US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) &nbsp;that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the &ldquo;acceptable deal&rdquo;.
&ldquo;I thought we had an acceptable deal. I even thought we had an approval from Hamas. Maybe that&rsquo;s just me getting duped. I thought we were there, and evidently we weren&rsquo;t,&rdquo; Witkoff told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-senior-political-official-his-wife-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-overnight-8882686">Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Bridge proposal&rsquo;</h2>
Witkoff&rsquo;s &ldquo;bridge&rdquo; proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This would allow time for negotiations on a permanent cessation of fighting. While Israel accepted the proposal, it said that it would have freed 11 living hostages.
Hamas, on the other hand, insisted on staying on the original terms of the deal, according to which the second phase of the truce was supposed to begin in March. However, Israel refused talks on specific terms of phase two as it requires it to fully withdraw from Gaza and bring the war to an end permanently.
Witkoff, who submitted his bridge proposal earlier this month, agreed to Israel&rsquo;s reluctance on phase two.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-slams-us-claim-it-chose-war-over-hostage-release-gaza-ceasefire-8880092">&lsquo;Distortion of facts&rsquo;: Hamas slams US claim it 'chose war' over hostage release</a>
On March 14, Hamas offered to release the last living American hostage and four bodies of other US nationals, but Witkoff called the response ineffective. Israel resumed fighting in Gaza on March 18, breaking the ceasefire after two months.
<h2>&lsquo;This is on Hamas&rsquo;</h2>
&ldquo;This is on Hamas. The United States stands with the State of Israel. That&rsquo;s a 100% commitment,&rdquo; Witkoff told Fox News. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve expressed that Hamas had every opportunity to demilitarize, to accept the bridging proposal that would have given us a 40- or 50-day ceasefire where we could have discussed demilitarization and a final truce. There were all kinds of opportunities to do that, and they elected not to.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-warns-of-new-war-after-israels-retaliatory-attacks-that-killed-two-8880073">Lebanon warns of &lsquo;new war&rsquo; after Israel&rsquo;s retaliatory attacks kill two</a>
&ldquo;This (war) becomes the alternative, and it is unfortunate,&rdquo; he said, adding that the US would be &ldquo;amenable&rdquo; if Hamas reached out again.
&ldquo;I certainly hope we get everybody back to the table and get the hostages home.&rdquo;
Witkoff earlier said on Friday (Mar 21) that the parties were already &ldquo;talking,&rdquo; after Israel resumed its attack in Gaza.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-us-strikes-on-yemen-a-crime-that-must-be-stopped-8873071">Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped'</a>
When asked about Iran recently, he reiterated his earlier statement on US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s letter to Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader Al Khamenei.
&ldquo;Our signal to Hamas and to Iran is: &lsquo;Let&rsquo;s sit down and see if we can through diplomacy get to the right place.&rsquo; If we can, we&rsquo;re prepared to do that. If we can&rsquo;t, the alternative is not a great alternative,&rdquo; Witkoff said, adding that Iran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Witkoff’s “bridge” proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the “acceptable deal”. “I thought we had an acceptable deal. I even thought we had an approval from Hamas. Maybe that’s just me getting duped. I thought we were there, and evidently we weren’t,” Witkoff told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23). Also read | Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight ‘Bridge proposal’ Witkoff’s “bridge” proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This would allow time for negotiations on a permanent cessation of fighting. While Israel accepted the proposal, it said that it would have freed 11 living hostages. Hamas, on the other hand, insisted on staying on the original terms of the deal, according to which the second phase of the truce was supposed to begin in March. However, Israel refused talks on specific terms of phase two as it requires it to fully withdraw from Gaza and bring the war to an end permanently. Witkoff, who submitted his bridge proposal earlier this month, agreed to Israel’s reluctance on phase two. Also read | ‘Distortion of facts’: Hamas slams US claim it 'chose war' over hostage release On March 14, Hamas offered to release the last living American hostage and four bodies of other US nationals, but Witkoff called the response ineffective. Israel resumed fighting in Gaza on March 18, breaking the ceasefire after two months. ‘This is on Hamas’ “This is on Hamas. The United States stands with the State of Israel. That’s a 100% commitment,” Witkoff told Fox News. “We’ve expressed that Hamas had every opportunity to demilitarize, to accept the bridging proposal that would have given us a 40- or 50-day ceasefire where we could have discussed demilitarization and a final truce. There were all kinds of opportunities to do that, and they elected not to.” Also read | Lebanon warns of ‘new war’ after Israel’s retaliatory attacks kill two “This (war) becomes the alternative, and it is unfortunate,” he said, adding that the US would be “amenable” if Hamas reached out again. “I certainly hope we get everybody back to the table and get the hostages home.” Witkoff earlier said on Friday (Mar 21) that the parties were already “talking,” after Israel resumed its attack in Gaza. Also read | Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped' When asked about Iran recently, he reiterated his earlier statement on US President Donald Trump’s letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Al Khamenei. “Our signal to Hamas and to Iran is: ‘Let’s sit down and see if we can through diplomacy get to the right place.’ If we can, we’re prepared to do that. If we can’t, the alternative is not a great alternative,” Witkoff said, adding that Iran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. (With inputs from agencies)

US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group

Hamas has strongly rejected claims by the United States that it &ldquo;chose war&rdquo; with Israel by refusing to release hostages, accusing Washington of twisting the facts.
&ldquo;The claim that &lsquo;Hamas chose war instead of releasing the hostages&rsquo; is a distortion of the facts,&rdquo; the group said in a statement on Saturday (March 22). This was in direct response to US National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes, who on Tuesday blamed Hamas for the breakdown of the ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-israel-annex-part-of-gaza-defence-minister-katz-threatens-to-capture-areas-unless-hamas-releases-hostages-8876489">Will Israel annex part of Gaza? Defence Minister Katz threatens to capture areas unless Hamas releases hostages</a>
&ldquo;Hamas could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war,&rdquo; Hughes said in an official statement.
<h2>What is happening in Gaza?</h2>
The remarks come as Israel resumes its military offensive in Gaza following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. The Israeli military has launched a fresh wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, saying the renewed action is aimed at achieving key war objectives, including the return of hostages.
According to the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the strikes follow Hamas&rsquo; repeated refusals to release remaining captives and its rejection of offers made through US envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-badar-khan-suri-all-you-need-to-know-about-his-hamas-ties-8875017">Who is Badar Khan Suri? All you need to know about his 'Hamas ties'</a>
&ldquo;From now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military force,&rdquo; Netanyahu&rsquo;s office stated, adding that the Israeli Defence Forces are currently &ldquo;attacking targets of the Hamas terrorist organisation throughout the Gaza Strip.&rdquo;
The latest round of fighting began after almost two months of relative calm under a ceasefire deal brokered with US involvement. However, negotiations to extend the truce broke down.
<h2>Reaction from hostages' families</h2>
The Israeli government&rsquo;s decision to resume military action has been met with criticism from families of hostages still held in Gaza. In a statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum accused the government of &ldquo;complete deception&rdquo; and warned the move puts the lives of the captives in further danger.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-warns-of-new-war-after-israels-retaliatory-attacks-that-killed-two-8880073">Lebanon warns of 'new war' after Israel's retaliatory attacks killed two</a>
&ldquo;The families&rsquo; greatest fear has come true &mdash; the Israeli government has chosen to give up on the abductees,&rdquo; the group said. &ldquo;We are shocked, angry and anxious about the deliberate disruption of the process to return our loved ones from Hamas captivity.&rdquo;
Protests have since been organised in response to the decision, reflecting growing public frustration with the handling of the hostage crisis.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-claims-to-have-eliminated-hamas-surveillance-chief-osama-tabash-8878658">Israel claims to have 'eliminated' Hamas surveillance chief Osama Tabash</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “The claim that ‘Hamas chose war instead of releasing the hostages’ is a distortion of the facts,” Hamas said in a statement on Saturday (March 22).

Hamas has strongly rejected claims by the United States that it “chose war” with Israel by refusing to release hostages, accusing Washington of twisting the facts. “The claim that ‘Hamas chose war instead of releasing the hostages’ is a distortion of the facts,” the group said in a statement on Saturday (March 22). This was in direct response to US National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes, who on Tuesday blamed Hamas for the breakdown of the ceasefire. Also read: Will Israel annex part of Gaza? Defence Minister Katz threatens to capture areas unless Hamas releases hostages “Hamas could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war,” Hughes said in an official statement. What is happening in Gaza? The remarks come as Israel resumes its military offensive in Gaza following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. The Israeli military has launched a fresh wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, saying the renewed action is aimed at achieving key war objectives, including the return of hostages. According to the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the strikes follow Hamas’ repeated refusals to release remaining captives and its rejection of offers made through US envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators. Also read: Who is Badar Khan Suri? All you need to know about his 'Hamas ties' “From now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military force,” Netanyahu’s office stated, adding that the Israeli Defence Forces are currently “attacking targets of the Hamas terrorist organisation throughout the Gaza Strip.” The latest round of fighting began after almost two months of relative calm under a ceasefire deal brokered with US involvement. However, negotiations to extend the truce broke down. Reaction from hostages' families The Israeli government’s decision to resume military action has been met with criticism from families of hostages still held in Gaza. In a statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum accused the government of “complete deception” and warned the move puts the lives of the captives in further danger. Also read: Lebanon warns of 'new war' after Israel's retaliatory attacks killed two “The families’ greatest fear has come true — the Israeli government has chosen to give up on the abductees,” the group said. “We are shocked, angry and anxious about the deliberate disruption of the process to return our loved ones from Hamas captivity.” Protests have since been organised in response to the decision, reflecting growing public frustration with the handling of the hostage crisis. Also read: Israel claims to have 'eliminated' Hamas surveillance chief Osama Tabash (With inputs from agencies)

‘Distortion of facts’: Hamas slams US claim it 'chose war' over hostage release

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Mar 19) held a phone call to discuss Trump's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which happened a day earlier.
In other news, Israel's military launched "targeted ground operations" in central and southern Gaza.
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine exchanged 372 soldiers in a deal brokered by the United Arab Emirates.
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World | Stay informed with our selection of the top global stories, providing a diverse range of news that captures the pulse of international events and developments.

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Mar 19) held a phone call to discuss Trump's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which happened a day earlier. In other news, Israel's military launched "targeted ground operations" in central and southern Gaza. Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine exchanged 372 soldiers in a deal brokered by the United Arab Emirates. Click on the headlines for more 'To align Russia, Ukraine on their requests': Trump, Zelensky hold phone call to discuss Putin's call US President Donald Trump held a telephone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (March 19), which lasted for about an hour. The two leaders discussed Trump's yesterday call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Israel army says launched 'targeted ground operations' in Gaza Israel's military said Wednesday that it had launched "targeted ground operations" in Gaza after conducting a series of air strikes on a scale not seen since a ceasefire began in January. Russia and Ukraine swap 372 POWs in latest exchange, defence ministry confirms Russia and Ukraine successfully exchanged 372 soldiers in a prisoner swap brokered by the United Arab Emirates, said the Russian defence ministry's on Wednesday (Mar 19). Did US State Department 'ignore' a grave warning that could have saved JFK? Here's what the document reveals As US President Donald Trump's administration released the final set of JFK files on Tuesday (March 18), it came to light that the State Department was allegedly warned about assassin Lee Harvey Oswald's plan to assassinate John F Kennedy months before the incident. Ukraine not expected to participate in Riyadh US-Russia talks, says Zelensky’s aide Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's aide Mykhailo Podolyak, on Wednesday (Mar 19), said that talks scheduled for Sunday in Saudi Arabia will be a bilateral affair between the US and Russia, with no plans for Ukraine's participation. 'Existential problem': Philippines plans to procure more missiles from India after BrahMos amid China threat Philippines Army chief Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr on Wednesday (March 19) said that the country is exploring more platforms including missile systems, fighter aircraft and ships after getting BrahMos missiles from India as China is currently an "existential problem" for them. ‘They want to kill me’: Musk claims ‘bad people’ want to assassinate him, ‘hurt’ Tesla The world’s richest man, Elon Musk, has publicly addressed the alleged conspiracy to assassinate him and destroy his electric vehicle company, Tesla. What’s next for Sunita Williams on Earth after nine-month stay in Space? NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore finally came back to Earth on March 18 after their extended nine-month stay on the Internation Space Station (ISS). What’s next for Williams and her fellow astronauts? Did Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava influence the violence in Nagpur? Fans of the actor defend film on social media Vicky Kaushal and his latest film Chhaava is being blamed for the recent riots in Nagpur. Communal violence broke out in the city in Maharashtra on March 17 due to protests against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. Curfew has been imposed and the alleged mastermind has been arrested. On Tuesday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured the situation was being tackled. He also mentioned how the recent Bollywood blockbuster Chhaava reignited people's emotions against the Mughal emperor. Exclusive | IPL 2025: 'Hopefully, I can be half the player he was’ – Delhi Capitals' Tristan Stubbs on praise from AB de Villiers In the high-stakes world of T20 cricket, young talents emerge from the shadows, leaving fans and pundits in awe. One such rising star is Tristan Stubbs, the South African all-rounder who has been making waves with his explosive batting and confident gameplay. As he gears up for the upcoming Indian Premier League season, expectations are high, and the excitement surrounding his performances continues to grow.

Top 10 world news: Trump and Zelensky hold phone call; Israel launches 'ground operation' in Gaza, and more

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Wednesday on the recent strikes and the developing situation in Gaza.
The MEA said that it is concerned about the situation and stressed upon the importance of the release of the hostages.
MEA gave a call for the supply of humanitarian assistance to continue for the people of Gaza.
"We are concerned at the situation in Gaza. It is important that all hostages are released. We also call for supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza to be sustained", the MEA said.
In the early hours of Tuesday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) had announced about conducting "extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas" in the Gaza Strip.
The IDF said, "In accordance with the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip."
In a series of posts on X, the Israel Prime Minister's Office explained that the strikes were conducted after the instructions from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz, due to Hamas's repeated refusal to release hostages, its rejection of all of the proposals received from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and from the mediators.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-the-beginning-netanyahu-vows-more-strikes-as-gaza-death-toll-soars-to-over-400-8867721">'Only the beginning': Netanyahu vows more strikes as Gaza death toll soars to over 400</a>
"Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength", the Prime Minister's Office wrote on X.
In an operational update on Wednesday, the IDF shared that it struck a Hamas military site in Gaza at night where preparations were being made to fire projectiles into Israel.
IDF further added that the Israeli Navy also struck several vessels along the coastal areas of Gaza which as per them were intended to be used for conducting terrorist activities by the groups, Hamas and Islamic Jihad.
"The IDF struck a Hamas military site in northern Gaza overnight where preparations were being made to fire projectiles at Israeli territory. In addition, the Israeli Navy struck several vessels in the coastal area of Gaza. These vessels were intended to be used for terrorist activities by Hamas and the Islamic Jihad", IDF wrote on X.
As per Al Jazeera, at least 14 people have been killed in the overnight and early morning Israeli attacks on Gaza.
Al Jazeera reported on Wednesday that Israel launched overnight strikes on Tuesday, which resulted in the death of more than 400 people and injured hundreds more.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | India news | In the early hours of Tuesday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) had announced about conducting "extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas" in the Gaza Strip.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Wednesday on the recent strikes and the developing situation in Gaza. The MEA said that it is concerned about the situation and stressed upon the importance of the release of the hostages. MEA gave a call for the supply of humanitarian assistance to continue for the people of Gaza. "We are concerned at the situation in Gaza. It is important that all hostages are released. We also call for supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza to be sustained", the MEA said. In the early hours of Tuesday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) had announced about conducting "extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas" in the Gaza Strip. The IDF said, "In accordance with the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip." In a series of posts on X, the Israel Prime Minister's Office explained that the strikes were conducted after the instructions from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz, due to Hamas's repeated refusal to release hostages, its rejection of all of the proposals received from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and from the mediators. Also read | 'Only the beginning': Netanyahu vows more strikes as Gaza death toll soars to over 400 "Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength", the Prime Minister's Office wrote on X. In an operational update on Wednesday, the IDF shared that it struck a Hamas military site in Gaza at night where preparations were being made to fire projectiles into Israel. IDF further added that the Israeli Navy also struck several vessels along the coastal areas of Gaza which as per them were intended to be used for conducting terrorist activities by the groups, Hamas and Islamic Jihad. "The IDF struck a Hamas military site in northern Gaza overnight where preparations were being made to fire projectiles at Israeli territory. In addition, the Israeli Navy struck several vessels in the coastal area of Gaza. These vessels were intended to be used for terrorist activities by Hamas and the Islamic Jihad", IDF wrote on X. As per Al Jazeera, at least 14 people have been killed in the overnight and early morning Israeli attacks on Gaza. Al Jazeera reported on Wednesday that Israel launched overnight strikes on Tuesday, which resulted in the death of more than 400 people and injured hundreds more. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Concerned at the situation in Gaza': India on Israeli strikes

A team of Israeli negotiators is holding talks on the hostage issue with Egyptian mediators in Egypt, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s office said on Sunday (Mar 16).
&ldquo;Under the directive of Prime Minister Netanyahu, representatives of the negotiation team are currently meeting in Egypt with senior Egyptian officials to discuss the issue of the hostages,&rdquo; the statement released by the PM&rsquo;s office said. This comes a day after Israel announced that a team would continue indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-gaza-9-killed-including-journalists-hamas-calls-attack-blatant-violation-of-ceasefire-8856513">Israel strikes Gaza: 9 killed, including journalists; Hamas calls attack 'blatant violation' of ceasefire</a>
The negotiators returned from Doha on Friday (Mar 14) after unsuccessful attempts to extend the ceasefire with the Palestinian militant group in exchange for the release of more hostages held in Gaza.
Israel has backed a proposal by US special envoy Steve Witkoff to free half of the hostages at the beginning of an extended ceasefire, which would last at least through the Passover holiday. The remaining hostages could be released at the end of the ceasefire if a deal is reached to end the war in Gaza, reported The Times of Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-netanyahu-approach-3-african-nations-to-resettle-gazans-2-of-them-immediately-rebuffed-8854678">Trump's 'beautiful area' for Gazans? US, Israel eyeing three 'poor' African nations to resettle Palestinians</a>
<h2>IDF targets operative in central Gaza</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it carried out a drone strike against a terror operative who was trying to plant explosives in the ground in central Gaza&rsquo;s Netzarim Corridor area, close to where Israeli troops are operating, reported The Times of Israel.
The IDF said that it has carried out multiple strikes against Hamas operatives who were trying to plant bombs in recent weeks amid the ceasefire.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-cars-netanyahu-to-buy-electric-cars-from-elon-musks-tesla-for-israeli-officials-8852513">'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials</a>
<h2>Netanyahu plans to fire internal security agency chief</h2>
Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 16) announced intentions to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet, the country's internal security agency, Ronen Bar.
&ldquo;Due to ongoing lack of trust, I have decided to bring a proposal to the government to end the tenure of the Shin Bet chief,&rdquo; the prime minister said in a statement.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Middle East: The negotiators returned from Doha on Friday (Mar 14) after unsuccessful attempts to extend the ceasefire with the Palestinian militant group in exchange for release of more hostages held in Gaza.

A team of Israeli negotiators is holding talks on the hostage issue with Egyptian mediators in Egypt, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said on Sunday (Mar 16). “Under the directive of Prime Minister Netanyahu, representatives of the negotiation team are currently meeting in Egypt with senior Egyptian officials to discuss the issue of the hostages,” the statement released by the PM’s office said. This comes a day after Israel announced that a team would continue indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. Also read | Israel strikes Gaza: 9 killed, including journalists; Hamas calls attack 'blatant violation' of ceasefire The negotiators returned from Doha on Friday (Mar 14) after unsuccessful attempts to extend the ceasefire with the Palestinian militant group in exchange for the release of more hostages held in Gaza. Israel has backed a proposal by US special envoy Steve Witkoff to free half of the hostages at the beginning of an extended ceasefire, which would last at least through the Passover holiday. The remaining hostages could be released at the end of the ceasefire if a deal is reached to end the war in Gaza, reported The Times of Israel. Also read | Trump's 'beautiful area' for Gazans? US, Israel eyeing three 'poor' African nations to resettle Palestinians IDF targets operative in central Gaza Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it carried out a drone strike against a terror operative who was trying to plant explosives in the ground in central Gaza’s Netzarim Corridor area, close to where Israeli troops are operating, reported The Times of Israel. The IDF said that it has carried out multiple strikes against Hamas operatives who were trying to plant bombs in recent weeks amid the ceasefire. Also read | 'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials Netanyahu plans to fire internal security agency chief Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 16) announced intentions to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet, the country's internal security agency, Ronen Bar. “Due to ongoing lack of trust, I have decided to bring a proposal to the government to end the tenure of the Shin Bet chief,” the prime minister said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli negotiators hold hostage talks in Egypt; Netanyahu plans to dismiss Shin Bet chief

Passengers on an Air Canada flight from Vancouver to Toronto, on Monday (Mar 10), found out that Israel had been erased from the in-flight interactive map and replaced by "Palestinian Territories".
Responding to this, the Canadian flag carrier released a statement saying that the relabeling was because of a &ldquo;display issue.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Air Canada has been made aware of a display issue with the interactive map on the IFE systems of its B737 aircraft,&rdquo; it said in a reply on X to an image shared by a passenger of the altered in-flight map.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m84rshcl-ocot4geu-atwniax0">
A passenger snapped this photo on an Air Canada flight from Vancouver to Toronto today, showing that the airline's map no longer includes Israel<a href="https://twitter.com/AirCanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirCanada</a> Care To Explain? <a href="https://t.co/wqrmPgBB4Y">pic.twitter.com/wqrmPgBB4Y</a>
&mdash; Am Yisrael Chai 🇮🇱🎗 (@kyg_best) <a href="https://twitter.com/kyg_best/status/1898946917884936649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;The issue has affected other carriers using the same system and we are working with the third-party provider on a remedy,&rdquo; the statement added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m84rsoug-gflh1e2v-ieb4f4rn">
Air Canada has been made aware of a display issue with the interactive map on the IFE systems of its B737 aircraft. The issue has affected other carriers using the same system and we are working with the third-party provider on a remedy.
&mdash; Air Canada (@AirCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/AirCanada/status/1899164766423101447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
In a similar incident last September, JetBlue passengers discovered that Israel had been removed from the in-flight interactive map. The airline attributed the change to a third-party map provider and, following a review, decided to switch to a new map vendor.
<h2>Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza.
The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave.
"I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement.
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added.
<h2>Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza</h2>
Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end.
The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting.
The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In a similar incident last September, JetBlue passengers found that Israel had been removed from the in-flight interactive map. The airline attributed the change to a third-party map provider and later decided to switch to a new map vendor.

Passengers on an Air Canada flight from Vancouver to Toronto, on Monday (Mar 10), found out that Israel had been erased from the in-flight interactive map and replaced by "Palestinian Territories". Responding to this, the Canadian flag carrier released a statement saying that the relabeling was because of a “display issue.” “Air Canada has been made aware of a display issue with the interactive map on the IFE systems of its B737 aircraft,” it said in a reply on X to an image shared by a passenger of the altered in-flight map. A passenger snapped this photo on an Air Canada flight from Vancouver to Toronto today, showing that the airline's map no longer includes Israel@AirCanada Care To Explain? pic.twitter.com/wqrmPgBB4Y — Am Yisrael Chai 🇮🇱🎗 (@kyg_best) March 10, 2025 “The issue has affected other carriers using the same system and we are working with the third-party provider on a remedy,” the statement added. Air Canada has been made aware of a display issue with the interactive map on the IFE systems of its B737 aircraft. The issue has affected other carriers using the same system and we are working with the third-party provider on a remedy. — Air Canada (@AirCanada) March 10, 2025 In a similar incident last September, JetBlue passengers discovered that Israel had been removed from the in-flight interactive map. The airline attributed the change to a third-party map provider and, following a review, decided to switch to a new map vendor. Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza Meanwhile, Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza. The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave. "I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement. "We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added. Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end. The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting. The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Air Canada in-flight map relabels Israel as ‘Palestinian Territories’, calls it ‘display issue’

Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar.
"The (Israeli) occupation continues to renege on the agreement and refuses to commence the second phase, exposing its intentions of evasion and stalling," the Palestinian militant group said in a statement.
Hamas, on Monday, said that it was displaying &ldquo;flexibility&rdquo; in Gaza ceasefire deal talks with its mediators as it awaits results of the negotiations by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States with Israel.
&ldquo;We dealt flexibly with the efforts made by mediators and [US President Donald] Trump&rsquo;s envoy, and we await the results of the upcoming negotiations and oblige [Israel] to agree and go to the second phase,&rdquo; the Palestinian militant group said, according to The Times of Israel.
Hamas said that the negotiations are centred around ending the war, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and reconstruction of the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cuts-electricity-supply-to-gaza-as-it-looks-to-pile-pressure-on-hamas-will-use-all-tools-to-bring-back-hostages-8837428">Also read: Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza, says &lsquo;will use all tools to bring back hostages&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza</h2>
Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza.
The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave.
"I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement.
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added.
<h2>Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza</h2>
Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end.
The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter, and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting.
The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
Following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 251 people were taken captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza.&nbsp;
The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza.

Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar. "The (Israeli) occupation continues to renege on the agreement and refuses to commence the second phase, exposing its intentions of evasion and stalling," the Palestinian militant group said in a statement. Hamas, on Monday, said that it was displaying “flexibility” in Gaza ceasefire deal talks with its mediators as it awaits results of the negotiations by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States with Israel. “We dealt flexibly with the efforts made by mediators and [US President Donald] Trump’s envoy, and we await the results of the upcoming negotiations and oblige [Israel] to agree and go to the second phase,” the Palestinian militant group said, according to The Times of Israel. Hamas said that the negotiations are centred around ending the war, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and reconstruction of the besieged Palestinian enclave. Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza. Also read: Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza, says ‘will use all tools to bring back hostages’ Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza. The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave. "I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement. "We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added. Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end. The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter, and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting. The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. Following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 251 people were taken captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead. (With inputs from agencies)

'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal

US President Donald Trump invited freed Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi to meet him this week, Sharabi&rsquo;s brother told Israeli media on Sunday (Mar 2).
Sharon Sharabi said that Trump will meet his brother at the White House on Tuesday (Mar 4) along with other released captives, whom he did not name. He was invited after the US president watched him describe the violence and severe hunger he endured on Israeli television.
Eli Sharabi was released from Gaza after being held hostage for 16 months by Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-demands-implementation-of-second-ceasefire-phase-8770220">Hamas demands implementation of second ceasefire phase</a>
Excerpts from his interview on Israel&rsquo;s Channel 12 &ldquo;were shown to Trump, with English subtitles, and he was shocked once again, but also expressed great sympathy for those who survived captivity,&rdquo; his brother said, according to Israeli newspaper Haaretz.
Sharabi and two other hostages, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, were released on February 8 after being in captivity for nearly 500 days. Their health condition outraged Israelis and Trump.&nbsp;
In the television interview, Sharabi described his experience in captivity. He recalled being tied up, losing consciousness, and dealing with extreme hunger.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accepts-us-backed-temporary-ceasefire-for-ramadan-hamas-rejects-proposal-8770062">Netanyahu accepts US-backed temporary ceasefire for Ramzan in Gaza, Hamas rejects proposal</a>
&ldquo;I remember not being able to fall asleep because of the pain,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;The ropes are already digging into your flesh, and every movement makes you want to scream.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump donor to facilitate trip</h2>
According to his brother, Sharabi will fly to the US aboard a plane provided by Miriam Adelson, a major Trump donor. However, there was no confirmation from the US or Israeli officials about the meeting.
&ldquo;Tomorrow morning, we&rsquo;re boarding the plane with Mrs Adelson&rsquo;s kind help. We&rsquo;ll arrive to see Trump and explain to him up close the urgency of continuing the first stage or beginning the second stage &ndash; it doesn&rsquo;t really matter,&rdquo; Sharon Sharabi said, referring to the fragile ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-updates-israel-hamas-war-news-israeli-hostages-benjamin-netanyahu-8769641">'Only ceasefire can bring them alive': Hamas releases video of hostages; Netanyahu says 'won't&nbsp;be&nbsp;deterred'</a>
<h2>Who is Eli Sharabi?</h2>
Eli Sharabi was kidnapped from his home in Be&rsquo;eri kibbutz by the amed group during the October 7, 2023, attack. His family dog was shot while his British-born wife Lianne and two teenage daughters were locked in a safe room, which was set on fire. Sharabi learned that his family was killed that day after his release.
Sharabi&rsquo;s other brother, Yossi, was also taken hostage the same day. He died early last year in captivity when the Israeli army bombed a building close to where he was being held, according to the Israeli military.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Sharabi and two other hostages, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, were released on February 8 after being in captivity for nearly 500 days. Their health condition outraged Israelis and Trump.

US President Donald Trump invited freed Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi to meet him this week, Sharabi’s brother told Israeli media on Sunday (Mar 2). Sharon Sharabi said that Trump will meet his brother at the White House on Tuesday (Mar 4) along with other released captives, whom he did not name. He was invited after the US president watched him describe the violence and severe hunger he endured on Israeli television. Eli Sharabi was released from Gaza after being held hostage for 16 months by Palestinian militant group Hamas. Also read | Hamas demands implementation of second ceasefire phase Excerpts from his interview on Israel’s Channel 12 “were shown to Trump, with English subtitles, and he was shocked once again, but also expressed great sympathy for those who survived captivity,” his brother said, according to Israeli newspaper Haaretz. Sharabi and two other hostages, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, were released on February 8 after being in captivity for nearly 500 days. Their health condition outraged Israelis and Trump. In the television interview, Sharabi described his experience in captivity. He recalled being tied up, losing consciousness, and dealing with extreme hunger. Also read | Netanyahu accepts US-backed temporary ceasefire for Ramzan in Gaza, Hamas rejects proposal “I remember not being able to fall asleep because of the pain,” he said. “The ropes are already digging into your flesh, and every movement makes you want to scream.” Trump donor to facilitate trip According to his brother, Sharabi will fly to the US aboard a plane provided by Miriam Adelson, a major Trump donor. However, there was no confirmation from the US or Israeli officials about the meeting. “Tomorrow morning, we’re boarding the plane with Mrs Adelson’s kind help. We’ll arrive to see Trump and explain to him up close the urgency of continuing the first stage or beginning the second stage – it doesn’t really matter,” Sharon Sharabi said, referring to the fragile ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Also read | 'Only ceasefire can bring them alive': Hamas releases video of hostages; Netanyahu says 'won't be deterred' Who is Eli Sharabi? Eli Sharabi was kidnapped from his home in Be’eri kibbutz by the amed group during the October 7, 2023, attack. His family dog was shot while his British-born wife Lianne and two teenage daughters were locked in a safe room, which was set on fire. Sharabi learned that his family was killed that day after his release. Sharabi’s other brother, Yossi, was also taken hostage the same day. He died early last year in captivity when the Israeli army bombed a building close to where he was being held, according to the Israeli military. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump invites freed Israeli hostage to White House after he recounts days in captivity

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on Sunday (Mar 2) that the Egyptian Gaza reconstruction plan is ready and will be presented to the emergency Arab summit on March 4. The plan ensures Palestinians remain in their land.
Arab states have rejected US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s idea to take over Gaza and resettle Palestinians and have agreed upon a diplomatic offensive to counter his plan.
Trump announced the plan on February 4 amid the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, infuriating Palestinians and Arab nations and upending decades of US diplomacy focused on a two-state solution.
According to Abdelatty, the counter-reconstruction plan by Egypt will not just be Egyptian or Arab but will attract global support and funding to ensure its successful implementation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-fully-coordinated-with-trump-to-extend-phase-one-of-gaza-ceasefire-for-50-days-says-netanyahu-8771452">Israel &lsquo;fully coordinated&rsquo; with Trump to extend phase one of Gaza ceasefire for 50 days, says Netanyahu</a>
&ldquo;We will hold intensive talks with major donor countries once the plan is adopted at the upcoming Arab Summit,&rdquo; Abdelatty said at a news conference with the European Union Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka &Scaron;uica.
He added that Europe&rsquo;s role is critical, especially in economic aspects, to rebuild the war-torn region.
On the ceasefire deal, Abdelatty said that Egypt will continue its efforts to make sure the truce is maintained and negotiations for the second phase of the deal can start.
&ldquo;The first phase has concluded successfully, and now we must shift to discussions on the second phase, which is key to sustaining the ceasefire,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;Naturally, it will be difficult, but with goodwill and political determination, it can be achieved.&rdquo;
Abdelatty said that after the emergency Arab Summit takes place, an urgent ministerial meeting in Saudi Arabia for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will be held where foreign ministers will present the summit&rsquo;s outcomes globally.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-suspension-of-aid-into-gaza-over-hamas-refusal-to-extend-ceasefires-1st-phase-threatens-consequences-8770552">Warnings of famine risk in Gaza &lsquo;a lie&rsquo;, says Israel as it suspends aid into Gaza over ceasefire extension</a>
&ldquo;We will ensure that the results of the Arab summit are presented to the world in the best possible way,&rdquo; Abdelatty added.
<h2>Cairo proposes two-week extension of first truce phase</h2>
Qatari-owned newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, citing Egyptian sources, reported that Cairo has proposed to Israel and Hamas to extend the first phase of the ceasefire by two weeks. This will include the release of six Israeli hostages.
However, The Times of Israel reported that an Israeli official said he has no knowledge of such a proposal.
&ldquo;We aren&rsquo;t familiar with anything like that,&rdquo; the official told The Times of Israel.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Arab states have rejected US President Donald Trump’s idea to take over Gaza and resettle Palestinians and have agreed upon a diplomatic offensive to counter his plan.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on Sunday (Mar 2) that the Egyptian Gaza reconstruction plan is ready and will be presented to the emergency Arab summit on March 4. The plan ensures Palestinians remain in their land. Arab states have rejected US President Donald Trump’s idea to take over Gaza and resettle Palestinians and have agreed upon a diplomatic offensive to counter his plan. Trump announced the plan on February 4 amid the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, infuriating Palestinians and Arab nations and upending decades of US diplomacy focused on a two-state solution. According to Abdelatty, the counter-reconstruction plan by Egypt will not just be Egyptian or Arab but will attract global support and funding to ensure its successful implementation. Also read | Israel ‘fully coordinated’ with Trump to extend phase one of Gaza ceasefire for 50 days, says Netanyahu “We will hold intensive talks with major donor countries once the plan is adopted at the upcoming Arab Summit,” Abdelatty said at a news conference with the European Union Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica. He added that Europe’s role is critical, especially in economic aspects, to rebuild the war-torn region. On the ceasefire deal, Abdelatty said that Egypt will continue its efforts to make sure the truce is maintained and negotiations for the second phase of the deal can start. “The first phase has concluded successfully, and now we must shift to discussions on the second phase, which is key to sustaining the ceasefire,” he said. “Naturally, it will be difficult, but with goodwill and political determination, it can be achieved.” Abdelatty said that after the emergency Arab Summit takes place, an urgent ministerial meeting in Saudi Arabia for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will be held where foreign ministers will present the summit’s outcomes globally. Also read | Warnings of famine risk in Gaza ‘a lie’, says Israel as it suspends aid into Gaza over ceasefire extension “We will ensure that the results of the Arab summit are presented to the world in the best possible way,” Abdelatty added. Cairo proposes two-week extension of first truce phase Qatari-owned newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, citing Egyptian sources, reported that Cairo has proposed to Israel and Hamas to extend the first phase of the ceasefire by two weeks. This will include the release of six Israeli hostages. However, The Times of Israel reported that an Israeli official said he has no knowledge of such a proposal. “We aren’t familiar with anything like that,” the official told The Times of Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt to present Gaza reconstruction plan at Arab summit, intensify efforts for ceasefire phase two

Israeli authorities on Thursday (Feb 27) confirmed the identities of the four Israeli hostages whose remains were handed over by Hamas. The Palestinian militant group exchanged the remains of hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal that has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;
Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the hostages&rsquo; families, said it had &ldquo;received with profound sorrow the news about the identification of Itzik Elgarat, Tsachi Idan, Shlomo Mansour, and Ohad Yahalomi.&rdquo; It added that all four men were murdered.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-no-choice-but-to-start-ceasefire-2nd-phase-negotiations-8760350">Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations</a>
The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel.
Five Thai hostages were also released outside the scope of the agreement.
<h2>Who are the hostages identified?</h2>
<h3>Ohad Yahalomi, 49</h3>
A French-Israeli national, Ohad Yahalomi, was taken from his home in Nir Oz kibbutz. His 12-year-old son Eitan was also abducted by Hamas separately and was released in November 2023. He has been described as an outdoors lover and an expert on scorpions.
His wife, Bat-Sheva Yahalomi, said that their family sought shelter in the safe room, but her husband was guarding the outside with a gun as the door would not close. He was wounded and taken hostage from outside their home.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
The attackers also tried to take her and their two daughters, but they managed to escape.
A group allied to Hamas announced that Ohad Yahalomi was dead in January 2024, however, the information was not confirmed by the Israeli army. Until the exchange late Wednesday (Feb 26), he had been listed as alive.
<h3>Tsachi Idan, 49</h3>
Tsachi Idan, who lived in Nahal Oz kibbutz, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023. He hid with his wife, Gali Idan, and three of their four children in their safe room.&nbsp;
His 18-year-old daughter Maayan Idan was shot dead in front of him when the attackers shot through the door. The attack was broadcast live on Facebook by the militant group.
&ldquo;He will come back,&rdquo; his abductors told his family while taking him away.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-officials-say-4-israel-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-thursday-8758543">Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight'</a>
&ldquo;I love you,&rdquo; his wife said. &ldquo;Don't play the hero, be smart. Take care of yourself and come back to me in one piece.&rdquo;
Idan had also been listed as alive until Wednesday. Before being seized by Hamas, he worked as an IT systems developer for restaurants.
<h3>Itzik Elgarat, 68</h3>
A Danish-Israeli, Itzik Elgarat, was captured by Hamas after being shot in the hand during the attack on his kibbutz, Nir Oz, according to his brother Daniel Elgarat.&nbsp;
His brother was the last person who was in contact with him. His phone showed it was in Gaza.
Elgarat lived in Denmark for 12 years, where his two children live, and had visited them shortly before the attack. He was a fan of the Maccabi Tel Aviv football team and had been listed as alive until Wednesday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-israel-withdrawal-from-philadelphi-corridor-in-gaza-8762182">Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won&rsquo;t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza</a>
<h3>Shlomo Mansour, 85</h3>
Born in Iraq, Shlomo Mansour was one of the founders of the henhouse in Kissufim kibbutz and took care of it for many years. He was abducted from this small community on October 7, 2023.
His wife, Mazal Mansour, with whom he lived for 60 years, managed to escape.&nbsp;
A handyman, he had five children and enjoyed gardening and repairing his grandchildren's toys.
In February 2024, Israel confirmed that Mansour had been killed on October 7, 2023, and that his body had been taken to the Gaza Strip.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Middle East: The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel.

Israeli authorities on Thursday (Feb 27) confirmed the identities of the four Israeli hostages whose remains were handed over by Hamas. The Palestinian militant group exchanged the remains of hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal that has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war. Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the hostages’ families, said it had “received with profound sorrow the news about the identification of Itzik Elgarat, Tsachi Idan, Shlomo Mansour, and Ohad Yahalomi.” It added that all four men were murdered. Also read | Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel. Five Thai hostages were also released outside the scope of the agreement. Who are the hostages identified? Ohad Yahalomi, 49 A French-Israeli national, Ohad Yahalomi, was taken from his home in Nir Oz kibbutz. His 12-year-old son Eitan was also abducted by Hamas separately and was released in November 2023. He has been described as an outdoors lover and an expert on scorpions. His wife, Bat-Sheva Yahalomi, said that their family sought shelter in the safe room, but her husband was guarding the outside with a gun as the door would not close. He was wounded and taken hostage from outside their home. Also read | Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu The attackers also tried to take her and their two daughters, but they managed to escape. A group allied to Hamas announced that Ohad Yahalomi was dead in January 2024, however, the information was not confirmed by the Israeli army. Until the exchange late Wednesday (Feb 26), he had been listed as alive. Tsachi Idan, 49 Tsachi Idan, who lived in Nahal Oz kibbutz, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023. He hid with his wife, Gali Idan, and three of their four children in their safe room. His 18-year-old daughter Maayan Idan was shot dead in front of him when the attackers shot through the door. The attack was broadcast live on Facebook by the militant group. “He will come back,” his abductors told his family while taking him away. Also read | Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight' “I love you,” his wife said. “Don't play the hero, be smart. Take care of yourself and come back to me in one piece.” Idan had also been listed as alive until Wednesday. Before being seized by Hamas, he worked as an IT systems developer for restaurants. Itzik Elgarat, 68 A Danish-Israeli, Itzik Elgarat, was captured by Hamas after being shot in the hand during the attack on his kibbutz, Nir Oz, according to his brother Daniel Elgarat. His brother was the last person who was in contact with him. His phone showed it was in Gaza. Elgarat lived in Denmark for 12 years, where his two children live, and had visited them shortly before the attack. He was a fan of the Maccabi Tel Aviv football team and had been listed as alive until Wednesday. Also read | Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won’t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza Shlomo Mansour, 85 Born in Iraq, Shlomo Mansour was one of the founders of the henhouse in Kissufim kibbutz and took care of it for many years. He was abducted from this small community on October 7, 2023. His wife, Mazal Mansour, with whom he lived for 60 years, managed to escape. A handyman, he had five children and enjoyed gardening and repairing his grandchildren's toys. In February 2024, Israel confirmed that Mansour had been killed on October 7, 2023, and that his body had been taken to the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Don’t play hero’: Widows, children mourn as Hamas returns four Israeli hostages’ bodies - Who were they?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday (Feb 23) that his country was ready "at any moment" to resume fighting in Gaza against Hamas.
He also warned that Israel would complete the war's objectives "whether through negotiation or by other means."
"We are prepared to resume intense fighting at any moment, our operational plans are ready," Netanyahu said at a ceremony for combat officers, a day after Israel halted the release of Palestinian prisoners, which was due as part of a truce deal.&nbsp;
"In Gaza, we have eliminated most of Hamas's organised forces, but let there be no doubt&mdash;we will complete the war's objectives entirely&mdash;whether through negotiation or by other means," he added.
This comes after the Palestinian militant group accused Israel of jeopardizing the five-week-old ceasefire by suspending the release of prisoners.&nbsp;
The ceasefire, which began on January 19, has largely halted over 15 months of devastating conflict in the besieged Palestinian enclave.
The initial phase of the truce is set to expire early in March, but no negotiations have begun for the next phase, which aims to bring a lasting end to the conflict sparked by Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;
Tel Aviv was expected to release over 600 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday in exchange for six Israeli hostages freed by Hamas militants in Gaza.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-of-september-airstrike-that-killed-nasrallah-on-day-of-his-funeral-8750144">Also read: IDF releases footage of September airstrike that killed Nasrallah on day of his funeral</a>
But Netanyahu said that the prisoner release would be delayed until Hamas stops its "humiliating ceremonies" during the release of Israeli hostages.
Hamas accused Tel Aviv of endangering the five-week-old Gaza truce after the government halted the release of Palestinian prisoners.
"By postponing the release of our Palestinian prisoners according to the phase one ceasefire agreement, the enemy government is acting rampantly and exposing the entire agreement to grave danger," senior Hamas official Bassem Naim said in a statement.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The initial phase of the truce is set to expire early in March, but no negotiations have begun for the next phase, which aims to bring a lasting end to the conflict sparked by Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday (Feb 23) that his country was ready "at any moment" to resume fighting in Gaza against Hamas. He also warned that Israel would complete the war's objectives "whether through negotiation or by other means." "We are prepared to resume intense fighting at any moment, our operational plans are ready," Netanyahu said at a ceremony for combat officers, a day after Israel halted the release of Palestinian prisoners, which was due as part of a truce deal. "In Gaza, we have eliminated most of Hamas's organised forces, but let there be no doubt—we will complete the war's objectives entirely—whether through negotiation or by other means," he added. This comes after the Palestinian militant group accused Israel of jeopardizing the five-week-old ceasefire by suspending the release of prisoners. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, has largely halted over 15 months of devastating conflict in the besieged Palestinian enclave. The initial phase of the truce is set to expire early in March, but no negotiations have begun for the next phase, which aims to bring a lasting end to the conflict sparked by Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Tel Aviv was expected to release over 600 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday in exchange for six Israeli hostages freed by Hamas militants in Gaza. Also read: IDF releases footage of September airstrike that killed Nasrallah on day of his funeral But Netanyahu said that the prisoner release would be delayed until Hamas stops its "humiliating ceremonies" during the release of Israeli hostages. Hamas accused Tel Aviv of endangering the five-week-old Gaza truce after the government halted the release of Palestinian prisoners. "By postponing the release of our Palestinian prisoners according to the phase one ceasefire agreement, the enemy government is acting rampantly and exposing the entire agreement to grave danger," senior Hamas official Bassem Naim said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu says Israel ready to resume Gaza fighting ‘at any moment‘

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack".
In other news, Israel on Thursday said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas.
Meanwhile, the police on Thursday arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-bat-yam-hit-by-multiple-bus-explosions-in-suspected-terrorist-attack-8742042">Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/3oZQC7U2I3AyuTHIwiCx.png" alt=" Security forces and bomb disposal units are deployed to the scene of a bus explosion in Bat Yam on February 20, 2025. Israeli police said that bombs on three buses exploded in the central city of Bat Yam on February 20, 2025 evening, with a local official saying there were no injuries. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to hold a security meeting.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/Cx4VsTxmdimETOHEK5ss.png" alt=" People carry a placard bearing the pictures of Oded Lifshitz and members of the Bibas family, hours after the Palestinian group Hamas handed over the bodies of who it said were those of the four hostages, on February 20, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israel on Thursday (Feb 20) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons &mdash; the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7&mdash; in captivity.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kiit-suicide-five-more-arrested-for-allegedly-assaulting-nepalese-students-8741974">KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/19/O6oOkC3iKmuypj7rqPT4.jpg" alt=" KIIT University campus Photograph: (X@KIITUniversity) ">
The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50000-employees-of-us-defense-department-could-be-laid-off-in-trump-musk-efforts-to-cut-federal-cost-report-8741987">Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/ViHjdYd2g4YF3U5x2W4x.png" alt=" A federal judge in the United State (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. Photograph: (AFP) ">
A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21).
Watch | White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2102_WION_PRESSER_830AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2102_WION_PRESSER_830AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=133&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal" id="PL_iframe_block-m7e9ognz-cnarfet4-jyt49tqd"></iframe>
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Kickstart your morning with WION's concise news brief, bringing you the latest headlines and updates to keep you informed and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In other news, Israel on Thursday said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas. Meanwhile, the police on Thursday arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students. Click on the headlines for more Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack' Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to hold a security meeting. Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing Israel on Thursday (Feb 20) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons — the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7— in captivity. KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities. Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21). Watch | White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal

Morning news brief: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions; KIIT suicide case updates and more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages.
In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation.
Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079" rel="dofollow">'Death cult': Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/pbE3XnZHQVR3HsC7Dh4d.png" alt=" Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-announces-cabinet-portfolio-allocation-check-who-gets-what-8741294" rel="dofollow">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/JltTSuEjQj6TW3lVL5aP.png" alt=" Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Photograph: (X/BJPDelhi) ">
Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-keith-kellogg-cancels-press-conference-in-ukraines-kyiv-after-meeting-with-volodymyr-zelensky-as-both-nations-engage-in-war-of-words-8741256" rel="dofollow">US envoy cancels press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/hMx0P3XhmAOjp0aa8sHY.png" alt=" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US envoy Keith Kellogg Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Feb 20) is meeting US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-refuses-to-co-sponsor-un-draft-resolution-backing-ukraine-report-8741220" rel="dofollow">US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/19/8SMXyVuKvMhaPBruYgAy.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meet at Trump Tower in New York City, on Sept. 27. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation&rsquo;s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fda-scientists-told-not-to-use-words-women-disabled-elderly-white-house-calls-it-an-error-8740866" rel="dofollow">FDA scientists told not to use words &lsquo;women&rsquo;, &lsquo;disabled&rsquo;, &lsquo;elderly&rsquo;; White House calls it &lsquo;error&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/HvS0HF1DXUXOc4DWRVJt.png" alt=" Representative Image Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-trumps-decision-to-stop-usaid-risk-mpox-global-emergency-heres-what-experts-say-8740921">Does Trump&rsquo;s decision to dismantle USAID risk mpox global emergency? Here&rsquo;s what experts say</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/IHQax8KzSjY0SL7G8TQD.jpg" alt=" Tributes are placed beneath the covered seal of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) at their headquarters in Washington, DC, on February 7, 2025, after US President Donald Trump called for USAID to be shuttered. Photograph: (AFP) ">
The Trump administration&rsquo;s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-decorated-dog-in-us-history-white-house-hero-hurricane-dies-at-15-8740427" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Most decorated dog in US history&rsquo;: White House hero Hurricane dies at 15</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/vX9mjjHZWczRmEHSkw1X.png" alt=" White House hero Hurricane dies at 15 Photograph: (Hurricane&rsquo;s Heroes) ">
K-9 Hurricane, a 15-year-old Belgian Malinois who helped ensure the safety of the White House, died this week.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/nH5xM66wdqEqOdpJKh4f.png" alt=" February 24 marks the third anniversary of Russia&rsquo;s all-out invasion of Ukraine. Photograph: (Reuters, Wion Web Team) ">
February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; has since become Europe&rsquo;s largest conflict since World War II.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/theyre-mocking-our-lord-cynthia-erivo-to-play-jesus-in-a-musical-netizens-slams-8740202" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;They&rsquo;re mocking our lord!&rsquo; Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/lzHqdMFKpUbDdTwtJkjl.png" alt=" Cynthia Erivo To Play Jesus Photograph: (X) ">
Cynthia Erivo will play Jesus Christ, but netizens don&rsquo;t seem too thrilled about the news, calling the casting blasphemous. The Hollywood actress, who was last seen in the Oscar-nominated movie Wicked, is set to portray Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice&rsquo;s Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242">LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets in Dubai</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/IJMDcT7Oh40Znd5yFJNp.jpg" alt=" LIVE IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025 ">
Team India start their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Thursday (Feb 20) field first against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. One of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025, India aim to start their campaign on a high before they square off against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23). On the other hand, Bangladesh will have a point to prove having reached the semis in the last edition of the Champions Trophy 2025.
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Stay informed with our curated list of the top global stories, providing insightful coverage and analysis of current events from around the world.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages. In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation. Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Click on the headlines for more 'Death cult': Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi. US envoy cancels press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Feb 20) is meeting US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation’s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift. FDA scientists told not to use words ‘women’, ‘disabled’, ‘elderly’; White House calls it ‘error’ Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter. Does Trump’s decision to dismantle USAID risk mpox global emergency? Here’s what experts say The Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers. ‘Most decorated dog in US history’: White House hero Hurricane dies at 15 K-9 Hurricane, a 15-year-old Belgian Malinois who helped ensure the safety of the White House, died this week. Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a “special military operation” has since become Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. ‘They’re mocking our lord!’ Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam Cynthia Erivo will play Jesus Christ, but netizens don’t seem too thrilled about the news, calling the casting blasphemous. The Hollywood actress, who was last seen in the Oscar-nominated movie Wicked, is set to portray Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer. LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets in Dubai Team India start their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Thursday (Feb 20) field first against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. One of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025, India aim to start their campaign on a high before they square off against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23). On the other hand, Bangladesh will have a point to prove having reached the semis in the last edition of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Top 10 world news: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas; Delhi CM announces portfolio allocation, and more

Israel on Tuesday (Feb 18) stated that Hamas will hand over the bodies of four hostages held in Gaza on Thursday and release six living captives on Saturday. The announcement confirmed the earlier statement by Hamas.
&ldquo;Agreements were reached according to which the six living hostages (due for release under) the first phase will be released on Saturday,&rdquo; said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
&ldquo;The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,&rdquo; the statement added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-begin-negotiations-on-second-phase-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-demands-complete-demilitarisation-8732546">Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation'</a>
&ldquo;If the agreement in Cairo is carried out, it will be an important achievement for Israel,&rdquo; said an Israeli official, according to The Times of Israel.
The statement added that bodies of four slain hostages would be released on Thursday, however, the names were not revealed. The families of the living hostages have been informed of their release, reported The Times of Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-summit-on-donald-trumps-gaza-plan-postponed-8729917">Arab summit on Donald Trump's Gaza plan postponed</a>
As per the agreement with Israel, Hamas is required to release four more bodies of hostages in the coming week, according to Netanyahu&rsquo;s office.
<h2>Hamas announces hostage release</h2>
Hamas's top negotiator on Tuesday (Feb 18) announced that the Palestinian militant group will release six living Israeli hostages this week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-trumps-gaza-plan-for-a-different-gaza-says-israeli-pm-netanyahu-8729775">'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>
&ldquo;The movement and the resistance decided to release on Saturday, February 22, the remaining living (Israeli) prisoners whose release was agreed in the first phase, numbering six,&rdquo; said Khalil al-Haya in a televised address, referring to the terms of the truce agreement that went into effect last month.
<h2>Gaza ceasefire's second phase</h2>
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal will begin &ldquo;this week&rdquo;. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a>
Saar further added that Israel demanded a complete demilitarisation of the enclave.
The fragile Gaza truce began on January 19 following more than 15 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas, sparked by the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Middle East: As per the agreement with Israel, Hamas is required to release four more bodies of hostages in the coming week, according to Netanyahu’s office.

Israel on Tuesday (Feb 18) stated that Hamas will hand over the bodies of four hostages held in Gaza on Thursday and release six living captives on Saturday. The announcement confirmed the earlier statement by Hamas. “Agreements were reached according to which the six living hostages (due for release under) the first phase will be released on Saturday,” said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. “The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,” the statement added. Also read | Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation' “If the agreement in Cairo is carried out, it will be an important achievement for Israel,” said an Israeli official, according to The Times of Israel. The statement added that bodies of four slain hostages would be released on Thursday, however, the names were not revealed. The families of the living hostages have been informed of their release, reported The Times of Israel. Also read | Arab summit on Donald Trump's Gaza plan postponed As per the agreement with Israel, Hamas is required to release four more bodies of hostages in the coming week, according to Netanyahu’s office. Hamas announces hostage release Hamas's top negotiator on Tuesday (Feb 18) announced that the Palestinian militant group will release six living Israeli hostages this week. Also read | 'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu “The movement and the resistance decided to release on Saturday, February 22, the remaining living (Israeli) prisoners whose release was agreed in the first phase, numbering six,” said Khalil al-Haya in a televised address, referring to the terms of the truce agreement that went into effect last month. Gaza ceasefire's second phase Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal will begin “this week”. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners. Also read | 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help Saar further added that Israel demanded a complete demilitarisation of the enclave. The fragile Gaza truce began on January 19 following more than 15 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas, sparked by the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas to release bodies of four hostages, six living captives this week, confirms Israel

The Greek island of Santorini, a popular tourist spot, declared a state of emergency on Thursday (Feb 6) after the strongest earthquake of 5.2 magnitude was recorded on Wednesday evening. The recent unprecedented near-constant tremors have disrupted life on the island.&nbsp;
Athens Geodynamic Institute, Greece's leading authority on earthquake analysis, recorded seven successive tremors measuring over 4.0 magnitude early morning Thursday.&nbsp;
Greek Civil Protection Ministry has declared a state of emergency until March 3.&nbsp;
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The string of quakes has forced hundreds of people to flee the island on planes since ferries are not allowed to leave the ports due to high winds.
As per reports, around 11,000 people are believed to have left the island. The scenic region witnesses over 3.4 million tourists a year and is home to some 20,000 permanent residents.&nbsp;
The recent seismic activities have intrigued scientists as so far experts have been unable to provide a certain timeframe on when the seismic activity will end.&nbsp;
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The institute's research director Athanassios Ganas told state TV channel ERT, "The intensity is falling but has not yet stabilised."&nbsp;
"We're at the halfway point," the institute's deputy director Vassilis Karastathis told the station.&nbsp;
Since January 26, over 6,000 tremors have been recorded in the Aegean Sea near the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi and Ios, the institute said on Thursday.&nbsp;
Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said Greece's "entire state mechanism has been mobilised" to prepare for "any eventuality".&nbsp;
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<h2>Israel prepares for 'tsunami' &nbsp;</h2>
Amid a chaotic situation in Greece, Israel's National Security Council in the Prime Minister's Office has asked authorities and emergency bodies to prepare for the possibility of a tsunami off Israel's shore.&nbsp;
In the past, tsunamis have struck Israel and amid anticipation of a major earthquake on the Greek island of Santorini, the chances they will occur again are relatively high. Israel has a nearly 200-kilometre-long Mediterranean coastline.&nbsp;
As quoted in local reports, a summary of an emergency discussion held Wednesday night said, "In light of the distance of the State of Israel from the earthquake zone [approximately 900 kilometers, or 560 miles], the estimated warning time for a tsunami wave from a strong earthquake is up to two hours."&nbsp;
"Emergency bodies and government ministries are required to prepare for the possibility that the State of Israel may encounter a tsunami wave heading toward it," it added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | The Greek Civil Protection Ministry has extended the state of emergency until March, as experts remain uncertain about when seismic activities will subside 

The Greek island of Santorini, a popular tourist spot, declared a state of emergency on Thursday (Feb 6) after the strongest earthquake of 5.2 magnitude was recorded on Wednesday evening. The recent unprecedented near-constant tremors have disrupted life on the island. Athens Geodynamic Institute, Greece's leading authority on earthquake analysis, recorded seven successive tremors measuring over 4.0 magnitude early morning Thursday. Greek Civil Protection Ministry has declared a state of emergency until March 3. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over Israeli PM Netanyahu's 'baseless' arrest warrant The string of quakes has forced hundreds of people to flee the island on planes since ferries are not allowed to leave the ports due to high winds. As per reports, around 11,000 people are believed to have left the island. The scenic region witnesses over 3.4 million tourists a year and is home to some 20,000 permanent residents. The recent seismic activities have intrigued scientists as so far experts have been unable to provide a certain timeframe on when the seismic activity will end. Also read: Delhi Assembly Elections: Three more exit polls predict BJP victory over AAP The institute's research director Athanassios Ganas told state TV channel ERT, "The intensity is falling but has not yet stabilised." "We're at the halfway point," the institute's deputy director Vassilis Karastathis told the station. Since January 26, over 6,000 tremors have been recorded in the Aegean Sea near the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi and Ios, the institute said on Thursday. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said Greece's "entire state mechanism has been mobilised" to prepare for "any eventuality". Also read: Impeached South Korean President faces constitutional court Israel prepares for 'tsunami' Amid a chaotic situation in Greece, Israel's National Security Council in the Prime Minister's Office has asked authorities and emergency bodies to prepare for the possibility of a tsunami off Israel's shore. In the past, tsunamis have struck Israel and amid anticipation of a major earthquake on the Greek island of Santorini, the chances they will occur again are relatively high. Israel has a nearly 200-kilometre-long Mediterranean coastline. As quoted in local reports, a summary of an emergency discussion held Wednesday night said, "In light of the distance of the State of Israel from the earthquake zone [approximately 900 kilometers, or 560 miles], the estimated warning time for a tsunami wave from a strong earthquake is up to two hours." "Emergency bodies and government ministries are required to prepare for the possibility that the State of Israel may encounter a tsunami wave heading toward it," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Santorini earthquakes: State of emergency declared; Israel prepares for tsunami

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist organisation released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud on Monday (Jan 27) held in the Gaza Strip.
In the video, the young woman assures her family that she is doing well and will return home "like the other women". Yehoud's release has been announced for Thursday as part of a new ceasefire agreement in the Gaza war.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-release-six-hostages-including-arbel-yehud-israel-says-gazans-can-now-return-home-8656726">Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel yehoud</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Isreal denounces release of videos as &lsquo;psychological warfare&rsquo;</h2>
Palestinian extremist group Hamas has a history of releasing videos of hostages in their custody, which Israel denounces as psychological warfare.
According to the ceasefire deal, Yehoud should have been released over the weekend, as she is a civilian, however, Hamas instead released four IDF surveillance soldiers: Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Liri Albag.
Israel announced Sunday night that the dispute over Yehoud&rsquo;s release had been resolved, with the terror group set to release six hostages in two batches this week, including Yehoud and the last remaining surveillance soldier, Agam Berger.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-extends-ceasefire-with-israel-till-feb-18-even-as-it-accuses-tel-aviv-of-killing-22-civilians-8656608">Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Yehoud was abducted on October 7, 2023</h2>
Yehoud, 29, was abducted along with her boyfriend from their home in the Israeli kibbutz of Nir Oz during the devastating October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas and other militants.
Her brother, who also lived in the community near the Gaza Strip, was killed during the terrorist attack.
<h2 dir="ltr">18 hostages alive, 8 dead</h2>
Israel said Monday that Hamas finally sent a list detailing the conditions of the remaining hostages, which showed that 18 of the 26 remaining hostages still to be freed are alive and eight are dead, but did not specify other details.
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Government spokesman David Mencer conveyed the Hamas information to journalists on Monday.
As part of the initial phase of the agreement, 33 hostages are being released, which includes the seven hostages who have already been freed since the deal took effect on January 19.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehud in Gaza, raising international concerns over the hostage situation and regional stability.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist organisation released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud on Monday (Jan 27) held in the Gaza Strip. In the video, the young woman assures her family that she is doing well and will return home "like the other women". Yehoud's release has been announced for Thursday as part of a new ceasefire agreement in the Gaza war. Also read | Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel yehoud Isreal denounces release of videos as ‘psychological warfare’ Palestinian extremist group Hamas has a history of releasing videos of hostages in their custody, which Israel denounces as psychological warfare. According to the ceasefire deal, Yehoud should have been released over the weekend, as she is a civilian, however, Hamas instead released four IDF surveillance soldiers: Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Liri Albag. Israel announced Sunday night that the dispute over Yehoud’s release had been resolved, with the terror group set to release six hostages in two batches this week, including Yehoud and the last remaining surveillance soldier, Agam Berger. Also read | Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18 Yehoud was abducted on October 7, 2023 Yehoud, 29, was abducted along with her boyfriend from their home in the Israeli kibbutz of Nir Oz during the devastating October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas and other militants. Her brother, who also lived in the community near the Gaza Strip, was killed during the terrorist attack. 18 hostages alive, 8 dead Israel said Monday that Hamas finally sent a list detailing the conditions of the remaining hostages, which showed that 18 of the 26 remaining hostages still to be freed are alive and eight are dead, but did not specify other details. Also read | Israel blocks Gazans from entering north until hostage Arbel yehoud's release is arranged Government spokesman David Mencer conveyed the Hamas information to journalists on Monday. As part of the initial phase of the agreement, 33 hostages are being released, which includes the seven hostages who have already been freed since the deal took effect on January 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic Jihad release video of hostage Arbel Yehoud held in Gaza

The Lebanese army on Saturday (Jan 25) said it was ready to deploy its forces in the country's south, accusing Israel of "procrastination" in its withdrawal in time for a deadline the following day.
Under the terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire that came into effect on November 27, the Lebanese army is to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers in the south as the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period that ends Sunday.
Hezbollah is to pull back its forces north of the Litani River -- about 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the border -- and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south.
"There has been a delay at a number of stages as a result of the procrastination in the withdrawal from the Israeli enemy's side," the army said in a statement, confirming it was "ready to continue its deployment as soon as the Israeli enemy withdraws".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Friday said the military's withdrawal would continue beyond the Sunday deadline stipulated by the deal.
"The withdrawal process is conditional upon the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully and effectively enforcing the agreement, with Hezbollah withdrawing beyond the Litani River," a statement from Netanyahu's office said.
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"Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by the Lebanese state, the gradual withdrawal process will continue in full coordination with the United States."
The Lebanese army accusation came after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on January 17 called for Israel to end its military operations and "occupation" in the south.
Lebanon's new President Joseph Aoun said one week ago that Israel must "withdraw from occupied territories in the south within the deadline set by the agreement reached on November 27".
<h2 dir="ltr">'Be cautious'</h2>
Lebanon's army urged people to "be cautious in heading back to the southern border areas, due to the presence of mines and suspicious objects left behind" by Israeli forces.
The fragile truce took effect after two months of full-blown war between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah and has been marked by accusations of violations from both sides.
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Hezbollah began a low-intensity exchange of fire in the wake of the October 7, 2023 attack by its Palestinian ally Hamas on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza.
Israel escalated its campaign against Hezbollah in September, launching a series of devastating blows against the group's leadership structure that saw its longtime chief Hassan Nasrallah killed in an air strike on Beirut that month.
Hezbollah on Thursday said that "any violation of the 60-day deadline will be considered a flagrant violation of (ceasefire) agreement, an infringement on Lebanese sovereignty and the occupation entering a new chapter".
This would require the Lebanese state to act using "all means necessary... to restore the land and wrest it from the clutches of the occupation", Hezbollah said in a statement.
A committee composed of Israeli, Lebanese, French and US delegates and a representative of UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL is tasked with ensuring any ceasefire violations are identified and dealt with.
The UN peacekeeping force has reported Israeli violations of the ceasefire terms.
Guterres also said peacekeepers had found more than 100 weapons caches belonging "to Hezbollah or other armed groups".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World: The Lebanese army announced its readiness to deploy in the south, criticizing Israel for delaying its withdrawal before the looming deadline the next day.

The Lebanese army on Saturday (Jan 25) said it was ready to deploy its forces in the country's south, accusing Israel of "procrastination" in its withdrawal in time for a deadline the following day. Under the terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire that came into effect on November 27, the Lebanese army is to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers in the south as the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period that ends Sunday. Hezbollah is to pull back its forces north of the Litani River -- about 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the border -- and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south. "There has been a delay at a number of stages as a result of the procrastination in the withdrawal from the Israeli enemy's side," the army said in a statement, confirming it was "ready to continue its deployment as soon as the Israeli enemy withdraws". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Friday said the military's withdrawal would continue beyond the Sunday deadline stipulated by the deal. "The withdrawal process is conditional upon the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully and effectively enforcing the agreement, with Hezbollah withdrawing beyond the Litani River," a statement from Netanyahu's office said. Also read | Gaza ceasefire: Four female Israeli soldiers released in second hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas "Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by the Lebanese state, the gradual withdrawal process will continue in full coordination with the United States." The Lebanese army accusation came after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on January 17 called for Israel to end its military operations and "occupation" in the south. Lebanon's new President Joseph Aoun said one week ago that Israel must "withdraw from occupied territories in the south within the deadline set by the agreement reached on November 27". 'Be cautious' Lebanon's army urged people to "be cautious in heading back to the southern border areas, due to the presence of mines and suspicious objects left behind" by Israeli forces. The fragile truce took effect after two months of full-blown war between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah and has been marked by accusations of violations from both sides. Also read | Hamas releases names of 4 hostages to be released tomorrow, Israel accuses group of violating truce deal terms Hezbollah began a low-intensity exchange of fire in the wake of the October 7, 2023 attack by its Palestinian ally Hamas on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza. Israel escalated its campaign against Hezbollah in September, launching a series of devastating blows against the group's leadership structure that saw its longtime chief Hassan Nasrallah killed in an air strike on Beirut that month. Hezbollah on Thursday said that "any violation of the 60-day deadline will be considered a flagrant violation of (ceasefire) agreement, an infringement on Lebanese sovereignty and the occupation entering a new chapter". This would require the Lebanese state to act using "all means necessary... to restore the land and wrest it from the clutches of the occupation", Hezbollah said in a statement. A committee composed of Israeli, Lebanese, French and US delegates and a representative of UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL is tasked with ensuring any ceasefire violations are identified and dealt with. The UN peacekeeping force has reported Israeli violations of the ceasefire terms. Guterres also said peacekeepers had found more than 100 weapons caches belonging "to Hezbollah or other armed groups". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel's withdrawal delay sparks tension, Lebanon army accuses of ‘procrastination’

Three women who were the first hostages to be released as part of Israel's truce deal with Hamas on Sunday (Jan 19) were given a &ldquo;gift bag&rdquo; by the Palestinian militant group before they were handed over to the Red Cross from Gaza.
After a delay due to &ldquo;technical reseasons,&rdquo; Hamas released the list of hostages to be released on Sunday as part of ending the Gaza war that raged since Ocboer 2023. The names included Romi Gonen, Emily Damari and Doron Steinbrecher, who were the first to be freed.
In a video released by the &nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the hostages can be seen welcomed by the Israeli soldiers.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guns-in-gaza-have-gone-silent-joe-biden-delivers-final-remark-on-gaza-ceasefire-as-us-president-8635721" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remarks on Gaza ceasefire as US president</a>
&ldquo;This is what we&rsquo;ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi,&rdquo; IDF wrote while sharing the video on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is what we&rsquo;ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi 🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/VIXyaP1ntY">pic.twitter.com/VIXyaP1ntY</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1881048844928249867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Damari and Steinbrecher were seized by militants during the October 7, 2023 attack from kibbutz Kfar Aza, while Gonen was abducted from the Nova festival, news agency AFP quoted the Hostage and Missing Families Forum as saying.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-3-israeli-women-hostages-to-be-freed-sunday-8634774" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages</a>
According to The Times of Israel, a large crowd of Palestinians were seen gathered near the Red Cross vehicles at the Saraya Square in central Gaza City, where the Hamas handed over the three Israeli hostages.
<h2>The bizarre &lsquo;gift bags&rsquo;</h2>
The hostages were filmed when they were loaded into a car and handed a paper bag by Hamas militants. They were also made to pose and smile with their 'certificates' before being transferred to the Red Cross, who signed over and drove them away safely.
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The bags contained &ldquo;gifts and souvenirs&rdquo;, including a map of the Gaza Strip, photographs of them in Hamas captivity and a &ldquo;certificate&rdquo;, according to The Jerusalem Post.
The three women were seen holding the bags when they were greeted by IDF soldiers.
The hostages, who were kept in captivity for 471 days, described the gift bags as a &ldquo;cynical game&rdquo; by the Palestinian militant group.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next?</a>
<h2>Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
The three hostages were among the first 33 which are expected to be released by Hamas in the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which mainly consists of the release of women, children, elderly, sick or wounded. Four more Israeli hostages are to be released in seven days.
The second phase of the Gaza truce will start being negotiated in about 16 days and is expected to include Israeli military hostages.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The bags contained “gifts and souvenirs”, including a map of the Gaza Strip, photographs of them in Hamas captivity and a “certificate”. 

Three women who were the first hostages to be released as part of Israel's truce deal with Hamas on Sunday (Jan 19) were given a “gift bag” by the Palestinian militant group before they were handed over to the Red Cross from Gaza. After a delay due to “technical reseasons,” Hamas released the list of hostages to be released on Sunday as part of ending the Gaza war that raged since Ocboer 2023. The names included Romi Gonen, Emily Damari and Doron Steinbrecher, who were the first to be freed. In a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the hostages can be seen welcomed by the Israeli soldiers. Also read | 'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remarks on Gaza ceasefire as US president “This is what we’ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi,” IDF wrote while sharing the video on X. This is what we’ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi 🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/VIXyaP1ntY — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 19, 2025 Damari and Steinbrecher were seized by militants during the October 7, 2023 attack from kibbutz Kfar Aza, while Gonen was abducted from the Nova festival, news agency AFP quoted the Hostage and Missing Families Forum as saying. Also read | Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages According to The Times of Israel, a large crowd of Palestinians were seen gathered near the Red Cross vehicles at the Saraya Square in central Gaza City, where the Hamas handed over the three Israeli hostages. The bizarre ‘gift bags’ The hostages were filmed when they were loaded into a car and handed a paper bag by Hamas militants. They were also made to pose and smile with their 'certificates' before being transferred to the Red Cross, who signed over and drove them away safely. Also read | Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire The bags contained “gifts and souvenirs”, including a map of the Gaza Strip, photographs of them in Hamas captivity and a “certificate”, according to The Jerusalem Post. The three women were seen holding the bags when they were greeted by IDF soldiers. The hostages, who were kept in captivity for 471 days, described the gift bags as a “cynical game” by the Palestinian militant group. Also read | First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? Gaza ceasefire deal The three hostages were among the first 33 which are expected to be released by Hamas in the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which mainly consists of the release of women, children, elderly, sick or wounded. Four more Israeli hostages are to be released in seven days. The second phase of the Gaza truce will start being negotiated in about 16 days and is expected to include Israeli military hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Freed Israeli hostages given 'gift bags' by Hamas in eerie reminder of their captivity

The Israel Prison Service said that it released 90 Palestinian prisoners early on Monday (Jan 20) as a part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that came into effect on Sunday (Jan 19) after a brief delay.
"All the terrorists were released from Ofer prison and the Jerusalem detention centre", the service said, referring to the Palestinian prisoners, in a statement issued just before 1:30 am local time (2330 GMT Sunday).
The development came after Hamas handed over three Israeli hostages in the first exchange under a much-awaited truce deal which is aimed at ending the 15-month war in the besieged Palestinian enclave.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634">Also read: First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next?</a>
<h2>Hostages reunite with family</h2>
Israel witnessed tears of joy and warm hugs after the released hostages reunited with their families in the first phase of the deal.
The three women - Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari - were handed over to the officials of the Red Cross by armed men.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m64ifht3-4furmnez-l63twol7">
This is what we&rsquo;ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi 🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/VIXyaP1ntY">pic.twitter.com/VIXyaP1ntY</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1881048844928249867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
All three hostages who were freed had been held captive by Hamas during its attack on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of at least 1,200 people.&nbsp;
The militant group released them in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared videos and pictures of the three women on his official X handle.
All three of them could be seen draped in Israeli flags, reuniting with their families.
"We didn't have any sign of life from her for a whole year and this is the first time we are seeing her, and we are seeing her walking on her two feet and we are just waiting here to hug her and say how much we love her," said the family of the released hostages.
Welcoming the three women back home, Netanyahu said on the phone, "I would like you to tell them: Romi, Doron and Emily - an entire nation embraces you. Welcome home".
The Israel Defense Forces also welcomed the women saying, "This is what we&rsquo;ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi."
(With inputs from agencies)

The Israel Prison Service said that it released 90 Palestinian prisoners early on Monday (Jan 20) as a part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that came into effect on Sunday (Jan 19) after a brief delay.

The Israel Prison Service said that it released 90 Palestinian prisoners early on Monday (Jan 20) as a part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that came into effect on Sunday (Jan 19) after a brief delay. "All the terrorists were released from Ofer prison and the Jerusalem detention centre", the service said, referring to the Palestinian prisoners, in a statement issued just before 1:30 am local time (2330 GMT Sunday). The development came after Hamas handed over three Israeli hostages in the first exchange under a much-awaited truce deal which is aimed at ending the 15-month war in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Also read: First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? Hostages reunite with family Israel witnessed tears of joy and warm hugs after the released hostages reunited with their families in the first phase of the deal. The three women - Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari - were handed over to the officials of the Red Cross by armed men. This is what we’ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi 🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/VIXyaP1ntY — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 19, 2025 All three hostages who were freed had been held captive by Hamas during its attack on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of at least 1,200 people. The militant group released them in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared videos and pictures of the three women on his official X handle. All three of them could be seen draped in Israeli flags, reuniting with their families. "We didn't have any sign of life from her for a whole year and this is the first time we are seeing her, and we are seeing her walking on her two feet and we are just waiting here to hug her and say how much we love her," said the family of the released hostages. Welcoming the three women back home, Netanyahu said on the phone, "I would like you to tell them: Romi, Doron and Emily - an entire nation embraces you. Welcome home". The Israel Defense Forces also welcomed the women saying, "This is what we’ve been fighting for, for over 471 days. Welcome home Emily, Doron and Romi." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire

The Israeli military continued its attacks in Gaza on Sunday, citing that a ceasefire with Hamas had been delayed due to the group's failure to provide a list of hostages to be released.&nbsp;
"The IDF continues to strike within the Gaza area at this time. According to the prime minister's directives, the ceasefire will not come into effect until Hamas fulfils its commitments," military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement.
Meanwhile, Gaza's civil defence agency said that Israeli strikes killed at least eight people and injured over 25 on Sunday.
Agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal said that three people were killed in northern Gaza and five in Gaza City.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-says-ceasefire-wont-start-at-630-gmt-unless-hamas-gives-hostage-list-8634426">Also read: Gaza ceasefire delayed after Israeli PM Netanyahu demands hostage list</a>
<h2>Israeli PM Netanyahu demands hostage list</h2>
The much-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which was scheduled for Sunday (Jan 19) was put on hold after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the truce would only take effect once Hamas provided a list of hostages to be released.&nbsp;
Hamas failed to meet the deadline to provide the list, citing "technical reasons".
The Palestinian militant group released a statement "affirming its commitment" to the terms of the truce, saying that "the delay in providing the names of those to be released in the first batch is due to technical reasons."
Netanyahu's office released a statement almost an hour before the scheduled time of the hostage swap, saying, "The prime minister instructed the IDF (military) that the ceasefire, which is scheduled to take effect at 8:30 am, will not begin until Israel has received the list of released hostages, as Hamas has committed to providing."
Netanyahu had on Sunday warned that the exchange of the Palestinian prisoners will only take place after Hamas provides a list of the hostages it will be releasing.
"We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed," the Israeli PM's office said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military said Sunday that it continued to carry out attacks in Gaza, insisting that a ceasefire with Hamas had still not come into effect.

The Israeli military continued its attacks in Gaza on Sunday, citing that a ceasefire with Hamas had been delayed due to the group's failure to provide a list of hostages to be released. "The IDF continues to strike within the Gaza area at this time. According to the prime minister's directives, the ceasefire will not come into effect until Hamas fulfils its commitments," military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement. Meanwhile, Gaza's civil defence agency said that Israeli strikes killed at least eight people and injured over 25 on Sunday. Agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal said that three people were killed in northern Gaza and five in Gaza City. Also read: Gaza ceasefire delayed after Israeli PM Netanyahu demands hostage list Israeli PM Netanyahu demands hostage list The much-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which was scheduled for Sunday (Jan 19) was put on hold after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the truce would only take effect once Hamas provided a list of hostages to be released. Hamas failed to meet the deadline to provide the list, citing "technical reasons". The Palestinian militant group released a statement "affirming its commitment" to the terms of the truce, saying that "the delay in providing the names of those to be released in the first batch is due to technical reasons." Netanyahu's office released a statement almost an hour before the scheduled time of the hostage swap, saying, "The prime minister instructed the IDF (military) that the ceasefire, which is scheduled to take effect at 8:30 am, will not begin until Israel has received the list of released hostages, as Hamas has committed to providing." Netanyahu had on Sunday warned that the exchange of the Palestinian prisoners will only take place after Hamas provides a list of the hostages it will be releasing. "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed," the Israeli PM's office said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel army says attacks continue in Gaza, ceasefire still not in effect

A much-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which was scheduled for Sunday (Jan 19) was put on hold after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the truce would only take effect once Hamas provided a list of hostages to be released.&nbsp;
Hamas failed to meet the condition, citing "technical reasons".
The Palestinian militant group released a statement "affirming its commitment" to the terms of the truce, saying that "the delay in providing the names of those to be released in the first batch is due to technical reasons."
Netanyahu's office released a statement almost an hour before the scheduled time of the hostage swap, saying, "The prime minister instructed the IDF (military) that the ceasefire, which is scheduled to take effect at 8:30 am, will not begin until Israel has received the list of released hostages, as Hamas has committed to providing."
Netanyahu had on Sunday warned that the exchange of the Palestinian prisoners will only take place after Hamas provides a list of the hostages it will be releasing.
"We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed," the Israeli PM's office said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-says-attacks-continue-in-gaza-ceasefire-still-not-in-effect-8634550">Also read: Israel army says attacks continue in Gaza, ceasefire still not in effect</a>
<h2>'Israel reserves right to resume Gaza war,' says Netanyahu</h2>
The Israeli PM on Saturday (Jan 18) said that his country reserves the right to resume its war against Hamas with US support &ldquo;if necessary&rdquo;.
Netanyahu, in a televised address, vowed to bring home all the hostages held in the besieged Palestinian enclave by Hamas.
&ldquo;We reserve the right to resume the war if necessary, with American support.&rdquo;
"We are thinking of all our hostages ... I promise you that we will achieve all our objectives and bring back all the hostages&hellip;.With this agreement, we will bring back 33 of our brothers and sisters, the majority (of them) alive," Netanyahu said.
He said that the first phase of the truce was a "temporary ceasefire."
"If we are forced to resume the war, we will do so with force," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had "changed the face of the Middle East" since the war began.
(With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu had on Sunday warned that the exchange of the Palestinian prisoners will only take place after Hamas provides a list of the hostages it will be releasing.

A much-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which was scheduled for Sunday (Jan 19) was put on hold after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the truce would only take effect once Hamas provided a list of hostages to be released. Hamas failed to meet the condition, citing "technical reasons". The Palestinian militant group released a statement "affirming its commitment" to the terms of the truce, saying that "the delay in providing the names of those to be released in the first batch is due to technical reasons." Netanyahu's office released a statement almost an hour before the scheduled time of the hostage swap, saying, "The prime minister instructed the IDF (military) that the ceasefire, which is scheduled to take effect at 8:30 am, will not begin until Israel has received the list of released hostages, as Hamas has committed to providing." Netanyahu had on Sunday warned that the exchange of the Palestinian prisoners will only take place after Hamas provides a list of the hostages it will be releasing. "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed," the Israeli PM's office said. Also read: Israel army says attacks continue in Gaza, ceasefire still not in effect 'Israel reserves right to resume Gaza war,' says Netanyahu The Israeli PM on Saturday (Jan 18) said that his country reserves the right to resume its war against Hamas with US support “if necessary”. Netanyahu, in a televised address, vowed to bring home all the hostages held in the besieged Palestinian enclave by Hamas. “We reserve the right to resume the war if necessary, with American support.” "We are thinking of all our hostages ... I promise you that we will achieve all our objectives and bring back all the hostages….With this agreement, we will bring back 33 of our brothers and sisters, the majority (of them) alive," Netanyahu said. He said that the first phase of the truce was a "temporary ceasefire." "If we are forced to resume the war, we will do so with force," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had "changed the face of the Middle East" since the war began. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire delayed after Israeli PM Netanyahu demands hostage list

Israel on Thursday (Jan 16) said that the Palestinian militant group Hamas had backtracked on parts of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that were announced on Wednesday, accusing it of 'reneging' the deal.
"Hamas has reneged on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel in an effort to extort last-minute concessions", Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying.
The statement further said that this situation created a "last-minute crisis".
It said that the Israeli cabinet, which has yet to approve the agreement, "will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement."
<h2>Senior Hamas leader denies Israeli claims</h2>
Senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri denied Israel's claim stating that there was "no basis" to the allegations levelled by Netanyahu's office and that the Palestinian militant group was backtracking on elements of the truce deal.
"There is no basis to (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu's claims about the movement backtracking from terms in the ceasefire agreement," Abu Zuhri told news agency AFP.&nbsp;
<h2>Gaza rescuers say 73 killed in Israeli strikes since ceasefire deal announced</h2>
Gaza's civil defence agency, on Thursday, said that Israel has hit multiple areas of the besieged Palestinian enclave since the ceasefire deal was announced, killing at least 73 people and injuring hundreds.
"Since the ceasefire agreement was announced, Israeli occupation forces have killed 73 people, including 20 children and 25 women," agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told news agency AFP, adding that another 230 people were wounded in the "bombardments that are continuing", a day after the truce announcement.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-leaders-welcome-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-urge-quick-action-8625864">Also read: Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action</a>
Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani confirmed that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas has been reached on Wednesday (Jan 15).
"The two belligerents in the Gaza Strip have reached a deal on the prisoner and the hostage swap, and (the mediators) announce a ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two sides," Al-Thani told a press conference in Doha.
<h2>Details of Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
As per the Qatari PM, the agreement will enter into effect on Sunday, January 19. In the first phase, 33 Israeli hostages will be released.&nbsp;
Phase one of the agreement, which will last for 42 days, will include a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces away from populated areas.
The details of phase two and three of the ceasefire deal will be finalised during the implementation of phase one, he said.
"A joint team from the three countries (United States, Qatar and Egypt) will monitor the implementation of the agreement, and everything is being agreed upon, and will be in place, hopefully, on the day of execution (of the ceasefire)," the Qatari PM told reporters.
(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Thursday accused Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas of backtracking on parts of the Gaza ceasefire deal announced the previous day.

Israel on Thursday (Jan 16) said that the Palestinian militant group Hamas had backtracked on parts of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that were announced on Wednesday, accusing it of 'reneging' the deal. "Hamas has reneged on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel in an effort to extort last-minute concessions", Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying. The statement further said that this situation created a "last-minute crisis". It said that the Israeli cabinet, which has yet to approve the agreement, "will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement." Senior Hamas leader denies Israeli claims Senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri denied Israel's claim stating that there was "no basis" to the allegations levelled by Netanyahu's office and that the Palestinian militant group was backtracking on elements of the truce deal. "There is no basis to (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu's claims about the movement backtracking from terms in the ceasefire agreement," Abu Zuhri told news agency AFP. Gaza rescuers say 73 killed in Israeli strikes since ceasefire deal announced Gaza's civil defence agency, on Thursday, said that Israel has hit multiple areas of the besieged Palestinian enclave since the ceasefire deal was announced, killing at least 73 people and injuring hundreds. "Since the ceasefire agreement was announced, Israeli occupation forces have killed 73 people, including 20 children and 25 women," agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told news agency AFP, adding that another 230 people were wounded in the "bombardments that are continuing", a day after the truce announcement. Also read: Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani confirmed that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas has been reached on Wednesday (Jan 15). "The two belligerents in the Gaza Strip have reached a deal on the prisoner and the hostage swap, and (the mediators) announce a ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two sides," Al-Thani told a press conference in Doha. Details of Gaza ceasefire deal As per the Qatari PM, the agreement will enter into effect on Sunday, January 19. In the first phase, 33 Israeli hostages will be released. Phase one of the agreement, which will last for 42 days, will include a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces away from populated areas. The details of phase two and three of the ceasefire deal will be finalised during the implementation of phase one, he said. "A joint team from the three countries (United States, Qatar and Egypt) will monitor the implementation of the agreement, and everything is being agreed upon, and will be in place, hopefully, on the day of execution (of the ceasefire)," the Qatari PM told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel accuses Hamas of 'reneging' on parts of Gaza deal

The US State Department on Wednesday (Jan 15) said that President-elect Donald Trump's administration's involvement in finalising the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal was "absolutely critical".
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also lauded and thanked Trump and his team for working with the Biden administration on the deal.
Miller also highlighted that it was important for the teams to be on the same table.
"When it comes to the involvement of President-Elect Trump's team, it has been absolutely critical in getting this deal over the line. It's been critical because obviously, as I stand here today, this administration's term in office will expire in five days...We, of course, thank the Trump team for working with us on this cease-fire agreement. We think it's important that they were at the table,&rdquo; he said in a press briefing after the deal was announced.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-five-key-details-you-need-to-know-about-the-truce-between-israel-and-hamas-8625972">Also read: Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce</a>
&ldquo;It shows that when Americans are willing to work together across partisan lines, as we were willing to do on this occasion because it's in the national interests of the United States, a lot can get done," he added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5z0t30b-pclbe817-swoegi1r">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "When it comes to the involvement of President-Elect Trump's team, it has been absolutely critical in getting this deal over the line. It's been critical because obviously, as I stand here today, this administration's term in office will expire in five days...We, of&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/cmzDlGiNCx">pic.twitter.com/cmzDlGiNCx</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1879678115187966398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
After 15 months of war, negotiators on Wednesday (Jan 15) reached a phased deal to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The much-awaited ceasefire deal includes key points like the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and hostage release, among other things.&nbsp;
The truce will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, which will last six weeks or 42 days, there will be a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Central Gaza, and the return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza.
Under the deal, as per news agency Reuters, every day of the ceasefire, Israel must allow the passage of 600 truckloads of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Of these, 50 would carry fuel, and 300 trucks are to be allocated to north Gaza.
During the initial 42 days of the truce, 33 hostages will be released by Hamas militants, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press.
This, he said, will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Negotiators on Wednesday (Jan 15) reached a phased deal to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The agreement includes key points like the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip and hostage release.

The US State Department on Wednesday (Jan 15) said that President-elect Donald Trump's administration's involvement in finalising the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal was "absolutely critical". State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also lauded and thanked Trump and his team for working with the Biden administration on the deal. Miller also highlighted that it was important for the teams to be on the same table. "When it comes to the involvement of President-Elect Trump's team, it has been absolutely critical in getting this deal over the line. It's been critical because obviously, as I stand here today, this administration's term in office will expire in five days...We, of course, thank the Trump team for working with us on this cease-fire agreement. We think it's important that they were at the table,” he said in a press briefing after the deal was announced. Also read: Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce “It shows that when Americans are willing to work together across partisan lines, as we were willing to do on this occasion because it's in the national interests of the United States, a lot can get done," he added. #WATCH | "When it comes to the involvement of President-Elect Trump's team, it has been absolutely critical in getting this deal over the line. It's been critical because obviously, as I stand here today, this administration's term in office will expire in five days...We, of… pic.twitter.com/cmzDlGiNCx — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2025 Gaza ceasefire deal After 15 months of war, negotiators on Wednesday (Jan 15) reached a phased deal to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The much-awaited ceasefire deal includes key points like the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and hostage release, among other things. The truce will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, which will last six weeks or 42 days, there will be a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Central Gaza, and the return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza. Under the deal, as per news agency Reuters, every day of the ceasefire, Israel must allow the passage of 600 truckloads of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Of these, 50 would carry fuel, and 300 trucks are to be allocated to north Gaza. During the initial 42 days of the truce, 33 hostages will be released by Hamas militants, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press. This, he said, will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded". (With inputs from agencies)

Biden administration thanks Trump for 'critical' role in Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal

Global leaders welcomed the ceasefire and hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas announced on Wednesday (Jan 15), and urged both parties to uphold the deal while expediting aid to Gaza civilians.&nbsp;
This breakthrough comes as a significant relief after months of conflict, here are the reactions:
UN
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said it was "imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid across Gaza so that we can support a major increase in urgent life-saving humanitarian support".
Donald Trump
US President-elect Donald Trump said that he will "work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven".
Joe Biden
Outgoing US President Donald Trump said that he was "thrilled" that the hostages would finally be released and expressed confidence that the deal would hold. "I'm deeply satisfied this day has... finally come," he said in a televised statement.
EU
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said, "Both parties must fully implement this agreement, as a stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region".
"I warmly welcome the ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza. Hostages will be reunited with their loved ones and humanitarian aid can reach civilians in Gaza. This brings hope to an entire region, where people have endured immense suffering for far too long. Both parties must fully implement this agreement, as a stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region and a diplomatic resolution of the conflict,&rdquo; she said.
Turkey
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that he hoped the agreement "will be beneficial for our region and for all humanity, particularly for our Palestinian brothers, and that it will open the way to lasting peace and stability".
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry highlighted "the need to adhere to the agreement and stop the Israeli aggression on Gaza," calling for "the complete withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces from the (Gaza) Strip and all other Palestinian and Arab territories and the return of the displaced to their areas".&nbsp;
<a href="Qatar%20PM%20confirms%20Gaza%20ceasefire%20deal%20between%20Israel,%20Hamas;%20phase%20one%20begins%20Jan%2019">Also read: Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one begins Jan 19</a>
Egypt
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called for "the entry of urgent humanitarian aid" into Gaza. He said that the agreement was a result of "strenuous efforts" by Egypt, Qatar and the United States.
Jordan
Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi urged the world powers to make sure that there was a "sufficient and durable" delivery of aid to Gaza.
Iraq
Iraq's foreign ministry pressed on the "need to immediately allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian territories" and further "intensify international efforts to rebuild" areas that were severely damaged during Israel's offensive in Gaza.
France
French President Emmanuel Macron called on the parties to "respect" the deal and stressed that a ceasefire must be followed by a "political solution".
&ldquo;The agreement must be respected. The hostages freed. Gazans aided. A political solution must happen,&rdquo; Macron posted on X.
Germany
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the deal opens the door to a permanent end to the war.
"This ceasefire opens the door to a permanent end to the war and to the improvement of the poor humanitarian situation in Gaza," Scholz said on X.
"This agreement must now be implemented to the letter," Scholz said, adding that "all of the hostages must be released".
Britain
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it "the long overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for".&nbsp;
"After months of devastating bloodshed and countless lives lost, this is the long-overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for."
"Our attention must turn to how we secure a permanently better future for the Israeli and Palestinian people -- grounded in a two-state solution that will guarantee security and stability for Israel, alongside a sovereign and viable Palestine state," he added.
Italy
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni released a statement saying that her country "now expects that all the hostages can finally return to their families".
"The ceasefire provides an important opportunity to significantly increase humanitarian assistance to the civilian population of Gaza," she added.
She further expressed the hope of "relaunching a political process towards a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on a two-state solution".
Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
"We hope that the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza will contribute to ending the aggression, destruction and killing in the strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, and to start a new phase in which this just cause will not be marginalised."
Australia
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "This agreement is a constructive step to peace and stability in the region. Today must mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Israeli and Palestinian people. We hope it will allow the Palestinian people the opportunity to rebuild, reform their governance which is most necessary, and pursue self-determination. Australia remains unequivocal in our condemnation of Hamas&rsquo;s atrocities on the 7th of October and of the ideology that drives this terrorist organisation. There must be no role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza."
Spain
"This agreement is crucial to achieving regional stability. It represents an indispensable step on the road to a two-state solution and a just peace that respects international law," said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
Norway
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said, "The Palestinian institutions must be strengthened and prepared to assume full control and responsibility, including in Gaza. Both Israel and Palestine must receive credible security guarantees, and the solution must be anchored regionally."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, in a press conference from Doha confirmed that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been reached on Wednesday (Jan 15).

Global leaders welcomed the ceasefire and hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas announced on Wednesday (Jan 15), and urged both parties to uphold the deal while expediting aid to Gaza civilians. This breakthrough comes as a significant relief after months of conflict, here are the reactions: UN United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said it was "imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid across Gaza so that we can support a major increase in urgent life-saving humanitarian support". Donald Trump US President-elect Donald Trump said that he will "work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven". Joe Biden Outgoing US President Donald Trump said that he was "thrilled" that the hostages would finally be released and expressed confidence that the deal would hold. "I'm deeply satisfied this day has... finally come," he said in a televised statement. EU European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said, "Both parties must fully implement this agreement, as a stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region". "I warmly welcome the ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza. Hostages will be reunited with their loved ones and humanitarian aid can reach civilians in Gaza. This brings hope to an entire region, where people have endured immense suffering for far too long. Both parties must fully implement this agreement, as a stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region and a diplomatic resolution of the conflict,” she said. Turkey Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that he hoped the agreement "will be beneficial for our region and for all humanity, particularly for our Palestinian brothers, and that it will open the way to lasting peace and stability". Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry highlighted "the need to adhere to the agreement and stop the Israeli aggression on Gaza," calling for "the complete withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces from the (Gaza) Strip and all other Palestinian and Arab territories and the return of the displaced to their areas". Also read: Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one begins Jan 19 Egypt Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called for "the entry of urgent humanitarian aid" into Gaza. He said that the agreement was a result of "strenuous efforts" by Egypt, Qatar and the United States. Jordan Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi urged the world powers to make sure that there was a "sufficient and durable" delivery of aid to Gaza. Iraq Iraq's foreign ministry pressed on the "need to immediately allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian territories" and further "intensify international efforts to rebuild" areas that were severely damaged during Israel's offensive in Gaza. France French President Emmanuel Macron called on the parties to "respect" the deal and stressed that a ceasefire must be followed by a "political solution". “The agreement must be respected. The hostages freed. Gazans aided. A political solution must happen,” Macron posted on X. Germany German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the deal opens the door to a permanent end to the war. "This ceasefire opens the door to a permanent end to the war and to the improvement of the poor humanitarian situation in Gaza," Scholz said on X. "This agreement must now be implemented to the letter," Scholz said, adding that "all of the hostages must be released". Britain British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it "the long overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for". "After months of devastating bloodshed and countless lives lost, this is the long-overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for." "Our attention must turn to how we secure a permanently better future for the Israeli and Palestinian people -- grounded in a two-state solution that will guarantee security and stability for Israel, alongside a sovereign and viable Palestine state," he added. Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni released a statement saying that her country "now expects that all the hostages can finally return to their families". "The ceasefire provides an important opportunity to significantly increase humanitarian assistance to the civilian population of Gaza," she added. She further expressed the hope of "relaunching a political process towards a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on a two-state solution". Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani "We hope that the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza will contribute to ending the aggression, destruction and killing in the strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, and to start a new phase in which this just cause will not be marginalised." Australia Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "This agreement is a constructive step to peace and stability in the region. Today must mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Israeli and Palestinian people. We hope it will allow the Palestinian people the opportunity to rebuild, reform their governance which is most necessary, and pursue self-determination. Australia remains unequivocal in our condemnation of Hamas’s atrocities on the 7th of October and of the ideology that drives this terrorist organisation. There must be no role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza." Spain "This agreement is crucial to achieving regional stability. It represents an indispensable step on the road to a two-state solution and a just peace that respects international law," said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Norway Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said, "The Palestinian institutions must be strengthened and prepared to assume full control and responsibility, including in Gaza. Both Israel and Palestine must receive credible security guarantees, and the solution must be anchored regionally." (With inputs from agencies)

Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action

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