Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

The proposals come days after the US vetoed a draft resolution proposed by Brazil which condemned the October 7 terror attacks in Israel by Hamas and called for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting to allow for aid delivery.

However, US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the time criticised the text for not mentioning Israel’s right to defend itself.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Broadly similar’ US and Russia proposals</h2>

Notably, both resolutions are said to be similarly worded but the Russia-led proposal calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” while the US has called for a “humanitarian pause” to enable the safe delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

Both resolutions condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians and urged the UN to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia, China veto US-led resolution</h2>

Russia and China vetoed the US-led resolution which reportedly shocked several diplomats as it said Israel has a right to defend itself and demanded Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups.&nbsp;

Nine countries, aside from the US, voted in favour of the Washington-led resolution – Albania, France, Ecuador, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

However, it was rejected since China and Russia – two permanent members of the council – voted against the proposal. Brazil and Mozambique abstained from voting.

Ahead of the vote, Thomas-Greenfield said that the US has “worked exhaustively to draft a strong and balanced text.” She also said that in drafting the resolution, “we listened, we engaged” with humanitarian agencies and that the draft includes mechanisms to protect civilians and UN personnel.&nbsp;

However, after the resolution was double vetoed, Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council that she was disappointed and “though today’s vote was a setback, we must not be deterred.”

“The draft does not reflect the world’s strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue,” said China’s UN Ambassador Zhang Jun after the vote.&nbsp;

He added, “At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians.”

<h2>Russia-led resolutions fails to garner enough votes</h2>

Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” and immediate cancellation of evacuation orders by the Israeli army forcing around one million people from northern Gaza to head to the southern part of the Gaza Strip ahead of the ground assault.&nbsp;

Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzya told the council he did not see the point of supporting the US-led draft which, according to him, served the geopolitical interests of one of the members of the council.&nbsp;

However, the Russian proposal failed to garner the minimum number of votes – four – to pass the resolution. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the five permanent members of the Security Council in order for it to be adopted.&nbsp;

Four countries that voted in favour of Russia’s resolution were China, Gabon, and UAE while the US and UK voted against it. Additionally, nine countries abstained from voting for Russia’s proposal.&nbsp;

This was Russia’s second attempt at a resolution after only five members voted in favour of its previous text on October 16.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The proposals come days after the US vetoed a draft resolution proposed by Brazil which condemned the October 7 terror attacks in Israel by Hamas and called for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting to allow for aid delivery. However, US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the time criticised the text for not mentioning Israel’s right to defend itself. ‘Broadly similar’ US and Russia proposals Notably, both resolutions are said to be similarly worded but the Russia-led proposal calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” while the US has called for a “humanitarian pause” to enable the safe delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza. Both resolutions condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians and urged the UN to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Russia, China veto US-led resolution Russia and China vetoed the US-led resolution which reportedly shocked several diplomats as it said Israel has a right to defend itself and demanded Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups. Nine countries, aside from the US, voted in favour of the Washington-led resolution – Albania, France, Ecuador, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. However, it was rejected since China and Russia – two permanent members of the council – voted against the proposal. Brazil and Mozambique abstained from voting. Ahead of the vote, Thomas-Greenfield said that the US has “worked exhaustively to draft a strong and balanced text.” She also said that in drafting the resolution, “we listened, we engaged” with humanitarian agencies and that the draft includes mechanisms to protect civilians and UN personnel. However, after the resolution was double vetoed, Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council that she was disappointed and “though today’s vote was a setback, we must not be deterred.” “The draft does not reflect the world’s strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue,” said China’s UN Ambassador Zhang Jun after the vote. He added, “At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians.” Russia-led resolutions fails to garner enough votes Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” and immediate cancellation of evacuation orders by the Israeli army forcing around one million people from northern Gaza to head to the southern part of the Gaza Strip ahead of the ground assault. Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzya told the council he did not see the point of supporting the US-led draft which, according to him, served the geopolitical interests of one of the members of the council. However, the Russian proposal failed to garner the minimum number of votes – four – to pass the resolution. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the five permanent members of the Security Council in order for it to be adopted. Four countries that voted in favour of Russia’s resolution were China, Gabon, and UAE while the US and UK voted against it. Additionally, nine countries abstained from voting for Russia’s proposal. This was Russia’s second attempt at a resolution after only five members voted in favour of its previous text on October 16. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Russia, US proposals for UN action on Israel, Gaza rejected at Security Council

Doctors treating patients among Gaza's displaced population are saying that they are showing signs of diseases which are caused by overcrowding and poor sanitation. More than 1.4 million people in Gaza have fled for temporary shelters after Isarel's heaviest-ever bombardment. The Gaza Strip is currently blockaded by Israel which has cut electricity, water and fuel supply. Only a small UN convoy carrying food and medicines is getting in through Rafah border.

Aid agencies have been warning of health crisis in the Palestinian enclave.

"The crowding of civilians and the fact that most schools used as shelters are housing lots of people, it's a prime breeding ground for disease to spread," said Nahed Abu Taaema, a public health doctor at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.

Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages

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According to Palestinian authorities, nearly 5800 people have died due to Israeli air and artillery attacks that started after Hamas fighters launched cross-border attack on October 7. The death toll on the Israeli side has crossed the 1400 mark. More than 200 people are currently in captivity of Hamas.

Israel has asked Palestinians living in the northern half of Gaza Strip to move south to escape Israeli attacks. But these attacks have flattened areas throughout the Gaza Strip.

Hospitals are running out of fuel for generators. There are fears that critical medical equipments, like incubators for newborns will stop working if power runs out.

The health ministry run by Hamas has said that 40 medical centres have stopped operations just when the health machinery is under enormous strain due to daily bombardment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that a thirs of Gaza's hospitals have stopped operating.

"We are on our knees asking for that sustained, scaled up, protected humanitarian operation," said WHO regional emergencies head Rick Brennan.

The biggest hospital in north Gaza said on Tuesday that all functions were stopped except the vital departments like the Intensive Care Unit.

Beit Hanoun Hospital, the only other hospital that was still serving patients in north Gaza, has also stopped operations, said Palestinian Health Ministry.

"If the hospital doesn't get fuel, this is going to be a death sentence against the patients in northern Gaza," said Atef al-Kahlout, the hospital's director.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Doctors treating patients among Gaza's displaced population are saying that they are showing signs of diseases which are caused by overcrowding and poor sanitation.

Doctors treating patients among Gaza's displaced population are saying that they are showing signs of diseases which are caused by overcrowding and poor sanitation. More than 1.4 million people in Gaza have fled for temporary shelters after Isarel's heaviest-ever bombardment. The Gaza Strip is currently blockaded by Israel which has cut electricity, water and fuel supply. Only a small UN convoy carrying food and medicines is getting in through Rafah border. Aid agencies have been warning of health crisis in the Palestinian enclave. "The crowding of civilians and the fact that most schools used as shelters are housing lots of people, it's a prime breeding ground for disease to spread," said Nahed Abu Taaema, a public health doctor at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages × According to Palestinian authorities, nearly 5800 people have died due to Israeli air and artillery attacks that started after Hamas fighters launched cross-border attack on October 7. The death toll on the Israeli side has crossed the 1400 mark. More than 200 people are currently in captivity of Hamas. Israel has asked Palestinians living in the northern half of Gaza Strip to move south to escape Israeli attacks. But these attacks have flattened areas throughout the Gaza Strip. Hospitals are running out of fuel for generators. There are fears that critical medical equipments, like incubators for newborns will stop working if power runs out. The health ministry run by Hamas has said that 40 medical centres have stopped operations just when the health machinery is under enormous strain due to daily bombardment. Also Read | 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that a thirs of Gaza's hospitals have stopped operating. "We are on our knees asking for that sustained, scaled up, protected humanitarian operation," said WHO regional emergencies head Rick Brennan. The biggest hospital in north Gaza said on Tuesday that all functions were stopped except the vital departments like the Intensive Care Unit. Beit Hanoun Hospital, the only other hospital that was still serving patients in north Gaza, has also stopped operations, said Palestinian Health Ministry. "If the hospital doesn't get fuel, this is going to be a death sentence against the patients in northern Gaza," said Atef al-Kahlout, the hospital's director. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Outbreak of disease seen among displaced Gazans, say doctors

Israel’s military said that it struck several Syrian “military targets”, including Syrian army infrastructure and mortar launchers, early&nbsp;Wednesday (Oct 25) in what it described as a response to rocket launches from Syria towards Israel.&nbsp;

This comes hours after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said two rockets were launched from Syria in&nbsp;northern Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli military strikes Syria</h2>

“IDF fighter jets struck military infrastructure and mortar launchers belonging to the Syrian Army in response to the launches toward Israel yesterday (Tuesday),”&nbsp;the IDF said in a statement.&nbsp;

An IDF spokesperson told AFP the strikes were inside Syria. However, the Israeli military did not provide further details.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-does-not-seek-war-with-iran-but-blinken-warns-tehran-650845">'US does not seek war with Iran, but...': Blinken warns Tehran</a>

<h2>Rocket launches from Syria</h2>

According to the IDF, the strikes were conducted in retaliation for two rocket launches from Syria towards Israeli communities in the occupied Golan Heights on Tuesday (Oct 24).&nbsp;

The reported rocket launches set off alarms in the Golan Heights communities of Neot Golan, Bnei Yehuda and Givat Yoav.

However, the IDF said that both projectiles landed in open areas. Subsequently, the Israeli forces responded with artillery shelling at the source of the fire in Syria.

So far, Israel has not accused the Syrian army of firing the two rockets while there was no immediate comment from Syria.

While&nbsp;Israel rarely comments on individual strikes it carries out on Syria, it has repeatedly said that it would not allow its arch-foe Iran to expand its presence there.

<h2>Is the Israel-Hamas war expanding?</h2>

The reported rocket launches from Syria come as Israel is in the midst of a war with Hamas after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-efforts-to-prevent-conflict-from-expanding-650897">Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’</a>

Since the beginning of the war, Israel has also traded fire on its northern border with Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah and militants in Syria in recent days. This comes amid fears that the war may “expand” to the rest of the region.&nbsp;

During a debate at the United Nations Security Council, Iranian ambassador to the UN, Saeed Iravani accused the US of “wrongly placing the blame on Iran” for the rise in the region’s insecurity and said it was Washington’s “unwavering support for Israel” that is an “an active part of the problem.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-attacks-on-us-military-assets-in-west-asia-turn-israel-hamas-conflict-into-regional-war-650818">Explained | Will attacks on US military assets in West Asia turn Israel-Hamas conflict into regional war?</a>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Iran that Washington does not seek a conflict with Tehran, but would act swiftly and decisively if Iran or its proxies attack American personnel anywhere.&nbsp;

The US believes that Iran-sponsored proxies have been targeting the US military in the Middle East after Washington sent its US Navy destroyer near Israel and promised them more military aid.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Israel’s military said that it struck several Syrian “military targets”, including Syrian army infrastructure and mortar launchers, early Wednesday (Oct 25) in what it described as a response to rocket launches from Syria towards Israel.

Israel’s military said that it struck several Syrian “military targets”, including Syrian army infrastructure and mortar launchers, early Wednesday (Oct 25) in what it described as a response to rocket launches from Syria towards Israel. This comes hours after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said two rockets were launched from Syria in northern Israel. Israeli military strikes Syria “IDF fighter jets struck military infrastructure and mortar launchers belonging to the Syrian Army in response to the launches toward Israel yesterday (Tuesday),” the IDF said in a statement. An IDF spokesperson told AFP the strikes were inside Syria. However, the Israeli military did not provide further details. ALSO READ | 'US does not seek war with Iran, but...': Blinken warns Tehran Rocket launches from Syria According to the IDF, the strikes were conducted in retaliation for two rocket launches from Syria towards Israeli communities in the occupied Golan Heights on Tuesday (Oct 24). The reported rocket launches set off alarms in the Golan Heights communities of Neot Golan, Bnei Yehuda and Givat Yoav. However, the IDF said that both projectiles landed in open areas. Subsequently, the Israeli forces responded with artillery shelling at the source of the fire in Syria. So far, Israel has not accused the Syrian army of firing the two rockets while there was no immediate comment from Syria. While Israel rarely comments on individual strikes it carries out on Syria, it has repeatedly said that it would not allow its arch-foe Iran to expand its presence there. Is the Israel-Hamas war expanding? The reported rocket launches from Syria come as Israel is in the midst of a war with Hamas after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’ Since the beginning of the war, Israel has also traded fire on its northern border with Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah and militants in Syria in recent days. This comes amid fears that the war may “expand” to the rest of the region. During a debate at the United Nations Security Council, Iranian ambassador to the UN, Saeed Iravani accused the US of “wrongly placing the blame on Iran” for the rise in the region’s insecurity and said it was Washington’s “unwavering support for Israel” that is an “an active part of the problem.” ALSO READ | Explained | Will attacks on US military assets in West Asia turn Israel-Hamas conflict into regional war? US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Iran that Washington does not seek a conflict with Tehran, but would act swiftly and decisively if Iran or its proxies attack American personnel anywhere. The US believes that Iran-sponsored proxies have been targeting the US military in the Middle East after Washington sent its US Navy destroyer near Israel and promised them more military aid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel strikes 'military infrastructure' in Syria after rocket launches, says Israeli army

Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the police say?</h2>

According to the police, the man was arrested from his home in Duisburg after they received “indications of a possible attack scenario”. However, whether the man was preparing an attack “is under investigation,” said the local police in a statement.&nbsp;

The apartment of the person “who was already known to the police”&nbsp;in the city's Dellviertel neighbourhood&nbsp;was also searched&nbsp;and he was taken into custody, said the police.

<h2>German media reports on the incident</h2>

The man, who was identified by the German media reports as 29-year-old Tarik S, had previously been sentenced to five years imprisonment for his membership of the Islamic State. According to several media reports, he was a German-Egyptian national who allegedly planned to attack a pro-Israel demonstration.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-efforts-to-prevent-conflict-from-expanding-650897">Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’</a>

German magazine Der Spiegel weekly and newspaper Bild reported that police had received a tip-off from the country’s foreign intelligence service. The alert was deemed serious enough that the 29-year-old was reportedly arrested under the country’s Risk Prevention Act.&nbsp;

The man had, among other things, searched the internet for pro-Israeli demonstrations and consulted jihadist content, fuelling fears that he wanted to plan an attack, according to the reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a>

It was not immediately clear if the suspect had planned on targeting a specific demonstration. As of Tuesday evening, the Duisburg police said that they could not confirm the identity of the suspect in custody.&nbsp;

According to Der Spiegel, Tarik S&nbsp;travelled to Syria via Turkey at the end of 2013, where he joined the Islamic State group and was arrested at Frankfurt airport upon his return three years later.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-air-force-drops-leaflets-in-gaza-seeking-information-on-hostages-650774">Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages</a>

The incident comes in the midst of hundreds of pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies across the world, including in Germany, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which began after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel, with the latter retaliating with constant bombardment of Gaza.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration.

Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration. What did the police say? According to the police, the man was arrested from his home in Duisburg after they received “indications of a possible attack scenario”. However, whether the man was preparing an attack “is under investigation,” said the local police in a statement. The apartment of the person “who was already known to the police” in the city's Dellviertel neighbourhood was also searched and he was taken into custody, said the police. German media reports on the incident The man, who was identified by the German media reports as 29-year-old Tarik S, had previously been sentenced to five years imprisonment for his membership of the Islamic State. According to several media reports, he was a German-Egyptian national who allegedly planned to attack a pro-Israel demonstration. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’ German magazine Der Spiegel weekly and newspaper Bild reported that police had received a tip-off from the country’s foreign intelligence service. The alert was deemed serious enough that the 29-year-old was reportedly arrested under the country’s Risk Prevention Act. The man had, among other things, searched the internet for pro-Israeli demonstrations and consulted jihadist content, fuelling fears that he wanted to plan an attack, according to the reports. ALSO READ | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ It was not immediately clear if the suspect had planned on targeting a specific demonstration. As of Tuesday evening, the Duisburg police said that they could not confirm the identity of the suspect in custody. According to Der Spiegel, Tarik S travelled to Syria via Turkey at the end of 2013, where he joined the Islamic State group and was arrested at Frankfurt airport upon his return three years later. ALSO READ | Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages The incident comes in the midst of hundreds of pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies across the world, including in Germany, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which began after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel, with the latter retaliating with constant bombardment of Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany arrests man on suspicion of planning an attack on ‘pro-Israel demonstration’: Reports

With an upsurge in violence across the West Bank, the Biden administration has reportedly begun readying plans for mass evacuations of hundreds of thousands of American citizens from the Middle East.

As per a report by the Washington Post, four officials familiar with the US government’s contingency planning said that the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas has stoked fears of broader escalation.

The officials stated that the Americans living in Israel and neighbouring Lebanon were of distinct concern, further underlining that the mass evacuation was a 'worst-case scenario' and that the government is churning out possible solutions to the problem that are seen as more likely.

However, one of the officials said, it “would be irresponsible not to have a plan for everything.”

The Israeli defence forces, which have been backed by US military aid, have been prepping for the much-anticipated ground offensive against Hamas militants who took the world by surprise after they carried out an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza on Oct 7.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-privately-urging-israel-to-not-launch-offensive-against-hezbollah-report-649001"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-privately-urging-israel-to-not-launch-offensive-against-hezbollah-report-649001">US privately urging Israel to not launch offensive against Hezbollah: Report</a>

<h2>Complicated logistics&nbsp;</h2>

The officials said that even though the United States was fully backing its staunch ally Israel, it was deeply alarmed by the likelihood of an escalation.&nbsp;

They further said that in recent days, having to abruptly relocate a large number of people has made the US ponder over the process' complicated logistics.

According to State Department estimates, there were approximately 600,000 US citizens in Israel and another 86,000 in Lebanon when Hamas attacked.

<h2>Lebanon, a major concern</h2>

The report said that Washington's major concern, Lebanon, was mainly due to the presence of Hezbollah, a militant group and political party that has exercised control in the country since 1992.

The terror group has long accepted training and weapons from Iran, raising concerns that it could launch an offensive against Israel from the north, resulting in a two-front war that could stretch Israeli forces. &nbsp;

“This has become a real issue,” the Washington Post quoted one official as saying. “The administration is very, very, very worried that this thing is going to get out of hand.”

The report said that the Biden administration was also concerned about the demonstrations being held across the Arab world that, as per the top officials, have put the US personnel and citizens at the highest risk.

(With inputs from agencies)

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With an upsurge in violence across the West Bank, the Biden administration has reportedly begun readying plans for mass evacuations of hundreds of thousands of American citizens from the Middle East.

With an upsurge in violence across the West Bank, the Biden administration has reportedly begun readying plans for mass evacuations of hundreds of thousands of American citizens from the Middle East. As per a report by the Washington Post, four officials familiar with the US government’s contingency planning said that the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas has stoked fears of broader escalation. The officials stated that the Americans living in Israel and neighbouring Lebanon were of distinct concern, further underlining that the mass evacuation was a 'worst-case scenario' and that the government is churning out possible solutions to the problem that are seen as more likely. However, one of the officials said, it “would be irresponsible not to have a plan for everything.” The Israeli defence forces, which have been backed by US military aid, have been prepping for the much-anticipated ground offensive against Hamas militants who took the world by surprise after they carried out an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza on Oct 7. Also read: US privately urging Israel to not launch offensive against Hezbollah: Report Complicated logistics The officials said that even though the United States was fully backing its staunch ally Israel, it was deeply alarmed by the likelihood of an escalation. They further said that in recent days, having to abruptly relocate a large number of people has made the US ponder over the process' complicated logistics. According to State Department estimates, there were approximately 600,000 US citizens in Israel and another 86,000 in Lebanon when Hamas attacked. Lebanon, a major concern The report said that Washington's major concern, Lebanon, was mainly due to the presence of Hezbollah, a militant group and political party that has exercised control in the country since 1992. The terror group has long accepted training and weapons from Iran, raising concerns that it could launch an offensive against Israel from the north, resulting in a two-front war that could stretch Israeli forces. “This has become a real issue,” the Washington Post quoted one official as saying. “The administration is very, very, very worried that this thing is going to get out of hand.” The report said that the Biden administration was also concerned about the demonstrations being held across the Arab world that, as per the top officials, have put the US personnel and citizens at the highest risk. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

Israel's government released the unedited and raw footage recorded by the bodycam of a Hamas terrorist during the October 7 attack so as to counter a "Holocaust denial-like phenomenon evolving in real-time." 
 
The footage contained what the Israeli government called some "gruesome" and "unseen" visuals. In a video shared on X, Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy said that the footage will be made public so that a record can be maintained for countering those who doubt if certain events took place. 
 
The spokesman added that the Israel Defence Forces have "been collecting footage from bodycams taken by the Hamas death squads".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

"Now unfortunately, and I can't believe I'm saying this, and I can't believe that we as a country are having to do this as we work to defeat the terror organization that brutalized our people, we are witnessing a Holocaust denial-like phenomenon evolving in real-time as people are casting doubt on the magnitude of the atrocities that Hamas committed against our people and, in fact, recorded in order to glorify that violence," he stated.

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We are witnessing a Holocaust denial-like phenomenon unfolding in real time. 
 
So tomorrow, Israel will screen for foreign journalists the raw, unedited footage of Hamas’ atrocities in the October 7 Massacre, as captured by its death squads’ body cams. <a href="https://t.co/wm7rjuvFsn">pic.twitter.com/wm7rjuvFsn</a>
— Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) <a href="https://twitter.com/EylonALevy/status/1716124806666416555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Therefore... the Government Press Office will screen for foreign media gruesome and as yet unseen footage of the barbarities perpetrated against our people on October 7th. This is footage that has not been made public. It will screen a compilation of raw and unedited footage from the October 7th Massacre for journalists who can stomach the horrific truth and want to report on what they saw,” the spokesman further said.

<h2>I killed 10 Jews: Hamas terrorist tells parents</h2>

The screening of the footage took place in Israel on Monday morning. As per Fox News, some of the content included Hamas terrorists executing a girl, Israelis getting ambushed in the car and a father getting killed after a grenade was thrown by Hamas fighter into a bomb shelter, where he along with his two children were hiding. 
 
The boys were seen running soaked in blood. “Dad’s dead, it wasn’t a prank,” one was heard shouting. “I know, I saw it,” replied his brother, further screaming, “Why am I alive?”

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace

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In another footage, a militant was seen hacking a man's head with an agricultural tool, wounded female Israeli soldiers getting killed by the gunmen.

Also shown was a Hamas fighter happily announcing to his family over a phone call, “I killed 10 Jews with my own hands.

"I’m using the dead Jewish woman’s phone to call you now.” he is heard saying. 
 
The screening happened amid renewed appeals being made to Israel to stop its bombing of Gaza in which at least 400 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours, which increased the death toll in the area to more than 5,000, as per the Hamas-run health ministry.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. Israel's government released the unedited and raw footage recorded by the bodycam of a Hamas terrorist during the October 7 attack so as to counter a "Holocaust denial-like phenomenon evolving in real-time.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. Israel's government released the unedited and raw footage recorded by the bodycam of a Hamas terrorist during the October 7 attack so as to counter a "Holocaust denial-like phenomenon evolving in real-time." The footage contained what the Israeli government called some "gruesome" and "unseen" visuals. In a video shared on X, Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy said that the footage will be made public so that a record can be maintained for countering those who doubt if certain events took place. The spokesman added that the Israel Defence Forces have "been collecting footage from bodycams taken by the Hamas death squads". ALSO READ | Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas "Now unfortunately, and I can't believe I'm saying this, and I can't believe that we as a country are having to do this as we work to defeat the terror organization that brutalized our people, we are witnessing a Holocaust denial-like phenomenon evolving in real-time as people are casting doubt on the magnitude of the atrocities that Hamas committed against our people and, in fact, recorded in order to glorify that violence," he stated. We are witnessing a Holocaust denial-like phenomenon unfolding in real time. So tomorrow, Israel will screen for foreign journalists the raw, unedited footage of Hamas’ atrocities in the October 7 Massacre, as captured by its death squads’ body cams. pic.twitter.com/wm7rjuvFsn — Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) October 22, 2023 × "Therefore... the Government Press Office will screen for foreign media gruesome and as yet unseen footage of the barbarities perpetrated against our people on October 7th. This is footage that has not been made public. It will screen a compilation of raw and unedited footage from the October 7th Massacre for journalists who can stomach the horrific truth and want to report on what they saw,” the spokesman further said. I killed 10 Jews: Hamas terrorist tells parents The screening of the footage took place in Israel on Monday morning. As per Fox News, some of the content included Hamas terrorists executing a girl, Israelis getting ambushed in the car and a father getting killed after a grenade was thrown by Hamas fighter into a bomb shelter, where he along with his two children were hiding. The boys were seen running soaked in blood. “Dad’s dead, it wasn’t a prank,” one was heard shouting. “I know, I saw it,” replied his brother, further screaming, “Why am I alive?” Watch | Israel-Hamas war: China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace In another footage, a militant was seen hacking a man's head with an agricultural tool, wounded female Israeli soldiers getting killed by the gunmen. Also shown was a Hamas fighter happily announcing to his family over a phone call, “I killed 10 Jews with my own hands. "I’m using the dead Jewish woman’s phone to call you now.” he is heard saying. The screening happened amid renewed appeals being made to Israel to stop its bombing of Gaza in which at least 400 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours, which increased the death toll in the area to more than 5,000, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel shares unedited footage of Oct 7 attack; Hamas militant boasts to parents 'killed 10 Jews'

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.

Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN."

"I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN. 
 
I call on him to resign immediately. 
 
There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most…
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1716837646813614354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history.

"Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-proposes-international-coalition-against-hamas-650752">French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas</a>

Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza."

<h2>Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza</h2>

Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians.

"I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel.

He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza. Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN." "I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added. The @UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN. I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most… — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 24, 2023 × Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history. "Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said. Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza." Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians. "I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel. He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people.

"If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet.

"The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality."

Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages

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&nbsp;

Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information.

AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes.

"We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a>

Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas.

Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known.

<h2>Two hostages freed</h2>

Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7.

Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release.

While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell'

She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way.

"...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said.

She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days.

Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity.

"They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people. "If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet. "The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality." Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages × Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information. AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes. "We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP. Also Read | 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas. Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known. Two hostages freed Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7. Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release. While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell' She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way. "...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said. She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days. Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity. "They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel.

<h2>Attacks on US military bases</h2>

Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not&nbsp;allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.”&nbsp;

Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence.&nbsp;

“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby.&nbsp;

He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where&nbsp;American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group.

On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north.&nbsp;

This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson.&nbsp;

<h2>US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel</h2>

Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.”&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel. Attacks on US military bases Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.” Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence. “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby. He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group. On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north. This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians. “We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson. US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.” A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza. Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House says Iran ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on US military bases

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former&nbsp;hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Two more hostages released</h2>

The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dials-american-hostages-released-by-hamas-649777">US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas</a>

Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts.&nbsp;

Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”.

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In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TelAviv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TelAviv</a> <a href="https://t.co/sP0SZQFUgs">pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs</a>
— E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) <a href="https://twitter.com/muhendisev/status/1716572047906668817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process."

<h2>Israel confirms release</h2>

The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.”

The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody&nbsp;and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families.&nbsp;

It also thanked&nbsp;Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and&nbsp;the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-two-american-hostages-from-gaza-649400">Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza</a>

A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza.

According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz.&nbsp;

<h2>Four hostages released from Gaza</h2>

Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages.&nbsp;

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip.

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement. Two more hostages released The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement. ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts. Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”. In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel #TelAviv pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs — E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) October 23, 2023 × In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process." Israel confirms release The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.” The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families. It also thanked Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas." ALSO READ | Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza. According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz. Four hostages released from Gaza Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages. Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas releases two more hostages from Gaza; Israel confirms their arrival

The Israeli army discovered manuals on the dead bodies of Hamas terrorists which showed how they were given orders to execute “problematic” hostages and babies were designated as specific targets during the October 7 attack carried out on Israel. 
 
The document clearly states 'hostage-taking' as the attack's central aim, as reported by Western media outlets. In the document, the attackers have been instructed to ration their food and keep the hostages for a long duration in an enclosed location. 
 
“Kill the problematic and those who post a threat. Gather some of the hostages in the area and use them as cannon fodder, ensuring they are clearly visible,” read the document, written in Arabic. The document reveals their plan to attack Kibbutz Kfar Sa’ad, which included sweeping two schools along with a youth centre.

<h2>High-level planning</h2>

The officials of the Israeli government said that the manuals showed the high level of planning carried out by Hamas in the last few months before the October 7 attack. 
 
“It shows they were very, very task orientated,” said an IDF spokesman Lt Col Peter Lerner, while speaking to The Telegraph. “It wasn’t just haphazardly ‘let’s cross over and kill whoever we walk into’ but rather that we go in, we take, we attack, we abduct, we tie them up… there’s a whole list of things to do,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

As per the hostage-taking manual, the victims had to be gathered in “pre-determined” locations on maps after every terrorist squad had finished “cleansing their operating areas”. 
 
The documents also included maps in which blue circles were drawn around Kfar Sa’ad and three other villages, which also share a border with Gaza, Alumim, Nahal Oz and Kraf Aza. It was in these villages that Hamas killed dozens of Israeli civilians, which included children and babies, and kidnapped many of them. 
 
The killings of men and women were mentioned as the “last resort”, and the terrorists were asked to use “firearms, smoke and stun grenades, indirect threats, electric shocks, violence and terrorism” to maintain order, as per the document.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | 'Hamas will pay a big price if they harm hostages' says Richard Hecht

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An Israeli government official stated that “a family” of documents, which have been recovered from the dead bodies of the terrorists, are being analysed by the IDF and show how they systematically targetted the civilians. “They are constantly lying all the time,” said an IDF source, while speaking to NBC News. 
 
The “abduction manual” has been divided into eight sections and looks like they were preparing Hamas terrorists to hold a siege on hostages present inside Israel, maybe for days. 
 
The document's first section has been labelled as “Gathering” and it gives instructions on how to take hostages. The second section was titled “Isolation and control within the area and around it.”

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israeli army discovered manuals on the dead bodies of Hamas terrorists which showed how they were given orders to execute “problematic” hostages and babies were designated as specific targets during the October 7 attack carried out on Israel.

The Israeli army discovered manuals on the dead bodies of Hamas terrorists which showed how they were given orders to execute “problematic” hostages and babies were designated as specific targets during the October 7 attack carried out on Israel. The document clearly states 'hostage-taking' as the attack's central aim, as reported by Western media outlets. In the document, the attackers have been instructed to ration their food and keep the hostages for a long duration in an enclosed location. “Kill the problematic and those who post a threat. Gather some of the hostages in the area and use them as cannon fodder, ensuring they are clearly visible,” read the document, written in Arabic. The document reveals their plan to attack Kibbutz Kfar Sa’ad, which included sweeping two schools along with a youth centre. High-level planning The officials of the Israeli government said that the manuals showed the high level of planning carried out by Hamas in the last few months before the October 7 attack. “It shows they were very, very task orientated,” said an IDF spokesman Lt Col Peter Lerner, while speaking to The Telegraph. “It wasn’t just haphazardly ‘let’s cross over and kill whoever we walk into’ but rather that we go in, we take, we attack, we abduct, we tie them up… there’s a whole list of things to do,” he added. ALSO READ | Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents As per the hostage-taking manual, the victims had to be gathered in “pre-determined” locations on maps after every terrorist squad had finished “cleansing their operating areas”. The documents also included maps in which blue circles were drawn around Kfar Sa’ad and three other villages, which also share a border with Gaza, Alumim, Nahal Oz and Kraf Aza. It was in these villages that Hamas killed dozens of Israeli civilians, which included children and babies, and kidnapped many of them. The killings of men and women were mentioned as the “last resort”, and the terrorists were asked to use “firearms, smoke and stun grenades, indirect threats, electric shocks, violence and terrorism” to maintain order, as per the document. Watch | Israel-Hamas war | 'Hamas will pay a big price if they harm hostages' says Richard Hecht An Israeli government official stated that “a family” of documents, which have been recovered from the dead bodies of the terrorists, are being analysed by the IDF and show how they systematically targetted the civilians. “They are constantly lying all the time,” said an IDF source, while speaking to NBC News. The “abduction manual” has been divided into eight sections and looks like they were preparing Hamas terrorists to hold a siege on hostages present inside Israel, maybe for days. The document's first section has been labelled as “Gathering” and it gives instructions on how to take hostages. The second section was titled “Isolation and control within the area and around it.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas 'abduction manual' states 'hostage-taking' as central aim of Israel attack

Eleven days after killers from Hamas murdered more than 1,400 Israelis in a series of massacres of stomach-turning brutality and Israel responded with devastating air strikes on Gaza, a senior State Department official resigned over Washington’s decision to send more weapons to Israel, a move he said reflected “blind support for one side.”

The official, Josh Paul, worked for 11 years at the State Department’s Bureau of Political and Military Affairs, which handles arms transfers to foreign countries. He rose to a senior position, that of director of congressional and public affairs.

Paul explained his decision in a two-page letter and the points he made raise questions about the US-Israeli relationship that are rarely asked in a country where sympathy for Israel goes back to its foundation 75 years ago. No major speech on Israel by a US&nbsp;president fails to mention that the US&nbsp;was the first to recognise the new state, just 11 minutes after its formation.

Polls after the outbreak of the Hamas-Israeli wars showed that 80 per cent of Americans were siding with Israel. Whether that level of support is stable remains to be seen as graphic images of the death and damage caused by Israeli air strikes on densely populated Gaza will fill US&nbsp;television screens for days to come.

“The response Israel is taking and with it the American support both for that response and for the status quo of the occupation will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and Palestinian people,” his letter said. “This administration’s response – and much of Congress’s as well – is an impulsive reaction built on confirmation bias, political convenience, intellectual bankruptcy, and bureaucratic inertia.”

Israel’s immediate response to the Hamas attacks, described by Paul as a “monstrosity of monstrosities”, was airstrikes that levelled dozens of buildings and a complete siege of Gaza, cutting off water, electricity, food and fuel. UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called it collective punishment.

Strong words in a country where criticism of Israeli policy or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is often conflated with anti-Semitism – as were pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the Middle East, parts of Asia, Europe and the United States condemning Israeli air strikes on Gaza and the country’s occupation of parts of the West Bank.

President Joe Biden flew to Israel 11 days after the October 7 massacre of civilians in villages close to the border with Gaza, pledged America’s support – “Israel, you are not alone. The United States stands with you” – and promised US&nbsp;weapons would continue to give Israel a “qualitative military edge” in the region.&nbsp;

That edge, dubbed QME in military jargon, makes the US-Israeli relationship truly unique. No other country can count on getting the latest and most sophisticated American military hardware and no other country can be secure in the knowledge that deliveries will continue because they are enshrined in US&nbsp;law.&nbsp;

The Congressional Research Service spells it out in detail: “In 2008, Congress enacted legislation (that) defines QME as the ability to counter and defeat any credible conventional military threat from any individual state or possible coalition of states or from non-state actors while sustaining minimal damage and casualties, through the use of superior military means, possessed in sufficient quantity…”

To make sure the requirement for “sufficient quantity” will be met as Israel pounds Gaza with airstrikes and prepares for a ground offensive, Biden has asked Congress for an additional $14.3 billion for Israel. That request is stuck in Congress because Republican Party infighting has left the House of Representatives, which has the power of the purse, without a speaker.&nbsp;

A fact sheet by the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, from which Paul resigned last week, notes that maintaining the QME “has helped transform the Israeli Defense Force into one of the world’s most capable and effective militaries and turned the Israeli military industry and technology sector into one of the largest exporters of military capabilities worldwide.”

Still, the United States has provided military aid of more than $3 billion year after year for decades preceding the 2008 legislation. No country has received as much US&nbsp;aid overall as Israel.

The logic of continued aid to a relatively rich and successful country is puzzling but rarely questioned. Not only has Israel turned into the region’s military superpower but it also is the only country in the Middle East with a nuclear arsenal, though this is rarely mentioned in debates about nuclear proliferation. &nbsp;

(Israel does not admit nor deny having nuclear weapons but the Arms Control Association, a widely-respected Washington-based think tank, cites estimates of up to 90 nuclear warheads, with fissile material stockpiles of more than 200.)

Arming Israel to the teeth made sense during the Cold War when Israel served as an American outpost in a region where the Soviet Union had strategic ambitions and close friends.&nbsp;

As then US&nbsp;Secretary of State Alexander Haig put it at the time: “Israel is the largest US&nbsp;(aircraft) carrier that cannot be sunk, does not carry even one U.S. soldier, and is located in a most critical region for US&nbsp;national security.”

It still is. But today’s geopolitics have changed so much that the United States has dispatched two aircraft carrier strike groups to the eastern Mediterranean to protect what Haig had called a stationary carrier and to prevent the Hamas-Israel conflict from spreading through the region.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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Eleven days after killers from Hamas murdered more than 1,400 Israelis in a series of massacres of stomach-turning brutality and Israel responded with devastating air strikes on Gaza, a senior State Department official resigned over Washington’s decision to send more weapons to Israel, a move he said reflected “blind support for one side.

Eleven days after killers from Hamas murdered more than 1,400 Israelis in a series of massacres of stomach-turning brutality and Israel responded with devastating air strikes on Gaza, a senior State Department official resigned over Washington’s decision to send more weapons to Israel, a move he said reflected “blind support for one side.” The official, Josh Paul, worked for 11 years at the State Department’s Bureau of Political and Military Affairs, which handles arms transfers to foreign countries. He rose to a senior position, that of director of congressional and public affairs. Paul explained his decision in a two-page letter and the points he made raise questions about the US-Israeli relationship that are rarely asked in a country where sympathy for Israel goes back to its foundation 75 years ago. No major speech on Israel by a US president fails to mention that the US was the first to recognise the new state, just 11 minutes after its formation. Polls after the outbreak of the Hamas-Israeli wars showed that 80 per cent of Americans were siding with Israel. Whether that level of support is stable remains to be seen as graphic images of the death and damage caused by Israeli air strikes on densely populated Gaza will fill US television screens for days to come. “The response Israel is taking and with it the American support both for that response and for the status quo of the occupation will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and Palestinian people,” his letter said. “This administration’s response – and much of Congress’s as well – is an impulsive reaction built on confirmation bias, political convenience, intellectual bankruptcy, and bureaucratic inertia.” Israel’s immediate response to the Hamas attacks, described by Paul as a “monstrosity of monstrosities”, was airstrikes that levelled dozens of buildings and a complete siege of Gaza, cutting off water, electricity, food and fuel. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called it collective punishment. Strong words in a country where criticism of Israeli policy or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is often conflated with anti-Semitism – as were pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the Middle East, parts of Asia, Europe and the United States condemning Israeli air strikes on Gaza and the country’s occupation of parts of the West Bank. President Joe Biden flew to Israel 11 days after the October 7 massacre of civilians in villages close to the border with Gaza, pledged America’s support – “Israel, you are not alone. The United States stands with you” – and promised US weapons would continue to give Israel a “qualitative military edge” in the region. That edge, dubbed QME in military jargon, makes the US-Israeli relationship truly unique. No other country can count on getting the latest and most sophisticated American military hardware and no other country can be secure in the knowledge that deliveries will continue because they are enshrined in US law. The Congressional Research Service spells it out in detail: “In 2008, Congress enacted legislation (that) defines QME as the ability to counter and defeat any credible conventional military threat from any individual state or possible coalition of states or from non-state actors while sustaining minimal damage and casualties, through the use of superior military means, possessed in sufficient quantity…” To make sure the requirement for “sufficient quantity” will be met as Israel pounds Gaza with airstrikes and prepares for a ground offensive, Biden has asked Congress for an additional $14.3 billion for Israel. That request is stuck in Congress because Republican Party infighting has left the House of Representatives, which has the power of the purse, without a speaker. A fact sheet by the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, from which Paul resigned last week, notes that maintaining the QME “has helped transform the Israeli Defense Force into one of the world’s most capable and effective militaries and turned the Israeli military industry and technology sector into one of the largest exporters of military capabilities worldwide.” Still, the United States has provided military aid of more than $3 billion year after year for decades preceding the 2008 legislation. No country has received as much US aid overall as Israel. The logic of continued aid to a relatively rich and successful country is puzzling but rarely questioned. Not only has Israel turned into the region’s military superpower but it also is the only country in the Middle East with a nuclear arsenal, though this is rarely mentioned in debates about nuclear proliferation. (Israel does not admit nor deny having nuclear weapons but the Arms Control Association, a widely-respected Washington-based think tank, cites estimates of up to 90 nuclear warheads, with fissile material stockpiles of more than 200.) Arming Israel to the teeth made sense during the Cold War when Israel served as an American outpost in a region where the Soviet Union had strategic ambitions and close friends. As then US Secretary of State Alexander Haig put it at the time: “Israel is the largest US (aircraft) carrier that cannot be sunk, does not carry even one U.S. soldier, and is located in a most critical region for US national security.” It still is. But today’s geopolitics have changed so much that the United States has dispatched two aircraft carrier strike groups to the eastern Mediterranean to protect what Haig had called a stationary carrier and to prevent the Hamas-Israel conflict from spreading through the region. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week.&nbsp;

Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;

Watch | Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza

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More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;

"We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament.&nbsp;

Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year.&nbsp;

Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week.&nbsp;

He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough."&nbsp;

"We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-old-mobile-number-voicemail-recording-leaked-online-650378">UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online</a>

Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza.&nbsp;

Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility.&nbsp;

"We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said.&nbsp;

"On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-two-hezbollah-cells-video-shows-aerial-footage-of-blasts-in-border-areas-of-israel-and-lebanon-650235">Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon</a>

France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion.&nbsp;

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas. The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week. Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza × More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza. "We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament. Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year. Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week. He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough." "We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added. Also Read | UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza. Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility. "We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said. "On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added. Also Read | Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza

Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media. 
 
The discovery of the cyanide dispersion device was mentioned in detail by two Israeli officials, and a copy of a classified Israeli foreign ministry cable was accessed by the regional media outlet. 
 
“This finding points to an intention by Hamas to use chemical weapons as part of its terror attack against civilians," read the cable claims, as per the media outlet. 
 
As per the media report, it was not from the leaked file if Hamas had an operational intent for using the chemical weapons or a concrete plan or if the terror group was trying to produce the makeshift weapons.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

As per reports, the Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-proliferation Department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry transmitted a classified cable titled, "Hamas intention of using chemical weapons", to the Israeli embassies, which included the one in Washington DC. 
 
The Hamas, file's authenticity could not be confirmed by WION.

<h2>Hamas field manual reveals militant's capabilities, bloody plans</h2>

A Hamas field manual, which was accessed by The Washington Post, found two weeks ago showed their preparations and illustrated some of its military capabilities. 
 
The manual, which was discovered on the body of a Hamas fighter, includes instructions on operating certain weapons, offers tips on how to kill with a knife and identifies vulnerabilities in Israeli military equipment. 
 
It appears that the document has been prepared for various units of Hamas’ Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, which includes engineering, anti-armour, infantry, sniper and tunnel specialists along with what the booklet describes as “shock troops.” 
 
“This is a secret military document. It should be kept in a safe place. It is forbidden to move with it except when there are orders,” the first page stated.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war | At least 55 dead as Israel steps up Gaza game

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The back cover of the document has the picture of Palestinian Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, a mentor of Osama bin Laden. 
 
“If this is their source of inspiration, and this is the figure, the symbol, they are looking at, I understand something more about their behaviour on Oct. 7,” stated Michael Milshtein, a former head of the Palestinian department in the Israeli military intelligence, while speaking to The Washington Post.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media.

Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media. The discovery of the cyanide dispersion device was mentioned in detail by two Israeli officials, and a copy of a classified Israeli foreign ministry cable was accessed by the regional media outlet. “This finding points to an intention by Hamas to use chemical weapons as part of its terror attack against civilians," read the cable claims, as per the media outlet. As per the media report, it was not from the leaked file if Hamas had an operational intent for using the chemical weapons or a concrete plan or if the terror group was trying to produce the makeshift weapons. ALSO READ | Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas As per reports, the Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-proliferation Department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry transmitted a classified cable titled, "Hamas intention of using chemical weapons", to the Israeli embassies, which included the one in Washington DC. The Hamas, file's authenticity could not be confirmed by WION. Hamas field manual reveals militant's capabilities, bloody plans A Hamas field manual, which was accessed by The Washington Post, found two weeks ago showed their preparations and illustrated some of its military capabilities. The manual, which was discovered on the body of a Hamas fighter, includes instructions on operating certain weapons, offers tips on how to kill with a knife and identifies vulnerabilities in Israeli military equipment. It appears that the document has been prepared for various units of Hamas’ Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, which includes engineering, anti-armour, infantry, sniper and tunnel specialists along with what the booklet describes as “shock troops.” “This is a secret military document. It should be kept in a safe place. It is forbidden to move with it except when there are orders,” the first page stated. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | At least 55 dead as Israel steps up Gaza game The back cover of the document has the picture of Palestinian Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, a mentor of Osama bin Laden. “If this is their source of inspiration, and this is the figure, the symbol, they are looking at, I understand something more about their behaviour on Oct. 7,” stated Michael Milshtein, a former head of the Palestinian department in the Israeli military intelligence, while speaking to The Washington Post. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack': Report

Israel on Sunday (Oct 22) claimed that "terror operatives" from Islamic Jihad and Hamas were killed in an air strike carried out on a mosque in Jenin, West Bank. 
 
The Al-Ansar mosque was hit in the strike which the Israeli military stated "was used by the terrorists as a command centre to plan the attacks and as a base for their execution". 
 
The Israeli military added that those who were targeted in the strike had carried out "several terror attacks over the last months, and were organising an additional imminent terror attack". It stated that the Israeli army was able to “neutralise” them, without clearly stating the number of people killed in the attack. 
 
The Israel Securities Authority (ISA) and IDF released a statement which confirmed the aerial strike on the underground compound of the mosque. 
 
"In a joint IDF and ISA activity, the IDF conducted an aerial strike on an underground terror compound in the Al-Ansar mosque in Jenin; The mosque contained a terror cell of Hamas and Islamic Jihad terror operatives who were organizing an imminent terror attack," the statement read. 
 
The statement added that the Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives carried out several "terror attacks" in the last few months and were planning a new, "imminent" attack. 
 
"The terrorist cell also carried out a terror attack on October 14 in the area of the security fence, where an explosive device was detonated by a cellular activation of terror forces who arrived at the scene. No injuries were reported," the statement further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-bloodied-conflict-of-al-aqsa-mosque-that-stands-in-centre-of-israel-hamas-war-645984">Explained | Blood-stained story of Al Aqsa Mosque compound at the heart of Israel-Hamas war</a>

"Intel was recently received which indicated that the terrorists, that were neutralized, were organising an imminent terror attack. The mosque was used by the terrorists as a command centre to plan the attacks and as a base for their execution," it stated.

<h2>At least 13 killed in West Bank airstrikes: UN</h2>

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) stated that at least 13 Palestinians, which included five children, were reported killed in the operation carried out by Israeli security forces in a West Bank refugee camp for 28 hours. 
 
UNRWA director in the West Bank Adam Bouloukos said that the operation took place in Nur Shams. The statement further stated that the schools, solid waste collections in the camp and health services have been suspended by the UNRWA.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel prepares for ground offensive

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Israel Defense Forces chief of staff, Herzi Halevi had earlier said to IDF commanders that the military has been preparing to carry out an operation in Gaza. “We’ll enter the Gaza Strip. We’ll embark on an operational and professional task to destroy Hamas operatives and infrastructures,” said the chief. 
 
Meanwhile, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, “We will increase our strikes, minimize the risk to our troops in the next stages of the war, and we will intensify the strikes, starting from today.”

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Israel on Sunday (Oct 22) claimed that "terror operatives" from Islamic Jihad and Hamas were killed in an air strike carried out on a mosque in Jenin, West Bank.

Israel on Sunday (Oct 22) claimed that "terror operatives" from Islamic Jihad and Hamas were killed in an air strike carried out on a mosque in Jenin, West Bank. The Al-Ansar mosque was hit in the strike which the Israeli military stated "was used by the terrorists as a command centre to plan the attacks and as a base for their execution". The Israeli military added that those who were targeted in the strike had carried out "several terror attacks over the last months, and were organising an additional imminent terror attack". It stated that the Israeli army was able to “neutralise” them, without clearly stating the number of people killed in the attack. The Israel Securities Authority (ISA) and IDF released a statement which confirmed the aerial strike on the underground compound of the mosque. "In a joint IDF and ISA activity, the IDF conducted an aerial strike on an underground terror compound in the Al-Ansar mosque in Jenin; The mosque contained a terror cell of Hamas and Islamic Jihad terror operatives who were organizing an imminent terror attack," the statement read. The statement added that the Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives carried out several "terror attacks" in the last few months and were planning a new, "imminent" attack. "The terrorist cell also carried out a terror attack on October 14 in the area of the security fence, where an explosive device was detonated by a cellular activation of terror forces who arrived at the scene. No injuries were reported," the statement further added. ALSO READ | Explained | Blood-stained story of Al Aqsa Mosque compound at the heart of Israel-Hamas war "Intel was recently received which indicated that the terrorists, that were neutralized, were organising an imminent terror attack. The mosque was used by the terrorists as a command centre to plan the attacks and as a base for their execution," it stated. At least 13 killed in West Bank airstrikes: UN The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) stated that at least 13 Palestinians, which included five children, were reported killed in the operation carried out by Israeli security forces in a West Bank refugee camp for 28 hours. UNRWA director in the West Bank Adam Bouloukos said that the operation took place in Nur Shams. The statement further stated that the schools, solid waste collections in the camp and health services have been suspended by the UNRWA. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Israel prepares for ground offensive Israel Defense Forces chief of staff, Herzi Halevi had earlier said to IDF commanders that the military has been preparing to carry out an operation in Gaza. “We’ll enter the Gaza Strip. We’ll embark on an operational and professional task to destroy Hamas operatives and infrastructures,” said the chief. Meanwhile, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, “We will increase our strikes, minimize the risk to our troops in the next stages of the war, and we will intensify the strikes, starting from today.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel steps up Gaza strikes, claims killed 'terror operatives' in Jenin mosque

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on Saturday (Oct 21), said that the international community must sidestep an intensification of the conflict between Israel and Hamas and develop a roadmap towards the two-state solution.

She made the remarks during her address at the Cairo International Summit for Peace in the Middle East.

"Although our starting points are far apart, our interests overlap perfectly: that what is happening in Gaza does not become a much wider conflict, a religious war, a clash of civilisations," Meloni said speaking in Italian.

"I have the impression that this was the real aim of the Hamas attack, not to defend the rights of the Palestinian people, but an attack that would create an unbridgeable gap between the Palestinians and the Israelis, meaning that the target is all of us, and we cannot fall into this trap, which would be very stupid."

The Italian prime minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Cairo and travelled to Tel Aviv to meet her Israeli counterpart&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu.

During her conversation with Abbas, the two leaders raised concerns about the need to make efforts for a de-escalation of the war between Israel and Hams and for a two-state solution, referring to the idea of establishing two separate and independent states, one for Israelis and one for Palestinians.

"I hope that there is a responsibility on the part of the whole international community, and it seems to me that there is, to speed up this process and provide a structural solution to the conflict," Meloni said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dials-american-hostages-released-by-hamas-649777">US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas</a>

She further emphasised that a two-state solution must have an exact timeframe.

<h2>Guterres urges ceasefire</h2>

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".

He said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced.&nbsp;

"We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on Saturday (Oct 21), said that the international community must sidestep an intensification of the conflict between Israel and Hamas and develop a roadmap towards the two-state solution.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on Saturday (Oct 21), said that the international community must sidestep an intensification of the conflict between Israel and Hamas and develop a roadmap towards the two-state solution. She made the remarks during her address at the Cairo International Summit for Peace in the Middle East. "Although our starting points are far apart, our interests overlap perfectly: that what is happening in Gaza does not become a much wider conflict, a religious war, a clash of civilisations," Meloni said speaking in Italian. "I have the impression that this was the real aim of the Hamas attack, not to defend the rights of the Palestinian people, but an attack that would create an unbridgeable gap between the Palestinians and the Israelis, meaning that the target is all of us, and we cannot fall into this trap, which would be very stupid." The Italian prime minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Cairo and travelled to Tel Aviv to meet her Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu. During her conversation with Abbas, the two leaders raised concerns about the need to make efforts for a de-escalation of the war between Israel and Hams and for a two-state solution, referring to the idea of establishing two separate and independent states, one for Israelis and one for Palestinians. "I hope that there is a responsibility on the part of the whole international community, and it seems to me that there is, to speed up this process and provide a structural solution to the conflict," Meloni said. Also read: US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas She further emphasised that a two-state solution must have an exact timeframe. Guterres urges ceasefire UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare". He said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced. "We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni urges international community to avoid escalation of Israel-Hamas war

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip.

Biden took to his official X handle and shared a post saying, "I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted-for Americans."

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas's October 7 invasion of southern Israel that claimed the lives of 1,400 people.

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I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. 
 
Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. <a href="https://t.co/oXk6gfrD8M">pic.twitter.com/oXk6gfrD8M</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1715489606722801704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative's birthday.

On Friday, (Oct 20), Biden said that he was "overjoyed" at the release of the hostages and thanked Qatar and the government of Israel "for their partnership in this work".

"Today, we have secured the release of two Americans taken hostage by Hamas during the horrific terrorist assault against Israel on October 7," Biden said in a statement.

"Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear."&nbsp;

The United States president then pledged support to the families of the hostages saying that the work would continue to win the release of other Americans being held by Hamas since the attack.

"We will not stop until we get their loved ones home. As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans held hostage around the world," Biden said.

"These individuals and their families will have the full support of the United States government as they recover and heal, and we should all respect their privacy in this moment," he added.

<h2>Mediation will lead to hostage releases 'very soon'</h2>

A Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman told German Welt am Sonntag newspaper that the ongoing discussions will lead to the release of hostages held captive by Hamas "very soon, especially civilians".

"I can't promise you this will happen today or tomorrow or after tomorrow. But we are taking a path that will very soon lead to the release of the hostages, especially civilians," Majed Al-Ansari said.&nbsp;

"We are currently working on an agreement under which all civilian hostages will be initially released," he added.&nbsp;

He further said that the release of the two American nationals "proved to us and our partners that the efforts made in the past days are feasible and must continue".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip.

United States President Joe Biden, on Saturday (Oct 21), spoke over the phone with the two American hostages released by Hamas after being held captive by the Palestinian terrorist group which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel from Gaza Strip. Biden took to his official X handle and shared a post saying, "I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted-for Americans." Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas's October 7 invasion of southern Israel that claimed the lives of 1,400 people. I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. pic.twitter.com/oXk6gfrD8M — President Biden (@POTUS) October 20, 2023 × The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative's birthday. On Friday, (Oct 20), Biden said that he was "overjoyed" at the release of the hostages and thanked Qatar and the government of Israel "for their partnership in this work". "Today, we have secured the release of two Americans taken hostage by Hamas during the horrific terrorist assault against Israel on October 7," Biden said in a statement. "Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear." The United States president then pledged support to the families of the hostages saying that the work would continue to win the release of other Americans being held by Hamas since the attack. "We will not stop until we get their loved ones home. As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans held hostage around the world," Biden said. "These individuals and their families will have the full support of the United States government as they recover and heal, and we should all respect their privacy in this moment," he added. Mediation will lead to hostage releases 'very soon' A Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman told German Welt am Sonntag newspaper that the ongoing discussions will lead to the release of hostages held captive by Hamas "very soon, especially civilians". "I can't promise you this will happen today or tomorrow or after tomorrow. But we are taking a path that will very soon lead to the release of the hostages, especially civilians," Majed Al-Ansari said. "We are currently working on an agreement under which all civilian hostages will be initially released," he added. He further said that the release of the two American nationals "proved to us and our partners that the efforts made in the past days are feasible and must continue". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas

US President Joe Biden on Friday (October 20) said that it was possible that Hamas initiated the ongoing conflict with Israel as it wanted to disrupt warming up of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

"One of the reasons why they acted like they did... why Hamas moved on Israel... (was) because they knew I was about to sit down with the Saudis," Biden told guests at a campaign fundraiser.

"The Saudis wanted to recognize Israel... unite the Middle East," he said.

The positive momentum towards normalisation of ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, guardian of Islam's two holiest sites, was destroyed as Hamas terrorists&nbsp;attacked Israel on October 7.

Hamas fighters stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip. They took more than 200 hostages and killed at least 1400 people, as per data with Israeli officials.

In the conflict this attack sparked, Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas. It has said that about 1500 of the group's fighters have been killed.

Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Trucks, filled with humanitarian aid, enter Gaza through Rafah crossing

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Israel retaliated with bombing campaign which has levelled entire city blocks in Gaza. So far, 4137 Palestinians have been killed. These are mostly civilians, says Hamas-run health ministry.

Saudi Arabia on October 14 announced that it had suspended talks with Israel on normalisation of relations. The announcement came during a visit to Riyadh by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, had spoken of progress with Israel but also insisted on movement on the Palestinian cause.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-hospital-strike-french-intelligence-points-to-palestinian-rocket-for-blast-649615">Gaza hospital strike: French intelligence points to Palestinian rocket for blast</a>

Saudi Arabia has never recognised Israel. It did not join the 2020 Abraham Accords brokered by the US. The accords resulted in Bahrain, the UAE and Morocco establishing diplomatic ties with Israel.

The US government under President Joe Biden has pressed Saudi Arabia to join the accords. Riyadh has, in exchange demanded security guarantees from Washington and help in developing a civil nuclear programme.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trucks-filled-with-humanitarian-aid-enter-gaza-through-rafah-crossing-649566">Trucks, filled with humanitarian aid, enter Gaza through Rafah crossing</a>

Saudi Crown Prince and de-facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman told Fox News last month that he was "getting closer every day" to a normalisation agreement with Israel. He also emphasised importance of Palestinian question.

Hamas, the Palestinian movement in power in the Gaza Strip, opposes normalization agreements with Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden on Friday (October 20) said that it was possible that Hamas initiated the ongoing conflict with Israel as it wanted to disrupt warming up of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

US President Joe Biden on Friday (October 20) said that it was possible that Hamas initiated the ongoing conflict with Israel as it wanted to disrupt warming up of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. "One of the reasons why they acted like they did... why Hamas moved on Israel... (was) because they knew I was about to sit down with the Saudis," Biden told guests at a campaign fundraiser. "The Saudis wanted to recognize Israel... unite the Middle East," he said. The positive momentum towards normalisation of ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, guardian of Islam's two holiest sites, was destroyed as Hamas terrorists attacked Israel on October 7. Hamas fighters stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip. They took more than 200 hostages and killed at least 1400 people, as per data with Israeli officials. In the conflict this attack sparked, Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas. It has said that about 1500 of the group's fighters have been killed. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Trucks, filled with humanitarian aid, enter Gaza through Rafah crossing × Israel retaliated with bombing campaign which has levelled entire city blocks in Gaza. So far, 4137 Palestinians have been killed. These are mostly civilians, says Hamas-run health ministry. Saudi Arabia on October 14 announced that it had suspended talks with Israel on normalisation of relations. The announcement came during a visit to Riyadh by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, had spoken of progress with Israel but also insisted on movement on the Palestinian cause. Also Read | Gaza hospital strike: French intelligence points to Palestinian rocket for blast Saudi Arabia has never recognised Israel. It did not join the 2020 Abraham Accords brokered by the US. The accords resulted in Bahrain, the UAE and Morocco establishing diplomatic ties with Israel. The US government under President Joe Biden has pressed Saudi Arabia to join the accords. Riyadh has, in exchange demanded security guarantees from Washington and help in developing a civil nuclear programme. Also Read | Trucks, filled with humanitarian aid, enter Gaza through Rafah crossing Saudi Crown Prince and de-facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman told Fox News last month that he was "getting closer every day" to a normalisation agreement with Israel. He also emphasised importance of Palestinian question. Hamas, the Palestinian movement in power in the Gaza Strip, opposes normalization agreements with Israel. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hamas attacked in order to derail Saudi-Israel normalisation: Joe Biden

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults.

"Week 270. Today we are striking in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected."

In the post, the 20-year-old shared a picture where she along with three other women can be seen holding pro-Palestine posters.

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Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreePalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreePalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IStandWithPalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IStandWithPalestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithGaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithGaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FridaysForFuture?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FridaysForFuture</a> 
Thread🧵 <a href="https://t.co/0hVtya0yWO">pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1715355502337499332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Israel responds</h2>

Israel taking a dig at the climate activist, took to its official X handle and responded to her post saying that the militant group Hamas doesn't "use sustainable materials for their rockets which have butchered innocent Israelis".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-cairo-peace-summit-palestinian-president-abbas-warns-of-any-attempts-to-displace-people-from-gaza-649661">At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza</a>

"The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up,” the post added.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GretaThunberg</a>, Hamas doesn’t use sustainable materials for their rockets which have BUTCHERED innocent Israelis . 
 
The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. 
 
Speak up. <a href="https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N">https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z4orsm2UjD">pic.twitter.com/Z4orsm2UjD</a>
— Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1715370190714589677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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It also shared the photos of three 19-year-old Israelis, who were allegedly killed in the Hamas assault.

Earlier, Thunberg was charged by the UK's Metropolitan Police Service after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London.

She was among the 26 people charged by the UK police after being held at the demonstration site on Tuesday. She was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" levied under Britain's Public Order Act that deals with public assemblies and was released on bail.

She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Nov 15.

Before her arrest, Thunberg denounced "closed-door" agreements struck between politicians and representatives of the oil and gas industry.

London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests.

"The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, on Friday (Oct 20), took her social media account and voiced support for Palestinians after Israel intensified its strikes on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas assaults. "Week 270. Today we are striking in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected." In the post, the 20-year-old shared a picture where she along with three other women can be seen holding pro-Palestine posters. Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.#FreePalestine #IStandWithPalestine #StandWithGaza #FridaysForFuture Thread🧵 pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) October 20, 2023 × Israel responds Israel taking a dig at the climate activist, took to its official X handle and responded to her post saying that the militant group Hamas doesn't "use sustainable materials for their rockets which have butchered innocent Israelis". Also read: At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza "The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up,” the post added. .@GretaThunberg, Hamas doesn’t use sustainable materials for their rockets which have BUTCHERED innocent Israelis . The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up. https://t.co/giHNJxeF6N pic.twitter.com/Z4orsm2UjD — Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) October 20, 2023 × It also shared the photos of three 19-year-old Israelis, who were allegedly killed in the Hamas assault. Earlier, Thunberg was charged by the UK's Metropolitan Police Service after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London. She was among the 26 people charged by the UK police after being held at the demonstration site on Tuesday. She was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" levied under Britain's Public Order Act that deals with public assemblies and was released on bail. She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Nov 15. Before her arrest, Thunberg denounced "closed-door" agreements struck between politicians and representatives of the oil and gas industry. London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests. "The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel takes dig at Greta Thunberg over her post showing support for Palestinians

A convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing on Saturday (Oct 21), confirmed the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in a statement.

It stated that the trucks were filled with medicine and food supplies meant for the people of Gaza Strip. "The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement.

The Egyptian state TV, trucks which were seen waiting for days to enter the area of border crossing from the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt entering the gate after the war between Israel and Hamas entered the 15th day.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-gaza-strip-became-the-worlds-largest-open-air-prison-646668">Explained | How Gaza Strip became the ‘world’s largest open-air prison’</a>

<h2>Rafah crossing – the only route to Gaza not controlled by Israel</h2>

Gaza Strip has been incessantly bombed by Israel since the massive attack was launched by Hamas on Tel Aviv on October 7.

The terrorist group had entered Israel from the Gaza Strip and killed around 1,400 people, who were mostly civilians on the first day of the attack, according to Israeli officials. The people were killed, mutilated and burnt to death and 200 others were taken hostage.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Hamas frees two US hostages

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After the attack, Israel announced a total siege on Gaza, and stopped the supplies of electricity, water, food and fuel, which created chronic shortages in the region.

Rafah is the only route inside Gaza which is not under the control of Israel and through which it was agreed to allow entry of aid from Egypt after a request was made by its top ally the United States.

As per an AFP correspondent, 20 trucks sent by the Egyptian Red Crescent, which had been given the task of delivering aid from different UN agencies, entered through the Egyptian terminal. On the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, 36 empty trailers were seen entering the terminal and moving towards the Egyptian side, where they were to be filled with incoming aid, reported AFP.

Two Red Cross vehicles, two UN vehicles and four ambulances were also seen moving towards the terminal.

<h2>Gaza's first aid convoy 'must not be the last': UN</h2>

Reacting to the entry of 20 aid trucks entering Gaza through Rafah crossing, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said that the first truck "must not be the last".

"I am confident that this delivery will be the start of a sustainable effort to provide essential supplies... to the people of Gaza," stated Martin Griffiths, adding, "This first convoy must not be the last.” 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing on Saturday (Oct 21), confirmed the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in a statement.

A convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing on Saturday (Oct 21), confirmed the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in a statement. It stated that the trucks were filled with medicine and food supplies meant for the people of Gaza Strip. "The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement. The Egyptian state TV, trucks which were seen waiting for days to enter the area of border crossing from the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt entering the gate after the war between Israel and Hamas entered the 15th day. ALSO READ | Explained | How Gaza Strip became the ‘world’s largest open-air prison’ Rafah crossing – the only route to Gaza not controlled by Israel Gaza Strip has been incessantly bombed by Israel since the massive attack was launched by Hamas on Tel Aviv on October 7. The terrorist group had entered Israel from the Gaza Strip and killed around 1,400 people, who were mostly civilians on the first day of the attack, according to Israeli officials. The people were killed, mutilated and burnt to death and 200 others were taken hostage. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas frees two US hostages After the attack, Israel announced a total siege on Gaza, and stopped the supplies of electricity, water, food and fuel, which created chronic shortages in the region. Rafah is the only route inside Gaza which is not under the control of Israel and through which it was agreed to allow entry of aid from Egypt after a request was made by its top ally the United States. As per an AFP correspondent, 20 trucks sent by the Egyptian Red Crescent, which had been given the task of delivering aid from different UN agencies, entered through the Egyptian terminal. On the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, 36 empty trailers were seen entering the terminal and moving towards the Egyptian side, where they were to be filled with incoming aid, reported AFP. Two Red Cross vehicles, two UN vehicles and four ambulances were also seen moving towards the terminal. Gaza's first aid convoy 'must not be the last': UN Reacting to the entry of 20 aid trucks entering Gaza through Rafah crossing, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said that the first truck "must not be the last". "I am confident that this delivery will be the start of a sustainable effort to provide essential supplies... to the people of Gaza," stated Martin Griffiths, adding, "This first convoy must not be the last.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Trucks, filled with humanitarian aid, enter Gaza through Rafah crossing

Israel has stated that the future aim of its military campaign in Gaza is to end all ties with the territory. 
 
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that after defeating Hamas, Israel plans to end its "responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip". 
 
Before the war broke out, most of the energy needs of Gaza were fulfilled by Israel and it also monitored imports into the territory. 
 
The statement was released as Israel continues bombardment in Gaza and aid remains blocked on the Rafah border with Egypt. Israel started pounding Gaza after Hamas militants attacked the country on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people and taking 203 others hostage. 
 
Israel has now been planning to launch a ground offensive. Minister Gallant, while speaking to a parliamentary committee on Friday (Oct 20), said that the campaign's first stage aimed at destroying the infrastructure of Hamas, as per a statement from his office.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

He added that the Israeli forces will be launching "operations at lower intensity" to eliminate "pockets of resistance". 
 
He said that the third phase "will require the removal of Israel's responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip and the establishment of a new security reality for the citizens of Israel". 
 
In 2005, even though Israel withdrew from Gaza, the strip, East Jerusalem and the West Bank were considered by the United Nations as occupied land and it was seen as Israel's responsibility to provide the population with basic needs.

<h2>Trucks with supplies remain on Egyptian side of Rafah crossing</h2>

Previously, Israel permitted Gazans to cross the border for work. It also monitored the imports into the strip to stop weapons from reaching Hamas. 
 
After the October 7 attacks, Israel stopped the supply of electricity, food as well and medicine in the Gaza Strip. The situation in the region was called by the United Nations as "beyond catastrophic".

Watch |&nbsp;Israel vs Hamas: Could Hezbollah tilt the scales against Israel?

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A deal was finalised by the United States and Egypt which allowed some supplies for the 2.2 million people of the Gaza Strip. On Friday, an initial convoy of 20 trucks was about to enter the Gaza Strip through Rafah crossing, however, they are still on the Egyptian side. 
 
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday (Oct 20) visited the Rafah crossing with a plea for entry of aid trucks into the territory. 
 
"These trucks are not just trucks - they are a lifeline, they are the difference between life and death to many people in Gaza. What we need is to make them move,” he said.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel has stated that the future aim of its military campaign in Gaza is to end all ties with the territory. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that after defeating Hamas, Israel plans to end its "responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip".

Israel has stated that the future aim of its military campaign in Gaza is to end all ties with the territory. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that after defeating Hamas, Israel plans to end its "responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip". Before the war broke out, most of the energy needs of Gaza were fulfilled by Israel and it also monitored imports into the territory. The statement was released as Israel continues bombardment in Gaza and aid remains blocked on the Rafah border with Egypt. Israel started pounding Gaza after Hamas militants attacked the country on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people and taking 203 others hostage. Israel has now been planning to launch a ground offensive. Minister Gallant, while speaking to a parliamentary committee on Friday (Oct 20), said that the campaign's first stage aimed at destroying the infrastructure of Hamas, as per a statement from his office. ALSO READ | Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents He added that the Israeli forces will be launching "operations at lower intensity" to eliminate "pockets of resistance". He said that the third phase "will require the removal of Israel's responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip and the establishment of a new security reality for the citizens of Israel". In 2005, even though Israel withdrew from Gaza, the strip, East Jerusalem and the West Bank were considered by the United Nations as occupied land and it was seen as Israel's responsibility to provide the population with basic needs. Trucks with supplies remain on Egyptian side of Rafah crossing Previously, Israel permitted Gazans to cross the border for work. It also monitored the imports into the strip to stop weapons from reaching Hamas. After the October 7 attacks, Israel stopped the supply of electricity, food as well and medicine in the Gaza Strip. The situation in the region was called by the United Nations as "beyond catastrophic". Watch | Israel vs Hamas: Could Hezbollah tilt the scales against Israel? A deal was finalised by the United States and Egypt which allowed some supplies for the 2.2 million people of the Gaza Strip. On Friday, an initial convoy of 20 trucks was about to enter the Gaza Strip through Rafah crossing, however, they are still on the Egyptian side. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday (Oct 20) visited the Rafah crossing with a plea for entry of aid trucks into the territory. "These trucks are not just trucks - they are a lifeline, they are the difference between life and death to many people in Gaza. What we need is to make them move,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel suggests severing ties with Gaza after war with Hamas ends

Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war.

The counter-offensive by Israel has presented&nbsp;an opportunity for both Moscow and Beijing to come up as the champs of the developing world as Washington has fairly and squarely backed its ally Tel Aviv.

Though China has repeatedly called for restraint and a ceasefire, it has also strongly denounced Israel over its bombardment of the besieged Palestinian enclave.

"Israel's actions have gone beyond the scope of self-defence," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said earlier this week, calling on it to stop its "collective punishment" of Gaza residents, Chinese state media reported.

Russia, amid the conflict, has expressed sympathy for the Palestinians while condemning the United States, stating that the upsurge of violence and tensions between Israel and Hamas showed the failure of the United States' Middle-East policy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Washington sought to monopolise the international efforts aimed at forging peace in the region, further condemning the US for not seeking compromises acceptable to both sides.

"I think that many people will agree with me that this is a vivid example of the failure of United States policy in the Middle East," Putin had told Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani last week.

"The US tried to monopolise the solution (of the crisis between Israel and Palestinians), but, unfortunately, was not concerned with finding compromises acceptable to both sides, but, on the contrary, promoted its own ideas about how it should be done and put both sides under pressure. That's both sides, at one or another," he said.

Both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have strived to strengthen links to the global south, witnessing economic prospects and conceivably a way to negate the diplomatic influence of the United States and its allies. This strategy was on its full display earlier this week as China hosted a summit for Xi's Belt and Road Initiative, which has loaned hundreds of billions of dollars for infrastructure projects across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia.

Putin attended and met Xi for three hours of talks that included "an in-depth exchange of views on the Palestinian-Israeli situation", China said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a>

"China and Russia still see (the crisis) more in terms of the United States than in terms of either Palestine or Israel," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

"If the United States can effectively rally the world, it's bad for them. If the US and its allies grow increasingly isolated, they see that as good for them."

<h2>China and Russia's support for Palestine</h2>

The way both Moscow and Beijing operate in the Middle East has a lot in common. Russia has been a staunch critic of the United States, however, China has mainly opted to bypass denouncing the US.

This year, China signalled its growing influence in the Middle East when it announced a deal on the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

On the other hand, Russia too has been enhancing its relationship with Iran via its move to back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and supplies of Iranian drones.

Both Moscow and Beijing have strongly voiced support for Palestinians and are critical of what they say is the stigmatisation of them by the United States.&nbsp;

"There's clearly a shared interest in emphasising the negative role of the US in the conflict," news agency Reuters quoted Jean-Loup Samaan, senior research fellow at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore, as saying.

"And that fits within their broader narrative on the need to build an alternative world order to the US."

Earlier, Putin, accusing the West of not taking into consideration the fundamental interests of Palestinians, had stated that it was necessary to "implement the decisions of the UN Security Council on the creation of an independent sovereign Palestinian state."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also echoed the same sentiment saying that the creation of a Palestinian state was the "most reliable" solution for peace in Israel.&nbsp;

"Creation of a Palestinian state that would live side by side with Israel.. is the most reliable path to solve (the conflict). We cannot agree with those who say that security can only be ensured through a fight with terrorism," he said.

Meanwhile, Chinese media covered the Hamas assault and since then has been carrying reports containing images of Palestinians suffering, with some even citing Palestinian sources as saying Israel was responsible for the violence.

"None of the reality that shocked much of the world on October 7 is in Chinese news. Instead, the news features Israeli bombing of Gaza without explaining that the target is only Hamas infrastructure," Reuters quoted Carice Witte, director of the SIGNAL Group, a Sino-Israel relations think tank based in Tel Aviv as saying.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Foes for centuries, Russia and its "dear friend" China have begun to find common ground with the Middle East countries that have voiced support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war. The counter-offensive by Israel has presented an opportunity for both Moscow and Beijing to come up as the champs of the developing world as Washington has fairly and squarely backed its ally Tel Aviv. Though China has repeatedly called for restraint and a ceasefire, it has also strongly denounced Israel over its bombardment of the besieged Palestinian enclave. "Israel's actions have gone beyond the scope of self-defence," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said earlier this week, calling on it to stop its "collective punishment" of Gaza residents, Chinese state media reported. Russia, amid the conflict, has expressed sympathy for the Palestinians while condemning the United States, stating that the upsurge of violence and tensions between Israel and Hamas showed the failure of the United States' Middle-East policy. Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Washington sought to monopolise the international efforts aimed at forging peace in the region, further condemning the US for not seeking compromises acceptable to both sides. "I think that many people will agree with me that this is a vivid example of the failure of United States policy in the Middle East," Putin had told Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani last week. "The US tried to monopolise the solution (of the crisis between Israel and Palestinians), but, unfortunately, was not concerned with finding compromises acceptable to both sides, but, on the contrary, promoted its own ideas about how it should be done and put both sides under pressure. That's both sides, at one or another," he said. Both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have strived to strengthen links to the global south, witnessing economic prospects and conceivably a way to negate the diplomatic influence of the United States and its allies. This strategy was on its full display earlier this week as China hosted a summit for Xi's Belt and Road Initiative, which has loaned hundreds of billions of dollars for infrastructure projects across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia. Putin attended and met Xi for three hours of talks that included "an in-depth exchange of views on the Palestinian-Israeli situation", China said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "China and Russia still see (the crisis) more in terms of the United States than in terms of either Palestine or Israel," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. "If the United States can effectively rally the world, it's bad for them. If the US and its allies grow increasingly isolated, they see that as good for them." China and Russia's support for Palestine The way both Moscow and Beijing operate in the Middle East has a lot in common. Russia has been a staunch critic of the United States, however, China has mainly opted to bypass denouncing the US. This year, China signalled its growing influence in the Middle East when it announced a deal on the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran. On the other hand, Russia too has been enhancing its relationship with Iran via its move to back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and supplies of Iranian drones. Both Moscow and Beijing have strongly voiced support for Palestinians and are critical of what they say is the stigmatisation of them by the United States. "There's clearly a shared interest in emphasising the negative role of the US in the conflict," news agency Reuters quoted Jean-Loup Samaan, senior research fellow at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore, as saying. "And that fits within their broader narrative on the need to build an alternative world order to the US." Earlier, Putin, accusing the West of not taking into consideration the fundamental interests of Palestinians, had stated that it was necessary to "implement the decisions of the UN Security Council on the creation of an independent sovereign Palestinian state." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also echoed the same sentiment saying that the creation of a Palestinian state was the "most reliable" solution for peace in Israel. "Creation of a Palestinian state that would live side by side with Israel.. is the most reliable path to solve (the conflict). We cannot agree with those who say that security can only be ensured through a fight with terrorism," he said. Meanwhile, Chinese media covered the Hamas assault and since then has been carrying reports containing images of Palestinians suffering, with some even citing Palestinian sources as saying Israel was responsible for the violence. "None of the reality that shocked much of the world on October 7 is in Chinese news. Instead, the news features Israeli bombing of Gaza without explaining that the target is only Hamas infrastructure," Reuters quoted Carice Witte, director of the SIGNAL Group, a Sino-Israel relations think tank based in Tel Aviv as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

"In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.

The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive.

"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said.

The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.

The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.

"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a>

"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."

<h2>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</h2>

Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;

He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".

Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel. "In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released. Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said. The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza

At least 81 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops or settlers in the occupied West Bank since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, said the Palestinian health officials in Ramallah, on Friday (Oct 20).&nbsp;

The death toll following an arrest raid in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-at-least-7-palestinians-killed-across-west-bank-10-israeli-officers-injured-amid-clashes-648878">Nur Shams refugee camp</a> near the city of Tulkarem by Israeli troops, on Thursday also rose to 13, said the Palestinian officials in the West Bank.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli authorities said that one border officer was killed and nine others were injured after intense clashes during the raid.&nbsp;

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that’s troops have arrested over 580 wanted Palestinians across the Palestinian territory.

<h2>Death toll rises to 13</h2>

According to the Palestinian health ministry, over 13 people, including five children were killed after Israeli troops stormed Nur Shams camp. The Palestinian Authority said that Israel carried out a rare drone strike which killed at least 12 Palestinians.&nbsp;

The IDF said that it carried out an air strike which killed “a number of terrorists” in Nur Shams. It added, “Exchanges of fire with armed gunmen, which included explosive devices being thrown at Israeli security forces, took place.”&nbsp;

The Palestinian media outlets also reported gunmen shooting at the Israeli forces and setting off explosive devices in the area.&nbsp;

The Palestinian health ministry said Israeli forces shot dead a 17-year-old in Dheisheh refugee camp and a 32-year-old in Budrus, west of Ramallah, during clashes earlier Thursday.&nbsp;

According to the Israeli military, people hurled “molotov cocktails and other objects” like burning tires which prompted its troops to open fire.&nbsp;

This comes amid unrest and protests across the West Bank since October 7 when Hamas attacked Israel and the latter has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza. Palestinians across the West Bank have held rallies in solidarity with Gaza’s 2.4 million people.

<h2>More than 580 Palestinians arrested: IDF</h2>

The clashes also led to the death of one Israeli border police personnel who was identified by the police as Master sergeant Maxim Razinkov. He was said to be fatally wounded by an improvised explosive device hurled at the Border Police forces. At least nine other officers were lightly wounded, said the Israeli police.&nbsp;

The IDF said that they have arrested 584 wanted Palestinians across the West Bank, including over 375 who are said to be associated with Hamas. Around 47 alleged Hamas members were arrested overnight, said the Israeli military on Friday.

The IDF also arrested an 18-year-old Palestinian from Ramallah claiming that he had been staying in Israel illegally and was suspected of having stolen the vehicle with the intention of carrying out a ramming attack against Israeli forces at the West Bank’s Hizma checkpoint near Jerusalem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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At least 81 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops or settlers in the occupied West Bank since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, said the Palestinian health officials in Ramallah, on Friday (Oct 20).

At least 81 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops or settlers in the occupied West Bank since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, said the Palestinian health officials in Ramallah, on Friday (Oct 20). The death toll following an arrest raid in the Nur Shams refugee camp near the city of Tulkarem by Israeli troops, on Thursday also rose to 13, said the Palestinian officials in the West Bank. Meanwhile, Israeli authorities said that one border officer was killed and nine others were injured after intense clashes during the raid. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that’s troops have arrested over 580 wanted Palestinians across the Palestinian territory. Death toll rises to 13 According to the Palestinian health ministry, over 13 people, including five children were killed after Israeli troops stormed Nur Shams camp. The Palestinian Authority said that Israel carried out a rare drone strike which killed at least 12 Palestinians. The IDF said that it carried out an air strike which killed “a number of terrorists” in Nur Shams. It added, “Exchanges of fire with armed gunmen, which included explosive devices being thrown at Israeli security forces, took place.” The Palestinian media outlets also reported gunmen shooting at the Israeli forces and setting off explosive devices in the area. The Palestinian health ministry said Israeli forces shot dead a 17-year-old in Dheisheh refugee camp and a 32-year-old in Budrus, west of Ramallah, during clashes earlier Thursday. According to the Israeli military, people hurled “molotov cocktails and other objects” like burning tires which prompted its troops to open fire. This comes amid unrest and protests across the West Bank since October 7 when Hamas attacked Israel and the latter has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza. Palestinians across the West Bank have held rallies in solidarity with Gaza’s 2.4 million people. More than 580 Palestinians arrested: IDF The clashes also led to the death of one Israeli border police personnel who was identified by the police as Master sergeant Maxim Razinkov. He was said to be fatally wounded by an improvised explosive device hurled at the Border Police forces. At least nine other officers were lightly wounded, said the Israeli police. The IDF said that they have arrested 584 wanted Palestinians across the West Bank, including over 375 who are said to be associated with Hamas. Around 47 alleged Hamas members were arrested overnight, said the Israeli military on Friday. The IDF also arrested an 18-year-old Palestinian from Ramallah claiming that he had been staying in Israel illegally and was suspected of having stolen the vehicle with the intention of carrying out a ramming attack against Israeli forces at the West Bank’s Hizma checkpoint near Jerusalem. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Over 80 Palestinians in West Bank killed by Israeli troops, settlers, claims health ministry

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