Under a coalition agreement with Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party, Israel's far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir will become the police minister, ushering in the most right-wing administration in the nation's history.&nbsp;The agreement was reached after Netanyahu's right-wing coalition easily won Israel's fifth parliamentary election in less than four years this month.&nbsp;

Regarding the formation of the new government, Netanyahu is still in discussion with three other parties.&nbsp;

In a statement released early on Friday, Ben-Gvir said, "We took a big step (last night) towards a full coalition agreement, toward forming a fully, fully right-wing government."

Ben-Gvir, who was found guilty in 2007 of inciting racism against Arabs and supporting a group regarded as a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States, will be in charge of the Border Police in the occupied West Bank as part of his enlarged security responsibilities.&nbsp;

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The transaction with Ben-Gvir, according to the Palestinian authority's foreign affairs ministry, would obstruct the resumption of talks between the two parties, which broke down in 2014, and have a "potentially catastrophic impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."&nbsp;

The accord, which grants Ben-Gvir a post in the security cabinet of the Israeli government, comes after months of unrest in the West Bank following a bloody army assault in response to a string of deadly attacks by Palestinian terrorists within Israel.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Under a coalition agreement with Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party, Israel's far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir will become the police minister, ushering in the most right-wing administration in the nation's history.

Under a coalition agreement with Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party, Israel's far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir will become the police minister, ushering in the most right-wing administration in the nation's history. The agreement was reached after Netanyahu's right-wing coalition easily won Israel's fifth parliamentary election in less than four years this month. Regarding the formation of the new government, Netanyahu is still in discussion with three other parties. In a statement released early on Friday, Ben-Gvir said, "We took a big step (last night) towards a full coalition agreement, toward forming a fully, fully right-wing government." Ben-Gvir, who was found guilty in 2007 of inciting racism against Arabs and supporting a group regarded as a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States, will be in charge of the Border Police in the occupied West Bank as part of his enlarged security responsibilities. Also Read: Coming soon, gold, grey and blue checks on Twitter, Musk to launch 'Verified' feature next week The transaction with Ben-Gvir, according to the Palestinian authority's foreign affairs ministry, would obstruct the resumption of talks between the two parties, which broke down in 2014, and have a "potentially catastrophic impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict." The accord, which grants Ben-Gvir a post in the security cabinet of the Israeli government, comes after months of unrest in the West Bank following a bloody army assault in response to a string of deadly attacks by Palestinian terrorists within Israel. (with inputs from agencies)

Israel's far-right politician Ben-Gvir to be border police minister in coalition govt

After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had&nbsp; granted&nbsp;to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday.&nbsp;Following allegations that a labourer was preparing to carry out a blast, according to Shin Bet, the suspect, who was detained on October 30, admitted to interrogators that he had been recruited by relatives in the extremist organisation Islamic Jihad to attack a bus in southern Israel.&nbsp;

It stated that an Israeli court has indicted the culprit. It wasn't immediately obvious if he had a lawyer assigned to him or what kind of plea he might enter.&nbsp;

Israel's responded by&nbsp;revoking about 200 workers' licences.

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"The attempt by terror groups to exploit the jobs of workers in Israel in order to carry out attacks endangers the livelihood of hundreds of thousands of residents of the Gaza Strip," Defence Minister Benny Gantz tweeted.

Gantz, a member of Israel's centrist outgoing administration, has pushed for increasing the number of admission permits to lessen Gaza's extreme poverty and prevent war.&nbsp;

A young Israeli-Canadian was killed and at least 14 other people were injured in a twin bombing that occurred in Jerusalem on Wednesday. No one has yet claimed credit for the attack.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had granted to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday.

After a bomb scare, Israel has revoked 200 of the roughly 15,500 work permits it had granted to Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to the Shin Bet security service on Thursday. Following allegations that a labourer was preparing to carry out a blast, according to Shin Bet, the suspect, who was detained on October 30, admitted to interrogators that he had been recruited by relatives in the extremist organisation Islamic Jihad to attack a bus in southern Israel. It stated that an Israeli court has indicted the culprit. It wasn't immediately obvious if he had a lawyer assigned to him or what kind of plea he might enter. Israel's responded by revoking about 200 workers' licences. Also Read: Meta claims to have uncovered US military-linked online propaganda "The attempt by terror groups to exploit the jobs of workers in Israel in order to carry out attacks endangers the livelihood of hundreds of thousands of residents of the Gaza Strip," Defence Minister Benny Gantz tweeted. Gantz, a member of Israel's centrist outgoing administration, has pushed for increasing the number of admission permits to lessen Gaza's extreme poverty and prevent war. A young Israeli-Canadian was killed and at least 14 other people were injured in a twin bombing that occurred in Jerusalem on Wednesday. No one has yet claimed credit for the attack. (with inputs from agencies)

Israel cancels 200 work permits issued to Palestinians from Gaza Strip after bomb scare

A bomb blast&nbsp;in Syria killed an Iranian&nbsp;Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Colonel Davoud Jafari. According to local media reports citing the Guards, Jafari was one of Iran's military advisers in Syria as well as a member of the Guards’ aerospace arm. They also blamed the attack on Israel and reportedly warned that Israel will have to answer for their “crimes”.&nbsp;

The incident took place on Monday when Jafari was killed by a “makeshift bomb planted by the roadside near Damascus, by associates of the Zionist (Israeli) regime”, said the Guards in a statement. Reportedly,&nbsp;Tehran and Israel have long waged a shadow war of attacks including assassinations and acts of sabotage against each other.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-stood-with-us-in-difficult-times-syrian-foreign-minister-fayssal-mekdad-535898">Exclusive | India stood with us in difficult times: Syrian foreign minister Fayssal Mekdad</a>

During Syria’s 11-year civil war, Iran has been a supporter of Syrian President Bashar Assad and while Tehran has long claimed that it plays only a military advisory role in Syria, reports suggest that they have sent thousands of Iran-backed soldiers to fight alongside Assad’s forces.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Israeli officials said that they will work on preventing Iran’s entrenchment in Syria, especially near the south of the border as well as stop them from supplying advanced tech and weapons to the Iran-allied terror groups, such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah.&nbsp;

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Israel has also reportedly carried out several strikes in Syria in the past couple of months which it rarely comments on but has previously acknowledged hundreds of air and missile strikes in Syria on both government and Iran-backed forces in the region since the civil war broke out 11 years ago.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/535652">Four Syrian soldiers killed, one wounded after Israeli airstrikes: Report</a>

Earlier this year, the Guards had alleged that two of its high-ranking officers were killed in an Israeli attack in Syria. Recently, Syria has also accused the Israeli military of carrying out missile strikes over the weekend which allegedly killed four soldiers and left one wounded.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A bomb blast in Syria killed an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Colonel Davoud Jafari. According to local media reports citing the Guards, Jafari was one of Iran's military advisers in Syria as well as a member of the Guards’ aerospace arm.

A bomb blast in Syria killed an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Colonel Davoud Jafari. According to local media reports citing the Guards, Jafari was one of Iran's military advisers in Syria as well as a member of the Guards’ aerospace arm. They also blamed the attack on Israel and reportedly warned that Israel will have to answer for their “crimes”. The incident took place on Monday when Jafari was killed by a “makeshift bomb planted by the roadside near Damascus, by associates of the Zionist (Israeli) regime”, said the Guards in a statement. Reportedly, Tehran and Israel have long waged a shadow war of attacks including assassinations and acts of sabotage against each other. ALSO READ: Exclusive | India stood with us in difficult times: Syrian foreign minister Fayssal Mekdad During Syria’s 11-year civil war, Iran has been a supporter of Syrian President Bashar Assad and while Tehran has long claimed that it plays only a military advisory role in Syria, reports suggest that they have sent thousands of Iran-backed soldiers to fight alongside Assad’s forces. On the other hand, Israeli officials said that they will work on preventing Iran’s entrenchment in Syria, especially near the south of the border as well as stop them from supplying advanced tech and weapons to the Iran-allied terror groups, such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah. ALSO WATCH: Turkey launches airstrikes over northern Syria Israel has also reportedly carried out several strikes in Syria in the past couple of months which it rarely comments on but has previously acknowledged hundreds of air and missile strikes in Syria on both government and Iran-backed forces in the region since the civil war broke out 11 years ago. ALSO READ: Four Syrian soldiers killed, one wounded after Israeli airstrikes: Report Earlier this year, the Guards had alleged that two of its high-ranking officers were killed in an Israeli attack in Syria. Recently, Syria has also accused the Israeli military of carrying out missile strikes over the weekend which allegedly killed four soldiers and left one wounded. (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.

Iranian colonel killed by bomb blast in Syria; Tehran blames Israel, vows to take revenge

According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday. The report quoted an unidentified Syrian military official. On the other hand, the Israeli military has declined to comment.&nbsp;

“At approximately 6:30 this morning (local time), the Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression over the Mediterranean Sea, from the direction of Banias, targeting some posts in the central and coastal region,” said the military source. The report added that Syrian air defences countered the missile attack by the Israeli warplanes flying over the Mediterranean Sea and suffered from material damage.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-strikes-against-syria-after-missile-attack-451589">Israel launches strikes against Syria after missile attack</a>

Reportedly, Israel has been mounting attacks on Syria for years now against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces. Furthermore, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights which is a British-based war monitor said that the attacks were reportedly aimed at pro-Iranian groups in the provinces of Homs and Hama, and their ammunition sites. It added that several explosions were also heard in Latakia, a coastal province.&nbsp;

This comes days after Israeli missiles hit the Shayrat air base, in Syria's Homs province killing two soldiers and injuring three, which reports suggest were being used by the Iranian air force.&nbsp;

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In recent months, Israel has intensified targets on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran’s aerial supply lines used to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, reports suggest. The supposed Iran-allied militant group has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday.

According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday. The report quoted an unidentified Syrian military official. On the other hand, the Israeli military has declined to comment. “At approximately 6:30 this morning (local time), the Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression over the Mediterranean Sea, from the direction of Banias, targeting some posts in the central and coastal region,” said the military source. The report added that Syrian air defences countered the missile attack by the Israeli warplanes flying over the Mediterranean Sea and suffered from material damage. ALSO READ: Israel launches strikes against Syria after missile attack Reportedly, Israel has been mounting attacks on Syria for years now against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces. Furthermore, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights which is a British-based war monitor said that the attacks were reportedly aimed at pro-Iranian groups in the provinces of Homs and Hama, and their ammunition sites. It added that several explosions were also heard in Latakia, a coastal province. This comes days after Israeli missiles hit the Shayrat air base, in Syria's Homs province killing two soldiers and injuring three, which reports suggest were being used by the Iranian air force. ALSO WATCH: Israeli airstrikes in Syria said to hit Iranian sites near Russian naval base In recent months, Israel has intensified targets on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran’s aerial supply lines used to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, reports suggest. The supposed Iran-allied militant group has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces. (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.

Four Syrian soldiers killed, one wounded after Israeli airstrikes: Report

At least 21&nbsp;individuals were killed in a fire at a house north of Gaza City on Thursday, the head of a nearby hospital told AFP.&nbsp;

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21 dead (possibly more) in a fire that ate up a house in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> tonight. 
Power shortages force people to use all sorts of alternatives, whether safe or not. May the victims rest in peace 😔<a href="https://t.co/5asc12Qvyy">pic.twitter.com/5asc12Qvyy</a>
— Belal Aldabbour (@Belalmd12) <a href="https://twitter.com/Belalmd12/status/1593309529164365825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Salah Abu Laila, the director of the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia, reported that "at least 20 bodies arrived," indicating that they had been "burned" in the fire.&nbsp;

Islamists from Hamas, who rule the Israeli-blocked Palestinian enclave, claimed there were multiple casualties from the firing but did not specify how many.&nbsp;

In response to the fire, Hussein Al-Sheikh, a top official with the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank, stated that the PA had pushed Israel to open the Erez gate between Gaza and Israel to allow for immediate medical evacuations of serious cases.

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Witnesses and videos that went viral on social media claimed that the entire residential structure in the Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip caught fire and burst into flames and smoke.&nbsp;

Witnesses reported hearing screams, but due to the fire's ferocity, they were unable to reach the victims to provide aid.&nbsp;

There are eight refugee camps with a combined population of 2.3 million people, and Jabalia is one of them.

(with inputs from agencies)

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At least 21 individuals were killed in a fire at a house north of Gaza City on Thursday, the head of a nearby hospital told AFP. 21 dead (possibly more) in a fire that ate up a house in #Gaza tonight.

At least 21 individuals were killed in a fire at a house north of Gaza City on Thursday, the head of a nearby hospital told AFP. 21 dead (possibly more) in a fire that ate up a house in #Gaza tonight. Power shortages force people to use all sorts of alternatives, whether safe or not. May the victims rest in peace 😔pic.twitter.com/5asc12Qvyy — Belal Aldabbour (@Belalmd12) November 17, 2022 × Salah Abu Laila, the director of the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia, reported that "at least 20 bodies arrived," indicating that they had been "burned" in the fire. Islamists from Hamas, who rule the Israeli-blocked Palestinian enclave, claimed there were multiple casualties from the firing but did not specify how many. In response to the fire, Hussein Al-Sheikh, a top official with the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank, stated that the PA had pushed Israel to open the Erez gate between Gaza and Israel to allow for immediate medical evacuations of serious cases. Also Read: Kherson residents switch Russian SIM cards with Ukrainian ones Witnesses and videos that went viral on social media claimed that the entire residential structure in the Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip caught fire and burst into flames and smoke. Witnesses reported hearing screams, but due to the fire's ferocity, they were unable to reach the victims to provide aid. There are eight refugee camps with a combined population of 2.3 million people, and Jabalia is one of them. (with inputs from agencies)

At least 21 dead in Jabalia refugee camp fire in Gaza

Azerbaijan has finally decided to open an embassy in Israel following a parliamentary approval on Friday and will thus become the first Shi’ite Muslim-majority state to do so. The news comes amid increasingly strained ties between Azerbaijan and Iran, Israel’s longtime nemesis.

Azerbaijan already has a tourism office and a trade representative office in Israeli capital Tel Aviv where it will open its embassy also, reported the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp; 
Israel and Azerbaijan have relations for 30 years, and there has been an Israeli embassy in Baku since 1993.&nbsp; 
 
Prime Minister Yair Lapid praised the decision, calling Azerbaijan “an important partner of Israel and home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the Muslim world.” 
“The decision to open an embassy reflects the depth of the relations between the countries. This move is the fruit of efforts by the Israeli government to build strong diplomatic bridges with the Muslim world,” he added. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/armenia-azerbaijan-conflict-history-and-a-way-forward-530588">Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict- History and a way forward</a> 
 
Arzu Naghiyev, a member of Azerbaijan-Israel parliamentary friendship group, had last month referred to Iran opening an additional consulate and declaring close ties with Armenia, with which Azerbaijan fought a war in 2020, and had hinted at opening an embassy in Tel Aviv. 
 
Iran opened the consulate in Kapan, in southern Armenia near the borders with Iran and Azerbaijan’s Zangilan region, which was among the territories Azerbaijan retook during its 2020 war with Armenia.

WATCH |&nbsp;Explained: The Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict; How the world reacted &amp; what is India’s stand?

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Iran and Azerbaijan share a 420-mile border, and there have been several speculations that Israel launched covert operations in Iran from its northern neighbour.&nbsp; 
Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian even accused Israel of having “established its presence in Azerbaijan”. 
 
Iran had staged military drills along the border following which Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev got himself photographed with Israeli Harop kamikaze drones produced in his country. Tehran has held more military drills on the border in recent weeks. 
 
Azerbaijan had been hesitant to open an embassy in the past, as it did not want to ruffle other Muslim-majority states or provoking Iran. 
 
Israel and Azerbaijan have close defence ties as Jerusalem supplied drones to Baku, which were used in its war against Armenia. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute found that 69% of Azerbaijan’s arms imports in 2016-2020 came from Israel while about 40% of petroleum imported to Israel comes from Azerbaijan.

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Azerbaijan has finally decided to open an embassy in Israel following a parliamentary approval on Friday and will thus become the first Shi’ite Muslim-majority state to do so.

Azerbaijan has finally decided to open an embassy in Israel following a parliamentary approval on Friday and will thus become the first Shi’ite Muslim-majority state to do so. The news comes amid increasingly strained ties between Azerbaijan and Iran, Israel’s longtime nemesis. Azerbaijan already has a tourism office and a trade representative office in Israeli capital Tel Aviv where it will open its embassy also, reported the Jerusalem Post. Israel and Azerbaijan have relations for 30 years, and there has been an Israeli embassy in Baku since 1993. Prime Minister Yair Lapid praised the decision, calling Azerbaijan “an important partner of Israel and home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the Muslim world.” “The decision to open an embassy reflects the depth of the relations between the countries. This move is the fruit of efforts by the Israeli government to build strong diplomatic bridges with the Muslim world,” he added. ALSO READ | Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict- History and a way forward Arzu Naghiyev, a member of Azerbaijan-Israel parliamentary friendship group, had last month referred to Iran opening an additional consulate and declaring close ties with Armenia, with which Azerbaijan fought a war in 2020, and had hinted at opening an embassy in Tel Aviv. Iran opened the consulate in Kapan, in southern Armenia near the borders with Iran and Azerbaijan’s Zangilan region, which was among the territories Azerbaijan retook during its 2020 war with Armenia. WATCH | Explained: The Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict; How the world reacted & what is India’s stand? × Iran and Azerbaijan share a 420-mile border, and there have been several speculations that Israel launched covert operations in Iran from its northern neighbour. Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian even accused Israel of having “established its presence in Azerbaijan”. Iran had staged military drills along the border following which Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev got himself photographed with Israeli Harop kamikaze drones produced in his country. Tehran has held more military drills on the border in recent weeks. Azerbaijan had been hesitant to open an embassy in the past, as it did not want to ruffle other Muslim-majority states or provoking Iran. Israel and Azerbaijan have close defence ties as Jerusalem supplied drones to Baku, which were used in its war against Armenia. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute found that 69% of Azerbaijan’s arms imports in 2016-2020 came from Israel while about 40% of petroleum imported to Israel comes from Azerbaijan. 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

Azerbaijan to open embassy in Israel, will be first Shi'ite Muslim country to do so

The Israeli army fatally shot a 15-year-old Palestinian girl during a raid in the occupied West Bank in the town of Beitunia near Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry on Monday. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that the soldiers had opened fire on a vehicle that was speeding toward them after they had signalled them to stop.&nbsp;

The victim later identified as Fulla Rasmi Abdelazeez Al-Masalmeh was due to turn 16 on her birthday tomorrow and was killed after “occupation soldiers fired at her during a raid”, the statement by the Palestinian health ministry added. The incident occurred in the city of Beitunia where the military said its soldiers were on an arrest raid.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-adopts-palestinian-resolution-to-ask-icj-opinion-on-israels-prolonged-occupation-533483">UN adopts Palestinian resolution to seek ICJ opinion on Israel’s ‘prolonged occupation’</a>

A report by Al Jazeera citing the news agency Wafa said that another Palestinian, 26-year-old Anas Hassouneh was injured after the shooting. The two victims were in the vehicle with Hassouneh driving and were reportedly unaware of the presence of the Israeli forces who had stationed themselves at several points.&nbsp;

In a statement about the incident, the Israeli army said that their troops said that they saw a “suspicious vehicle accelerating towards them during an operation by security forces”. It added that the troops had signalled for the vehicle to stop, but it accelerated towards them, after which they opened fire.&nbsp;

“These youths were in the car… The army was suspicious of the car, and then shot at the car,” said the head of the city’s municipality, Diaa Kurt to Al Jazeera. He added, that the Israeli army then handed over the girl’s body to Palestinian medics after which she was taken to the local hospital. Kurt&nbsp;also noted that three Palestinian men were detained from Beitunia, late Sunday.&nbsp;Furthermore, the city official said that the Israeli forces arrested the driver of the car, who surrendered, reported the Associated Press.

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/violence-escalates-in-palestine-over-180-palestinians-killed-this-year-529365">Violence escalates in Palestine; Over 180 Palestinians killed this year</a> 
 
The AP report citing a&nbsp;35-year-old witness,&nbsp;Bakr Armoush, said that he saw at least 20 Israeli soldiers who were searching parked cars near his building when the victims' car approached at a distance. He added, suddenly without any apparent warning, soldiers hiding behind the cars started firing after which the male driver got out with his hands over his head and the girl seemed slumped over in the passenger seat.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Palestinian Health Ministry had also initially misidentified the victim after which they corrected that error and the girl's&nbsp;mother, brother and sister later identified her at the morgue on Monday evening.&nbsp;The attack drew condemnation from the Palestinian foreign minister which called for “international measures” and force the “occupying state to stop its aggression against our people”.

Meanwhile, the UN special envoy for the&nbsp;East Peace Process took to Twitter and said that he is "appalled by the tragic killing" and called for an "an immediate and thorough investigation into her death."

The Israeli army has reportedly&nbsp;killed over&nbsp;130&nbsp;Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip&nbsp;so far, this year, which according to the United Nations, is the highest death toll&nbsp;in the last 16 years. The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;High Commissioner for Human Rights' office has previously noted that the use of firearms against Palestinians “on mere suspicion or as a precautionary measure, in violation of international standards”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-man-attacked-by-a-mob-with-pepper-spray-in-palestine-amid-tensions-over-journalists-death-479539">Israeli man attacked by a mob with pepper spray in Palestine amid tensions over journalist's death</a> 
 
On the other hand, these intensified raids have&nbsp;prompted a series of Palestinian shooting attacks which led to the death of at least&nbsp;four&nbsp;Israelis in recent weeks. These raids, according to Israel are aimed at&nbsp;dismantling&nbsp;militant networks and&nbsp;cracking down on armed groups operating in the Palestinian territory.&nbsp; 
 
In a separate incident, the Israeli police said that one of their soldiers shot a man in the city of Raanana, north of Tel Aviv. The police said the soldier opened fire after feeling unsafe as a citizen approached in a “suspicious manner” at a bus station and they suspected was about to carry out an attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Israeli army fatally shot a 15-year-old Palestinian girl during a raid in the occupied West Bank in the town of Beitunia near Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry on Monday.

The Israeli army fatally shot a 15-year-old Palestinian girl during a raid in the occupied West Bank in the town of Beitunia near Ramallah, said the Palestinian health ministry on Monday. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that the soldiers had opened fire on a vehicle that was speeding toward them after they had signalled them to stop. The victim later identified as Fulla Rasmi Abdelazeez Al-Masalmeh was due to turn 16 on her birthday tomorrow and was killed after “occupation soldiers fired at her during a raid”, the statement by the Palestinian health ministry added. The incident occurred in the city of Beitunia where the military said its soldiers were on an arrest raid. ALSO READ: UN adopts Palestinian resolution to seek ICJ opinion on Israel’s ‘prolonged occupation’ A report by Al Jazeera citing the news agency Wafa said that another Palestinian, 26-year-old Anas Hassouneh was injured after the shooting. The two victims were in the vehicle with Hassouneh driving and were reportedly unaware of the presence of the Israeli forces who had stationed themselves at several points. In a statement about the incident, the Israeli army said that their troops said that they saw a “suspicious vehicle accelerating towards them during an operation by security forces”. It added that the troops had signalled for the vehicle to stop, but it accelerated towards them, after which they opened fire. “These youths were in the car… The army was suspicious of the car, and then shot at the car,” said the head of the city’s municipality, Diaa Kurt to Al Jazeera. He added, that the Israeli army then handed over the girl’s body to Palestinian medics after which she was taken to the local hospital. Kurt also noted that three Palestinian men were detained from Beitunia, late Sunday. Furthermore, the city official said that the Israeli forces arrested the driver of the car, who surrendered, reported the Associated Press. ALSO WATCH: Violence escalates in Palestine; Over 180 Palestinians killed this year The AP report citing a 35-year-old witness, Bakr Armoush, said that he saw at least 20 Israeli soldiers who were searching parked cars near his building when the victims' car approached at a distance. He added, suddenly without any apparent warning, soldiers hiding behind the cars started firing after which the male driver got out with his hands over his head and the girl seemed slumped over in the passenger seat. The Palestinian Health Ministry had also initially misidentified the victim after which they corrected that error and the girl's mother, brother and sister later identified her at the morgue on Monday evening. The attack drew condemnation from the Palestinian foreign minister which called for “international measures” and force the “occupying state to stop its aggression against our people”. Meanwhile, the UN special envoy for the East Peace Process took to Twitter and said that he is "appalled by the tragic killing" and called for an "an immediate and thorough investigation into her death." The Israeli army has reportedly killed over 130 Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip so far, this year, which according to the United Nations, is the highest death toll in the last 16 years. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights' office has previously noted that the use of firearms against Palestinians “on mere suspicion or as a precautionary measure, in violation of international standards”. ALSO READ: Israeli man attacked by a mob with pepper spray in Palestine amid tensions over journalist's death On the other hand, these intensified raids have prompted a series of Palestinian shooting attacks which led to the death of at least four Israelis in recent weeks. These raids, according to Israel are aimed at dismantling militant networks and cracking down on armed groups operating in the Palestinian territory. In a separate incident, the Israeli police said that one of their soldiers shot a man in the city of Raanana, north of Tel Aviv. The police said the soldier opened fire after feeling unsafe as a citizen approached in a “suspicious manner” at a bus station and they suspected was about to carry out an attack. (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 army fatally shot a Palestinian teenager during a raid in West Bank

Syrian state news agency SANA said on Sunday (November 13) that the country's air defences struck down Israeli missiles over Homs province. Reuters quoted a military source to say that it was a strike on a major Syrian air base.

The strike was targetted at&nbsp;Shayrat air base. It is a military complex southeast of Homs city.

Its runway and underground facilities have undergone a major expansion by the Russia military in the last three years

Russia, which maintains a major military presence in Syria, has forces stationed near to Shayrat air base, which has also been used recently by the Iranian air force, another security source told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

Regional and intelligence sources say Israel has in recent months intensified strikes on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran's increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon including Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah.

The Israeli military was not immediately available for comment on the reports. Israel has been mounting attacks in Syria for years against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces that have deployed there during the 11-year war.

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Syrian state news agency SANA said on Sunday (November 13) that the country's air defences struck down Israeli missiles over Homs province. Reuters quoted a military source to say that it was a strike on a major Syrian air base.

Syrian state news agency SANA said on Sunday (November 13) that the country's air defences struck down Israeli missiles over Homs province. Reuters quoted a military source to say that it was a strike on a major Syrian air base. The strike was targetted at Shayrat air base. It is a military complex southeast of Homs city. Its runway and underground facilities have undergone a major expansion by the Russia military in the last three years Russia, which maintains a major military presence in Syria, has forces stationed near to Shayrat air base, which has also been used recently by the Iranian air force, another security source told Reuters on condition of anonymity. Regional and intelligence sources say Israel has in recent months intensified strikes on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran's increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon including Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah. The Israeli military was not immediately available for comment on the reports. Israel has been mounting attacks in Syria for years against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces that have deployed there during the 11-year war. 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 ×

Syria strikes down Israeli missiles aimed at air force base

Former Israel prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was on Sunday (November 13) formally handed the mandate to form a new government. He pledged that he would seek national consensus. Netanyahu is back in power corridors after an election that saw Jewish far-rightists surging. This has caused worry at home and abroad.

Tasking Netanyahu, already Israel's longest-serving premier, with forming the next coalition government, President Isaac Herzog noted that the Likud leader had received enough recommendations from like-minded parties to secure majority with 64 of parliament's 120 seats.

Netanyahu is now on a path to form one of the most stable governments in years after being away from the top post for 18 months during which a rare but fragile alliance of centrist, liberal, nationalist and Arab politicians came to&nbsp;power.

Netanyahu said, “The people made a clear decision in favor of forming a government headed by me,” and vowed to form a stable, successful, responsible and dedicated government&nbsp;that would serve all of Israel’s residents, without exception.&nbsp;The remarks were televised. 
 
“There are many, many who welcome the election results, but there are also those who make outrageous prophecies and frighten the public. This is not the first time such things have been said. They said it about (Likud's first leader Menachem) Begin, they said it about me too; it wasn't true then and it's not true today either,” Netanyahu said. 
 
“I intend to be a prime minister for everyone, for those who elected me, and for those who did not elect me. It reflects what I believe in and what guides my actions,” he added while also thanking all the 64 members of the Knesset who recommended him. 
 
The incoming government looks to be the most right-wing in Israel's history, with the ultranationalist Religious Zionism party whose leaders oppose Palestinian statehood, want the occupied West Bank annexed and were anti-LGBT in the past.

One of them, Itamar Ben-Gvir, was convicted in 2007 of racist incitement against Arabs and support for terrorism. He says he is now reformed but still calls for harsh crackdowns against those he deems terrorists or traitors.

With inputs from agencies)

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Former Israel prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was on Sunday (November 13) formally handed the mandate to form a new government. He pledged that he would seek national consensus.

Former Israel prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was on Sunday (November 13) formally handed the mandate to form a new government. He pledged that he would seek national consensus. Netanyahu is back in power corridors after an election that saw Jewish far-rightists surging. This has caused worry at home and abroad. Tasking Netanyahu, already Israel's longest-serving premier, with forming the next coalition government, President Isaac Herzog noted that the Likud leader had received enough recommendations from like-minded parties to secure majority with 64 of parliament's 120 seats. Netanyahu is now on a path to form one of the most stable governments in years after being away from the top post for 18 months during which a rare but fragile alliance of centrist, liberal, nationalist and Arab politicians came to power. Netanyahu said, “The people made a clear decision in favor of forming a government headed by me,” and vowed to form a stable, successful, responsible and dedicated government that would serve all of Israel’s residents, without exception. The remarks were televised. “There are many, many who welcome the election results, but there are also those who make outrageous prophecies and frighten the public. This is not the first time such things have been said. They said it about (Likud's first leader Menachem) Begin, they said it about me too; it wasn't true then and it's not true today either,” Netanyahu said. “I intend to be a prime minister for everyone, for those who elected me, and for those who did not elect me. It reflects what I believe in and what guides my actions,” he added while also thanking all the 64 members of the Knesset who recommended him. The incoming government looks to be the most right-wing in Israel's history, with the ultranationalist Religious Zionism party whose leaders oppose Palestinian statehood, want the occupied West Bank annexed and were anti-LGBT in the past. One of them, Itamar Ben-Gvir, was convicted in 2007 of racist incitement against Arabs and support for terrorism. He says he is now reformed but still calls for harsh crackdowns against those he deems terrorists or traitors. 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 ×

Netanyahu invited to form new government, vows to be PM for ‘all citizens’ of Israel

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials".

The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities.

Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice.

"This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva.

A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work.

The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May.

The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier.

Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify.

The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts.

Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year.

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Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities. Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice. "This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva. A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work. The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May. The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier. Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify. The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts. Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year. 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 ×

UN probe hearings of alleged Israeli rights abuses open in Geneva

Former Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his right wing, religious camp was on the cusp of a great election win. Earlier,&nbsp;exit polls also predicted his bloc gaining a slim parliamentary majority, paving the way for his comeback.

"We have won a huge vote of confidence from the people of&nbsp;Israel," a smiling Netanyahu told supporters at his election headquarters in Jerusalem. "We are on the brink of a very big victory," he told the cheering crowd.

According to exit polls, the country’s longest-serving PM is poised to take at least 61 or 62 seats in the 120-seat Knesset (parliament), said a local media report. The actual outcome of the elections may differ from the early exit polls which are&nbsp;not expected until later this week.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, the incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s centrist Yesh Atid party is projected to win at least 24 seats. On the other hand, Religious Zionist Party, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir is poised to get at least 14 seats making it the third-largest party.&nbsp;

This is the country’s fifth election in less than four years which has exasperated many voters, however, reports suggest that this did not affect the voter turnout which was the highest since 1999. Netanyahu after 12 years was defeated last year by an unlikely coalition of centrist Yair Lapid and his partner Naftali Bennett which formed an alliance also including an Arab party for the first time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-2022-jewish-extremists-spray-noxious-liquid-on-polling-booths-to-desist-people-from-voting-530176">Israel election 2022: Jewish extremists spray noxious liquid on polling booths to desist people from voting</a>

Netanyahu is seen as one of the most controversial political figures and is also currently on trial for alleged bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges which he has vehemently denied in the past. Furthermore, he has reportedly been counting on support from Ben-Gvir, who was a member of a group called Kach, which is on Israel and the United States’ “terrorist” watchlists and the prospect of them forming a coalition has raised concerns among allies including Washington.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Former Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his right wing, religious camp was on the cusp of a great election win. Earlier, exit polls also predicted his bloc gaining a slim parliamentary majority, paving the way for his comeback.

Former Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his right wing, religious camp was on the cusp of a great election win. Earlier, exit polls also predicted his bloc gaining a slim parliamentary majority, paving the way for his comeback. "We have won a huge vote of confidence from the people of Israel," a smiling Netanyahu told supporters at his election headquarters in Jerusalem. "We are on the brink of a very big victory," he told the cheering crowd. According to exit polls, the country’s longest-serving PM is poised to take at least 61 or 62 seats in the 120-seat Knesset (parliament), said a local media report. The actual outcome of the elections may differ from the early exit polls which are not expected until later this week. × Meanwhile, the incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s centrist Yesh Atid party is projected to win at least 24 seats. On the other hand, Religious Zionist Party, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir is poised to get at least 14 seats making it the third-largest party. This is the country’s fifth election in less than four years which has exasperated many voters, however, reports suggest that this did not affect the voter turnout which was the highest since 1999. Netanyahu after 12 years was defeated last year by an unlikely coalition of centrist Yair Lapid and his partner Naftali Bennett which formed an alliance also including an Arab party for the first time. ALSO READ: Israel election 2022: Jewish extremists spray noxious liquid on polling booths to desist people from voting Netanyahu is seen as one of the most controversial political figures and is also currently on trial for alleged bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges which he has vehemently denied in the past. Furthermore, he has reportedly been counting on support from Ben-Gvir, who was a member of a group called Kach, which is on Israel and the United States’ “terrorist” watchlists and the prospect of them forming a coalition has raised concerns among allies including Washington. (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 election: Former PM Netanyahu says his camp is on brink of a huge win

Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration.

Leaders from Lebanon, Israel and the United States have all hailed the deal as "historic" but the possibility of a wider diplomatic breakthrough remains slim.

As a result, there was no joint signing ceremony: Lebanese President Michel Aoun signed a letter approving the deal at his palace in Baabda in the presence of Amos Hochstein, the U.S. official who mediated the accord.

"We have heard about the Abraham Accords. Today there is a new era. It could be the Amos Hochstein accord," said top Lebanese negotiator and deputy parliament speaker Elias Bou Saab, referring to the 2020 U.S.-brokered normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid signed separately in Jerusalem, saying the deal was a "tremendous achievement" that had produced Lebanon's de facto recognition of Israel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-approves-historic-sea-border-deal-with-israel-525239">Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel</a>

"It is not every day that an enemy country recognises the state of Israel, in a written agreement, in view of the international community," Lapid told his cabinet in broadcast remarks.

But Aoun later said the deal was purely "technical" and would have "no political dimensions or impacts that contradict Lebanon's foreign policy".

Lebanon does not recognize Israel's right to exist and still considers itself at war with its neighbour, with laws barring contact with Israeli officials.

Lower-level delegations from each country headed to the United Nations' peacekeeping base at Naqoura along their contested land border, which has yet to be delineated.

There, the delegations entered the same tent, each standing on a side of a table, and submitted their signed copies of the deal to U.S. officials and their new coordinates for the maritime border to the U.N., officially bringing the deal into force, an Israeli official and a Lebanese source told Reuters.

"I hope it will serve as a confidence-building measure that promotes more security and stability in the region and economic benefits for both countries," said the U.N.'s Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka.

POLITICAL MILESTONES

The accord comes days ahead of major political milestones for both Israel and Lebanon.

Aoun's term is set to end on Oct. 31 and political sources say he was keen to seal the deal as the crowning achievement of his six years in office.

Israel holds elections on Nov. 1, its fifth in less than four years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-says-maritime-deal-make-or-break-after-israel-snubs-request-for-changes-523166">Lebanon says maritime deal 'make or break' after Israel snubs request for changes</a>

Hochstein said the accord should be adhered to even if officials change on either side and the United States would continue to play a guarantor role to ensure it remains in force.

"If one side violates the deal, both sides lose," he said.

The accord removes one source of potential conflict between Israel and Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah and could help alleviate Lebanon's economic crisis.

An offshore energy discovery - while not enough on its own to resolve Lebanon's deep economic problems - would be a major boon, providing badly needed hard currency and possibly one day easing crippling blackouts.

Offshore areas in the eastern Mediterranean and Levant have yielded major gas discoveries in the past decade and interest has grown since Russia's invasion of Ukraine disrupted gas pipeline flows.

In a statement on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden said energy in the region "should not be a cause for conflict, but a tool for cooperation, stability, security and prosperity".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-lebanon-reach-historic-agreement-on-maritime-border-dispute-524371">Israel and Lebanon reach 'historic agreement' on maritime border dispute, says PM Lapid</a>

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's powerful armed group Hezbollah, on Thursday called it a "very big victory for Lebanon."

He said the fighters and military resources that his group had mobilised as a form of pressure to ensure talks went well could now be de-activated, announcing: "Mission accomplished."

Nasrallah also said the Lebanese government had been careful to ensure that the negotiations and approval protocols had no hint of "normalization" with Israel.

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Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration.

Israeli and Lebanese leaders finalised a U.S.-brokered maritime demarcation deal on Thursday, bringing a measure of accommodation between the enemy states as they eye offshore energy exploration. Leaders from Lebanon, Israel and the United States have all hailed the deal as "historic" but the possibility of a wider diplomatic breakthrough remains slim. As a result, there was no joint signing ceremony: Lebanese President Michel Aoun signed a letter approving the deal at his palace in Baabda in the presence of Amos Hochstein, the U.S. official who mediated the accord. "We have heard about the Abraham Accords. Today there is a new era. It could be the Amos Hochstein accord," said top Lebanese negotiator and deputy parliament speaker Elias Bou Saab, referring to the 2020 U.S.-brokered normalisation of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid signed separately in Jerusalem, saying the deal was a "tremendous achievement" that had produced Lebanon's de facto recognition of Israel. ALSO READ: Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel "It is not every day that an enemy country recognises the state of Israel, in a written agreement, in view of the international community," Lapid told his cabinet in broadcast remarks. But Aoun later said the deal was purely "technical" and would have "no political dimensions or impacts that contradict Lebanon's foreign policy". Lebanon does not recognize Israel's right to exist and still considers itself at war with its neighbour, with laws barring contact with Israeli officials. Lower-level delegations from each country headed to the United Nations' peacekeeping base at Naqoura along their contested land border, which has yet to be delineated. There, the delegations entered the same tent, each standing on a side of a table, and submitted their signed copies of the deal to U.S. officials and their new coordinates for the maritime border to the U.N., officially bringing the deal into force, an Israeli official and a Lebanese source told Reuters. "I hope it will serve as a confidence-building measure that promotes more security and stability in the region and economic benefits for both countries," said the U.N.'s Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka. POLITICAL MILESTONES The accord comes days ahead of major political milestones for both Israel and Lebanon. Aoun's term is set to end on Oct. 31 and political sources say he was keen to seal the deal as the crowning achievement of his six years in office. Israel holds elections on Nov. 1, its fifth in less than four years. ALSO READ: Lebanon says maritime deal 'make or break' after Israel snubs request for changes Hochstein said the accord should be adhered to even if officials change on either side and the United States would continue to play a guarantor role to ensure it remains in force. "If one side violates the deal, both sides lose," he said. The accord removes one source of potential conflict between Israel and Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah and could help alleviate Lebanon's economic crisis. An offshore energy discovery - while not enough on its own to resolve Lebanon's deep economic problems - would be a major boon, providing badly needed hard currency and possibly one day easing crippling blackouts. Offshore areas in the eastern Mediterranean and Levant have yielded major gas discoveries in the past decade and interest has grown since Russia's invasion of Ukraine disrupted gas pipeline flows. In a statement on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden said energy in the region "should not be a cause for conflict, but a tool for cooperation, stability, security and prosperity". ALSO READ: Israel and Lebanon reach 'historic agreement' on maritime border dispute, says PM Lapid Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's powerful armed group Hezbollah, on Thursday called it a "very big victory for Lebanon." He said the fighters and military resources that his group had mobilised as a form of pressure to ensure talks went well could now be de-activated, announcing: "Mission accomplished." Nasrallah also said the Lebanese government had been careful to ensure that the negotiations and approval protocols had no hint of "normalization" with Israel. 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, Lebanon finalise maritime demarcation deal without mutual recognition

After repeated denial by Russia and Iran regarding the supply of arms, Israel President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday said his country had shared 'intelligence' with the US to prove the deals had indeed taken place.

After repeated denial by Russia and Iran regarding the supply of arms, Israel President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday said his country had shared 'intelligence' with the US to prove the deals had indeed taken place. Herzog said Iran supplied drones that Russia has used in recent times to create havoc in Ukraine. The Israeli president made the statement during a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in Washington. According to Herzog's office, Israel shared images assessed that show similarity between the drones downed in Ukraine and parts tested by Iran in December last year. It added that both images have similarities to the drones displayed at an exposition in Iran in 2014. Read more: Why is West bothered about Iran sending drones to Russia? "Iranian weapons play a key role in destabilizing our world, and the international community must learn its lessons, now and in the future," said Herzog. He added that the "world must speak with Iran in the same language. A tough, united and uncompromising language." The eight-month-long war has depleted Russia's weapon arsenal. It is now looking for alternatives to have them filled. After Ukraine regained significant ground by pushing Russian troops, forcing Putin to call for partial mobilisation, Moscow closed the gap by bombarding Ukrainian cities and towns with deadly Iranian drones, according to news reports. Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russia had ordered around 2,000 drones from Iran. "The disgusting sound of Iranian drones is heard in our skies every night. Russia ordered about 2,000 'Shaheds' from Iran," said Zelensky Read more: Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky claims Moscow ordered some 2,000 drones from Iran Moreover, Iran is expected to deliver short-range ballistic missiles viz. Fateh-110 and its advanced version such as Zolfaghar to Kremlin, per a report by the Washington Post. However, Iran has rejected the claims saying it is not sending any weapons. "We believe that the arming of each side of the crisis will prolong the war. We have not considered and do not consider war to be the right path either in Ukraine or in Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen," said Amir-Abdollahian, the Iranian foreign minister. On the other hand, Kremlin said that it had no knowledge of its army using such weapons and Moscow accused the West of seeking to put "pressure" on Tehran with the allegations. Read more: Iran denies claims that it supplied weapons to Russia 'for being used in war against Ukraine' (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel shares 'proof' with US that Iran supplied drones to Russia

Spanish fashion giant Zara has found itself embroiled in a controversy in Israel after a local franchise owner hosted a far-right leader.&nbsp;

Reportedly,&nbsp;Joey Schwebel, chairman of Trimera Brands, Zara's Israel franchisee hosted&nbsp;Itamar Ben-Gvir, a leader of the&nbsp;Israeli far-right Otzma Yehudit party.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, some Israelis, angered at the company for giving&nbsp;Ben-Gvir a platform burned Zara apparel and demanded that the company condemn the action of its local franchise.

Ben-Gvir's spokesman said the reported meeting was a 'private event' and declined to comment further.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-raid-in-west-bank-leaves-4-palestinians-dead-palestinian-ministry-528110">Read more:&nbsp;Israeli raid in West Bank leaves 4 Palestinians dead: Palestinian ministry</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Fayez Abu Souhaiban, mayor of Arab-majority town Rahat slammed the company and gave the call for the burning of the clothes.&nbsp;

"We have to burn these clothes and I call on fellow citizens to boycott this company," said&nbsp;Souhaiban in a video that has been heavily circulated on social media.

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Calls are being made to boycott <a href="https://twitter.com/ZARA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZARA</a> after it became known that the company's franchisee in the zionist colony, Joey Schwebel, hosted an evening with genocidal Jewish supremacist leader of Otzma Yehudit Itamar Ben-Gvir. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottAndResist?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottAndResist</a> the entire colony by any means necessary <a href="https://t.co/wSeTNcEZK7">pic.twitter.com/wSeTNcEZK7</a>
— Jisr Collective (@jisrcollective) <a href="https://twitter.com/jisrcollective/status/1583514561499435008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When quizzed about what he thought about the boycott calls after his appearance,&nbsp;Ben-Gvir said, "That's the real face of the left."&nbsp;

Zara, meanwhile has refused to comment on the issue right now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malfunctioning-rockets-fired-by-palestine-fell-into-residentials-areas-killing-more-than-a-dozen-504999">Read more:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malfunctioning-rockets-fired-by-palestine-fell-into-residentials-areas-killing-more-than-a-dozen-504999">Malfunctioning rockets fired by Palestine fell into residential areas, killing more than a dozen</a>

Notably,&nbsp;Ben-Gvir's party is running in Israel's legislative elections scheduled to take place next month. According to various surveys, his nationalist alliance is expected to emerge as the third-largest bloc in the parliament.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Spanish fashion giant Zara has found itself embroiled in a controversy in Israel after a local franchise owner hosted a far-right leader. Reportedly, Joey Schwebel, chairman of Trimera Brands, Zara's Israel franchisee hosted Itamar Ben-Gvir, a leader of the Israeli far-right Otzma Yehudit party.

Spanish fashion giant Zara has found itself embroiled in a controversy in Israel after a local franchise owner hosted a far-right leader. Reportedly, Joey Schwebel, chairman of Trimera Brands, Zara's Israel franchisee hosted Itamar Ben-Gvir, a leader of the Israeli far-right Otzma Yehudit party. According to local media reports, some Israelis, angered at the company for giving Ben-Gvir a platform burned Zara apparel and demanded that the company condemn the action of its local franchise. Ben-Gvir's spokesman said the reported meeting was a 'private event' and declined to comment further. Read more: Israeli raid in West Bank leaves 4 Palestinians dead: Palestinian ministry Meanwhile, Fayez Abu Souhaiban, mayor of Arab-majority town Rahat slammed the company and gave the call for the burning of the clothes. "We have to burn these clothes and I call on fellow citizens to boycott this company," said Souhaiban in a video that has been heavily circulated on social media. Calls are being made to boycott @ZARA after it became known that the company's franchisee in the zionist colony, Joey Schwebel, hosted an evening with genocidal Jewish supremacist leader of Otzma Yehudit Itamar Ben-Gvir. #BoycottAndResist the entire colony by any means necessary pic.twitter.com/wSeTNcEZK7 — Jisr Collective (@jisrcollective) October 21, 2022 × When quizzed about what he thought about the boycott calls after his appearance, Ben-Gvir said, "That's the real face of the left." Zara, meanwhile has refused to comment on the issue right now. Read more: Malfunctioning rockets fired by Palestine fell into residential areas, killing more than a dozen Notably, Ben-Gvir's party is running in Israel's legislative elections scheduled to take place next month. According to various surveys, his nationalist alliance is expected to emerge as the third-largest bloc in the parliament. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zara faces boycott in Israel after hosting a far-right leader

Israel has enforced strict rules for a two-year pilot period from Thursday to limit the ability of foreigners to enter and stay in the occupied West Bank despite international criticism of the regulation that includes compulsory declaration of romantic relationships. 
 
A 90-page ordinance replacing the previous four-page document came into effect on Thursday. The rule is expected to stifle the Palestinian economy and academia and the work of aid agencies, and create complications for hundreds of thousands of Palestinian families with dual nationality, who are already grappling with the convoluted permit system in place, reported The Guardian. 
 
Nearly all foreign nationals coming to volunteer, work or study in the West Bank will be granted only single-entry visas, with some being valid for only three months, and will have to leave between visas and wait – in some cases for more than a year – before reapplying for entry.&nbsp; 
 
In most cases, residency is limited to a 12- to 27-month period, making family life and long-term employment almost impossible. 
 
As per the new rule, people born in Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Bahrain and South Sudan – even if they have citizenship of a second country – are now barred from the West Bank except under exceptional circumstances. It is pertinent to mention here that about 60% of the Jordanian population is of Palestinian origin. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-irans-deputy-ambassador-rejects-wests-role-to-act-as-caretakers-of-iranian-women-527262">UNSC: Iran's deputy ambassador rejects West's role to act as 'caretakers,' says women can deal with it</a> 
 
COGAT, the Israeli military civil body responsible for government policy in the occupied Palestinian territories, had first outlined the new rules in February. As reported earlier by WION, the text had to be revised several times after legal challenges from rights groups citing the formalisation of discriminatory practices and hence the implementation was delayed. 
 
The proposal made headlines in July when international media picked up on a clause stating that foreigners must inform Israeli authorities within 30 days if they fall in love with a Palestinian. 
 
Subsequently, the one-month period for declaring a romantic relationship and visa cooling-off period for newly married couples has been dropped from the final document, but Palestinians and human rights organisations say it still requires foreign nationals to declare love interests, and non-security-related information such as property or inheritance, at the discretion of Israeli officials. 
 
COGAT did not respond to request for comment on whether the final text of the rules differed substantially from previous versions, reported Guardian. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-family-appeals-for-justice-in-14-year-olds-death-who-was-sent-to-a-covid-quarantine-facility-527285">China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility</a> 
 
Quotas on the number of foreign lecturers and students have been scrapped, and allowances been made for long-term visas for doctors and teachers. The new procedures though still allow quotas on visa categories “in accordance with the interplay of relevant considerations, including the political/security situation”. 
 
HaMoked, an Israeli non-profit focusing on Palestinian legal rights, had filed an injunction in June alleging discriminatory and restrictive criteria, but the petition was rejected on the grounds that it was premature. 
 
“Those affected have to try and work within the new procedures and exhaust all the possible administrative options first. So when dual nationals or foreign volunteers or whoever begin getting denied entry to the West Bank, that’s when we can file a new petition on their behalf,” said HaMoked’s executive director Jessica Montell. 
 
“Under international law, the Israeli military is only allowed to work for the interests of the occupied population, or its own security needs. These restrictions obviously advance neither,” she said.

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Israel has enforced strict rules for a two-year pilot period from Thursday to limit the ability of foreigners to enter and stay in the occupied West Bank despite international criticism of the regulation that includes compulsory declaration of romantic relationships.

Israel has enforced strict rules for a two-year pilot period from Thursday to limit the ability of foreigners to enter and stay in the occupied West Bank despite international criticism of the regulation that includes compulsory declaration of romantic relationships. A 90-page ordinance replacing the previous four-page document came into effect on Thursday. The rule is expected to stifle the Palestinian economy and academia and the work of aid agencies, and create complications for hundreds of thousands of Palestinian families with dual nationality, who are already grappling with the convoluted permit system in place, reported The Guardian. Nearly all foreign nationals coming to volunteer, work or study in the West Bank will be granted only single-entry visas, with some being valid for only three months, and will have to leave between visas and wait – in some cases for more than a year – before reapplying for entry. In most cases, residency is limited to a 12- to 27-month period, making family life and long-term employment almost impossible. As per the new rule, people born in Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Bahrain and South Sudan – even if they have citizenship of a second country – are now barred from the West Bank except under exceptional circumstances. It is pertinent to mention here that about 60% of the Jordanian population is of Palestinian origin. ALSO READ | UNSC: Iran's deputy ambassador rejects West's role to act as 'caretakers,' says women can deal with it COGAT, the Israeli military civil body responsible for government policy in the occupied Palestinian territories, had first outlined the new rules in February. As reported earlier by WION, the text had to be revised several times after legal challenges from rights groups citing the formalisation of discriminatory practices and hence the implementation was delayed. The proposal made headlines in July when international media picked up on a clause stating that foreigners must inform Israeli authorities within 30 days if they fall in love with a Palestinian. Subsequently, the one-month period for declaring a romantic relationship and visa cooling-off period for newly married couples has been dropped from the final document, but Palestinians and human rights organisations say it still requires foreign nationals to declare love interests, and non-security-related information such as property or inheritance, at the discretion of Israeli officials. COGAT did not respond to request for comment on whether the final text of the rules differed substantially from previous versions, reported Guardian. ALSO READ | China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility Quotas on the number of foreign lecturers and students have been scrapped, and allowances been made for long-term visas for doctors and teachers. The new procedures though still allow quotas on visa categories “in accordance with the interplay of relevant considerations, including the political/security situation”. HaMoked, an Israeli non-profit focusing on Palestinian legal rights, had filed an injunction in June alleging discriminatory and restrictive criteria, but the petition was rejected on the grounds that it was premature. “Those affected have to try and work within the new procedures and exhaust all the possible administrative options first. So when dual nationals or foreign volunteers or whoever begin getting denied entry to the West Bank, that’s when we can file a new petition on their behalf,” said HaMoked’s executive director Jessica Montell. “Under international law, the Israeli military is only allowed to work for the interests of the occupied population, or its own security needs. These restrictions obviously advance neither,” she said. 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 brings in strict rules, says visitors to West Bank must register romances

Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine.

"Our policy vis-a-vis Ukraine will not change -- we will continue to support and stand with the West, we will not provide weapon systems," Gantz told a briefing of European Union ambassadors, according to a statement from his office.&nbsp;

Israel has walked a tightrope ever since Russia invaded Ukraine. Israel has sought to preserve relations with the West as well as with Russia.

Israel needs Russian cooperation to continue its campaign of air strikes in neighbouring Syria, where Russian forces are present and where Israel frequently hits what it calls Iranian-linked targets.

Israeli officials have already stressed that&nbsp;

Russia has large number of Jew population and Israeli officials have previously stressed the need to safeguard relations with Russia. In Soviet times, Jews in USSR were largely cut-off from Israel.

Israeli stance in the initial months of the conflict has infuriated Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-never-get-used-to-war-says-zelensky-526949">Zelensky appeals for moderate use as electricity restrictions kick-in</a>

President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is Jewish, has on several occasions blasted Israel for failing to firmly oppose Russian aggression.

The Israeli position has however evolved over recent months, from near neutrality to more forceful condemnations of Russia.&nbsp;

Gantz said Wednesday that Israel would continue providing "humanitarian aid" to Ukraine, including "life-saving defensive equipment" and was likely to approve "an additional package" soon.&nbsp;

But weapons supplies were off the table, "due to a variety of operational considerations," the defence minister added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine.

Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine. "Our policy vis-a-vis Ukraine will not change -- we will continue to support and stand with the West, we will not provide weapon systems," Gantz told a briefing of European Union ambassadors, according to a statement from his office. Israel has walked a tightrope ever since Russia invaded Ukraine. Israel has sought to preserve relations with the West as well as with Russia. Israel needs Russian cooperation to continue its campaign of air strikes in neighbouring Syria, where Russian forces are present and where Israel frequently hits what it calls Iranian-linked targets. Israeli officials have already stressed that Russia has large number of Jew population and Israeli officials have previously stressed the need to safeguard relations with Russia. In Soviet times, Jews in USSR were largely cut-off from Israel. Israeli stance in the initial months of the conflict has infuriated Ukraine. Also Read | Zelensky appeals for moderate use as electricity restrictions kick-in President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is Jewish, has on several occasions blasted Israel for failing to firmly oppose Russian aggression. The Israeli position has however evolved over recent months, from near neutrality to more forceful condemnations of Russia. Gantz said Wednesday that Israel would continue providing "humanitarian aid" to Ukraine, including "life-saving defensive equipment" and was likely to approve "an additional package" soon. But weapons supplies were off the table, "due to a variety of operational considerations," the defence minister added. (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 ×

'Will not' provide weapons to Ukraine, says Israeli defence minister

Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government. Australia said on Tuesday that the issue should be resolved as part of Israel-Palestine peace talks.

"Australia is committed to a two-state solution in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist, in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders," Foreign Minister Penny Wong said during a media briefing.

"We will not support an approach that undermines this prospect."

In 2018, Australia under conservative government led by Scott Morrison had formally recognised west Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The decision had changed decades of Middle East policy.

"I know this has caused conflict and distress in part of the Australian community, and today the government seeks to resolve that," Wong said Tuesday. 
She accused the Morrison government of being motivated by a crucial by-election in a Sydney suburb with a sizable Jewish community.

"You know what this was? This was a cynical play, unsuccessful, to win the seat of Wentworth and a by-election."

The 2018 decision had also caused strain in relations between Australia and neighbouring Indonesia. It is world's most populous Muslim-majority country. A free trade deal between the two countries was temporarily derailed.

Jerusalem is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians.&nbsp;

Most foreign nations avoid locating embassies in the city for fear of prejudging peace talks on the city's final status.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government.

Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government. Australia said on Tuesday that the issue should be resolved as part of Israel-Palestine peace talks. "Australia is committed to a two-state solution in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist, in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders," Foreign Minister Penny Wong said during a media briefing. "We will not support an approach that undermines this prospect." In 2018, Australia under conservative government led by Scott Morrison had formally recognised west Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The decision had changed decades of Middle East policy. "I know this has caused conflict and distress in part of the Australian community, and today the government seeks to resolve that," Wong said Tuesday. She accused the Morrison government of being motivated by a crucial by-election in a Sydney suburb with a sizable Jewish community. "You know what this was? This was a cynical play, unsuccessful, to win the seat of Wentworth and a by-election." The 2018 decision had also caused strain in relations between Australia and neighbouring Indonesia. It is world's most populous Muslim-majority country. A free trade deal between the two countries was temporarily derailed. Jerusalem is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. Most foreign nations avoid locating embassies in the city for fear of prejudging peace talks on the city's final status. (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 ×

Australia reverses decision of recognising Jerusalem as Israel capital

Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries. Israel President Yair Lapid had said on Wednesday that the agreement would decrease the likelihood of a conflict with Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

"I announce the approval by Lebanon of the final version prepared by the American mediator to delineate the southern maritime border," the Lebanese president said in a televised speech.

Aoun described the deal as an "historic achievement". He added that Lebanon was "able to recover a disputed area of 860 square kilometres (330 square miles)".

"Lebanon did not concede a single square kilometre to Israel," he said, adding that his country had seized full control over the Qana field, despite parts of it falling within Israel's territorial waters.

"This indirect agreement responds to the Lebanese claims and fully preserves our rights," he said. 
He stressed that "no normalisation with Israel took place".

Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war. The agreement between the nation was earlier applauded by world leaders including US President Joe Biden.

In an interview with a Lebanese television station, US envoy Amos Hochstein on Thursday hailed the deal as "an agreement that could be credited for preventing chaos and further conflict throughout the region.

"In the first time in a long time, Lebanon is the answer to the problems and not the cause of it," he continued.

He added that the deal would ensure "economic prosperity for Lebanon, an assurance from conflict, securing Israel's northern borders", which he said would translate to "no war between Israel and Lebanon".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries.

Lebanon on Thursday (October 13), approved a US-mediated maritime border deal with Israel. Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced the approval. This agreement unlocks significant offshore gas production for both countries. Israel President Yair Lapid had said on Wednesday that the agreement would decrease the likelihood of a conflict with Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. "I announce the approval by Lebanon of the final version prepared by the American mediator to delineate the southern maritime border," the Lebanese president said in a televised speech. Aoun described the deal as an "historic achievement". He added that Lebanon was "able to recover a disputed area of 860 square kilometres (330 square miles)". "Lebanon did not concede a single square kilometre to Israel," he said, adding that his country had seized full control over the Qana field, despite parts of it falling within Israel's territorial waters. "This indirect agreement responds to the Lebanese claims and fully preserves our rights," he said. He stressed that "no normalisation with Israel took place". Israel and Lebanon are still technically at war. The agreement between the nation was earlier applauded by world leaders including US President Joe Biden. In an interview with a Lebanese television station, US envoy Amos Hochstein on Thursday hailed the deal as "an agreement that could be credited for preventing chaos and further conflict throughout the region. "In the first time in a long time, Lebanon is the answer to the problems and not the cause of it," he continued. He added that the deal would ensure "economic prosperity for Lebanon, an assurance from conflict, securing Israel's northern borders", which he said would translate to "no war between Israel and Lebanon". (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 ×

Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel

Following the shooting deaths of two Palestinian teens by Israeli troops on Saturday in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian leadership issued a warning that such military action would result in "a point of no return" in the region.&nbsp;

Two residents in Jenin were killed by occupation (Israeli) gunshots, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, while Israeli forces arrested a person in the volatile northern city.&nbsp;

One day after two further Palestinian youths were slain by Israeli troops elsewhere on the land, the West Bank was the scene of the most recent violence, which left eleven other people injured.&nbsp;

Israel's military claimed that on Saturday, forces went into Jenin to apprehend a 25-year-old Palestinian who they claimed belonged to the Islamic Jihad militant group and was suspected of firing at soldiers.

"During the activity, dozens of Palestinians hurled explosive devices and Molotov cocktails at IDF (Israeli army) soldiers and shots were fired at them. The soldiers responded with live fire towards the armed suspects," an army statement said.

The Palestinian health ministry identified the deceased as Ahmad Daraghmeh, 16, and Mahmoud as Sous, 18. The youngsters were lauded by Islamic Jihad as "its martyrs."&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moodys-downgrades-pakistans-economic-outlook-to-negative-gives-c-rating-after-seven-years-523585">&nbsp;Moody's downgrades Pakistan's economic outlook to negative, gives 'C rating' after seven years</a>

In recent months, Israeli soldiers have conducted numerous, frequently lethal operations in Jenin and other areas of the West Bank, frequently targeting Palestinian terrorists.&nbsp;

Numerous Palestinians, both combatants and civilians, have died.&nbsp;

Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist, was shot and killed in May while documenting an Israeli operation in Jenin.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Following the shooting deaths of two Palestinian teens by Israeli troops on Saturday in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian leadership issued a warning that such military action would result in "a point of no return" in the region.

Following the shooting deaths of two Palestinian teens by Israeli troops on Saturday in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian leadership issued a warning that such military action would result in "a point of no return" in the region. Two residents in Jenin were killed by occupation (Israeli) gunshots, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, while Israeli forces arrested a person in the volatile northern city. One day after two further Palestinian youths were slain by Israeli troops elsewhere on the land, the West Bank was the scene of the most recent violence, which left eleven other people injured. Israel's military claimed that on Saturday, forces went into Jenin to apprehend a 25-year-old Palestinian who they claimed belonged to the Islamic Jihad militant group and was suspected of firing at soldiers. "During the activity, dozens of Palestinians hurled explosive devices and Molotov cocktails at IDF (Israeli army) soldiers and shots were fired at them. The soldiers responded with live fire towards the armed suspects," an army statement said. The Palestinian health ministry identified the deceased as Ahmad Daraghmeh, 16, and Mahmoud as Sous, 18. The youngsters were lauded by Islamic Jihad as "its martyrs." Also Read: Moody's downgrades Pakistan's economic outlook to negative, gives 'C rating' after seven years In recent months, Israeli soldiers have conducted numerous, frequently lethal operations in Jenin and other areas of the West Bank, frequently targeting Palestinian terrorists. Numerous Palestinians, both combatants and civilians, have died. Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist, was shot and killed in May while documenting an Israeli operation in Jenin. (with inputs from agencies)

Two Palestinian teens shot dead in another Israeli West Bank operation

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now.&nbsp;

"I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," said Khamenei.

Mahsa Amini was taken into custody by Iran's notorious morality police over 'improper' attire. Amini was pronounced dead on September 16

Amini's death resulted in biggest wave of protests in Iran in three years.

In his comments, Khamenei said that police must "stand up to criminals" and added that "whoever attacks the police leaves the people defenceless against criminals, thugs, thieves".

"The death of the young woman broke our hearts," said Khamenei. "But what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars".

The Iranian regime has regularly described protesters as 'rioters' and has sought to paint the protests as something that detrimental to Iranian society. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's recent address to the nation was no exception.

Concern grew about a crackdown overnight on students at Tehran's prestigious Sharif University of Technology where, local media reported, riot police carrying steel pellet guns used tear gas and paintball guns against hundreds of students.

"Woman, life, liberty" the students shouted, as well as "students prefer death to humiliation", Mehr news agency reported.&nbsp;

Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now. "I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," said Khamenei. Mahsa Amini was taken into custody by Iran's notorious morality police over 'improper' attire. Amini was pronounced dead on September 16 Amini's death resulted in biggest wave of protests in Iran in three years. In his comments, Khamenei said that police must "stand up to criminals" and added that "whoever attacks the police leaves the people defenceless against criminals, thugs, thieves". "The death of the young woman broke our hearts," said Khamenei. "But what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars". The Iranian regime has regularly described protesters as 'rioters' and has sought to paint the protests as something that detrimental to Iranian society. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's recent address to the nation was no exception. Concern grew about a crackdown overnight on students at Tehran's prestigious Sharif University of Technology where, local media reported, riot police carrying steel pellet guns used tear gas and paintball guns against hundreds of students. "Woman, life, liberty" the students shouted, as well as "students prefer death to humiliation", Mehr news agency reported. Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran: Khamenei blames US, Israel for protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini's death

A statement released by the 30 Palestinian prisoners currently detained in Israeli jails, indicated they have launched an open-ended hunger strike to protest their administrative detention. This type of detention means that those detained are being held without charge or trial.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel claims this policy is necessary for holding “dangerous suspects” without revealing intelligence information. This policy allows Israeli authorities to detain Palestinians for renewable intervals between 3 and 6 months. Moreover, this imprisonment is based on undisclosed evidence that even the prisoners’ attorney is barred from viewing.&nbsp;

According to a report by Al Jazeera, Israeli authorities have been using this arbitrary legal procedure for more than 50 years which allows them to imprison people without charge or trial for an indefinite amount of time.&nbsp;

This policy has also drawn criticism from Amnesty International, which&nbsp;has described it as a “cruel, unjust practice”. They went on to also say that this policy helps the country to maintain its “system of apartheid against Palestinians.” Furthermore, they have accused Israel of intentionally using this policy to “detain individuals, including prisoners of conscience held solely for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, to punish them for their views and activism.”

The statement released by the detainees indicated that their collective time in detention would be 200 years. For hundreds of years, their occupation has prevented them “from embracing our families or seeing our children as they were born or growing up. We never celebrated their birthdays, we did not accompany them on their first school day,” it read, according to Samidoun, a Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network.

The 30 detainees include French-Palestinian lawyer and activist Salah Hammouri, who is charged with “breach of allegiance to the State of Israel” and also facing the revocation of his permanent residence in the country said a representative from the Palestinian prisoners’ rights group.&nbsp;

Palestinian prisons over the years have resorted to hunger strikes periodically staged or threatened. This is a tactic used against Israeli authorities to better their conditions, reported BBC.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-palestinian-prisoner-ends-141-day-hunger-strike-443044">The West Asia Post | Palestinian prisoner ends 141-day hunger strike</a>

According to a civil rights group, there are currently more than 700 Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails under the administrative detention policy and there are at least 4,650 Palestinian prisoners in total.&nbsp;

One of the longest hunger strikes lasted 172 days and was done by Khalil Awawdeh who ended only after the authorities issued a written statement limiting his administrative detention. He was reportedly accused of belonging to the militant group Islamic Jihad and has been in jail since December last year, however, following his hunger strike he will now be released on October 2.&nbsp;

The report also indicated that at least 80% of the administrative detainees have been detained repeatedly, and many of them have been convicted by Israel for crimes like murder and terrorism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A statement released by the 30 Palestinian prisoners currently detained in Israeli jails, indicated they have launched an open-ended hunger strike to protest their administrative detention.

A statement released by the 30 Palestinian prisoners currently detained in Israeli jails, indicated they have launched an open-ended hunger strike to protest their administrative detention. This type of detention means that those detained are being held without charge or trial. Meanwhile, Israel claims this policy is necessary for holding “dangerous suspects” without revealing intelligence information. This policy allows Israeli authorities to detain Palestinians for renewable intervals between 3 and 6 months. Moreover, this imprisonment is based on undisclosed evidence that even the prisoners’ attorney is barred from viewing. According to a report by Al Jazeera, Israeli authorities have been using this arbitrary legal procedure for more than 50 years which allows them to imprison people without charge or trial for an indefinite amount of time. This policy has also drawn criticism from Amnesty International, which has described it as a “cruel, unjust practice”. They went on to also say that this policy helps the country to maintain its “system of apartheid against Palestinians.” Furthermore, they have accused Israel of intentionally using this policy to “detain individuals, including prisoners of conscience held solely for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, to punish them for their views and activism.” The statement released by the detainees indicated that their collective time in detention would be 200 years. For hundreds of years, their occupation has prevented them “from embracing our families or seeing our children as they were born or growing up. We never celebrated their birthdays, we did not accompany them on their first school day,” it read, according to Samidoun, a Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network. The 30 detainees include French-Palestinian lawyer and activist Salah Hammouri, who is charged with “breach of allegiance to the State of Israel” and also facing the revocation of his permanent residence in the country said a representative from the Palestinian prisoners’ rights group. Palestinian prisons over the years have resorted to hunger strikes periodically staged or threatened. This is a tactic used against Israeli authorities to better their conditions, reported BBC. ALSO WATCH: The West Asia Post | Palestinian prisoner ends 141-day hunger strike According to a civil rights group, there are currently more than 700 Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails under the administrative detention policy and there are at least 4,650 Palestinian prisoners in total. One of the longest hunger strikes lasted 172 days and was done by Khalil Awawdeh who ended only after the authorities issued a written statement limiting his administrative detention. He was reportedly accused of belonging to the militant group Islamic Jihad and has been in jail since December last year, however, following his hunger strike he will now be released on October 2. The report also indicated that at least 80% of the administrative detainees have been detained repeatedly, and many of them have been convicted by Israel for crimes like murder and terrorism. (With inputs from agencies)

30 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel go on open-ended hunger strike

Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian National Authority, spoke at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday.

He said, "Israel is launching campaigns... they are giving freedom to terrorists to kill Palestinians. They are looting their land... burning their homes... forcing them to destroy their homes with their own hands, all of this with official protection. Can you imagine what is happening? Israel is saying that either you demolish your house yourself, or else I will."

"Israel killed Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. She was killed by the bullet of a sniper... the sniper recognised that he did kill her. Apart from Palestinian nationality, she was also an American national," he added.

He blamed Israel for attacking Muslim and Christian holy sites. He accused Israel of being an 'apartheid regime', and asked "Why isn't Israel being held accountable by the United Nations?"

Abbas said Israel has committed heinous crimes against Palestinians and destroyed an ample number of Palestinian villages. He accused Israel of having "deliberately committed these massacres."

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The most recent was against Gaza. "The New York Times, a US-based newspaper reported that 67 children were killed in this attack. We want to know why did Israel kill them?,"&nbsp;Abbas said.

He said he would like to ask Israel to take charge of this massacre and apologize to the Palestinians. He asked the international community and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold Israel accountable for the crimes it has committed.

The Palestinians are still living under Israeli occupation. Referring to the Oslo accords, Abbas told the assembly, "We do not want to be the only party to be respecting the agreements signed in 1993... those agreements are not followed anymore...Israel was the first to violate them...until when shall we be the only party to respect it?"

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian National Authority, spoke at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. He said, "Israel is launching campaigns.

Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian National Authority, spoke at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. He said, "Israel is launching campaigns... they are giving freedom to terrorists to kill Palestinians. They are looting their land... burning their homes... forcing them to destroy their homes with their own hands, all of this with official protection. Can you imagine what is happening? Israel is saying that either you demolish your house yourself, or else I will." "Israel killed Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. She was killed by the bullet of a sniper... the sniper recognised that he did kill her. Apart from Palestinian nationality, she was also an American national," he added. He blamed Israel for attacking Muslim and Christian holy sites. He accused Israel of being an 'apartheid regime', and asked "Why isn't Israel being held accountable by the United Nations?" Abbas said Israel has committed heinous crimes against Palestinians and destroyed an ample number of Palestinian villages. He accused Israel of having "deliberately committed these massacres." Also Read: Russians emigrating to Kazakhstan in big numbers amid conscription drive The most recent was against Gaza. "The New York Times, a US-based newspaper reported that 67 children were killed in this attack. We want to know why did Israel kill them?," Abbas said. He said he would like to ask Israel to take charge of this massacre and apologize to the Palestinians. He asked the international community and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold Israel accountable for the crimes it has committed. The Palestinians are still living under Israeli occupation. Referring to the Oslo accords, Abbas told the assembly, "We do not want to be the only party to be respecting the agreements signed in 1993... those agreements are not followed anymore...Israel was the first to violate them...until when shall we be the only party to respect it?" (with inputs from agencies)

Palestinian president accuses Israel of being 'apartheid regime' at UNGA

Israel Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Thursday (September 22) addressed 77th session of United Nations&nbsp;General Assembly (UNGA) at UN headquarters in New York. In his speech, he declared support for 'two-state solution' for Israel-Palestine issue.

During his speech, Lapid sought to highlight that Israeli Arabs were not 'enemies'. He underlined that his coalition government has an Arab party, and that there are Arab judges in Israel's supreme court. There were Arab doctors in Israel saving lives, he said.&nbsp;

"An agreement with the Palestinians, based on two states for two peoples, is the right thing for Israel's security, for Israel's economy and for the future of our children," Lapid said, adding that any agreement would be conditional on a peaceful Palestinian state that would not threaten Israel.

In his speech, Lapid alleged that 'anti-Israel movement' was spreading fake news against Israel.

PM Lapid especially slammed Iran which he said was conducting 'orchestra of hate' against Israel. Though he did not explicitly repeat Israel's known position against revival of nuclear deal with Iran, he made clear his opposition for Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

"If Iran gets nuclear weapons, it will use it," said Lapid.

Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by the US and other world powers in 2015. But former US president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the deal in 2018. Negotiations are now on to restore the deal. Israel is fiercely against revival of the deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Thursday (September 22) addressed 77th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN headquarters in New York. In his speech, he declared support for 'two-state solution' for Israel-Palestine issue.

Israel Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Thursday (September 22) addressed 77th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN headquarters in New York. In his speech, he declared support for 'two-state solution' for Israel-Palestine issue. During his speech, Lapid sought to highlight that Israeli Arabs were not 'enemies'. He underlined that his coalition government has an Arab party, and that there are Arab judges in Israel's supreme court. There were Arab doctors in Israel saving lives, he said. "An agreement with the Palestinians, based on two states for two peoples, is the right thing for Israel's security, for Israel's economy and for the future of our children," Lapid said, adding that any agreement would be conditional on a peaceful Palestinian state that would not threaten Israel. In his speech, Lapid alleged that 'anti-Israel movement' was spreading fake news against Israel. PM Lapid especially slammed Iran which he said was conducting 'orchestra of hate' against Israel. Though he did not explicitly repeat Israel's known position against revival of nuclear deal with Iran, he made clear his opposition for Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. "If Iran gets nuclear weapons, it will use it," said Lapid. Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by the US and other world powers in 2015. But former US president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the deal in 2018. Negotiations are now on to restore the deal. Israel is fiercely against revival of the deal. (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 PM Yair Lapid supports 'two-state solution' in UNGA speech

The discovery of opium residue in 3,500-year-old pottery fragments by Israeli archaeologists on Tuesday provided proof for the idea that the hallucinogenic narcotic was utilised in ancient funeral ceremonies.&nbsp;

After a number of Late Bronze Age burials were discovered during excavations in the central Israeli town of Yehud in 2012, the Israel Antiquities Authority and Weizmann Institute of Science joined forces to conduct a collaborative examination.&nbsp;

At the site, archaeologists discovered clay containers from the 14th century BC that resembled the poppy flowers—from which opium is manufactured.

The researchers claimed in a statement that they next looked to see if they had been used as receptacles for the substance, which earlier writing had revealed was utilised in Canaanite burial ceremonies. They discovered "opium residue in eight vessels."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-fantasy-gaming-platform-sues-google-to-stop-new-gaming-policy-calls-it-discriminatory-518065">Indian 'fantasy' gaming platform sues Google to stop new gaming policy, calls it discriminatory</a>

According to Ron Be'eri, an archaeologist with the antiquities department, these were probably "placed in graves for ceremonial meals, rites and rituals performed by the living for their deceased family members."

During these ceremonies, "family members or a priest on their behalf" would "attempt to summon the spirit of their dead relatives... and enter an ecstatic state by using opium", Be'eri said.

But he agreed that there was still a lot to learn about its historical use. He remarked, "We can only speculate what was done with opium."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The discovery of opium residue in 3,500-year-old pottery fragments by Israeli archaeologists on Tuesday provided proof for the idea that the hallucinogenic narcotic was utilised in ancient funeral ceremonies.

The discovery of opium residue in 3,500-year-old pottery fragments by Israeli archaeologists on Tuesday provided proof for the idea that the hallucinogenic narcotic was utilised in ancient funeral ceremonies. After a number of Late Bronze Age burials were discovered during excavations in the central Israeli town of Yehud in 2012, the Israel Antiquities Authority and Weizmann Institute of Science joined forces to conduct a collaborative examination. At the site, archaeologists discovered clay containers from the 14th century BC that resembled the poppy flowers—from which opium is manufactured. The researchers claimed in a statement that they next looked to see if they had been used as receptacles for the substance, which earlier writing had revealed was utilised in Canaanite burial ceremonies. They discovered "opium residue in eight vessels." Also Read: Indian 'fantasy' gaming platform sues Google to stop new gaming policy, calls it discriminatory According to Ron Be'eri, an archaeologist with the antiquities department, these were probably "placed in graves for ceremonial meals, rites and rituals performed by the living for their deceased family members." During these ceremonies, "family members or a priest on their behalf" would "attempt to summon the spirit of their dead relatives... and enter an ecstatic state by using opium", Be'eri said. But he agreed that there was still a lot to learn about its historical use. He remarked, "We can only speculate what was done with opium." (with inputs from agencies)

Israel: Opium residue discovered in 3,500-year-old pottery, proves narcotic use in funeral

On Sunday, a team of archaeologists in Israel announced what they have described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” discovery, upon finding a burial cave dating back to ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Rameses II. The cave has also been called “frozen in time” as it has been untouched for at least 3,300 years.&nbsp;

According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), the cave has not been opened in over three millennia, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime find! It’s not every day that you walk onto an Indiana Jones set – a cave with tools on the floor that haven’t been touched in 3,300 years,” said the country’s antiquities authority expert, Eli Yannai in a press release.&nbsp;

The cave was reportedly found by accident at a popular Israeli beach at the Palmahim National Park and is filled with dozens of pottery pieces most of them still intact and bronze artefacts including spears and arrows. Although some of the other organic material may have disintegrated over the millennia, like the quiver that held the bronze arrowhead, the artefacts are mostly intact.&nbsp;

Yannai, the IAA Bronze Age expert, believes that some of the vessels had been imported from other countries like Lebanon, Syria and Cyprus which was common for the burial assemblages of the era, the local media reported. But it also shows the “lively trading activity that took place along the coast”, said Yannai.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, a mechanical digger was used to hit the roof of the cave which allowed the archaeologists to descend into the man-made structure. The set-up of the artefacts was exactly like that of a Bronze-Age era burial ceremony, reports said. “These vessels were burial offerings that accompanied the deceased in the belief that they would serve the dead in the afterlife,” the officials indicated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-farmer-unearths-a-byzantine-era-mosaic-in-gaza-517207">Palestinian farmer unearths a Byzantine-era mosaic in Gaza while planting olive tree</a>

The IAA also released a video which showed the stunned archaeologists shining flashlights on the vessels dating back to the reign of the ancient Egyptian king who died in 1213 B.C. Some of the bowls were painted red and some even contained bones, there were also reportedly some chalices, cooking pots, storage jars and even clay oil lamps that still held their burnt&nbsp;wicks.&nbsp;

According to Yannai, the cave may give them clues to a complete picture of “funerary customs,” of the Late Bronze Age. The archaeologists also found at least one intact skeleton in one of the two rectangular plots at the corner of the cave. However, since the bodies were not well preserved a DNA analysis was not possible, although the archaeologists have theorized that they were local coastal residents.&nbsp;

“The fact that these people were buried along with weapons, including entire arrows, shows that these people might have been warriors, perhaps they were guards on ships – which may have been the reason they were able to obtain vessels from all around the area,” said IAA archaeologist David Gelman. The authorities also think that this is a family tomb, the local media reported.&nbsp;

Rameses II controlled Canaan, a territory which roughly encompasses modern-day Israel and Palestine. Unfortunately, some of the artefacts were stolen, but the site has since been resealed and guarded as the investigation for the missing items is underway, meanwhile, the IAA is formulating a plan for its excavation. “Shortly before the cave was sealed, and despite guarding it, a number of archaeological items were stolen from the cave, and the matter is under investigation,” said IAA head Eli Eskozido, in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

On Sunday, a team of archaeologists in Israel announced what they have described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” discovery, upon finding a burial cave dating back to ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Rameses II.

On Sunday, a team of archaeologists in Israel announced what they have described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” discovery, upon finding a burial cave dating back to ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Rameses II. The cave has also been called “frozen in time” as it has been untouched for at least 3,300 years. According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), the cave has not been opened in over three millennia, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime find! It’s not every day that you walk onto an Indiana Jones set – a cave with tools on the floor that haven’t been touched in 3,300 years,” said the country’s antiquities authority expert, Eli Yannai in a press release. The cave was reportedly found by accident at a popular Israeli beach at the Palmahim National Park and is filled with dozens of pottery pieces most of them still intact and bronze artefacts including spears and arrows. Although some of the other organic material may have disintegrated over the millennia, like the quiver that held the bronze arrowhead, the artefacts are mostly intact. Yannai, the IAA Bronze Age expert, believes that some of the vessels had been imported from other countries like Lebanon, Syria and Cyprus which was common for the burial assemblages of the era, the local media reported. But it also shows the “lively trading activity that took place along the coast”, said Yannai. On Tuesday, a mechanical digger was used to hit the roof of the cave which allowed the archaeologists to descend into the man-made structure. The set-up of the artefacts was exactly like that of a Bronze-Age era burial ceremony, reports said. “These vessels were burial offerings that accompanied the deceased in the belief that they would serve the dead in the afterlife,” the officials indicated. ALSO READ: Palestinian farmer unearths a Byzantine-era mosaic in Gaza while planting olive tree The IAA also released a video which showed the stunned archaeologists shining flashlights on the vessels dating back to the reign of the ancient Egyptian king who died in 1213 B.C. Some of the bowls were painted red and some even contained bones, there were also reportedly some chalices, cooking pots, storage jars and even clay oil lamps that still held their burnt wicks. According to Yannai, the cave may give them clues to a complete picture of “funerary customs,” of the Late Bronze Age. The archaeologists also found at least one intact skeleton in one of the two rectangular plots at the corner of the cave. However, since the bodies were not well preserved a DNA analysis was not possible, although the archaeologists have theorized that they were local coastal residents. “The fact that these people were buried along with weapons, including entire arrows, shows that these people might have been warriors, perhaps they were guards on ships – which may have been the reason they were able to obtain vessels from all around the area,” said IAA archaeologist David Gelman. The authorities also think that this is a family tomb, the local media reported. Rameses II controlled Canaan, a territory which roughly encompasses modern-day Israel and Palestine. Unfortunately, some of the artefacts were stolen, but the site has since been resealed and guarded as the investigation for the missing items is underway, meanwhile, the IAA is formulating a plan for its excavation. “Shortly before the cave was sealed, and despite guarding it, a number of archaeological items were stolen from the cave, and the matter is under investigation,” said IAA head Eli Eskozido, in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

A rare ‘frozen in time’ Ramses II-era burial cave found in Israel

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate&nbsp;Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic&nbsp;has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza. &nbsp;

It was last spring when a Palestinian farmer in the midst of planting a new olive tree hit a hard object with his shovel, after which he called his son; together they slowly&nbsp;excavated the mosaic. However, the owner of the land has reportedly chosen to remain anonymous, before any official announcement, he has also covered the unearthed mosaic with tin sheets and hopes to receive some compensation for the protection of the discovery on his property.

Due to this discovery, many have also called for better protection of the antiquities in Gaza, voicing their concerns regarding the fragile collection of sites which is under threat because of lack of awareness and resources, as well as the constant threat of a conflict between Israel and local Palestinian militants. The Hamas-run department of antiquities has called it “a big archaeological discovery”, but is yet to release an official statement.&nbsp;

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In an interview, René Elter, an archaeologist from the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem, said, “These are the most beautiful mosaic floors discovered in Gaza, both in terms of the quality of the graphic representation and the complexity of the geometry.” &nbsp;He added, “Never have mosaic floors of this finesse, this precision in the graphics and richness of the colors been discovered in the Gaza Strip.”&nbsp;

According to Elter, the ornate mosaic&nbsp;dates back to somewhere between the 5th and 7th centuries, however, his estimation is based on a series of photos and videos taken by local research partners and while he has conducted research on the Gaza Strip before, he has not personally visited the site. He has also expressed concern that such a discovery undertaken by inexperienced people could damage the site.&nbsp;

Historically, the Gaza Strip, a coastal enclave situated between Israel and Egypt was a trade route which witnessed several ancient civilizations from the Bronze Age to the Islamic and Ottoman eras. Reports suggest that these treasures left behind by these civilizations are rarely protected and have been subjected to looting, damage, and even have been destroyed by development projects or regional conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-causing-the-recent-conflict-between-israel-and-gaza-504692">Explained: What's causing the recent conflict between Israel and Gaza?</a>

According to the people with knowledge of the matter, the mosaic is spread over about 23 square meters and the three dug-out spots on the 500 square meters patch of land, reveal parts of the&nbsp;mosaic. While the largest holes dug up are about 2 meters by 3 meters and marked with at least 17 drawings of animals, the other two show tiles that have intricate patterns on them.

The mosaic was unearthed just a kilometer from the Israeli border, the floor consists of 17 iconographies of beasts and birds which were surprisingly well-preserved and their colours remain bright. However, Elter has expressed concern about the discovery due to its close approximation to the Israeli separation fence saying that it is in “immediate danger”. He added, “It is imperative to quickly organize an emergency rescue intervention.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza.

A Palestinian farmer and his son over the course of three months excavated an ornate Byzantine-era mosaic. The discovery of the mosaic has reportedly sent a wave of excitement among archaeologists as it is one of the greatest archaeological treasures ever found in Gaza. It was last spring when a Palestinian farmer in the midst of planting a new olive tree hit a hard object with his shovel, after which he called his son; together they slowly excavated the mosaic. However, the owner of the land has reportedly chosen to remain anonymous, before any official announcement, he has also covered the unearthed mosaic with tin sheets and hopes to receive some compensation for the protection of the discovery on his property. Due to this discovery, many have also called for better protection of the antiquities in Gaza, voicing their concerns regarding the fragile collection of sites which is under threat because of lack of awareness and resources, as well as the constant threat of a conflict between Israel and local Palestinian militants. The Hamas-run department of antiquities has called it “a big archaeological discovery”, but is yet to release an official statement. ALSO READ: Air raid sirens ring out in Jerusalem; Israel, Gaza militants continue strikes In an interview, René Elter, an archaeologist from the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem, said, “These are the most beautiful mosaic floors discovered in Gaza, both in terms of the quality of the graphic representation and the complexity of the geometry.” He added, “Never have mosaic floors of this finesse, this precision in the graphics and richness of the colors been discovered in the Gaza Strip.” According to Elter, the ornate mosaic dates back to somewhere between the 5th and 7th centuries, however, his estimation is based on a series of photos and videos taken by local research partners and while he has conducted research on the Gaza Strip before, he has not personally visited the site. He has also expressed concern that such a discovery undertaken by inexperienced people could damage the site. Historically, the Gaza Strip, a coastal enclave situated between Israel and Egypt was a trade route which witnessed several ancient civilizations from the Bronze Age to the Islamic and Ottoman eras. Reports suggest that these treasures left behind by these civilizations are rarely protected and have been subjected to looting, damage, and even have been destroyed by development projects or regional conflict. ALSO READ: Explained: What's causing the recent conflict between Israel and Gaza? According to the people with knowledge of the matter, the mosaic is spread over about 23 square meters and the three dug-out spots on the 500 square meters patch of land, reveal parts of the mosaic. While the largest holes dug up are about 2 meters by 3 meters and marked with at least 17 drawings of animals, the other two show tiles that have intricate patterns on them. The mosaic was unearthed just a kilometer from the Israeli border, the floor consists of 17 iconographies of beasts and birds which were surprisingly well-preserved and their colours remain bright. However, Elter has expressed concern about the discovery due to its close approximation to the Israeli separation fence saying that it is in “immediate danger”. He added, “It is imperative to quickly organize an emergency rescue intervention.” (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian farmer unearths a Byzantine-era mosaic in Gaza  while planting olive tree

In the wake of a joint smuggling probe, the US has given Israel a coin that was part of a nearly 2,000-year-old Jewish revolt against Roman control.&nbsp;

The "exceedingly&nbsp;rare" quarter shekel was minted in AD 69, and the Manhattan District Attorney's office, which held a repatriation ceremony in New York on Monday, estimated its value at over $1 million.&nbsp;

The action was taken 20 years after Israeli officials first learnt through sources that the silver coin had been found in the Ella Valley, south of Jerusalem, by antiquities robbers. It is thought to be a part of a stash of coins that criminals discovered in the region, which is home to many significant archaeological sites.

According to investigators, the item was purchased illegally before being trafficked through Jordan to the UK. Then, it was shipped to the US using fraudulent documentation. The coin was scheduled to be auctioned off in Denver, Colorado, but was instead taken by Homeland Security agents in 2017.&nbsp;

The coin has "immense cultural value," according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., who noted that despite the investigation's complexity, his team of prosecutors, analysts, and agents working with Israeli authorities was able to locate it in a couple of months.

In AD 6, the Romans conquered the kingdom of Judaea, but resistance to their rule resulted in a string of uprisings known as the Jewish-Roman Wars. The currency was made during the First Jewish Revolt, also known as the Great Jewish Revolt, which started in AD 66 and lasted for four years.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-fed-up-with-mundane-beer-options-a-brewing-revolution-is-underway-in-the-us-516212">Data Lab| Fed up with mundane beer options? A brewing revolution is underway in the US</a>

In some regions of their empire, including Judaea, the Romans had permitted the creation and circulation of particular regional coinage. According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), rebel commanders covered the emperor's visage on imperial coins by adding "Jewish motifs." It was "a declaration of independence by the Jews in the land of Israel, a statement against the mighty empire that stood before them," according to an IAA press release.

The British Museum bought a coin in the 1930s that is the only other quarter shekel of a similar design that the IAA is aware of. It estimates that "approximately three" more are also available on the illegal market.&nbsp;

Senior Israeli officials, including Gilad Erdan, the nation's ambassador to the UN, were present for the coin's return ceremony. The repatriation of the object, according to IAA director Eli Eskosido, "marks the beginning of a very positive and important trend for the restoration of cultural heritage items."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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In the wake of a joint smuggling probe, the US has given Israel a coin that was part of a nearly 2,000-year-old Jewish revolt against Roman control. The "exceedingly rare" quarter shekel was minted in AD 69, and the Manhattan District Attorney's office, which held a repatriation ceremony in New York on Monday, estimated its value at over $1 million.

In the wake of a joint smuggling probe, the US has given Israel a coin that was part of a nearly 2,000-year-old Jewish revolt against Roman control. The "exceedingly rare" quarter shekel was minted in AD 69, and the Manhattan District Attorney's office, which held a repatriation ceremony in New York on Monday, estimated its value at over $1 million. The action was taken 20 years after Israeli officials first learnt through sources that the silver coin had been found in the Ella Valley, south of Jerusalem, by antiquities robbers. It is thought to be a part of a stash of coins that criminals discovered in the region, which is home to many significant archaeological sites. According to investigators, the item was purchased illegally before being trafficked through Jordan to the UK. Then, it was shipped to the US using fraudulent documentation. The coin was scheduled to be auctioned off in Denver, Colorado, but was instead taken by Homeland Security agents in 2017. The coin has "immense cultural value," according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., who noted that despite the investigation's complexity, his team of prosecutors, analysts, and agents working with Israeli authorities was able to locate it in a couple of months. In AD 6, the Romans conquered the kingdom of Judaea, but resistance to their rule resulted in a string of uprisings known as the Jewish-Roman Wars. The currency was made during the First Jewish Revolt, also known as the Great Jewish Revolt, which started in AD 66 and lasted for four years. Also Read: Data Lab| Fed up with mundane beer options? A brewing revolution is underway in the US In some regions of their empire, including Judaea, the Romans had permitted the creation and circulation of particular regional coinage. According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), rebel commanders covered the emperor's visage on imperial coins by adding "Jewish motifs." It was "a declaration of independence by the Jews in the land of Israel, a statement against the mighty empire that stood before them," according to an IAA press release. The British Museum bought a coin in the 1930s that is the only other quarter shekel of a similar design that the IAA is aware of. It estimates that "approximately three" more are also available on the illegal market. Senior Israeli officials, including Gilad Erdan, the nation's ambassador to the UN, were present for the coin's return ceremony. The repatriation of the object, according to IAA director Eli Eskosido, "marks the beginning of a very positive and important trend for the restoration of cultural heritage items." (with inputs from agencies)

United States returns 2000-year-old coin worth $1 million to Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Wednesday indicated on Wednesday (September 7) that he was against prosecuting a solidier who likely shot dead Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh during an army operation.

Palestinian-American Akleh was wearing a bulletproof jacket marked "Press" &nbsp;when she was shot in the head in Jenin refugee camp in Israel-held West Bank.

Israeli army, on Monday, conceded for the first time that one of its soldiers may have shot Akleh after mistaking her for a militant.

"There is a high possibility that Ms Abu Akleh was accidentally hit by IDF (army) gunfire that was fired toward suspects identified as armed Palestinian gunmen," said the army's final report into her May 11 death.

The acknowledgement comes after months in which the army had insisted it was impossible to determine the source of the deadly shot that killed the celebrated Al Jazeera journalist, saying it could have been militant fire.

"I will not allow an IDF (army) soldier that was protecting himself from terrorist fire to be prosecuted just to receive applause from abroad," Lapid told a military ceremony.

"No one will dictate our rules of engagement to us," he said.

"Our soldiers have the full backing of the government of Israel and the people of Israel."

US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel had told a press briefing Tuesday: "We're going to continue to press our Israeli partners to closely review its policies and practices on rules of engagement and consider additional steps to mitigate the risk of civilian harm".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Wednesday indicated on Wednesday (September 7) that he was against prosecuting a solidier who likely shot dead Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh during an army operation.

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid on Wednesday indicated on Wednesday (September 7) that he was against prosecuting a solidier who likely shot dead Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh during an army operation. Palestinian-American Akleh was wearing a bulletproof jacket marked "Press" when she was shot in the head in Jenin refugee camp in Israel-held West Bank. Israeli army, on Monday, conceded for the first time that one of its soldiers may have shot Akleh after mistaking her for a militant. "There is a high possibility that Ms Abu Akleh was accidentally hit by IDF (army) gunfire that was fired toward suspects identified as armed Palestinian gunmen," said the army's final report into her May 11 death. The acknowledgement comes after months in which the army had insisted it was impossible to determine the source of the deadly shot that killed the celebrated Al Jazeera journalist, saying it could have been militant fire. "I will not allow an IDF (army) soldier that was protecting himself from terrorist fire to be prosecuted just to receive applause from abroad," Lapid told a military ceremony. "No one will dictate our rules of engagement to us," he said. "Our soldiers have the full backing of the government of Israel and the people of Israel." US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel had told a press briefing Tuesday: "We're going to continue to press our Israeli partners to closely review its policies and practices on rules of engagement and consider additional steps to mitigate the risk of civilian harm". (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 PM against action on soldier who possibly shot Al Jazeera reporter

Israeli military said on Monday (September 5) that Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldiers but was not deliberately targeted. Abu Akleh was a US-Palestinian citizen who was shot dead on May 11 as she covered an Israeli military operation in the volatile town of Jenin in occupied West Bank.

The Israeli military says that troops conducting operations in Jenin had come under heavy fire from all sides and had fired back, including towards the area where Abu Akleh was standing about 200 metres from their position, but that they had not been able to identify her as a journalist.

It said, "There is a high possibility that Ms. Abu Akleh was accidentally hit by IDF gunfire that was fired toward suspects identified as armed Palestinian gunmen." It said it was also possible that she was hit by Palestinian gunmen.

Abu Akleh was one of the most recognisable faces reporting on Israel-Palestine conflict. Her death had triggered outrage across the world. It was more pronounced especially after police beat mourners at her funeral in Jerusalem.

There are other witness accounts that dispute that Israeli position was under fire from the area where Abu Akleh was standing.

"All evidence, facts and investigations that have been conducted proved that Israel was the perpetrator and that it had killed Shireen and it should bear responsibility for its crime," said Nabil Abu Rudeineh, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

The Israeli investigation, which included interviews with IDF soldiers, analysis of the scene as well as audio and video recordings, found it was "not possible to unequivocally determine the source of the gunfire" which killed Abu Akleh.

But Israel has repeatedly denied she was knowingly targeted by its forces and said the investigation showed that soldiers had acted according to their rules of engagement.

"We can say for 100% sure that no IDF soldier intentionally directed fire on a reporter or non-involved person on the ground," a senior military official who briefed journalists on the findings of the investigations said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli military said on Monday (September 5) that Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldiers but was not deliberately targeted.

Israeli military said on Monday (September 5) that Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldiers but was not deliberately targeted. Abu Akleh was a US-Palestinian citizen who was shot dead on May 11 as she covered an Israeli military operation in the volatile town of Jenin in occupied West Bank. The Israeli military says that troops conducting operations in Jenin had come under heavy fire from all sides and had fired back, including towards the area where Abu Akleh was standing about 200 metres from their position, but that they had not been able to identify her as a journalist. It said, "There is a high possibility that Ms. Abu Akleh was accidentally hit by IDF gunfire that was fired toward suspects identified as armed Palestinian gunmen." It said it was also possible that she was hit by Palestinian gunmen. Abu Akleh was one of the most recognisable faces reporting on Israel-Palestine conflict. Her death had triggered outrage across the world. It was more pronounced especially after police beat mourners at her funeral in Jerusalem. There are other witness accounts that dispute that Israeli position was under fire from the area where Abu Akleh was standing. "All evidence, facts and investigations that have been conducted proved that Israel was the perpetrator and that it had killed Shireen and it should bear responsibility for its crime," said Nabil Abu Rudeineh, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The Israeli investigation, which included interviews with IDF soldiers, analysis of the scene as well as audio and video recordings, found it was "not possible to unequivocally determine the source of the gunfire" which killed Abu Akleh. But Israel has repeatedly denied she was knowingly targeted by its forces and said the investigation showed that soldiers had acted according to their rules of engagement. "We can say for 100% sure that no IDF soldier intentionally directed fire on a reporter or non-involved person on the ground," a senior military official who briefed journalists on the findings of the investigations said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh 'probably' got shot by its forces unintentionally

The Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement declared on Sunday that it had executed five Palestinians, two of whom were accused of "collaboration" with Israel.

“On Sunday morning, the death sentence was carried out against two condemned over collaboration with the occupation (Israel), and three others in criminal cases,” Hamas said in a statement. It added that the defendants had previously been given “their full rights to defend themselves.”

The initials and years of birth of the five Palestinians who were executed by Hamas were supplied, but not their full names. Two men who were hanged for "collaborating" with Israel were born in 1978 and 1968, respectively.

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The oldest of the two lived in Khan Yunis, a city in the southern part of the Gaza Strip that is under blockade. According to Hamas, he was found guilty of giving Israel "information on men of the resistance, their domicile... and the location of rocket launchpads" in 1991.

According to the statement, the second was criticised for providing Israel with information in 2001 "that resulted in the targeting and death of residents" by Israeli soldiers.

The announcement claimed that the three other people who were executed on Sunday had all been found guilty of murder.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement declared on Sunday that it had executed five Palestinians, two of whom were accused of "collaboration" with Israel. “On Sunday morning, the death sentence was carried out against two condemned over collaboration with the occupation (Israel), and three others in criminal cases,” Hamas said in a statement.

The Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement declared on Sunday that it had executed five Palestinians, two of whom were accused of "collaboration" with Israel. “On Sunday morning, the death sentence was carried out against two condemned over collaboration with the occupation (Israel), and three others in criminal cases,” Hamas said in a statement. It added that the defendants had previously been given “their full rights to defend themselves.” The initials and years of birth of the five Palestinians who were executed by Hamas were supplied, but not their full names. Two men who were hanged for "collaborating" with Israel were born in 1978 and 1968, respectively. Also read | Saudi Arabia to be the world's fastest-growing economy in 2022; GDP to rise by 7.5%: Report The oldest of the two lived in Khan Yunis, a city in the southern part of the Gaza Strip that is under blockade. According to Hamas, he was found guilty of giving Israel "information on men of the resistance, their domicile... and the location of rocket launchpads" in 1991. According to the statement, the second was criticised for providing Israel with information in 2001 "that resulted in the targeting and death of residents" by Israeli soldiers. The announcement claimed that the three other people who were executed on Sunday had all been found guilty of murder. (With inputs from agencies) Also WATCH | Reports: How Turkish media is drowning in censorship

Hamas executes five Palestinians of Gaza, accusing them of murder, supporting Israel

Israel has come out with a new rule that asks foreigners to inform the Israeli defence ministry if they fall in love with a Palestinian in the occupied West Bank.

The new rules, which are due to come in to force from&nbsp;Monday, say that once they marry, they will have to leave the region after 27 months for a cooling-off period of one-and-a-half years, BBC reported.

It also asks foreigners to inform the Israeli authorities within 30 days of starting a relationship with a Palestinian ID holder.

The regulations, which are being seen as an attempt to tighten rules on foreigners living in or looking to visit the West Bank, have been slammed by Palestinians and Israeli NGOs, who have accused the Israeli government of "taking restrictions to a new level".

Apart from that, new restrictions have been imposed on Palestinian universities, limiting a quota for 150 student visas and 100 foreign lecturers, while there are no such limits in the Israeli ones.

"This is about demographic engineering of Palestinian society and isolating Palestinian society from the outside world," Jessica Montell, executive director of the Israeli non-governmental organisation HaMoked, which has petitioned the Israeli High Court against the regulations, told BBC.

"They make it much more difficult for people to come and work in Palestinian institutions, volunteer, invest, teach and study," she added.

These new rules are part of the 97-page order brought by the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (Cogat), which is part of the Israel defence ministry.

Cogat is responsible for the administration of the Palestinian territory.

The order is titled ‘Procedure for entry and residence of foreigners in the Judea and Samaria area’— the biblical name Israel uses for the West Bank.

The order was first published in February, but its introduction has been delayed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel has come out with a new rule that asks foreigners to inform the Israeli defence ministry if they fall in love with a Palestinian in the occupied West Bank.

Israel has come out with a new rule that asks foreigners to inform the Israeli defence ministry if they fall in love with a Palestinian in the occupied West Bank. The new rules, which are due to come in to force from Monday, say that once they marry, they will have to leave the region after 27 months for a cooling-off period of one-and-a-half years, BBC reported. It also asks foreigners to inform the Israeli authorities within 30 days of starting a relationship with a Palestinian ID holder. The regulations, which are being seen as an attempt to tighten rules on foreigners living in or looking to visit the West Bank, have been slammed by Palestinians and Israeli NGOs, who have accused the Israeli government of "taking restrictions to a new level". Apart from that, new restrictions have been imposed on Palestinian universities, limiting a quota for 150 student visas and 100 foreign lecturers, while there are no such limits in the Israeli ones. "This is about demographic engineering of Palestinian society and isolating Palestinian society from the outside world," Jessica Montell, executive director of the Israeli non-governmental organisation HaMoked, which has petitioned the Israeli High Court against the regulations, told BBC. "They make it much more difficult for people to come and work in Palestinian institutions, volunteer, invest, teach and study," she added. These new rules are part of the 97-page order brought by the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (Cogat), which is part of the Israel defence ministry. Cogat is responsible for the administration of the Palestinian territory. The order is titled ‘Procedure for entry and residence of foreigners in the Judea and Samaria area’— the biblical name Israel uses for the West Bank. The order was first published in February, but its introduction has been delayed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel’s controversial new rule asks West Bank visitors to declare love interest

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