war and we will win it," he added.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">אנחנו במלחמה. <a href="https://t.co/XNM3l7fEQH">pic.twitter.com/XNM3l7fEQH</a></p>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1710574677385445775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also called on Israelis to come together and achieve victory in the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">Western countries condemn Hamas' attack, express solidarity with Israel</a></p>

<p>His remarks came after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>Palestinians have the right to defend themselves against terror, says President Abbas</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas chaired an emergency meeting with top defence officials and released a statement saying that the people of his country have full right to defend themselves against the "terror of settlers and occupation troops", as per official news agency WAFA.</p>

<p>In the high-level meeting, Abbas directed officials "to provide protection for the Palestinian people and provide all that is necessary to bolster the resilience and steadfastness of the Palestinian people in facing the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation and settler gangs".</p>

<p>Hamas' armed wing reported that it had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood."</p>

<p>The group expressed its intent to halt what it referred to as Israel's unaccountable actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," said the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>It stated, "We declare Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, and within the initial 20-minute strike, we fired more than 5,000 rockets."</p>

<p>Israel's army said its forces were fighting Palestinian militants on the ground in several locations near the Strip. It dubbed its operation "Swords of Iron".</p>

<p>Army spokesman Richard Hecht said the militants conducted a combined raid "which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (Oct 7), said the country was 'at war' and swore fierce counterattack after ordering an extensive mobilisation of the army reserve.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (Oct 7), said the country was 'at war' and swore fierce counterattack after ordering an extensive mobilisation of the army reserve. He further warned that the enemy will have to "pay a price the type of which it has never known" for their actions. "Citizens of Israel, we are at war, not in an operation or in (fighting) rounds, but at war. This morning, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the State of Israel and its citizens. We have been in this since the early morning hours. I convened the heads of the security establishment and ordered – first of all – to clear out the communities that have been infiltrated by terrorists," Netanyahu said. "This currently is being carried out. At the same time, I have ordered an extensive mobilisation of reserves and that we return fire of a magnitude that the enemy has not known. The enemy will pay an unprecedented price. In the meantime, I call on the citizens of Israel to strictly adhere to the directives of the army and Home Front Command. We are at war and we will win it," he added. אנחנו במלחמה. pic.twitter.com/XNM3l7fEQH — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 7, 2023 × He also called on Israelis to come together and achieve victory in the war. Also read: Western countries condemn Hamas' attack, express solidarity with Israel His remarks came after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday. Palestinians have the right to defend themselves against terror, says President Abbas Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas chaired an emergency meeting with top defence officials and released a statement saying that the people of his country have full right to defend themselves against the "terror of settlers and occupation troops", as per official news agency WAFA. In the high-level meeting, Abbas directed officials "to provide protection for the Palestinian people and provide all that is necessary to bolster the resilience and steadfastness of the Palestinian people in facing the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation and settler gangs". Hamas' armed wing reported that it had launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood." The group expressed its intent to halt what it referred to as Israel's unaccountable actions. "We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," said the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip. It stated, "We declare Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, and within the initial 20-minute strike, we fired more than 5,000 rockets." Israel's army said its forces were fighting Palestinian militants on the ground in several locations near the Strip. It dubbed its operation "Swords of Iron". Army spokesman Richard Hecht said the militants conducted a combined raid "which happened through paragliders, through the sea and through the ground." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We are at war and we will win it', says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as Hamas launches surprise attack

<p>Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday. Though Khamenei did not name any specific country, his words have come just when it is expected that Israel might normalise ties with Saudi Arabia, the regional rival of Iran.</p>

<p>"The definite position of the Islamic Republic is that countries that make the gamble of normalisation with Israel will lose. They are betting on a losing horse," Khamenei said.</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shot back at Khamenei's remarks and said that Iranian efforts to stop countries in the region from establishing ties with Israel will fail. He cited agreements Israel signed with Arab nations in 2020.</p>

<p>"Just as Iran hasn't prevented us from achieving the Abraham Accords, Iran will also not prevent us from expanding the circle of peace for the benefit of the citizens of Israel, the people of the region and all of humanity."</p>

<p>Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an interview recently that a deal on relations with Israel was getting closer by the day and that Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden held a long-awaited meeting on the matter.</p>

<p>Last month, the Israeli foreign minister said that a framework US-brokered deal for ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia may be in place by next year.</p>

<p>If ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia normalise, it will result in a dramatic change in West Asia as it will bring both countries together along with the US with which both have strong ties. This may put Iran in an interesting position.</p>

<p>Four Arab states have formalised ties with Israel in pacts known as the Abraham Accords -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday. Though Khamenei did not name any specific country, his words have come just when it is expected that Israel might normalise ties with Saudi Arabia, the regional rival of Iran. "The definite position of the Islamic Republic is that countries that make the gamble of normalisation with Israel will lose. They are betting on a losing horse," Khamenei said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shot back at Khamenei's remarks and said that Iranian efforts to stop countries in the region from establishing ties with Israel will fail. He cited agreements Israel signed with Arab nations in 2020. "Just as Iran hasn't prevented us from achieving the Abraham Accords, Iran will also not prevent us from expanding the circle of peace for the benefit of the citizens of Israel, the people of the region and all of humanity." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an interview recently that a deal on relations with Israel was getting closer by the day and that Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden held a long-awaited meeting on the matter. Last month, the Israeli foreign minister said that a framework US-brokered deal for ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia may be in place by next year. If ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia normalise, it will result in a dramatic change in West Asia as it will bring both countries together along with the US with which both have strong ties. This may put Iran in an interesting position. Four Arab states have formalised ties with Israel in pacts known as the Abraham Accords -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran's Khamenei terms normalisation with Israel a 'losing' bet: State media

<p>Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two Palestinians were killed by live Israeli bullets to the head" in the town of Tulkarem, the ministry said.</p>

<p>The army released a statement saying that one of its soldiers was "moderately injured by gunshot fragments" during clashes in Nur Shams refugee camp near the town.</p>

<p>The two killed in the raid were identified as Osaid Abu Ali, 21-year-old, and Abd al-Rahman Abu Daghash, 32-year-old, by the Palestinian health ministry</p>

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas released a statement saying that "martyr Osaid Abu Ali" was one of its fighters.</p>

<p>The family of the other man, 32-year-old Abdel-Rahman Abu Daghash, said he had stepped onto the terrace of his house to observe what was going on when he was shot dead by a sniper.</p>

<p>"He went up to the rooftop to film the ambulances. He barely had the chance to look and the sniper targeted him," said his brother Mo'men Abu Daghash. "He has nothing to do with it and he has kids and his wife is about to give birth."</p>

<p>Ibrahim al-Nimer, a representative of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club advocacy group in the camp, told news agency AFP that "the army entered the camp after 2:00 am ... and demolished streets and some houses".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-under-fire-for-holding-up-map-erasing-palestine-during-un-speech-639024">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech</a></p>

<p>The army, in a statement, said that it had dismantled an "operational command centre" inside a building which "contained observation devices, computers and technological devices."</p>

<p>It said that the troops had also uncovered a large number of detonative devices during the raid.</p>

<p>"During the activity, suspects opened fire and hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire. Hits were identified," the military said in a statement, adding that an Israeli soldier was moderately injured.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory.

Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory. "Two Palestinians were killed by live Israeli bullets to the head" in the town of Tulkarem, the ministry said. The army released a statement saying that one of its soldiers was "moderately injured by gunshot fragments" during clashes in Nur Shams refugee camp near the town. The two killed in the raid were identified as Osaid Abu Ali, 21-year-old, and Abd al-Rahman Abu Daghash, 32-year-old, by the Palestinian health ministry Palestinian militant group Hamas released a statement saying that "martyr Osaid Abu Ali" was one of its fighters. The family of the other man, 32-year-old Abdel-Rahman Abu Daghash, said he had stepped onto the terrace of his house to observe what was going on when he was shot dead by a sniper. "He went up to the rooftop to film the ambulances. He barely had the chance to look and the sniper targeted him," said his brother Mo'men Abu Daghash. "He has nothing to do with it and he has kids and his wife is about to give birth." Ibrahim al-Nimer, a representative of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club advocacy group in the camp, told news agency AFP that "the army entered the camp after 2:00 am ... and demolished streets and some houses". Also read: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech The army, in a statement, said that it had dismantled an "operational command centre" inside a building which "contained observation devices, computers and technological devices." It said that the troops had also uncovered a large number of detonative devices during the raid. "During the activity, suspects opened fire and hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire. Hits were identified," the military said in a statement, adding that an Israeli soldier was moderately injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli forces kill two Palestinians during raid on a refugee camp in West Bank

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine.</p>

<p>'The New Middle East' illustration showed the West Bank and Gaza within the boundaries of Israel.</p>

<p>He displayed two maps during his speech, one depicted Israel's geography in 1948, accentuating its seclusion in the Middle East without the allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second illustration included countries that have peace agreements with Israel, which included Egypt, Sudan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan.</p>

<p>In his speech, he underlined the significance of bolstering ties with Arab countries, with a special emphasis on Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>After his address, he took to social media platform X and wrote, “The greatest achievement in my life is to fight for you (the Israeli people) and for our country. Shabbat Shalom.”</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">הזכות הגדולה של חיי היא להיאבק למענכם, למען המדינה שלנו. שבת שלום.<br />
<br />
(צילום: אבי אוחיון, לע״מ) <a href="https://t.co/O8qmKIIeUv">pic.twitter.com/O8qmKIIeUv</a></p>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1705234335928811904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu used the map to show a new era of peace in the Middle East that would include Palestine, however, his staunch critics say that the illustration conveyed the opposite of what was intended.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-says-country-on-cusp-of-normalizing-ties-with-saudi-arabia-638668"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-says-country-on-cusp-of-normalizing-ties-with-saudi-arabia-638668">Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts; says Israel on 'cusp' of normalising ties with Saudi</a></p>

<p>Americans for Peace Now CEO Hadar Susskind posted on X, “Netanyahu is returning to his government of fascists, felons, and fundamentalists, which in both action and words contradict&nbsp;his bogus rhetoric of peace.”</p>

<p>“His map of Greater Israel is perhaps the only honest part of his speech today,” Susskind wrote in a post.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu under fire on social media</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli prime minister was widely denounced on social media for holding up the specific illustration.</p>

<p>The Palestinian Authority’s representative to Germany Laith Arafeh shared a post on X saying, “No greater insult to every foundational principle of the UN than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No greater insult to every foundational principle of the United Nations than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea, negating Palestine and its people, then attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric… <a href="https://t.co/nJUGgaNpDD">pic.twitter.com/nJUGgaNpDD</a></p>
— Laith Arafeh 🇵🇸 (@ArafehLaith) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArafehLaith/status/1705228310215532627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Palestine and its people” while “attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric about “peace” in the region, all the while entrenching the longest ongoing belligerent occupation in today’s world,” he said.</p>

<p>“But as H.E. President Mahmoud Abbas already responded yesterday: “Delusional are those who think peace in the region is possible without the realisation of the full legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” he further added.</p>

<p>Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine. 'The New Middle East' illustration showed the West Bank and Gaza within the boundaries of Israel. He displayed two maps during his speech, one depicted Israel's geography in 1948, accentuating its seclusion in the Middle East without the allies. The second illustration included countries that have peace agreements with Israel, which included Egypt, Sudan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan. In his speech, he underlined the significance of bolstering ties with Arab countries, with a special emphasis on Saudi Arabia. After his address, he took to social media platform X and wrote, “The greatest achievement in my life is to fight for you (the Israeli people) and for our country. Shabbat Shalom.” הזכות הגדולה של חיי היא להיאבק למענכם, למען המדינה שלנו. שבת שלום. (צילום: אבי אוחיון, לע״מ) pic.twitter.com/O8qmKIIeUv — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) September 22, 2023 × As per the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu used the map to show a new era of peace in the Middle East that would include Palestine, however, his staunch critics say that the illustration conveyed the opposite of what was intended. Also read: Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts; says Israel on 'cusp' of normalising ties with Saudi Americans for Peace Now CEO Hadar Susskind posted on X, “Netanyahu is returning to his government of fascists, felons, and fundamentalists, which in both action and words contradict his bogus rhetoric of peace.” “His map of Greater Israel is perhaps the only honest part of his speech today,” Susskind wrote in a post. Netanyahu under fire on social media The Israeli prime minister was widely denounced on social media for holding up the specific illustration. The Palestinian Authority’s representative to Germany Laith Arafeh shared a post on X saying, “No greater insult to every foundational principle of the UN than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea.” No greater insult to every foundational principle of the United Nations than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea, negating Palestine and its people, then attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric… pic.twitter.com/nJUGgaNpDD — Laith Arafeh 🇵🇸 (@ArafehLaith) September 22, 2023 × “Palestine and its people” while “attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric about “peace” in the region, all the while entrenching the longest ongoing belligerent occupation in today’s world,” he said. “But as H.E. President Mahmoud Abbas already responded yesterday: “Delusional are those who think peace in the region is possible without the realisation of the full legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” he further added. Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>He further said that Palestinians should not get to "veto" the move.</p>

<p>While addressing the General Assembly in New York, Netanyahu said that the agreements which were made in the year 2020, to forge formal ties with three other Arab states had already "heralded the dawn of a new age of peace."</p>

<p>"But I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough -- a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia."</p>

<p>"Such a peace will go a long way to ending the Arab-Israeli conflict. It will encourage other Arab states to normalise their relations with Israel," he said.</p>

<p>Netanyahu strongly rebuffed the assertion by Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas, during his UN speech on Thursday, that peace could not be established between the Middle East and Israel without a Palestinian state.</p>

<p>Netanyahu said that Palestinians should not be given a veto over new peace treaties with Arab states.</p>

<p>"We must not give the Palestinians a veto over new peace treaties with Arab states," Netanyahu said.</p>

<p>"The Palestinians could greatly benefit from a broader peace. They should be part of that process. But they should not have a veto over the process."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-take-to-streets-in-canada-to-stage-demonstration-over-gender-sex-education-curriculum-in-schools-638631">Thousands take to streets in Canada to stage protest against gender, sex education curriculum in schools</a></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden's administration has been leading talks between the two countries. Recently, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that the two sides were getting closer.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden and Netanyahu pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (September 20), United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to together make efforts towards forging a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>“I think that under your leadership, Mr President, we can forge a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” Netanyahu said, adding,&nbsp;“Such a peace would go a long way first to advance the end of the Arab-Israeli conflict, achieve reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Jewish state and advance a genuine peace between Israel and the Palestinians.”</p>

<p>Netanyahu said they could work together to make history.</p>

<p>“Together,” Biden reiterated, hinting at his commitment towards normalising the strained diplomatic ties, which he said would have been unthinkable years ago.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu also called for Iran to face a "credible" threat of force after his office retracted his 'nuclear threat against Tehran' statement.</p>

<p>While addressing the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu said, "Above all -- above all -- Iran must face a credible nuclear threat."</p>

<p>"As long as I'm prime minister of Israel, I will do everything in my power to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said.</p>

<p>His office later released a statement saying that the Israeli PM had 'misread' his speech. It said that he meant "credible military threat" instead of "credible nuclear threat."</p>

<p>"It was misread as a credible nuclear threat. The prime minister stands by the original text of the speech," the prime minister's office said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia. He further said that Palestinians should not get to "veto" the move. While addressing the General Assembly in New York, Netanyahu said that the agreements which were made in the year 2020, to forge formal ties with three other Arab states had already "heralded the dawn of a new age of peace." "But I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough -- a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia." "Such a peace will go a long way to ending the Arab-Israeli conflict. It will encourage other Arab states to normalise their relations with Israel," he said. Netanyahu strongly rebuffed the assertion by Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas, during his UN speech on Thursday, that peace could not be established between the Middle East and Israel without a Palestinian state. Netanyahu said that Palestinians should not be given a veto over new peace treaties with Arab states. "We must not give the Palestinians a veto over new peace treaties with Arab states," Netanyahu said. "The Palestinians could greatly benefit from a broader peace. They should be part of that process. But they should not have a veto over the process." Also read: Thousands take to streets in Canada to stage protest against gender, sex education curriculum in schools United States President Joe Biden's administration has been leading talks between the two countries. Recently, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that the two sides were getting closer. Biden and Netanyahu pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties On Wednesday (September 20), United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to together make efforts towards forging a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. “I think that under your leadership, Mr President, we can forge a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” Netanyahu said, adding, “Such a peace would go a long way first to advance the end of the Arab-Israeli conflict, achieve reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Jewish state and advance a genuine peace between Israel and the Palestinians.” Netanyahu said they could work together to make history. “Together,” Biden reiterated, hinting at his commitment towards normalising the strained diplomatic ties, which he said would have been unthinkable years ago. Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts Netanyahu also called for Iran to face a "credible" threat of force after his office retracted his 'nuclear threat against Tehran' statement. While addressing the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu said, "Above all -- above all -- Iran must face a credible nuclear threat." "As long as I'm prime minister of Israel, I will do everything in my power to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said. His office later released a statement saying that the Israeli PM had 'misread' his speech. It said that he meant "credible military threat" instead of "credible nuclear threat." "It was misread as a credible nuclear threat. The prime minister stands by the original text of the speech," the prime minister's office said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts; says Israel on 'cusp' of normalising ties with Saudi

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-lawmaker-anwar-ul-haq-kakar-chosen-as-new-interim-prime-minister-624827">Pakistan’s interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar</a>, on Friday (September 22) garnered criticism mostly from supporters of former PM Imran Khan after he apparently compared Beijing’s strong ties with Islamabad to that of the United States’ support for Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The supposed comparison took place during an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, as the Pakistan PM is in the midst of a visit to the US to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).</p>

<h2><strong>What did Kakar say?</strong></h2>

<p>When asked about the relationship between Pakistan and China by one of the attendees, Kakar said, “Pakistan enjoys a strategic relationship with China. We are very clear that there are people who would qualify Pakistan as China’s Israel.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-interim-pm-anwaar-ul-haq-kakar-raises-jammu-and-kashmir-issue-during-unga-address-638680">Pakistan's interim PM Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar raises Jammu and Kashmir issue during UNGA address</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, “It is probably a more good analogy for&nbsp;American audience because you do understand and appreciate the value of Israel for the United States.” He also spoke about how the two countries have “a lot in common in terms of the emergent crises within the region” and “commonalities on certain issues”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The issues that the caretaker Pakistan PM referred to included the One-China policy, and China’s stance on Taiwan, Tibet and Xinjiang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kakar went on to talk about how Beijing supported Islamabad around 2012-2013 when many in the West were “predicting Pakistan is a failed state and it is going to be dysfunctional soon in that context our Chinese friends intervened…with a sizeable project the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)...”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Shockingly poor language’</strong></h2>

<p>The statement was not well-received by some in Pakistan who took to social media to express their anger over the interim PM’s remarks. “Why would I want my country to be like ‘China’s Israel’? Why can we not just define Pakistan as Pakistan itself, and make it a prosperous example for the world to follow?” said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ex-MPA Taimur Khan Jhagra, on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-flags-abnormal-chinese-movements-rise-in-military-activity-around-island-638625">Taiwan flags ‘abnormal’ Chinese movements, rise in military activity around island</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, “Shockingly poor language to compare Pakistan with an apartheid state (that)&nbsp;Pakistan doesn’t recognise.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PTI’s Faisal Amin Khan, pointed out that Kakar may be referring to Chinese General Xiong Guangkai’s quote in the introduction of Andrew Small’s <em>The China Pakistan Axis: Asia’s New Geopolitics</em> which states “Pakistan is China’s Israel”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Comparing your country to a bully like Israel isn’t very smart…seemed like the prime minister read the book on his way to New York,” said Khan, on X.</p>

<p>Supreme Court lawyer Zahid F. Ebrahim said, “I did not expect better from Mr Kakar. But, I did expect better from @JalilJilani (Foreign Minister Jalil Jilani).”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The caretaker FM should have vigorously opposed this outrageously wasteful foreign jaunt by a caretaker PM.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan’s interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, on Friday (September 22) garnered criticism mostly from supporters of former PM Imran Khan after he apparently compared Beijing’s strong ties with Islamabad to that of the United States’ support for Israel.

Pakistan’s interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, on Friday (September 22) garnered criticism mostly from supporters of former PM Imran Khan after he apparently compared Beijing’s strong ties with Islamabad to that of the United States’ support for Israel. The supposed comparison took place during an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, as the Pakistan PM is in the midst of a visit to the US to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). What did Kakar say? When asked about the relationship between Pakistan and China by one of the attendees, Kakar said, “Pakistan enjoys a strategic relationship with China. We are very clear that there are people who would qualify Pakistan as China’s Israel.” ALSO READ | Pakistan's interim PM Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar raises Jammu and Kashmir issue during UNGA address He added, “It is probably a more good analogy for American audience because you do understand and appreciate the value of Israel for the United States.” He also spoke about how the two countries have “a lot in common in terms of the emergent crises within the region” and “commonalities on certain issues”. The issues that the caretaker Pakistan PM referred to included the One-China policy, and China’s stance on Taiwan, Tibet and Xinjiang. Kakar went on to talk about how Beijing supported Islamabad around 2012-2013 when many in the West were “predicting Pakistan is a failed state and it is going to be dysfunctional soon in that context our Chinese friends intervened…with a sizeable project the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)...” ‘Shockingly poor language’ The statement was not well-received by some in Pakistan who took to social media to express their anger over the interim PM’s remarks. “Why would I want my country to be like ‘China’s Israel’? Why can we not just define Pakistan as Pakistan itself, and make it a prosperous example for the world to follow?” said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ex-MPA Taimur Khan Jhagra, on X. ALSO READ | Taiwan flags ‘abnormal’ Chinese movements, rise in military activity around island He added, “Shockingly poor language to compare Pakistan with an apartheid state (that) Pakistan doesn’t recognise.” Meanwhile, PTI’s Faisal Amin Khan, pointed out that Kakar may be referring to Chinese General Xiong Guangkai’s quote in the introduction of Andrew Small’s The China Pakistan Axis: Asia’s New Geopolitics which states “Pakistan is China’s Israel”. “Comparing your country to a bully like Israel isn’t very smart…seemed like the prime minister read the book on his way to New York,” said Khan, on X. Supreme Court lawyer Zahid F. Ebrahim said, “I did not expect better from Mr Kakar. But, I did expect better from @JalilJilani (Foreign Minister Jalil Jilani).” He added, “The caretaker FM should have vigorously opposed this outrageously wasteful foreign jaunt by a caretaker PM.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan's interim PM Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar under fire for comparing Pak-China ties with US-Israel relations

<p>United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (September 20), vowed to together make efforts towards forging a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>“I think that under your leadership, Mr. President, we can forge a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” Netanyahu said, adding that “Such a peace would go a long way first to advance the end of the Arab-Israeli conflict, achieve reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Jewish state and advance a genuine peace between Israel and the Palestinians.”</p>

<p>Netanyahu said they could work together to make history.</p>

<p>Meeting for the very first time since the Israeli leader returned to power in December last year, both the leaders showed a desire to normalise the relations between the countries. However, Biden also emphasised that he was determined to discuss their differences.</p>

<p>“Together,” Biden reiterated, hinting at his commitment towards normalising the strained diplomatic ties, which he said would have been unthinkable years ago.</p>

<p>The two leaders held talks on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York after Biden withheld an invitation to the White House.</p>

<p>Netanyahu further appreciated Biden for his commitment towards preventing Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capability.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-russia-to-bolster-business-ties-as-putin-accepts-xis-invitation-for-october-visit-637999">China, Russia to continue business ties as Putin accepts invitation for visit</a></p>

<p>''I appreciate, Mr. President, your continuous commitment to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capability. I think that's critical. And that shared goal of ours can be best achieved by a credible military threat, crippling sanctions and supporting the brave men and women of Iran who despise that regime and who are real partners for a better future.''</p>

<h2><strong>Biden invites Netanyahu to visit Washington&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Biden also formally invited Netanyahu to visit Washington by year's end during their talks, the White House said in a statement.</p>

<p>"I hope we will see each other in Washington by the end of the year," he said.</p>

<p>He also voiced his concerns about "any fundamental changes to Israel's democratic system, absent the broadest possible consensus," his office said, amid criticism of the hard-right Israeli government's controversial judicial reforms.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
At the start of the meeting, Biden told the reporters, "Today, we're going to discuss some of the hard issues, that is, upholding democratic values that lie at the heart of our partnership".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (September 20), vowed to together make efforts towards forging a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (September 20), vowed to together make efforts towards forging a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. “I think that under your leadership, Mr. President, we can forge a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” Netanyahu said, adding that “Such a peace would go a long way first to advance the end of the Arab-Israeli conflict, achieve reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Jewish state and advance a genuine peace between Israel and the Palestinians.” Netanyahu said they could work together to make history. Meeting for the very first time since the Israeli leader returned to power in December last year, both the leaders showed a desire to normalise the relations between the countries. However, Biden also emphasised that he was determined to discuss their differences. “Together,” Biden reiterated, hinting at his commitment towards normalising the strained diplomatic ties, which he said would have been unthinkable years ago. The two leaders held talks on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York after Biden withheld an invitation to the White House. Netanyahu further appreciated Biden for his commitment towards preventing Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capability. Also read: China, Russia to continue business ties as Putin accepts invitation for visit ''I appreciate, Mr. President, your continuous commitment to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capability. I think that's critical. And that shared goal of ours can be best achieved by a credible military threat, crippling sanctions and supporting the brave men and women of Iran who despise that regime and who are real partners for a better future.'' Biden invites Netanyahu to visit Washington Biden also formally invited Netanyahu to visit Washington by year's end during their talks, the White House said in a statement. "I hope we will see each other in Washington by the end of the year," he said. He also voiced his concerns about "any fundamental changes to Israel's democratic system, absent the broadest possible consensus," his office said, amid criticism of the hard-right Israeli government's controversial judicial reforms. At the start of the meeting, Biden told the reporters, "Today, we're going to discuss some of the hard issues, that is, upholding democratic values that lie at the heart of our partnership". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden and Netanyahu hold talks, pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties

<p>Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If they (Iran) get&nbsp;one (nuclear weapon), we have to get one," MBS could be heard saying in one of the video&nbsp;clips of the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the threats associated, MBS said the kingdom is&nbsp;“concerned” whenever any country acquires a nuclear weapon. However, he suggests that no one would use a nuclear weapon because this would mean starting a “war with the rest of the world”.</p>

<p>"Any country use a nuclear weapon that means they are having a war with the rest of the world. The world cannot see another Hiroshima. If the world sees 100,000 people dead that mean you are in a war with the rest of the world," said MBS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since former US president Donald Trump reneged on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and the Joe Biden administration refused to get back to it, Tehran has sped up its nuclear advances - threatening the stability of the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it was in 2016 that Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, announced its plan to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades with a budget of $80 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years later, the kingdom approved its national atomic energy policy which limits the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, some experts believe that Riyadh is trying to hedge its bets as arch-rival Iran continues to make waves with its nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud last year made statements, echoing the crown prince's version,&nbsp;saying the kingdom will take steps to shore up its security if Tehran gets an 'operational nuclear weapon'.</p>

<p>"If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off. We are in a very dangerous space in the region...you can expect that regional states will certainly look towards how they can ensure their own security."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/if-iran-gets-an-operational-nuclear-weapon-all-bets-are-off-says-saudi-foreign-minister-542163"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off', says Saudi foreign minister</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Every day we get closer: MBS on normalisation of ties with Israel</strong></h2>

<p>In another part of the interview, MBS touched upon the peace deal with Israel and said progress was being made to realise normalisation in the ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Every day we get closer, it seems it's for the first time real one serious. We get to see how it goes," said MBS, adding that the Palestinian issue in the context of normalisation with Israel remained significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-aa-component="paragraph" data-allow-readmode="">“For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part. We got to see where we go. We hope that will reach a place, that it will ease the life of the Palestinians, get Israel as a player in the Middle East,” he added.</p>

<p data-aa-component="paragraph" data-allow-readmode=""><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-netanyahu-hold-talks-pledge-to-normalize-israeli-saudi-ties-638024"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Biden and Netanyahu hold talks, pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties</strong></a></p>

<p>The statement by the crown prince came hours after&nbsp;United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on the sidelines of the UNGA and vowed to forge a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well.

Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well. "If they (Iran) get one (nuclear weapon), we have to get one," MBS could be heard saying in one of the video clips of the interview. Speaking about the threats associated, MBS said the kingdom is “concerned” whenever any country acquires a nuclear weapon. However, he suggests that no one would use a nuclear weapon because this would mean starting a “war with the rest of the world”. "Any country use a nuclear weapon that means they are having a war with the rest of the world. The world cannot see another Hiroshima. If the world sees 100,000 people dead that mean you are in a war with the rest of the world," said MBS. Ever since former US president Donald Trump reneged on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and the Joe Biden administration refused to get back to it, Tehran has sped up its nuclear advances - threatening the stability of the region. Notably, it was in 2016 that Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, announced its plan to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades with a budget of $80 billion. Two years later, the kingdom approved its national atomic energy policy which limits the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, some experts believe that Riyadh is trying to hedge its bets as arch-rival Iran continues to make waves with its nuclear weapons programme. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud last year made statements, echoing the crown prince's version, saying the kingdom will take steps to shore up its security if Tehran gets an 'operational nuclear weapon'. "If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off. We are in a very dangerous space in the region...you can expect that regional states will certainly look towards how they can ensure their own security." Watch | 'If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off', says Saudi foreign minister × Every day we get closer: MBS on normalisation of ties with Israel In another part of the interview, MBS touched upon the peace deal with Israel and said progress was being made to realise normalisation in the ties. “Every day we get closer, it seems it's for the first time real one serious. We get to see how it goes," said MBS, adding that the Palestinian issue in the context of normalisation with Israel remained significant. “For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part. We got to see where we go. We hope that will reach a place, that it will ease the life of the Palestinians, get Israel as a player in the Middle East,” he added. Also read | Biden and Netanyahu hold talks, pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties The statement by the crown prince came hours after United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on the sidelines of the UNGA and vowed to forge a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi crown prince says kingdom will obtain nuclear weapon if Iran does so

<p>In 1993, under the sun-drenched skies of the White House, the world watched in awe as Yasser Arafat&nbsp;(former president of Palestine) and Yitzhak Rabin (former prime minister of Israel), two stalwarts from opposing sides, clasped hands in a moment that would become etched in history. The Oslo Accords were signed, offering a glimmer of hope in the seemingly intractable Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Thirty years later, the echoes of that symphony of peace, filled with the harmonious chords of diplomacy and the discordant notes of unresolved issues, continue to reverberate.</p>

<p>Dr Michael Milstein, the head of the Palestinian Studies Forum at the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies, speaking on the significance of the Oslo Accords states:&nbsp;"The Oslo Accords were the most crucial junction in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It was the first time the leaders recognized each other and agreed to establish a Palestinian entity between the river and the sea. You can embrace or critique the Oslo Accords, but they have solidified into an unchangeable fact."</p>

<h2><strong>A glimpse into the past</strong></h2>

<p>The Oslo Accords were a result of secret negotiations in Oslo, Norway, and signalled a ray of hope in a region marred by violence. The&nbsp;groundbreaking agreement&nbsp;delineated a framework for Palestinian self-governance in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, envisioning an ultimate comprehensive peace settlement. Dr&nbsp;Milstein states that the Accords "signaled a ray of hope" and laid the foundation for Palestinian self-determination. While hailed as a breakthrough, they were not without their detractors.</p>

<h2><strong>The legacy of hope and frustration</strong></h2>

<p>While the Oslo Accords offered a glimmer of hope, they also sowed the seeds of frustration. Many consider them a failed peace deal due to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine. Disputes over land, security, and the status of Jerusalem persisted. The assassination of Prime Minister Rabin in 1995 added another layer of complexity to the peace process.</p>

<h2><strong>Current relevance amidst tensions</strong></h2>

<p>Today, the Israel-Palestine conflict remains as volatile as ever. The Oslo Accords' promise of a two-state solution seems more elusive than ever. The Gaza Strip continues to be a flashpoint, and issues like refugees and the status of Jerusalem remain unresolved. Against this backdrop, the Oslo Accords serve as a cautionary tale about the challenges of achieving lasting peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Milstein concurs, highlighting that "the basic vision of 1993 cannot be implemented today," leaving both sides in an "unconventional and perplexing situation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, since the signing of the Oslo Accords, Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have continued to expand. At the close of 1993, roughly 116,300 Israeli settlers resided in these territories, as per Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics. Although Israel withdrew its settlements from Gaza in 2005, the population of Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has swelled from 520,000 to over 700,000 according to the UNHRC.</p>

<h2><strong>The role of the United States</strong></h2>

<p>The United States played a crucial role in brokering the Oslo Accords, and its involvement remains significant. Over the years, the US policy has evolved but the country continues to advocate for a negotiated settlement and supports a two-state solution. Washington's diplomatic influence remains instrumental in facilitating dialogue between the two parties.</p>

<h2><strong>Global implications</strong></h2>

<p>The significance of the Oslo Accords transcends the borders of Israel and Palestine; they bear global ramifications. These agreements showcased the potential of diplomacy in resolving longstanding conflicts, offering a blueprint for peace negotiations worldwide. Nevertheless, their limitations and the enduring conflict in the region underscore the intricate nature of attaining a just and enduring peace.</p>

<p>"In 1993, all superpowers, particularly the US, played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting the Oslo Accords. Today, international involvement, including the Arab world during the Arab Spring, is significantly diminished, including economic support. The entire conflict now hinges more on the two principal parties involved," added&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Milstein.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In conclusion, the Oslo Accords, despite the obstacles and intricacies they encompass, stand as a momentous chapter in the relentless pursuit of peace in the Middle East. As we commemorate three decades since that historic handshake, it is imperative to recognise the enduring relevance of seeking a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, an issue that reverberates not only across the region but also throughout the global order. The journey is arduous, but the pursuit of peace remains an unshakable commitment.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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In 1993, under the sun-drenched skies of the White House, the world watched in awe as Yasser Arafat (former president of Palestine) and Yitzhak Rabin (former prime minister of Israel), two stalwarts from opposing sides, clasped hands in a moment that would become etched in history.

In 1993, under the sun-drenched skies of the White House, the world watched in awe as Yasser Arafat (former president of Palestine) and Yitzhak Rabin (former prime minister of Israel), two stalwarts from opposing sides, clasped hands in a moment that would become etched in history. The Oslo Accords were signed, offering a glimmer of hope in the seemingly intractable Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Thirty years later, the echoes of that symphony of peace, filled with the harmonious chords of diplomacy and the discordant notes of unresolved issues, continue to reverberate. Dr Michael Milstein, the head of the Palestinian Studies Forum at the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies, speaking on the significance of the Oslo Accords states: "The Oslo Accords were the most crucial junction in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It was the first time the leaders recognized each other and agreed to establish a Palestinian entity between the river and the sea. You can embrace or critique the Oslo Accords, but they have solidified into an unchangeable fact." A glimpse into the past The Oslo Accords were a result of secret negotiations in Oslo, Norway, and signalled a ray of hope in a region marred by violence. The groundbreaking agreement delineated a framework for Palestinian self-governance in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, envisioning an ultimate comprehensive peace settlement. Dr Milstein states that the Accords "signaled a ray of hope" and laid the foundation for Palestinian self-determination. While hailed as a breakthrough, they were not without their detractors. The legacy of hope and frustration While the Oslo Accords offered a glimmer of hope, they also sowed the seeds of frustration. Many consider them a failed peace deal due to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine. Disputes over land, security, and the status of Jerusalem persisted. The assassination of Prime Minister Rabin in 1995 added another layer of complexity to the peace process. Current relevance amidst tensions Today, the Israel-Palestine conflict remains as volatile as ever. The Oslo Accords' promise of a two-state solution seems more elusive than ever. The Gaza Strip continues to be a flashpoint, and issues like refugees and the status of Jerusalem remain unresolved. Against this backdrop, the Oslo Accords serve as a cautionary tale about the challenges of achieving lasting peace. Dr Milstein concurs, highlighting that "the basic vision of 1993 cannot be implemented today," leaving both sides in an "unconventional and perplexing situation". Moreover, since the signing of the Oslo Accords, Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have continued to expand. At the close of 1993, roughly 116,300 Israeli settlers resided in these territories, as per Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics. Although Israel withdrew its settlements from Gaza in 2005, the population of Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has swelled from 520,000 to over 700,000 according to the UNHRC. The role of the United States The United States played a crucial role in brokering the Oslo Accords, and its involvement remains significant. Over the years, the US policy has evolved but the country continues to advocate for a negotiated settlement and supports a two-state solution. Washington's diplomatic influence remains instrumental in facilitating dialogue between the two parties. Global implications The significance of the Oslo Accords transcends the borders of Israel and Palestine; they bear global ramifications. These agreements showcased the potential of diplomacy in resolving longstanding conflicts, offering a blueprint for peace negotiations worldwide. Nevertheless, their limitations and the enduring conflict in the region underscore the intricate nature of attaining a just and enduring peace. "In 1993, all superpowers, particularly the US, played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting the Oslo Accords. Today, international involvement, including the Arab world during the Arab Spring, is significantly diminished, including economic support. The entire conflict now hinges more on the two principal parties involved," added Dr Milstein. In conclusion, the Oslo Accords, despite the obstacles and intricacies they encompass, stand as a momentous chapter in the relentless pursuit of peace in the Middle East. As we commemorate three decades since that historic handshake, it is imperative to recognise the enduring relevance of seeking a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, an issue that reverberates not only across the region but also throughout the global order. The journey is arduous, but the pursuit of peace remains an unshakable commitment. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

The Oslo Accords at 30: A journey of hope, struggle, and quest for peace

<p>Israeli air strikes on Wednesday killed two Syrian soldiers and wounded six others on Syria's west coast, state media said, quoting a military source.</p>

<p>"At exactly 17:22 (1422 GMT) this afternoon, the Israeli enemy carried out strikes...from the direction of the Mediterranean Sea targeting some of our air defence sites in Tartus," the official news agency SANA quoted the source as saying.</p>

<p>"The aggression led to the death of two soldiers, and wounded six others," it added.</p>

<p>During more than a decade of war in Syria, neighbouring Israel has launched hundreds of air strikes on its territory, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions.</p>

<p>The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said Wednesday's strikes also targeted a weapons depot belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.</p>

<p>The British-based monitor with a network of sources inside Syria confirmed the death of the two soldiers, adding that a fighter whose nationality was unknown was also killed "in attacks believed to be Israeli missile fire".</p>

<p>Since the start of the war in Syria, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian territory, mainly targeting forces backed by Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah, allies of Damascus and sworn enemies of Israel, as well as the Syrian army.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-air-strikes-hit-anti-aircraft-battery-in-syria-611118"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israeli air strikes hit 'anti-aircraft battery' in Syria</strong></a></p>

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<p>Israel rarely comments on individual strikes it carries out on targets in Syria, but it has repeatedly said it would not allow its archfoe Iran, which supports Damascus, to expand its footprint there.</p>

<p>When questioned by AFP on Wednesday, an Israeli army spokesman said he didn't comment on "foreign media reports".</p>

<p>Later in the evening, Israeli aircraft again targeted Syria, targeting the scientific research centre in the mountains of the village of Taqsis, in the province of Hama, where explosions were heard, the Syrian Observatory said, reporting no casualties.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-syrian-soldiers-killed-in-israeli-air-strikes-near-damascus-reports-622954"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;At least four Syrian soldiers killed in Israeli air strikes near Damascus: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Syria's war has killed more than half a million people since it broke out in 2011, sparked by the repression of pro-democracy protests.</p>

<p>It quickly escalated into a deadly conflict that pulled in foreign powers and jihadist insurgents.</p>

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Israeli air strikes on Wednesday killed two Syrian soldiers and wounded six others on Syria's west coast, state media said, quoting a military source. "At exactly 17:22 (1422 GMT) this afternoon, the Israeli enemy carried out strikes.

Israeli air strikes on Wednesday killed two Syrian soldiers and wounded six others on Syria's west coast, state media said, quoting a military source. "At exactly 17:22 (1422 GMT) this afternoon, the Israeli enemy carried out strikes...from the direction of the Mediterranean Sea targeting some of our air defence sites in Tartus," the official news agency SANA quoted the source as saying. "The aggression led to the death of two soldiers, and wounded six others," it added. During more than a decade of war in Syria, neighbouring Israel has launched hundreds of air strikes on its territory, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said Wednesday's strikes also targeted a weapons depot belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. The British-based monitor with a network of sources inside Syria confirmed the death of the two soldiers, adding that a fighter whose nationality was unknown was also killed "in attacks believed to be Israeli missile fire". Since the start of the war in Syria, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian territory, mainly targeting forces backed by Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah, allies of Damascus and sworn enemies of Israel, as well as the Syrian army. Watch | Israeli air strikes hit 'anti-aircraft battery' in Syria × Israel rarely comments on individual strikes it carries out on targets in Syria, but it has repeatedly said it would not allow its archfoe Iran, which supports Damascus, to expand its footprint there. When questioned by AFP on Wednesday, an Israeli army spokesman said he didn't comment on "foreign media reports". Later in the evening, Israeli aircraft again targeted Syria, targeting the scientific research centre in the mountains of the village of Taqsis, in the province of Hama, where explosions were heard, the Syrian Observatory said, reporting no casualties. Also read | At least four Syrian soldiers killed in Israeli air strikes near Damascus: Reports Syria's war has killed more than half a million people since it broke out in 2011, sparked by the repression of pro-democracy protests. It quickly escalated into a deadly conflict that pulled in foreign powers and jihadist insurgents. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israeli strikes along west coast kill two Syrian soldiers: Report

<p>Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the launch of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as “major news” for Israelis and said it was the “largest cooperation project in our history” that would impact the Middle East, Israel, and the entire globe.</p>

<p>In a bid to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),&nbsp;the new economic corridor&nbsp;was jointly unveiled on Saturday by leaders from the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union in New Delhi.</p>

<p>Netanyahu said that Israel is the centre of a ground-breaking worldwide project that will connect infrastructure from Asia to Europe in a late-Saturday night video address.</p>

<p>“I welcome the statement that was released today by the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and the European Union, as well as France, Italy and Germany. Israel is at the focus of an unprecedented international project that will link infrastructure from Asia to Europe. This link will also realise a multi-year vision that will change the face of the Middle East, and Israel, and will affect the entire world,” he said.</p>

<p>The IMEC is being viewed as a potential substitute for the BRI, a large-scale project started by Chinese President Xi Jinping that has also received criticism over its debt sustainability, particularly from smaller countries.</p>

<p>In order to connect China, the world’s largest manufacturer, with Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa, and Europe through a network of land and sea links, Xi introduced the BRI in 2013.</p>

<p>The IMEC’s declaration coincides with discussions about the rapprochement between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Although there are no diplomatic ties between the two nations, the Gulf state has recently been viewed to soften its stance towards Israel by allowing Israeli airlines to use its airspace.</p>

<p>“I would like to thank US President (Joe) Biden and his administration for the major effort that has led us to today's historic announcement. Several months ago, the US contacted us regarding the realisation of this historic opportunity. Since then, it has held urgent diplomatic contacts in order to bring about today's breakthrough,” he added.</p>

<p>According to him, the initiative will change&nbsp;the look of the area and make the dream of "normalising the Middle East" possible. The programme calls for the building of trains, a hydrogen pipelines, fibre optic communications lines, electrical cables, and additional infrastructure.</p>

<p>He added that the State of Israel will offer all of its skills, knowledge, drive, and dedication to the realisation of the biggest cooperative endeavour in its history. All government ministries would be given the green signal to collaborate in making this ambition a reality, he added.</p>

<p>In order for this vision to materialise as fast as possible, Netanyahu stated, “I have directed the National Security Council, in the Prime Minister’s Office, to coordinate the staff work and also the close cooperation with the US and other countries.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>

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Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the launch of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as “major news” for Israelis and said it was the “largest cooperation project in our history” that would impact the Middle East, Israel, and the entire globe.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the launch of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as “major news” for Israelis and said it was the “largest cooperation project in our history” that would impact the Middle East, Israel, and the entire globe. In a bid to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the new economic corridor was jointly unveiled on Saturday by leaders from the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union in New Delhi. Netanyahu said that Israel is the centre of a ground-breaking worldwide project that will connect infrastructure from Asia to Europe in a late-Saturday night video address. “I welcome the statement that was released today by the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and the European Union, as well as France, Italy and Germany. Israel is at the focus of an unprecedented international project that will link infrastructure from Asia to Europe. This link will also realise a multi-year vision that will change the face of the Middle East, and Israel, and will affect the entire world,” he said. The IMEC is being viewed as a potential substitute for the BRI, a large-scale project started by Chinese President Xi Jinping that has also received criticism over its debt sustainability, particularly from smaller countries. In order to connect China, the world’s largest manufacturer, with Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa, and Europe through a network of land and sea links, Xi introduced the BRI in 2013. The IMEC’s declaration coincides with discussions about the rapprochement between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Although there are no diplomatic ties between the two nations, the Gulf state has recently been viewed to soften its stance towards Israel by allowing Israeli airlines to use its airspace. “I would like to thank US President (Joe) Biden and his administration for the major effort that has led us to today's historic announcement. Several months ago, the US contacted us regarding the realisation of this historic opportunity. Since then, it has held urgent diplomatic contacts in order to bring about today's breakthrough,” he added. According to him, the initiative will change the look of the area and make the dream of "normalising the Middle East" possible. The programme calls for the building of trains, a hydrogen pipelines, fibre optic communications lines, electrical cables, and additional infrastructure. He added that the State of Israel will offer all of its skills, knowledge, drive, and dedication to the realisation of the biggest cooperative endeavour in its history. All government ministries would be given the green signal to collaborate in making this ambition a reality, he added. In order for this vision to materialise as fast as possible, Netanyahu stated, “I have directed the National Security Council, in the Prime Minister’s Office, to coordinate the staff work and also the close cooperation with the US and other countries.” (With inputs from PTI) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to change the face of the Middle East: Israel PM

<p>In another sign of thaw in relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, an Israeli delegation made its first publicly declared visit to the kingdom on Monday (September 11). The delegation attended a meeting by the United Nations' cultural agency in Saud Arabian capital Riyadh. The US is keen for both countries to normalise ties.</p>

<p>Three Israeli officials were seen sitting at Israel's chairs of the 45th session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, a Reuters witness said. The officials declined to comment when approached by Reuters.</p>

<p>Another Israeli official told Reuters that the delegation comprised of the &nbsp;Foreign Ministry's deputy director-general for international organisations and the ambassador to international organisations in Paris.</p>

<p>The official added that a delegate from Israel's Education Ministry and the chair of Israel's Antiquities Authority also took part in the gathering.</p>

<p>There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia or Israel.</p>

<p>Public appearances of Israeli officials are rare in Saudi Arabia, a Muslim powerhouse and home to Islam's holiest shrines, but both sides have had covert contacts which were forged partly through shared fears of Iran.</p>

<p>Washington has been pressing its traditional ally Riyadh to sign a normalisation deal with Israel, which would be its biggest diplomatic win in the region and following similar agreements with United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, known as the Abraham Accords.</p>

<p>However, Riyadh has so far resisted US pressure and linked the move to the creation of a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, along with other demands.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In another sign of thaw in relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, an Israeli delegation made its first publicly declared visit to the kingdom on Monday (September 11).

In another sign of thaw in relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, an Israeli delegation made its first publicly declared visit to the kingdom on Monday (September 11). The delegation attended a meeting by the United Nations' cultural agency in Saud Arabian capital Riyadh. The US is keen for both countries to normalise ties. Three Israeli officials were seen sitting at Israel's chairs of the 45th session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, a Reuters witness said. The officials declined to comment when approached by Reuters. Another Israeli official told Reuters that the delegation comprised of the Foreign Ministry's deputy director-general for international organisations and the ambassador to international organisations in Paris. The official added that a delegate from Israel's Education Ministry and the chair of Israel's Antiquities Authority also took part in the gathering. There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia or Israel. Public appearances of Israeli officials are rare in Saudi Arabia, a Muslim powerhouse and home to Islam's holiest shrines, but both sides have had covert contacts which were forged partly through shared fears of Iran. Washington has been pressing its traditional ally Riyadh to sign a normalisation deal with Israel, which would be its biggest diplomatic win in the region and following similar agreements with United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, known as the Abraham Accords. However, Riyadh has so far resisted US pressure and linked the move to the creation of a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, along with other demands. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Delegation from Israel makes first openly declared visit to Saudi Arabia

<p>More than 100 people have been injured after violent clashes broke out between the Eritrean government supporters celebrating an Eritrea Day event and opponents of President Isaias Afwerki in Israel’s financial capital city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (September 2), said a report by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by news agency AFP citing police and medical sources also said that Israeli police opened fire on some demonstrators after the event turned violent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Clashes broke out during a pro-regime event, organised by the Eritrean embassy outside a south Tel Aviv venue to mark Revolution Day on September 1. The day commemorates the start of the Eritrean War of Independence against Ethiopia in 1961.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in Tel Aviv?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Reuters, Israeli police fired stun grenades to break up the clashes, while some protesters hurled stones at police and set trash bins on fire. This was after hundreds of anti-government Eritreans stormed the venue to prevent the event from taking place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli police also declared the gathering an illegal demonstration and ordered the street to be emptied. However, protesters “hurled rocks and wooden planks” at officers, who used riot dispersal means to clear Eritreans, some of whom vandalised shops in the area, said the police, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Injuries and arrests</strong></h2>

<p>“Officers who feared for their lives used live fire against rioters,” said the Israeli police, in a statement, adding that some 27 officers were wounded during the altercation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police have also arrested 39 suspects “who assaulted police and threw stones” at officers, with some of them carrying “weapons, tear gas, and an electrical stun gun”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli police have since ramped up security in the area amid reports of clashes between Eritreans and police, as well as between supporters and opponents of the Eritrean regime. “At this time, large police and Border Police forces continue to operate against lawbreakers in the Tel Aviv area,” said the officials, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP citing Israeli emergency service, Magen David Adom, said more than 114 people had been treated for injuries out of which eight were said to be in serious condition.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Eritreans in Israel</strong></h2>

<p>President Isaias’ government which has ruled Eritrea since it gained independence in 1993, has been condemned by human rights groups for being highly repressive while the country also remains under sanctions from both the United States and the United Kingdom for alleged abuses.</p>

<p>According to reports, Eritrea is one of the world’s most isolated states and sits near the bottom of global rankings for press freedom, human rights, civil liberties and economic development.</p>

<p>“Why did we run from our country?” a protester in Tel Aviv, Hagos Gavriot, told Reuters, “Why the Israeli police gave them a permit to celebrate...for this dictator? We are against this. Why am I here seeking a shelter?”</p>

<p>A Reuters report citing data from Assaf, an organisation that aids refugees said that around 25,500 Eritrean asylum seekers currently live in Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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More than 100 people have been injured after violent clashes broke out between the Eritrean government supporters celebrating an Eritrea Day event and opponents of President Isaias Afwerki in Israel’s financial capital city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (September 2), said a report by Reuters.

More than 100 people have been injured after violent clashes broke out between the Eritrean government supporters celebrating an Eritrea Day event and opponents of President Isaias Afwerki in Israel’s financial capital city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (September 2), said a report by Reuters. A report by news agency AFP citing police and medical sources also said that Israeli police opened fire on some demonstrators after the event turned violent. Clashes broke out during a pro-regime event, organised by the Eritrean embassy outside a south Tel Aviv venue to mark Revolution Day on September 1. The day commemorates the start of the Eritrean War of Independence against Ethiopia in 1961. What happened in Tel Aviv? According to Reuters, Israeli police fired stun grenades to break up the clashes, while some protesters hurled stones at police and set trash bins on fire. This was after hundreds of anti-government Eritreans stormed the venue to prevent the event from taking place. The Israeli police also declared the gathering an illegal demonstration and ordered the street to be emptied. However, protesters “hurled rocks and wooden planks” at officers, who used riot dispersal means to clear Eritreans, some of whom vandalised shops in the area, said the police, as per AFP. Injuries and arrests “Officers who feared for their lives used live fire against rioters,” said the Israeli police, in a statement, adding that some 27 officers were wounded during the altercation. The police have also arrested 39 suspects “who assaulted police and threw stones” at officers, with some of them carrying “weapons, tear gas, and an electrical stun gun”. Israeli police have since ramped up security in the area amid reports of clashes between Eritreans and police, as well as between supporters and opponents of the Eritrean regime. “At this time, large police and Border Police forces continue to operate against lawbreakers in the Tel Aviv area,” said the officials, in a statement. AFP citing Israeli emergency service, Magen David Adom, said more than 114 people had been treated for injuries out of which eight were said to be in serious condition. Eritreans in Israel President Isaias’ government which has ruled Eritrea since it gained independence in 1993, has been condemned by human rights groups for being highly repressive while the country also remains under sanctions from both the United States and the United Kingdom for alleged abuses. According to reports, Eritrea is one of the world’s most isolated states and sits near the bottom of global rankings for press freedom, human rights, civil liberties and economic development. “Why did we run from our country?” a protester in Tel Aviv, Hagos Gavriot, told Reuters, “Why the Israeli police gave them a permit to celebrate...for this dictator? We are against this. Why am I here seeking a shelter?” A Reuters report citing data from Assaf, an organisation that aids refugees said that around 25,500 Eritrean asylum seekers currently live in Israel. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

More than 100 injured after Eritrean protesters clash with Israeli police in Tel Aviv

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a directive, instructing all government ministries to seek his authorisation before engaging in "secret diplomatic meetings."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This move follows the recent turmoil caused by Israel's revelation of a meeting between Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and his Libyan counterpart Najla Mangoush in Rome last week.</p>

<p>In the aftermath of this meeting, the Libyan Foreign Minister Mangoush was sacked, and it also triggered protests on the streets of Tripoli.</p>

<h2><strong>Unplanned meeting or not</strong></h2>

<p>The Libyan Foreign Ministry on Monday emphasised that it had rejected an invitation from Israel for a meeting and that the interaction between the two sides was both "unplanned and incidental."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/libya-suspends-foreign-minister-after-meeting-with-israeli-foreign-minister-629864">Protests mar Libya, foreign minister suspended after meeting with Israeli counterpart</a></strong></p>

<p>It further asserted that the meeting did not involve any "deliberations, agreements, or consultations," and that Tripoli "outright rejects" the idea of normalisation with Israel.</p>

<p>However, talking to Reuters, an Israeli official denied Libya's "short and unplanned" statement and said that the meeting was in fact prearranged "at the highest levels" within Libya. The official also said that the meeting lasted for over one hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to The Associated Press, a Libyan official, revealed that the meeting lasted for approximately two hours and that Mangoush later briefed the Libyan prime minister upon her return to Tripoli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official also said that this meeting was the culmination of US-brokered efforts aimed at having Libya join a group of Arab nations, and establishing diplomatic relations with Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/child-free-zone-airline-introduces-only-adult-section-for-peaceful-flights-630273">Child-free zone: Airline introduces 'only adult' section for peaceful flights</a></strong></p>

<p>The official further revealed that the subject of normalising relations between Libya and Israel had initially been broached in a meeting involving Dbeibah and CIA Director William Burns, which took place when the latter visited the Libyan capital in January.</p>

<h2><strong>How it'll affect future efforts at normalisation</strong></h2>

<p>As per Haaretz, diplomats from Arab nations and the US believe that in the foreseeable future, the recent turmoil may have implications for efforts to foster normalisation between Israel and other Arab and Muslim countries.</p>

<p>The report goes on to say that a senior diplomat from an Arab nation maintaining ties with Israel said that this incident would erode other countries' confidence in Israeli officials.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a directive, instructing all government ministries to seek his authorisation before engaging in "secret diplomatic meetings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a directive, instructing all government ministries to seek his authorisation before engaging in "secret diplomatic meetings." This move follows the recent turmoil caused by Israel's revelation of a meeting between Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and his Libyan counterpart Najla Mangoush in Rome last week. In the aftermath of this meeting, the Libyan Foreign Minister Mangoush was sacked, and it also triggered protests on the streets of Tripoli. Unplanned meeting or not The Libyan Foreign Ministry on Monday emphasised that it had rejected an invitation from Israel for a meeting and that the interaction between the two sides was both "unplanned and incidental." Also read | Protests mar Libya, foreign minister suspended after meeting with Israeli counterpart It further asserted that the meeting did not involve any "deliberations, agreements, or consultations," and that Tripoli "outright rejects" the idea of normalisation with Israel. However, talking to Reuters, an Israeli official denied Libya's "short and unplanned" statement and said that the meeting was in fact prearranged "at the highest levels" within Libya. The official also said that the meeting lasted for over one hour. Speaking to The Associated Press, a Libyan official, revealed that the meeting lasted for approximately two hours and that Mangoush later briefed the Libyan prime minister upon her return to Tripoli. The official also said that this meeting was the culmination of US-brokered efforts aimed at having Libya join a group of Arab nations, and establishing diplomatic relations with Israel. Also read | Child-free zone: Airline introduces 'only adult' section for peaceful flights The official further revealed that the subject of normalising relations between Libya and Israel had initially been broached in a meeting involving Dbeibah and CIA Director William Burns, which took place when the latter visited the Libyan capital in January. How it'll affect future efforts at normalisation As per Haaretz, diplomats from Arab nations and the US believe that in the foreseeable future, the recent turmoil may have implications for efforts to foster normalisation between Israel and other Arab and Muslim countries. The report goes on to say that a senior diplomat from an Arab nation maintaining ties with Israel said that this incident would erode other countries' confidence in Israeli officials. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netanyahu's directive: Israeli government ministries must seek approval for 'secret diplomatic meetings'

<p>Lebanese authorities on Friday busted an “Israeli spy network” with two arrests&nbsp;at the Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport in the Lebanese capital, local media reported.</p>

<p>Two suspects were arrested at the airport while attempting to flee the country, Lebanon’s chief of public security Major General Elias Al-Bisari said, according to the Times of Israel newspaper.</p>

<p>He said that both of them were “carrying out certain operations inside Lebanon and tried to exit through the airport and were arrested.”</p>

<p>“Based on investigations and confessions, they were transferred to the competent military judiciary, and we will announce at a later stage the details about this cell that posed a threat to Lebanon,” he was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>"We carried out an investigation and determined that this cell posed a danger to Lebanon," the official further said.</p>

<p>"The fight against terrorism is a priority and the fight against spy networks set up by the Israeli enemy is an absolute priority,"&nbsp;Al-Baysari added.</p>

<h2><strong>No details provided&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>He, however, did not offer any further details of the arrest.</p>

<p>The announcement came during the seventy-eighth anniversary of General Security, during a visit to the directorate by Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-campaign-has-already-begun-selling-merchandise-featuring-his-historic-mugshot-629189">Donald Trump’s campaign team is now selling merchandise featuring his ‘historic’ mugshot</a></p>

<p>Over the years, the Lebanese security services have arrested dozens on suspicions of collaborating with Israel, with some receiving jail terms of up to 25 years.</p>

<p>In May, Turkey National Intelligence Organization and the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office claimed that they had arrested a 11-person “Mossad cell” operating in Turkey.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rolls-royce-zooming-at-200-kmph-crashes-into-oil-tanker-in-haryanas-nuh-629214">India: Rolls-Royce zooming at 200 kmph crashes into oil tanker in Haryana's Nuh</a></p>

<p>The Turkish media said that the investigation into the cell was carried out over a period of one and a half years. Turkish authorities reportedly discovered that the cell had targeted one company and 23 individuals who conducted commercial relations with Iran.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Lebanese authorities on Friday busted an “Israeli spy network” with two arrests at the Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport in the Lebanese capital, local media reported.

Lebanese authorities on Friday busted an “Israeli spy network” with two arrests at the Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport in the Lebanese capital, local media reported. Two suspects were arrested at the airport while attempting to flee the country, Lebanon’s chief of public security Major General Elias Al-Bisari said, according to the Times of Israel newspaper. He said that both of them were “carrying out certain operations inside Lebanon and tried to exit through the airport and were arrested.” “Based on investigations and confessions, they were transferred to the competent military judiciary, and we will announce at a later stage the details about this cell that posed a threat to Lebanon,” he was quoted as saying. "We carried out an investigation and determined that this cell posed a danger to Lebanon," the official further said. "The fight against terrorism is a priority and the fight against spy networks set up by the Israeli enemy is an absolute priority," Al-Baysari added. No details provided He, however, did not offer any further details of the arrest. The announcement came during the seventy-eighth anniversary of General Security, during a visit to the directorate by Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi. Also read | Donald Trump’s campaign team is now selling merchandise featuring his ‘historic’ mugshot Over the years, the Lebanese security services have arrested dozens on suspicions of collaborating with Israel, with some receiving jail terms of up to 25 years. In May, Turkey National Intelligence Organization and the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office claimed that they had arrested a 11-person “Mossad cell” operating in Turkey. Also read | India: Rolls-Royce zooming at 200 kmph crashes into oil tanker in Haryana's Nuh The Turkish media said that the investigation into the cell was carried out over a period of one and a half years. Turkish authorities reportedly discovered that the cell had targeted one company and 23 individuals who conducted commercial relations with Iran. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Lebanese authorities claim to have busted Israeli spy network, arrest 2 suspects at Beirut airport

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