According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that&nbsp;four of the five injured were military personnel.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Israeli forces are searching for the suspect in the Palestinian town of Ya’abad which is close to the scene of the attack, said the Palestinian media reports. The&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said search in the area is underway and that they are blocking off a number of roads near the village.

<h2>What do we know about the supposed attack?</h2>

The incident is said to have taken place near Mevo Dotan in the northern West Bank where the suspected shooter fired at a man in his 30s and moderately wounded him. The attacker then&nbsp;went on to drive further down the road and began shooting at a military vehicle, as per Israeli media reports, citing officials.

The injured civilian managed to drive to the Reihan Crossing and received initial treatment there before being transferred to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, reported The Jerusalem Post. Meanwhile, the four wounded soldiers were also treated at the scene before one of them was transported to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer and the others to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center.&nbsp; 
 
The&nbsp;Hillel Yaffe Medical Center&nbsp;in Hadera later said it was treating four Israelis wounded after the attack and one was&nbsp;listed in moderate condition, and the other three are listed in good condition. Meanwhile, a&nbsp;fifth victim was taken by helicopter to Rambam Hospital who was also reported to be in&nbsp;moderate condition by the Israeli medics.&nbsp;

“This difficult incident, with many casualties, took place at an intersection adjacent to the intersection where Meir Tamari was murdered about two weeks ago,” said Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan after the attack. The shooting referred to by the regional head was of 32-year-old Meir Tamari who was allegedly shot dead by Palestinians outside the settlement of Hermesh.

<h2>Israeli soldier shoots Palestinian after confrontation at checkpoint in West Bank&nbsp;</h2>

The reported drive-by shooting also took place days after a Palestinian driver was shot dead at an Israeli army checkpoint near Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, as per the Palestinian officials. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has described it as a confrontation between the man and one of their soldiers.

According to the Israeli military, the man later identified by the Palestinian health ministry as 29-year-old Mahdi Biadsa, arrived in a stolen vehicle at the Rantis checkpoint. The statement added, that while inspecting the vehicle the driver assaulted one of the soldiers and tried to snatch his weapon which led the soldier to fatally shoot him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that four of the five injured were military personnel.

According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that four of the five injured were military personnel. Meanwhile, the Israeli forces are searching for the suspect in the Palestinian town of Ya’abad which is close to the scene of the attack, said the Palestinian media reports. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said search in the area is underway and that they are blocking off a number of roads near the village. What do we know about the supposed attack? The incident is said to have taken place near Mevo Dotan in the northern West Bank where the suspected shooter fired at a man in his 30s and moderately wounded him. The attacker then went on to drive further down the road and began shooting at a military vehicle, as per Israeli media reports, citing officials. The injured civilian managed to drive to the Reihan Crossing and received initial treatment there before being transferred to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, reported The Jerusalem Post. Meanwhile, the four wounded soldiers were also treated at the scene before one of them was transported to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer and the others to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center. The Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in Hadera later said it was treating four Israelis wounded after the attack and one was listed in moderate condition, and the other three are listed in good condition. Meanwhile, a fifth victim was taken by helicopter to Rambam Hospital who was also reported to be in moderate condition by the Israeli medics. “This difficult incident, with many casualties, took place at an intersection adjacent to the intersection where Meir Tamari was murdered about two weeks ago,” said Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan after the attack. The shooting referred to by the regional head was of 32-year-old Meir Tamari who was allegedly shot dead by Palestinians outside the settlement of Hermesh. Israeli soldier shoots Palestinian after confrontation at checkpoint in West Bank The reported drive-by shooting also took place days after a Palestinian driver was shot dead at an Israeli army checkpoint near Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, as per the Palestinian officials. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has described it as a confrontation between the man and one of their soldiers. According to the Israeli military, the man later identified by the Palestinian health ministry as 29-year-old Mahdi Biadsa, arrived in a stolen vehicle at the Rantis checkpoint. The statement added, that while inspecting the vehicle the driver assaulted one of the soldiers and tried to snatch his weapon which led the soldier to fatally shoot him. (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.

At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank

United States Vice President Kamala Harris, on Tuesday (June 6) called for “an independent judiciary,” in Israel, while speaking about the contentious proposed judicial overhaul which has led to weeks of mass protests across the country.&nbsp;The next day, the comments prompted criticism from the&nbsp;Israeli foreign minister who said that “she may not be able to cite even one clause that bothers her” about the judicial reform.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel needs ‘an independent judiciary’: US VP</h2>

Harris’ comments were made at a reception celebrating the 75th anniversary of Israel’s founding which was hosted by the Israeli Embassy in Washington.&nbsp;

The US VP said, “America will continue to stand for the values that have been the bedrock of the US-Israel relationship, which includes continuing to strengthen our democracies, which as the (Israeli) ambassador has said, are both built on strong institutions, checks and balances.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-meets-sunak-at-downing-street-amid-protests-uk-pm-stresses-democratic-values-575412">Israel’s Netanyahu meets Sunak at Downing Street amid protests; UK PM stresses on ‘democratic values’</a>

“I'll add: an independent judiciary,” said the US VP,&nbsp;on Tuesday, as her comments drew applause from some present at the event in Washington. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, in an interview, said Harris was perhaps not fully informed about the judicial reform which was proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.&nbsp;

Israel’s Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog, in a speech before her also mentioned the proposed judicial overhaul. “Israel is an imperfect democracy, and we like you have our own set of internal challenges. As a young nation only 75 years old, we are still grappling with important questions relating to our democratic system,” said Herzog.&nbsp;

He added, “But let me assure you, I am confident that Israel will remain a vibrant democracy.” Notably, US President Joe Biden’s administration has faced mounting pressure over the proposed judicial reform and has called on Netanyahu to drop the judicial overhaul plan over the past few months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-israel-can-tens-of-thousands-of-protesters-stop-netanyahus-judicial-overhaul-plan-576345">Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened</a>

However, that pressure has reportedly eased after the proposed plan was suspended, in late March after weeks of unprecedented protests across Israel and Netanyahu agreeing to hit pause and compromise negotiations with the opposition.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel's foreign minister slams Harris</h2>

In an interview with Israel’s Kan news, Cohen said, “If we were to ask Kamala Harris what bothers her about the reform, she wouldn’t be able to name a single clause,” reported Times of Israel. He added, “I don’t know whether she read the bill…I imagine she has not.”&nbsp;

This was followed by the US Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides saying that Harris’ presence at the event was about the strength of the relations between the two nations. Nides told Channel 12 news that while he has “respect” for Cohen, “the VP said things the administration says (at) every opportunity regarding the shared values and policies. Harris is a strong supporter of Israel.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-biden-and-benjamin-netanyahu-lock-horns-over-israel-judicial-overhaul-576906">Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu lock horns over Israel judicial overhaul</a>

The Israeli foreign minister’s comments had prompted a supposed diplomatic storm between the two allies&nbsp;and hours later Cohen issued a statement where he said he had “deep respect” for their ally the US and Harris who he then called “a true friend of Israel.”&nbsp;

He added, “Israel’s legal reform is an internal issue that is currently in the process of consolidation and dialogue. The State of Israel will continue to be democratic and liberal, as it has always been.”

Earlier this year, Netanyahu’s government unveiled a legal reform plan which has repeatedly been criticised by the opposition and critics who have said that it would threaten the democracy and freedom of Israel as it supposedly plans to weaken the country’s Supreme Court.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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United States Vice President Kamala Harris, on Tuesday (June 6) called for “an independent judiciary,” in Israel, while speaking about the contentious proposed judicial overhaul which has led to weeks of mass protests across the country.

United States Vice President Kamala Harris, on Tuesday (June 6) called for “an independent judiciary,” in Israel, while speaking about the contentious proposed judicial overhaul which has led to weeks of mass protests across the country. The next day, the comments prompted criticism from the Israeli foreign minister who said that “she may not be able to cite even one clause that bothers her” about the judicial reform. Israel needs ‘an independent judiciary’: US VP Harris’ comments were made at a reception celebrating the 75th anniversary of Israel’s founding which was hosted by the Israeli Embassy in Washington. The US VP said, “America will continue to stand for the values that have been the bedrock of the US-Israel relationship, which includes continuing to strengthen our democracies, which as the (Israeli) ambassador has said, are both built on strong institutions, checks and balances.” ALSO READ | Israel’s Netanyahu meets Sunak at Downing Street amid protests; UK PM stresses on ‘democratic values’ “I'll add: an independent judiciary,” said the US VP, on Tuesday, as her comments drew applause from some present at the event in Washington. Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, in an interview, said Harris was perhaps not fully informed about the judicial reform which was proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Israel’s Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog, in a speech before her also mentioned the proposed judicial overhaul. “Israel is an imperfect democracy, and we like you have our own set of internal challenges. As a young nation only 75 years old, we are still grappling with important questions relating to our democratic system,” said Herzog. He added, “But let me assure you, I am confident that Israel will remain a vibrant democracy.” Notably, US President Joe Biden’s administration has faced mounting pressure over the proposed judicial reform and has called on Netanyahu to drop the judicial overhaul plan over the past few months. ALSO READ | Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened However, that pressure has reportedly eased after the proposed plan was suspended, in late March after weeks of unprecedented protests across Israel and Netanyahu agreeing to hit pause and compromise negotiations with the opposition. Israel's foreign minister slams Harris In an interview with Israel’s Kan news, Cohen said, “If we were to ask Kamala Harris what bothers her about the reform, she wouldn’t be able to name a single clause,” reported Times of Israel. He added, “I don’t know whether she read the bill…I imagine she has not.” This was followed by the US Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides saying that Harris’ presence at the event was about the strength of the relations between the two nations. Nides told Channel 12 news that while he has “respect” for Cohen, “the VP said things the administration says (at) every opportunity regarding the shared values and policies. Harris is a strong supporter of Israel.” ALSO WATCH | Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu lock horns over Israel judicial overhaul The Israeli foreign minister’s comments had prompted a supposed diplomatic storm between the two allies and hours later Cohen issued a statement where he said he had “deep respect” for their ally the US and Harris who he then called “a true friend of Israel.” He added, “Israel’s legal reform is an internal issue that is currently in the process of consolidation and dialogue. The State of Israel will continue to be democratic and liberal, as it has always been.” Earlier this year, Netanyahu’s government unveiled a legal reform plan which has repeatedly been criticised by the opposition and critics who have said that it would threaten the democracy and freedom of Israel as it supposedly plans to weaken the country’s Supreme Court. (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 foreign minister slams US VP Kamala Harris over call for ‘independent judiciary’

A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched&nbsp;to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November. 
 
Reuters cited a witness who said that a large military convoy entered Ramallah, which is the seat of the Palestinian government. The presence of the Israeli army in downtown Ramallah led to hundreds of people gathering in the area. Some youths hurled stones at the Israeli forces. The soldiers fired live bullets, lobbed stun grenades and used tear gas at the crowd. Roads were seen blocked by trash bins set afire. Ambulance sirens could be heard.

According to the Palestinian health ministry, at least six people were sent to hospital. These included three who sustained gunshot wounds.

The Israeli military said its forces were operating in Ramallah "to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November".

Watch | Iran’s first hypersonic missile alarms Israel

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The twin blasts in Jerusalem had killed two people, including an Israeli-Canadian teenager, and wounded at least 14 others in what police said were explosions of improvised bombs that were planted at bus stops near the city exit and in a junction leading to a settlement.

"The demolition of the homes of fighters is a collective punishment that falls under the war crimes committed by the occupation against our people," said Abdel Fattah Dola of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party.

<h2>Punishment and deterrence</h2>

Israel has supported the policy of demolishing the homes of perpetrators as this, it says, is both punitive and deterrent action.

Israel's raid into Ramallah came just hours after US envoy for Palestinian Affairs, Hady Amr, met Hussein Al-Sheikh, a senior Palestinian official.

The last one year has witnessed a spurt in violence in the West Bank. Israel has stepped up military raids&nbsp;while street attacks have been carried out by Palestinians.

The Palestinian health ministry said at least 158 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since January. Israel's foreign ministry said 20 Israelis and two foreign nationals have been killed in Palestinian attacks in the same period.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-foreign-minister-slams-us-vp-kamala-harris-over-calls-for-independent-judiciary-601922">Israeli foreign minister slams US VP Kamala Harris over call for ‘independent judiciary’</a>

Israel has been in occupation of the West Bank since the Six-Day War of 1967. Nearly three million Palestinians live in the West Bank while around 490,000 Israelis also reside in the settlements in the area. These settlements are deemed illegal by the United Nations (UN) and most of the international community.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November.

A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November. Reuters cited a witness who said that a large military convoy entered Ramallah, which is the seat of the Palestinian government. The presence of the Israeli army in downtown Ramallah led to hundreds of people gathering in the area. Some youths hurled stones at the Israeli forces. The soldiers fired live bullets, lobbed stun grenades and used tear gas at the crowd. Roads were seen blocked by trash bins set afire. Ambulance sirens could be heard. According to the Palestinian health ministry, at least six people were sent to hospital. These included three who sustained gunshot wounds. The Israeli military said its forces were operating in Ramallah "to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November". Watch | Iran’s first hypersonic missile alarms Israel × The twin blasts in Jerusalem had killed two people, including an Israeli-Canadian teenager, and wounded at least 14 others in what police said were explosions of improvised bombs that were planted at bus stops near the city exit and in a junction leading to a settlement. "The demolition of the homes of fighters is a collective punishment that falls under the war crimes committed by the occupation against our people," said Abdel Fattah Dola of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party. Punishment and deterrence Israel has supported the policy of demolishing the homes of perpetrators as this, it says, is both punitive and deterrent action. Israel's raid into Ramallah came just hours after US envoy for Palestinian Affairs, Hady Amr, met Hussein Al-Sheikh, a senior Palestinian official. The last one year has witnessed a spurt in violence in the West Bank. Israel has stepped up military raids while street attacks have been carried out by Palestinians. The Palestinian health ministry said at least 158 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since January. Israel's foreign ministry said 20 Israelis and two foreign nationals have been killed in Palestinian attacks in the same period. Also Read | Israeli foreign minister slams US VP Kamala Harris over call for ‘independent judiciary’ Israel has been in occupation of the West Bank since the Six-Day War of 1967. Nearly three million Palestinians live in the West Bank while around 490,000 Israelis also reside in the settlements in the area. These settlements are deemed illegal by the United Nations (UN) and most of the international community. (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 ×

Clashes erupt after Israeli forces mount rare raid into Palestinian city of Ramallah

Iran unveiled what is being&nbsp;described as its first-ever domestically-made hypersonic ballistic missile ‘Fattah’, on Tuesday (June 6), reported the state-run IRNA news agency. The missile is said to be capable of travelling at hypersonic speeds of up to 15 times the speed of sound and can reportedly penetrate the most advanced&nbsp;missile defence systems.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Fattah’: What do we know about Iran’s new missile?</h2>

The hypersonic missile named by the Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei&nbsp;'Fattah' in Farsi, which roughly translates to “the opener,”&nbsp;as per Al Jazeera, was unveiled&nbsp;on Tuesday, at a ceremony, the images of which were posted by the state media.&nbsp;

It showed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) at the unveiling of the missile. "Today we feel that the deterrent power has been formed. This power is an anchor of lasting security and peace for the regional countries," said Raisi&nbsp;at the event, as per the Associated Press.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-fateh-missile-that-iran-is-rumored-to-deliver-to-russia-526073">What is the Fateh missile that Iran is rumored to deliver to Russia?</a>

“The precision-guided Fattah hypersonic missile has a range of 1,400 km and it is capable of penetrating all defence shields,” said the head of the IRGC’s aerospace force, Amirali Hajizadeh, as quoted by Reuters citing the Iranian state television. The missile can move at a speed of up to Mach 15 (5,145 metres or 16,880 feet per second), reported Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

“It can bypass the most advanced anti-ballistic missile systems of the United States and the Zionist regime, including Israel's Iron Dome,” reported Reuters, citing Iran’s state TV, adding that the missile is a “big generational leap in the field of missiles”.&nbsp;

This missile also comes months after the IRGC aerospace chief first made the announcement back in November at an event marking the death anniversary of Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam, known as the father of Iranian missile technology.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-has-developed-a-hypersonic-missile-that-can-penetrate-advanced-air-defence-system-532874">Iran claims it has developed hypersonic missile that can ‘penetrate advanced air defence system’</a>

“The Fattah cannot be destroyed by any other missile due to how it moves in different directions and at different altitudes,” said Hajizadeh, on Tuesday, as quoted by Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran’s supposed nuclear ambitions raise concerns</h2>

The announcement last year prompted International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi to express concern, as hypersonic missiles, like ballistic missiles,&nbsp;can be equipped with nuclear warheads.&nbsp;

However, Grossi said that the new missile would not have “any influence” on negotiations with Iran over its nuclear activities. The United States had unilaterally withdrawn from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and imposed renewed sanctions. Since then, Tehran has not been obligated to follow the strict limits it agreed to on&nbsp;its nuclear activities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-has-developed-long-range-cruise-missile-565701">&nbsp;Iran says it has developed long-range cruise missile, triggers concerns in West</a>

Meanwhile, countries in the West and Israel have raised concerns over Iran’s missile programme, which they say can be used to carry nuclear warheads. However,&nbsp;Tehran has said that it is not pursuing any such plans.&nbsp;

Israel, which the Islamic Republic refuses to recognise, had also recently suggested the possibility of military action against Iran as efforts by six world powers to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal have stalled.

<h2>Iran’s ‘Khaibar’ ballistic missile</h2>

Late last month, Iran claimed to have&nbsp;successfully test-launched its 4th generation Khorramshahr, “Khaibar.” The missile in question was the surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 kilometres and was able to carry a 1,500 kg warhead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-iran-claims-to-have-successfully-conducted-test-launch-of-ballistic-missile-596561/#about-the-test-launch-596566">In pics | Iran claims to have successfully conducted test-launch of ballistic missile</a>

Iran has one of the biggest missile programmes in the Middle East and has produced missiles capable of&nbsp;hitting its rivals Israel and the US bases, as per media reports.&nbsp;The Islamic Republic has maintained that it will further develop its “defensive” missile programme.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Iran unveiled what is being described as its first-ever domestically-made hypersonic ballistic missile ‘Fattah’, on Tuesday (June 6), reported the state-run IRNA news agency.

Iran unveiled what is being described as its first-ever domestically-made hypersonic ballistic missile ‘Fattah’, on Tuesday (June 6), reported the state-run IRNA news agency. The missile is said to be capable of travelling at hypersonic speeds of up to 15 times the speed of sound and can reportedly penetrate the most advanced missile defence systems. ‘Fattah’: What do we know about Iran’s new missile? The hypersonic missile named by the Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei 'Fattah' in Farsi, which roughly translates to “the opener,” as per Al Jazeera, was unveiled on Tuesday, at a ceremony, the images of which were posted by the state media. It showed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) at the unveiling of the missile. "Today we feel that the deterrent power has been formed. This power is an anchor of lasting security and peace for the regional countries," said Raisi at the event, as per the Associated Press. ALSO READ | What is the Fateh missile that Iran is rumored to deliver to Russia? “The precision-guided Fattah hypersonic missile has a range of 1,400 km and it is capable of penetrating all defence shields,” said the head of the IRGC’s aerospace force, Amirali Hajizadeh, as quoted by Reuters citing the Iranian state television. The missile can move at a speed of up to Mach 15 (5,145 metres or 16,880 feet per second), reported Al Jazeera. “It can bypass the most advanced anti-ballistic missile systems of the United States and the Zionist regime, including Israel's Iron Dome,” reported Reuters, citing Iran’s state TV, adding that the missile is a “big generational leap in the field of missiles”. This missile also comes months after the IRGC aerospace chief first made the announcement back in November at an event marking the death anniversary of Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam, known as the father of Iranian missile technology. ALSO READ | Iran claims it has developed hypersonic missile that can ‘penetrate advanced air defence system’ “The Fattah cannot be destroyed by any other missile due to how it moves in different directions and at different altitudes,” said Hajizadeh, on Tuesday, as quoted by Al Jazeera. Iran’s supposed nuclear ambitions raise concerns The announcement last year prompted International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi to express concern, as hypersonic missiles, like ballistic missiles, can be equipped with nuclear warheads. However, Grossi said that the new missile would not have “any influence” on negotiations with Iran over its nuclear activities. The United States had unilaterally withdrawn from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and imposed renewed sanctions. Since then, Tehran has not been obligated to follow the strict limits it agreed to on its nuclear activities. ALSO READ | Iran says it has developed long-range cruise missile, triggers concerns in West Meanwhile, countries in the West and Israel have raised concerns over Iran’s missile programme, which they say can be used to carry nuclear warheads. However, Tehran has said that it is not pursuing any such plans. Israel, which the Islamic Republic refuses to recognise, had also recently suggested the possibility of military action against Iran as efforts by six world powers to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal have stalled. Iran’s ‘Khaibar’ ballistic missile Late last month, Iran claimed to have successfully test-launched its 4th generation Khorramshahr, “Khaibar.” The missile in question was the surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 kilometres and was able to carry a 1,500 kg warhead. ALSO READ | In pics | Iran claims to have successfully conducted test-launch of ballistic missile Iran has one of the biggest missile programmes in the Middle East and has produced missiles capable of hitting its rivals Israel and the US bases, as per media reports. The Islamic Republic has maintained that it will further develop its “defensive” missile programme. (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.

Iran unveils its first hypersonic missile ‘Fattah’: Here's what we know

In a quest to prepare the national airspace for passenger transportation and drone delivery services, Israel has started test flights of air taxis that can carry passengers and heavy cargo, while alleviating traffic congestion on the roads.&nbsp;

The project launched under the Israel National Drone Initiative (INDI) aims to create a national drone network and prepare the sky for drone deliveries, across the Jewish state, with regulators and private companies working together. It is a joint collaboration between the&nbsp;Transportation Ministry, the Israel Innovation Authority, Ayalon Highways Ltd., and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI).

“This is the first initiative of its kind in the world for an extensive and multidisciplinary examination of new technologies, including the transportation of cargo and later, people,” Transportation Minister Miri Regev was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel.

“The collaborative project examines all the aspects – including regulation and legislative changes – involved in the commercial operation of drones, as an additional tool to deal with congestion," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drone-taxi-prototype-built-by-indias-eplane-company-takes-flight-591746">Also read |&nbsp;‘Drone taxi’ prototype built by India’s ePlane Company undertakes test flight, may fly by 2025</a>

<h2>Second phase of the air taxi project</h2>

The air taxis launched were part of the second phase of the INDI project which has received $60 million in investment so far. 11 drone operating and delivery companies were involved in the experimental tests.

For the first time ever,&nbsp;an autonomous flying vehicle,&nbsp;&nbsp;an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with long-distance capabilities were all tested within a managed urban airspace carrying heavy cargo loads. Notable&nbsp;results were achieved by Cando Drones, Israeli Air, and Downwind

“The significance of these demonstrations lies in creating a regulatory sandbox that allows all relevant stakeholders to have practical experience before establishing a regulatory infrastructure that enables a wider economically viable model,” said Israel Innovation Authority CEO Dror Bin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-electric-air-taxis-ready-for-takeoff-in-india-520010">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Business News | Electric air taxis ready for takeoff in India</a>

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<h2>Air routes being devised</h2>

According to Israeli media reports, over 19,000 sorties have been performed by air taxis in the last three years. The companies are expected to intensify testing in the coming two years with weekly flights planned.&nbsp;

To ensure the safety of hundreds of drones operating at the same time, the Israeli authorities are devising a system of aerial routes in the sky. It will allow different types of drones to fly at the same time for myriad purposes. To chalk out a foolproof&nbsp;strategy, INDI has also joined forces with the Israeli Air Force, Israel Airports Authority Ltd., and local municipalities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a quest to prepare the national airspace for passenger transportation and drone delivery services, Israel has started test flights of air taxis that can carry passengers and heavy cargo, while alleviating traffic congestion on the roads.

In a quest to prepare the national airspace for passenger transportation and drone delivery services, Israel has started test flights of air taxis that can carry passengers and heavy cargo, while alleviating traffic congestion on the roads. The project launched under the Israel National Drone Initiative (INDI) aims to create a national drone network and prepare the sky for drone deliveries, across the Jewish state, with regulators and private companies working together. It is a joint collaboration between the Transportation Ministry, the Israel Innovation Authority, Ayalon Highways Ltd., and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI). “This is the first initiative of its kind in the world for an extensive and multidisciplinary examination of new technologies, including the transportation of cargo and later, people,” Transportation Minister Miri Regev was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel. “The collaborative project examines all the aspects – including regulation and legislative changes – involved in the commercial operation of drones, as an additional tool to deal with congestion," he added. Also read | ‘Drone taxi’ prototype built by India’s ePlane Company undertakes test flight, may fly by 2025 Second phase of the air taxi project The air taxis launched were part of the second phase of the INDI project which has received $60 million in investment so far. 11 drone operating and delivery companies were involved in the experimental tests. For the first time ever, an autonomous flying vehicle, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with long-distance capabilities were all tested within a managed urban airspace carrying heavy cargo loads. Notable results were achieved by Cando Drones, Israeli Air, and Downwind “The significance of these demonstrations lies in creating a regulatory sandbox that allows all relevant stakeholders to have practical experience before establishing a regulatory infrastructure that enables a wider economically viable model,” said Israel Innovation Authority CEO Dror Bin. WATCH | WION Business News | Electric air taxis ready for takeoff in India × Air routes being devised According to Israeli media reports, over 19,000 sorties have been performed by air taxis in the last three years. The companies are expected to intensify testing in the coming two years with weekly flights planned. To ensure the safety of hundreds of drones operating at the same time, the Israeli authorities are devising a system of aerial routes in the sky. It will allow different types of drones to fly at the same time for myriad purposes. To chalk out a foolproof strategy, INDI has also joined forces with the Israeli Air Force, Israel Airports Authority Ltd., and local municipalities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

To ease traffic congestion, Israel conducts first drone taxi tests

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.&nbsp;

Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday.&nbsp;

"The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English.&nbsp;

Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime."

"Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely."

Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering.

Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities.

Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons."

According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year.&nbsp;

"There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP.&nbsp;

At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation.

"I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation."

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Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said. Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday. "The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English. Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime." "Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely." Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering. Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities. Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons." According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year. "There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP. At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation. "I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation." 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's Arab minority leaders protest crime menace

According to officials in Israel, gunmen killed a Jewish settler in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday (May 30)&nbsp;while he was driving. The incident also comes a day after Israeli forces killed a Palestinian security officer amid clashes in the West Bank’s city of Jenin, said the Palestinian Fatah faction, the day prior.&nbsp;

The Palestinian armed group linked to President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatah faction later claimed responsibility for the shooting on Tuesday and vowed more attacks. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Ministry said that the search for the gunmen is underway.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli settler shot on Tuesday&nbsp;</h2>

The Israeli settler was a resident of Hermes&nbsp;settlement,&nbsp;said settlement leader Yossi Dagan, in a statement, which is around six kilometres away from the West Bank, adding that the person was shot in his car when he was driving nearby.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bank-al-quds-fire-artillery-at-idf-soldiers-597948">West Bank: Al Quds fire artillery at IDF soldiers</a>

The Israeli emergency service spokesperson had previously said that&nbsp;they are treating a&nbsp;civilian who is approximately 30 years old&nbsp;and&nbsp;in “serious condition”. The victim was later identified as a 32-year-old man named Meir Tamari who succumbed to his injuries, as per Israeli media reports.&nbsp;

The Palestinian armed group, Fatah-linked Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades later issued a statement, claiming responsibility for the attack and vowed to conduct more such “operations” and said it carried out the attack to avenge Palestinians killed by Israel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-jets-hit-targets-in-gaza-israeli-residents-asked-to-shelter-over-fears-of-retaliation-590458">Twelve people, including top militants killed after Israeli jets hit targets in Gaza</a>

“This, and other operations to come, will not be the final response to assuage our pain at the passing of our martyrs. Our pain is greater, and so is our revenge,” said the Palestinian group, in a statement, as quoted by Reuters. This comes as Israel has been conducting near-daily military raids in the West Bank in response to an increase in Palestinian attacks.

<h2>What happened in Jenin on Monday?&nbsp;</h2>

The Fatah faction, on Monday, said that a Palestinian security officer, later identified as Ashraf Sheikh Ibrahim, was killed in the West Bank flashpoint city of Jenin. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that it came under heavy fire from gunmen while trying to arrest suspected militants in Jenin and retaliated.&nbsp;

The Fatah-linked Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades has claimed that the victim was a member. The clashes on Monday took place as&nbsp;Jewish settlers inaugurated a religious school in a dismantled settler outpost in the northern West Bank. The move has since drawn condemnation from Palestinians, while the United States raised concerns.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-israelis-shot-dead-by-palestinian-gunman-in-west-bank-in-suspected-terror-attack-566121">Two Israelis shot dead in West Bank in 'Palestinian terror attack', says government</a>

A US State Department spokesperson said Washington was “deeply troubled” by the Israeli government’s recent order, which has lifted a ban on settlements in several areas evacuated as part of Israel’s 2005&nbsp;withdrawal act&nbsp;from the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The expansion of settlements undermines the geographic viability of a two-state solution, exacerbates tensions, and further harms trust between the parties,” said the US official&nbsp;and&nbsp;called&nbsp;the move inconsistent with Israel’s commitments, as per Reuters. This comes amid a rise in violence and tensions between Israelis and Palestinians over the past year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-says-it-intercepted-rocket-fire-from-lebanon-retaliates-with-strikes-579842">Lebanon fires barrage of rockets after clashes at al-Aqsa mosque; five hit Israeli targets</a>

Since the beginning of this year, nearly 120 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem with half of them belonging to armed militant groups, as per a tally by the Associated Press. However, the Israeli military has said that the number of Palestinian militants killed is much higher. Meanwhile, at least 22 Israelis have been killed in attacks by Palestinians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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According to officials in Israel, gunmen killed a Jewish settler in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday (May 30) while he was driving. The incident also comes a day after Israeli forces killed a Palestinian security officer amid clashes in the West Bank’s city of Jenin, said the Palestinian Fatah faction, the day prior.

According to officials in Israel, gunmen killed a Jewish settler in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday (May 30) while he was driving. The incident also comes a day after Israeli forces killed a Palestinian security officer amid clashes in the West Bank’s city of Jenin, said the Palestinian Fatah faction, the day prior. The Palestinian armed group linked to President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatah faction later claimed responsibility for the shooting on Tuesday and vowed more attacks. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Ministry said that the search for the gunmen is underway. Israeli settler shot on Tuesday The Israeli settler was a resident of Hermes settlement, said settlement leader Yossi Dagan, in a statement, which is around six kilometres away from the West Bank, adding that the person was shot in his car when he was driving nearby. ALSO WATCH | West Bank: Al Quds fire artillery at IDF soldiers The Israeli emergency service spokesperson had previously said that they are treating a civilian who is approximately 30 years old and in “serious condition”. The victim was later identified as a 32-year-old man named Meir Tamari who succumbed to his injuries, as per Israeli media reports. The Palestinian armed group, Fatah-linked Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades later issued a statement, claiming responsibility for the attack and vowed to conduct more such “operations” and said it carried out the attack to avenge Palestinians killed by Israel. ALSO READ | Twelve people, including top militants killed after Israeli jets hit targets in Gaza “This, and other operations to come, will not be the final response to assuage our pain at the passing of our martyrs. Our pain is greater, and so is our revenge,” said the Palestinian group, in a statement, as quoted by Reuters. This comes as Israel has been conducting near-daily military raids in the West Bank in response to an increase in Palestinian attacks. What happened in Jenin on Monday? The Fatah faction, on Monday, said that a Palestinian security officer, later identified as Ashraf Sheikh Ibrahim, was killed in the West Bank flashpoint city of Jenin. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that it came under heavy fire from gunmen while trying to arrest suspected militants in Jenin and retaliated. The Fatah-linked Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades has claimed that the victim was a member. The clashes on Monday took place as Jewish settlers inaugurated a religious school in a dismantled settler outpost in the northern West Bank. The move has since drawn condemnation from Palestinians, while the United States raised concerns. ALSO READ | Two Israelis shot dead in West Bank in 'Palestinian terror attack', says government A US State Department spokesperson said Washington was “deeply troubled” by the Israeli government’s recent order, which has lifted a ban on settlements in several areas evacuated as part of Israel’s 2005 withdrawal act from the Gaza Strip. “The expansion of settlements undermines the geographic viability of a two-state solution, exacerbates tensions, and further harms trust between the parties,” said the US official and called the move inconsistent with Israel’s commitments, as per Reuters. This comes amid a rise in violence and tensions between Israelis and Palestinians over the past year. ALSO READ | Lebanon fires barrage of rockets after clashes at al-Aqsa mosque; five hit Israeli targets Since the beginning of this year, nearly 120 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem with half of them belonging to armed militant groups, as per a tally by the Associated Press. However, the Israeli military has said that the number of Palestinian militants killed is much higher. Meanwhile, at least 22 Israelis have been killed in attacks by Palestinians. (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 settler killed by Palestinian gunmen in West Bank, a day after clashes in Jenin

We all have squirmed in sheer terror when a cockroach has come too close to our liking. From going pale instantly to tip-toeing around to a higher vantage point to avoid another face-off with the insect, most opt for the flight approach from the "flight-or-fight" analogy.

We all have squirmed in sheer terror when a cockroach has come too close to our liking. From going pale instantly to tip-toeing around to a higher vantage point to avoid another face-off with the insect, most opt for the flight approach from the "flight-or-fight" analogy. Similarly, a woman in Israel took the "flight" approach but the consequences became a touch too dramatic. It was a routine Saturday evening with people enjoying food and music in the Dizengoff Cafe in the capital city of Tel Aviv. However, things took a chaotic turn when a woman spotted a cockroach and screamed so loudly that patrons at the venue as well as an adjacent eatery, started to flee the spot, overturning tables and chairs - fearing they were under a terrorist attack. Such was the adrenaline rush across the room that two people sustained light injuries from broken glass during the kerfuffle. Alarmed by people bolting to the exits and seeking relief, police units were sent to the cafe to sweep for suspects. WATCH | Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION × Authorities find the cause of commotion After some calm was brought by the officers, it was determined that the woman's panicked screaming was in response to the sight of a cockroach, not a dreaded terror operative. “It was the scariest thing that ever happened to me,” one of the eyewitnesses was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel. "People overturned tables and everyone around started screaming and running and trampling each other. A lot of glasses shattered on the way, and people fell on the glass and got cut," she added. The witness who is eight months pregnant had to head straight to an emergency clinic to ascertain if her pregnancy was unharmed after the commotion. Netizens found the humour in the situation with some saying they empathised with the woman and her situation. One said, "As someone who had a deep and abiding hatred of cockroaches, and once *in Tel Aviv no less* had my cat "gift" me one on my pillow... I get where she was coming from," while another added, Flying cockroaches are damn scary but...." ALSO READ | Viral moment: Cockroach makes Met Gala debut, netizens hail it as 'best dressed celebrity' Israel is home to the common cockroach, but also has large, flying species, all known to spark a deep fight-or-flight response in people. Notably, cockroaches and pests are a cause of general nuisance to the people of Israel, especially those living in the coastal city. The fear of cockroaches is called katsaridaphobia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Woman screams after spotting cockroach in Tel Aviv cafe, people flee thinking it to be terror attack

In pics | Iran claims to have successfully conducted test-launch of ballistic missile

Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Sunday (May 21) visited the Al-Aqsa mosque for the second time since he took office and declared that Israel was “in charge” of the disputed holy site in Jerusalem. The move has since drawn condemnation from Palestinians and also comes amid recent escalations and a rise in tensions between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;

<h2>Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque</h2>

The comments came during an early morning visit to the compound that lies in the Old City of Jerusalem which is known as Temple Mount to Jews and deemed Judaism’s most sacred site and vestige of two ancient temples of the faith. “I’m happy to ascend the Temple Mount, the most important place for the people of Israel,” said Ben-Gvir.&nbsp;

As per the long-standing agreements Jews are permitted to visit the site, but not to pray at Temple Mount. However, the site has recently witnessed an influx&nbsp;of Jewish visitors who have increasingly been defying the ban, more or less openly. This has also sparked fears among Palestinians who have called it a provocation in the past.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

The Israeli minister’s visit also comes days after Israelis marked Jerusalem Day which celebrates Israel’s capture of east Jerusalem, including the Old City, following the Middle East war in 1967. “All the threats from Hamas will not help, we are in charge here in Jerusalem and all of the Land of Israel,” said Ben-Gvir.&nbsp;

The national security minister also went on to post an image of himself on Telegram at Al-Aqsa mosque and wrote, “Jerusalem is our soul.” He added, “The threats of Hamas will not deter us, I went up to the Temple Mount!” The visit was also later confirmed by the Israeli police who said that it passed without any incidents.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli Cabinet meeting in Old City</h2>

Hours after the controversial visit, on Sunday, top politicians from Israel also held a rare Cabinet meeting in the tunnels beneath the Western Wall. “Time and again, my friends and I have been forced to repel international pressure on the part of those who would divide Jerusalem again,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as quoted by AFP, at the beginning of the meeting.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/senior-israeli-minister-visits-al-aqsa-mosque-594825">Senior Israeli minister visits Al-Aqsa mosque</a>

He also said how some leaders in Israel were “prepared to give in to those pressures” but “we have acted differently” and also reportedly went on to celebrate the expansion of Israeli settlement in east Jerusalem which is deemed illegal by the international community. This comes also after several people&nbsp;expressed concerns over the newly elected government of Netanyahu and his right-wing allies, particularly over their relations with Palestinians.

<h2>Palestine&nbsp;calls visit&nbsp;'playing with fire'</h2>

A spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said that the Israeli minister’s “incursion at an early hour, like thieves, into the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards will not change the reality and will not impose Israeli sovereignty over it.” The president’s office also called the “harming” of Al-Aqsa mosque “playing with fire”.&nbsp;

Abbas’s spokesman, Nabil Abu Rudeineh said the region will be pushed “into a religious war with unimaginable consequences that will affect everyone.” He also called Ben-Gvir’s visit a “blatant attack” on the mosque.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-israelis-participate-in-contentious-flag-march-in-jerusalem-rattles-palestinians-593867">In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians</a>

The militant group that rules the blockaded Gaza Strip, Hamas’ spokesman said Israel would bear the consequences for the “savage assault” on the Al-Aqsa mosque. It added, the move “confirms the depths of danger looming over Al-Aqsa, under this Zionist fascist government and the arrogance of its ministers from the extreme right.”&nbsp;

The Jordanian Waqf Islamic affairs council, which serves as the custodian of the mosque, called the Israeli minister’s visit a “blatant storming and desecration of the blessed Al-Aqsa mosque”. “No less dangerous is the call by the occupation (Israeli) government to hold its meeting this morning in the Western Wall area,” said the Waqf, in a statement.&nbsp;

Jordan’s foreign ministry called the visit a “provocative step” which is “condemned” as well as a “dangerous and unacceptable escalation.” It added that the move, “represents a flagrant and unacceptable violation of international law, and of the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its holy sites”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-palestinian-gaza-truce-holds-after-hunger-strikers-death-588470">Israeli-Palestinian Gaza truce holds after hunger striker's death</a>

The incident comes after the fighting between Israel and Gaza militants ended just last week following an Egypt-mediated truce between the two factions. At least 34 Palestinians and one Israeli were killed during the hostilities which went on for days. Egypt’s foreign ministry on Sunday asked Israel to “immediately stop the escalatory practices which inflame the pre-existing state of tension in the occupied (Palestinian) territories.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Sunday (May 21) visited the Al-Aqsa mosque for the second time since he took office and declared that Israel was “in charge” of the disputed holy site in Jerusalem.

Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Sunday (May 21) visited the Al-Aqsa mosque for the second time since he took office and declared that Israel was “in charge” of the disputed holy site in Jerusalem. The move has since drawn condemnation from Palestinians and also comes amid recent escalations and a rise in tensions between Israel and Palestine. Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque The comments came during an early morning visit to the compound that lies in the Old City of Jerusalem which is known as Temple Mount to Jews and deemed Judaism’s most sacred site and vestige of two ancient temples of the faith. “I’m happy to ascend the Temple Mount, the most important place for the people of Israel,” said Ben-Gvir. As per the long-standing agreements Jews are permitted to visit the site, but not to pray at Temple Mount. However, the site has recently witnessed an influx of Jewish visitors who have increasingly been defying the ban, more or less openly. This has also sparked fears among Palestinians who have called it a provocation in the past. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? The Israeli minister’s visit also comes days after Israelis marked Jerusalem Day which celebrates Israel’s capture of east Jerusalem, including the Old City, following the Middle East war in 1967. “All the threats from Hamas will not help, we are in charge here in Jerusalem and all of the Land of Israel,” said Ben-Gvir. The national security minister also went on to post an image of himself on Telegram at Al-Aqsa mosque and wrote, “Jerusalem is our soul.” He added, “The threats of Hamas will not deter us, I went up to the Temple Mount!” The visit was also later confirmed by the Israeli police who said that it passed without any incidents. Israeli Cabinet meeting in Old City Hours after the controversial visit, on Sunday, top politicians from Israel also held a rare Cabinet meeting in the tunnels beneath the Western Wall. “Time and again, my friends and I have been forced to repel international pressure on the part of those who would divide Jerusalem again,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as quoted by AFP, at the beginning of the meeting. ALSO WATCH | Senior Israeli minister visits Al-Aqsa mosque He also said how some leaders in Israel were “prepared to give in to those pressures” but “we have acted differently” and also reportedly went on to celebrate the expansion of Israeli settlement in east Jerusalem which is deemed illegal by the international community. This comes also after several people expressed concerns over the newly elected government of Netanyahu and his right-wing allies, particularly over their relations with Palestinians. Palestine calls visit 'playing with fire' A spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said that the Israeli minister’s “incursion at an early hour, like thieves, into the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards will not change the reality and will not impose Israeli sovereignty over it.” The president’s office also called the “harming” of Al-Aqsa mosque “playing with fire”. Abbas’s spokesman, Nabil Abu Rudeineh said the region will be pushed “into a religious war with unimaginable consequences that will affect everyone.” He also called Ben-Gvir’s visit a “blatant attack” on the mosque. ALSO READ | In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians The militant group that rules the blockaded Gaza Strip, Hamas’ spokesman said Israel would bear the consequences for the “savage assault” on the Al-Aqsa mosque. It added, the move “confirms the depths of danger looming over Al-Aqsa, under this Zionist fascist government and the arrogance of its ministers from the extreme right.” The Jordanian Waqf Islamic affairs council, which serves as the custodian of the mosque, called the Israeli minister’s visit a “blatant storming and desecration of the blessed Al-Aqsa mosque”. “No less dangerous is the call by the occupation (Israeli) government to hold its meeting this morning in the Western Wall area,” said the Waqf, in a statement. Jordan’s foreign ministry called the visit a “provocative step” which is “condemned” as well as a “dangerous and unacceptable escalation.” It added that the move, “represents a flagrant and unacceptable violation of international law, and of the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its holy sites”. ALSO READ | Israeli-Palestinian Gaza truce holds after hunger striker's death The incident comes after the fighting between Israel and Gaza militants ended just last week following an Egypt-mediated truce between the two factions. At least 34 Palestinians and one Israeli were killed during the hostilities which went on for days. Egypt’s foreign ministry on Sunday asked Israel to “immediately stop the escalatory practices which inflame the pre-existing state of tension in the occupied (Palestinian) territories.” (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 ‘in charge’ of Al-Aqsa mosque, says security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir during visit

In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians

Israeli defence forces and Islamic Jihad movement's militants agreed to enter a truce in Gaza which will come into effect at 10 pm local time (1900 GMT), on Saturday, said Palestinian officials.

The truce signalled the end of the deadliest episode of cross-border firing in which at least 33 Palestinians in Gaza and two people in Israel were killed.

This was the worst fighting that took place after a 10-day war that happened in 2021. The ceasefire was brokered by Egypt, which appealed to both sides to adhere to the finalised agreement, reported Egypt's Al-Qahera News television channel.

The agreement was further confirmed by a Palestinian source.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/in-first-irans-president-addresses-palestinians-in-gaza-vows-full-support-for-resistance-582706"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/in-first-irans-president-addresses-palestinians-in-gaza-vows-full-support-for-resistance-582706">In first, Iran's President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance</a>

"In the light of the agreement of the Palestinian and the Israeli side, Egypt announces a ceasefire between the Palestinian and the Israeli side has been reached," read a text of the agreement, as reported by Reuters.

"The two sides will abide by the ceasefire which will include an end to targeting civilians, house demolition, an end to targeting individuals immediately when the ceasefire goes into effect," it added. Israeli officials did not immediately confirm the Gaza truce, said the Reuters report.

Even though the truce was finalised, both sides kept firing rockets as warning sirens blared across southern Israel and the military of Israel announced that Islamic Jihad's six operational command posts have been hit.

The latest airstrikes were launched by Israel in the early hours of Saturday as it announced that their target was Islamic Jihad commanders who had made plans to carry out attacks in Israel.

Responding to airstrikes, hundreds of rockets were fired by the Iranian-backed group, which forced one and a half million people to go to air raid shelters in Israel.

In the campaign which continued for five days, six senior Islamic Jihad commanders were killed by Israel as they also destroyed various military installations. The airstrikes took the lives of 10 civilians, which included women and children.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel hits targets in Gaza, militants fire at Tel Aviv

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Meanwhile, many international staff members working for foreign organisations in the Gaza Strip were seen leaving by buses on Saturday after reports suggested that Israel permitted their exit from the territory.

Dozens of employees working in humanitarian and non-governmental organisations were seen checking their names against lists and then boarding buses.

Also, nearly 2,000 protesters marched on Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv with Palestinian flags and signboards reading: "Stop the war," after the protest against Benjamin Netanyahu government's judicial reform was cancelled over security concerns.

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Israeli defence forces and Islamic Jihad movement's militants agreed to enter a truce in Gaza which will come into effect at 10 pm local time (1900 GMT), on Saturday, said Palestinian officials.

Israeli defence forces and Islamic Jihad movement's militants agreed to enter a truce in Gaza which will come into effect at 10 pm local time (1900 GMT), on Saturday, said Palestinian officials. The truce signalled the end of the deadliest episode of cross-border firing in which at least 33 Palestinians in Gaza and two people in Israel were killed. This was the worst fighting that took place after a 10-day war that happened in 2021. The ceasefire was brokered by Egypt, which appealed to both sides to adhere to the finalised agreement, reported Egypt's Al-Qahera News television channel. The agreement was further confirmed by a Palestinian source. ALSO READ | In first, Iran's President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance "In the light of the agreement of the Palestinian and the Israeli side, Egypt announces a ceasefire between the Palestinian and the Israeli side has been reached," read a text of the agreement, as reported by Reuters. "The two sides will abide by the ceasefire which will include an end to targeting civilians, house demolition, an end to targeting individuals immediately when the ceasefire goes into effect," it added. Israeli officials did not immediately confirm the Gaza truce, said the Reuters report. Even though the truce was finalised, both sides kept firing rockets as warning sirens blared across southern Israel and the military of Israel announced that Islamic Jihad's six operational command posts have been hit. The latest airstrikes were launched by Israel in the early hours of Saturday as it announced that their target was Islamic Jihad commanders who had made plans to carry out attacks in Israel. Responding to airstrikes, hundreds of rockets were fired by the Iranian-backed group, which forced one and a half million people to go to air raid shelters in Israel. In the campaign which continued for five days, six senior Islamic Jihad commanders were killed by Israel as they also destroyed various military installations. The airstrikes took the lives of 10 civilians, which included women and children. WATCH | Israel hits targets in Gaza, militants fire at Tel Aviv Meanwhile, many international staff members working for foreign organisations in the Gaza Strip were seen leaving by buses on Saturday after reports suggested that Israel permitted their exit from the territory. Dozens of employees working in humanitarian and non-governmental organisations were seen checking their names against lists and then boarding buses. Also, nearly 2,000 protesters marched on Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv with Palestinian flags and signboards reading: "Stop the war," after the protest against Benjamin Netanyahu government's judicial reform was cancelled over security concerns. 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 forces, Palestinian militants agree on Gaza truce, signalling end to cross-border fire

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted&nbsp;three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit&nbsp;&nbsp;"weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.&nbsp;The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini,&nbsp;also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern&nbsp;Gaza.

The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from&nbsp;Gaza, AFP reported.&nbsp;

According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said&nbsp;an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/45-year-old-islamic-jihad-member-khader-adnan-dies-is-israeli-custody-588164">45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody</a> 
 
Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military&nbsp;killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza.

The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens&nbsp;within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes&nbsp;on the Islamic Jihad&nbsp;group&nbsp;have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians&nbsp;which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-30-rockets-fired-from-gaza-after-palestinian-hunger-striker-dies-in-israeli-custody-588319">Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates</a> 
 
In line with the IDF's&nbsp;warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled.&nbsp;COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters.&nbsp; 
 
Previous attacks 
 
This comes days after dozens of&nbsp;projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel&nbsp;after an Islamic Jihad leader and&nbsp;Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza.&nbsp;

It was not until hours later that the IDF&nbsp;conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said&nbsp;it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group. The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini, also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern Gaza. The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from Gaza, AFP reported. According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah. ALSO WATCH | 45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza. The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes on the Islamic Jihad group have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media. ALSO READ | Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates In line with the IDF's warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled. COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters. Previous attacks This comes days after dozens of projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel after an Islamic Jihad leader and Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza. It was not until hours later that the IDF conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group. (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.

Twelve people, including top militants killed after Israeli jets hit targets in Gaza

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a total of 37 projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at&nbsp;southern Israel,&nbsp;on Tuesday (May 2),&nbsp;in the span of a few hours, reported Times of Israel. The recent volley of rockets launched from the Gaza Strip began after an Islamic Jihad leader died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. It was not until late Tuesday that Israel retaliated by conducting airstrikes in Gaza.&nbsp;

Death of Palestinian hunger striker

According to Israel’s Prisons Service, Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, who was awaiting trial, was found unconscious in his cell and taken to a hospital. However, he was declared dead after efforts to revive him failed. This is said to be the first such death in more than three decades. &nbsp;

Adnan had observed at least three hunger strikes, since 2011,&nbsp;in protest at detentions without charges by Israel. It is a tactic often used by Palestinian prisoners but none of them have died since 1992, reports Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/45-year-old-islamic-jihad-member-khader-adnan-dies-is-israeli-custody-588164">45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody</a>

However, Khader Adnan’s lawyer Jamil al-Khatib and Lina Qasem-Hassan of Physicians for Human Rights in Israel, who recently met him, have accused Israeli authorities of withholding medical care. Al-Khatib told Reuters, how they asked that Adnan be moved to a civilian hospital to be “properly monitored,” but their demand was “met by intransigence and rejection”. &nbsp;

Adnan’s death sparks protests, violence

Hours after the Palestinian detainee’s death, hundreds of people took to the streets in blockaded Gaza and the occupied West Bank’s Ramallah.&nbsp;Adnan’s death has also been called an assassination by Palestinian leaders while the armed group Islamic Jihad warns Israel that it will “pay the price for this crime”.&nbsp;

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh also described Adnan’s death as a “deliberate assassination”.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-speaker-mccarthy-addresses-israels-parliament-says-assure-security-funding-to-israel-wion-587943">US speaker McCarthy addresses Israel's Parliament, says 'assure security funding to Israel' | WION</a> 
 
Speaking to Al Jazeera, Palestinian politician&nbsp;Mustafa Barghouti&nbsp;from the Palestinian National Initiative political party&nbsp;directly blamed the Israeli government and national security minister&nbsp;Itamar Ben-Gvir for Adnan’s death and said they are “personally responsible for this act of assassination”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a Palestinian gunman opened fire at Israeli vehicles and injured one person who was driving near the West Bank’s Avnei Hefetz, on Tuesday. The 39-year-old Israeli man travelling in one of the vehicles was lightly injured by glass shards, said the Israeli ambulance service&nbsp;Magen David Adom. The incident took place hours after Adnan’s death, however, no group or individual had immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

A volley of rockets fired

The IDF, in an earlier statement, said that sirens were sounded across areas surrounding the Gaza Strip after several rocket launches. The Israeli military said at least three rockets were fired from Gaza in the hours after Adnan's death and a further 26 were launched later in the afternoon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-airstrike-kills-one-soldier-injures-seven-people-puts-aleppo-airport-out-of-service-says-syria-587974">Israeli airstrike kills one soldier, puts Aleppo airport out of service, says Syria</a>

According to media reports citing officials, two rockets landed in the southern city of Sderot which injured three foreign nationals, including a 25-year-old who was seriously wounded. As of late Tuesday, the IDF has confirmed that rockets fired from Gaza have hit multiple locations in southern Israel, including Kissufim and areas of Sderot.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with security officials after the IDF said they were investigating how two rockets had penetrated their Iron Dome air defence system.&nbsp;

In a recent statement, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said he has completed several “operational situation assessments” after the rocket fire from Gaza Strip&nbsp;and the security forces will “act with determination” to defend their citizens.&nbsp; 
 
Israel&nbsp;retaliates 
 
The IDF has said that they will carry out&nbsp;airstrikes in the Gaza Strip in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel, earlier Tuesday. According to&nbsp;Palestinian media, explosions were heard across the northern part of Gaza. Meanwhile, the&nbsp;armed&nbsp;Hamas group said&nbsp;its members are firing missiles at Israeli aircraft over the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-gaza-palestine-says-strikes-hit-hamas-training-sites-579951">&nbsp;Israel launches air strikes on Gaza Strip after vowing to retaliate over Lebanon rocket salvo</a> 
 
In a statement, the Israeli military said it targeted&nbsp;Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group and said, "The strike deals a serious blow to Hamas’s ability to fortify and arm itself," as quoted by Times of Israel. It added, "The Hamas terror organization is responsible for the Gaza Strip and will pay the price for security violations against the State of Israel."&nbsp;

Reports of rockets being fired also came hours after Syrian state media reported that Israel launched airstrikes targeting north Syria’s Aleppo province late Monday.&nbsp;The report citing a military source also said that seven people, including two civilians, were injured, and the supposed strike had since put the Aleppo international airport out of service.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a total of 37 projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel, on Tuesday (May 2), in the span of a few hours, reported Times of Israel.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a total of 37 projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel, on Tuesday (May 2), in the span of a few hours, reported Times of Israel. The recent volley of rockets launched from the Gaza Strip began after an Islamic Jihad leader died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. It was not until late Tuesday that Israel retaliated by conducting airstrikes in Gaza. Death of Palestinian hunger striker According to Israel’s Prisons Service, Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, who was awaiting trial, was found unconscious in his cell and taken to a hospital. However, he was declared dead after efforts to revive him failed. This is said to be the first such death in more than three decades. Adnan had observed at least three hunger strikes, since 2011, in protest at detentions without charges by Israel. It is a tactic often used by Palestinian prisoners but none of them have died since 1992, reports Reuters. ALSO WATCH | 45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody However, Khader Adnan’s lawyer Jamil al-Khatib and Lina Qasem-Hassan of Physicians for Human Rights in Israel, who recently met him, have accused Israeli authorities of withholding medical care. Al-Khatib told Reuters, how they asked that Adnan be moved to a civilian hospital to be “properly monitored,” but their demand was “met by intransigence and rejection”. Adnan’s death sparks protests, violence Hours after the Palestinian detainee’s death, hundreds of people took to the streets in blockaded Gaza and the occupied West Bank’s Ramallah. Adnan’s death has also been called an assassination by Palestinian leaders while the armed group Islamic Jihad warns Israel that it will “pay the price for this crime”. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh also described Adnan’s death as a “deliberate assassination”. ALSO WATCH | US speaker McCarthy addresses Israel's Parliament, says 'assure security funding to Israel' | WION Speaking to Al Jazeera, Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti from the Palestinian National Initiative political party directly blamed the Israeli government and national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for Adnan’s death and said they are “personally responsible for this act of assassination”. Meanwhile, a Palestinian gunman opened fire at Israeli vehicles and injured one person who was driving near the West Bank’s Avnei Hefetz, on Tuesday. The 39-year-old Israeli man travelling in one of the vehicles was lightly injured by glass shards, said the Israeli ambulance service Magen David Adom. The incident took place hours after Adnan’s death, however, no group or individual had immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. A volley of rockets fired The IDF, in an earlier statement, said that sirens were sounded across areas surrounding the Gaza Strip after several rocket launches. The Israeli military said at least three rockets were fired from Gaza in the hours after Adnan's death and a further 26 were launched later in the afternoon. ALSO READ | Israeli airstrike kills one soldier, puts Aleppo airport out of service, says Syria According to media reports citing officials, two rockets landed in the southern city of Sderot which injured three foreign nationals, including a 25-year-old who was seriously wounded. As of late Tuesday, the IDF has confirmed that rockets fired from Gaza have hit multiple locations in southern Israel, including Kissufim and areas of Sderot. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with security officials after the IDF said they were investigating how two rockets had penetrated their Iron Dome air defence system. In a recent statement, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said he has completed several “operational situation assessments” after the rocket fire from Gaza Strip and the security forces will “act with determination” to defend their citizens. Israel retaliates The IDF has said that they will carry out airstrikes in the Gaza Strip in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel, earlier Tuesday. According to Palestinian media, explosions were heard across the northern part of Gaza. Meanwhile, the armed Hamas group said its members are firing missiles at Israeli aircraft over the Gaza Strip. ALSO READ | Israel launches air strikes on Gaza Strip after vowing to retaliate over Lebanon rocket salvo In a statement, the Israeli military said it targeted Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group and said, "The strike deals a serious blow to Hamas’s ability to fortify and arm itself," as quoted by Times of Israel. It added, "The Hamas terror organization is responsible for the Gaza Strip and will pay the price for security violations against the State of Israel." Reports of rockets being fired also came hours after Syrian state media reported that Israel launched airstrikes targeting north Syria’s Aleppo province late Monday. The report citing a military source also said that seven people, including two civilians, were injured, and the supposed strike had since put the Aleppo international airport out of service. (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.

Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates

At least one soldier was killed after Israel launched airstrikes targeting north Syria's Aleppo province late Monday (May 1), reported the Syrian state media. The report citing a military source also said that seven people were injured including two civilians and the supposed strike had since put the area’s international airport out of service.&nbsp;

According to a report by Syria’s state news agency, SANA, Israeli Air Force warplanes targeted the Aleppo International Airport which was out of service due to heavy damage caused and other sites on the outskirts of the city. The strike allegedly began at around 11:35 pm (local time) where “the Israeli enemy carried out an air attack with several missiles,” reported SANA citing a military source.&nbsp;

“A soldier was killed and seven people were wounded including two civilians,” SANA was quoted by the news agency AFP.

SANA also reported that the Syrian air defences responded to the Israeli incursion and claimed that they intercepted several incoming missiles.&nbsp;

Israel does not typically disclose if it conducts any strikes in Syria.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported “a number of explosions in the area of Aleppo international airport and the Nayrab military airfield in Aleppo province...which led to a fire at a munitions depot,” as per AFP.&nbsp;

The UK-based war monitor also reported that there was “heavy material damage at both airports”.

The SOHR also said that “Israeli missiles fell on defence factories in the Safireh area” of Aleppo province and caused “material damage”. This comes as Israel has reportedly been carrying out attacks against what it has described as Iran-linked targets in Syria.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after it provided ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city back in 2016.&nbsp;

This is not the first time the airport in Aleppo has been targeted. In March, the SOHR had reported that an Israeli missile strike destroyed a suspected arms depot used by Iran-backed militias at Aleppo airport.&nbsp;

This also comes nearly a week after the war monitor reported about the Israeli army shelling a position which supposedly belonged to a pro-Iran group, Hezbollah, in southern Syria near the Israel-occupied Golan Heights.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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At least one soldier was killed after Israel launched airstrikes targeting north Syria's Aleppo province late Monday (May 1), reported the Syrian state media. The report citing a military source also said that seven people were injured including two civilians and the supposed strike had since put the area’s international airport out of service.

At least one soldier was killed after Israel launched airstrikes targeting north Syria's Aleppo province late Monday (May 1), reported the Syrian state media. The report citing a military source also said that seven people were injured including two civilians and the supposed strike had since put the area’s international airport out of service. According to a report by Syria’s state news agency, SANA, Israeli Air Force warplanes targeted the Aleppo International Airport which was out of service due to heavy damage caused and other sites on the outskirts of the city. The strike allegedly began at around 11:35 pm (local time) where “the Israeli enemy carried out an air attack with several missiles,” reported SANA citing a military source. “A soldier was killed and seven people were wounded including two civilians,” SANA was quoted by the news agency AFP. SANA also reported that the Syrian air defences responded to the Israeli incursion and claimed that they intercepted several incoming missiles. Israel does not typically disclose if it conducts any strikes in Syria. Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported “a number of explosions in the area of Aleppo international airport and the Nayrab military airfield in Aleppo province...which led to a fire at a munitions depot,” as per AFP. The UK-based war monitor also reported that there was “heavy material damage at both airports”. The SOHR also said that “Israeli missiles fell on defence factories in the Safireh area” of Aleppo province and caused “material damage”. This comes as Israel has reportedly been carrying out attacks against what it has described as Iran-linked targets in Syria. Reports suggest that Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after it provided ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city back in 2016. This is not the first time the airport in Aleppo has been targeted. In March, the SOHR had reported that an Israeli missile strike destroyed a suspected arms depot used by Iran-backed militias at Aleppo airport. This also comes nearly a week after the war monitor reported about the Israeli army shelling a position which supposedly belonged to a pro-Iran group, Hezbollah, in southern Syria near the Israel-occupied Golan Heights. (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 airstrike kills one soldier, puts Aleppo airport out of service, says Syria

At least five&nbsp;people were injured after being&nbsp;hit by a car that ran into a crowd in Jerusalem, said the Israeli officials, on Monday (April 24). The media report citing officials also said that the&nbsp;driver who is suspected of carrying out the car-ramming attack has been "neutralised". The suspected attack took place outside&nbsp;the Mahane Yehuda outdoor market&nbsp;on the corner of Agrippas and Ki’ach Street in Jerusalem.

What happened?

Citing footage of the incident, the Times of Israel reported, that an&nbsp;armed civilian was seen shooting&nbsp;into the car’s window as a wounded man lay on the hood of the vehicle while several other victims were seen&nbsp;strewn across the street. 
 
The Israeli police, in a statement, said, "A citizen who witnessed the incident and was near the scene, shot and neutralized the terrorist, and later he was declared dead at the scene".&nbsp; 
 
The driver was later identified as a 39-year-old Palestinian man named,&nbsp;Khatem Najma who is said to be a&nbsp;father of five from East Jerusalem’s Beit Safafa neighbourhood, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

Condition of those injured 
 
The Israeli medics later raised the injury toll to five in the suspected car-ramming attack near Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda market. According to the&nbsp;Magen David Adom ambulance service one victim, in his 70s, was in&nbsp;serious condition.&nbsp;

The five injured are being taken to the&nbsp;Shaare Zedek and Hadassah Ein Kerem hospitals in Jerusalem. In an update, the Israeli ambulance service said that one woman injured is in "moderate condition with injuries" while three men are in "mild condition".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Israeli police have not given an update on the identity of the suspect or their condition. A spokesperson from the&nbsp;Hadassah-University Medical Center, as per Jerusalem Post, said one of the&nbsp;victims was hospitalised due to shock. 
 
Israeli PM reacts to the incident

Israeli Prime&nbsp;Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressing&nbsp;a ceremony to open Memorial Day events as Israel commemorates those who lost their lives to war and terror called the suspected attack "another attempt to murder Israeli citizens."

He added&nbsp;that the incident "reminds us that the Land of Israel and the State of Israel were acquired through many tribulations."

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least five people were injured after being hit by a car that ran into a crowd in Jerusalem, said the Israeli officials, on Monday (April 24). The media report citing officials also said that the driver who is suspected of carrying out the car-ramming attack has been "neutralised".

At least five people were injured after being hit by a car that ran into a crowd in Jerusalem, said the Israeli officials, on Monday (April 24). The media report citing officials also said that the driver who is suspected of carrying out the car-ramming attack has been "neutralised". The suspected attack took place outside the Mahane Yehuda outdoor market on the corner of Agrippas and Ki’ach Street in Jerusalem. What happened? Citing footage of the incident, the Times of Israel reported, that an armed civilian was seen shooting into the car’s window as a wounded man lay on the hood of the vehicle while several other victims were seen strewn across the street. The Israeli police, in a statement, said, "A citizen who witnessed the incident and was near the scene, shot and neutralized the terrorist, and later he was declared dead at the scene". The driver was later identified as a 39-year-old Palestinian man named, Khatem Najma who is said to be a father of five from East Jerusalem’s Beit Safafa neighbourhood, as per local media reports. Condition of those injured The Israeli medics later raised the injury toll to five in the suspected car-ramming attack near Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda market. According to the Magen David Adom ambulance service one victim, in his 70s, was in serious condition. The five injured are being taken to the Shaare Zedek and Hadassah Ein Kerem hospitals in Jerusalem. In an update, the Israeli ambulance service said that one woman injured is in "moderate condition with injuries" while three men are in "mild condition". Meanwhile, the Israeli police have not given an update on the identity of the suspect or their condition. A spokesperson from the Hadassah-University Medical Center, as per Jerusalem Post, said one of the victims was hospitalised due to shock. Israeli PM reacts to the incident Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressing a ceremony to open Memorial Day events as Israel commemorates those who lost their lives to war and terror called the suspected attack "another attempt to murder Israeli citizens." He added that the incident "reminds us that the Land of Israel and the State of Israel were acquired through many tribulations." (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.

At least five people injured in suspected car-ramming attack at Jerusalem market; driver 'neutralised'

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a United Kingdom-based monitor in the region, on Monday (April 24) the Israeli army shelled a position belonging to a pro-Iran group, Hezbollah, in southern Syria near the Israel-occupied Golan Heights.&nbsp;

In a separate incident, a Palestinian health ministry official said Israeli troops killed a Palestinian man during a West Bank raid, in what the Israeli army has described as a “counterterrorism” operation.&nbsp;

Israel bombs targets in Syria

The SOHR said that the Israeli forces bombed a target supposedly belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in southern Syria near Golan Heights. The location is said to be on the outskirts of Quneitra where fighters from the Syrian Resistance to Liberate the Golan are located. However, the group did not report any casualties.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-strikes-hezbollah-targets-sends-out-strong-warning-for-syria-wion-dispatch-585742">Israel strikes Hezbollah targets, sends out strong warning for Syria | WION Dispatch</a>

Citing Syrian media reports, the Israeli media said that the bombardment took place early Monday morning after which the Israel Defense Forces reportedly dropped threatening pamphlets in the area. The flyers supposedly warned Syrian soldiers to stop cooperating with Hezbollah.&nbsp;

According to an opposition-affiliated journalist, as per Times of Israel, flyers were dropped in the area, in which the military appeared to take responsibility for the overnight strike. However, the IDF is yet to comment on the matter but it does not typically, publicly acknowledge carrying out strikes in Syria.&nbsp;

“We are closely watching and aware of the ongoing intelligence cooperation with Hezbollah within the Syrian army’s positions in the region, including near the Israeli border. Your cooperation with Hezbollah has…brought you more harm than benefit. Cooperation with Hezbollah leads to harm!” the flyer read, as quoted by the Times of Israel. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hits-southern-syria-after-six-rockets-launched-at-golan-heights-explosions-heard-near-damascus-580568">Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes</a>

Another bombardment was said to have taken place nearly a week ago, reported the SOHR. Additionally, earlier this month, Israel’s military hit targets in southern Syria in retaliation after six rockets were launched from Syrian territory toward the Israel-occupied Golan Heights.&nbsp;

Israeli troops shoot Palestinian man in West Bank

The Palestinian health ministry official said that a 20-year-old, Suleiman Ayash was “killed by the occupation (Israeli) bullets, in Aqabat Jaber camp,” near Jericho, reported news agency AFP. Meanwhile, the Israeli army has said that the soldiers had shot at suspected militants who fled arrest.&nbsp;

In a statement, Israel said, “During the activity, two suspects were spotted fleeing the scene. The soldiers responded with live fire. Hits were identified.” However, they did not disclose why the two Palestinians were targeted. According to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, an advocacy group, Israeli forces carried out 30 arrests in the West Bank overnight and early on Monday.

Jericho governor Jihad Abu al-Assal told AFP that Ayash’s body was being held by the Israeli military. A report by the official Palestinian news agency WAFA quoted the governor of Jericho as saying that a man was fatally shot and three others wounded by the troops.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a United Kingdom-based monitor in the region, on Monday (April 24) the Israeli army shelled a position belonging to a pro-Iran group, Hezbollah, in southern Syria near the Israel-occupied Golan Heights.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a United Kingdom-based monitor in the region, on Monday (April 24) the Israeli army shelled a position belonging to a pro-Iran group, Hezbollah, in southern Syria near the Israel-occupied Golan Heights. In a separate incident, a Palestinian health ministry official said Israeli troops killed a Palestinian man during a West Bank raid, in what the Israeli army has described as a “counterterrorism” operation. Israel bombs targets in Syria The SOHR said that the Israeli forces bombed a target supposedly belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in southern Syria near Golan Heights. The location is said to be on the outskirts of Quneitra where fighters from the Syrian Resistance to Liberate the Golan are located. However, the group did not report any casualties. ALSO WATCH | Israel strikes Hezbollah targets, sends out strong warning for Syria | WION Dispatch Citing Syrian media reports, the Israeli media said that the bombardment took place early Monday morning after which the Israel Defense Forces reportedly dropped threatening pamphlets in the area. The flyers supposedly warned Syrian soldiers to stop cooperating with Hezbollah. According to an opposition-affiliated journalist, as per Times of Israel, flyers were dropped in the area, in which the military appeared to take responsibility for the overnight strike. However, the IDF is yet to comment on the matter but it does not typically, publicly acknowledge carrying out strikes in Syria. “We are closely watching and aware of the ongoing intelligence cooperation with Hezbollah within the Syrian army’s positions in the region, including near the Israeli border. Your cooperation with Hezbollah has…brought you more harm than benefit. Cooperation with Hezbollah leads to harm!” the flyer read, as quoted by the Times of Israel. ALSO READ | Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes Another bombardment was said to have taken place nearly a week ago, reported the SOHR. Additionally, earlier this month, Israel’s military hit targets in southern Syria in retaliation after six rockets were launched from Syrian territory toward the Israel-occupied Golan Heights. Israeli troops shoot Palestinian man in West Bank The Palestinian health ministry official said that a 20-year-old, Suleiman Ayash was “killed by the occupation (Israeli) bullets, in Aqabat Jaber camp,” near Jericho, reported news agency AFP. Meanwhile, the Israeli army has said that the soldiers had shot at suspected militants who fled arrest. In a statement, Israel said, “During the activity, two suspects were spotted fleeing the scene. The soldiers responded with live fire. Hits were identified.” However, they did not disclose why the two Palestinians were targeted. According to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, an advocacy group, Israeli forces carried out 30 arrests in the West Bank overnight and early on Monday. Jericho governor Jihad Abu al-Assal told AFP that Ayash’s body was being held by the Israeli military. A report by the official Palestinian news agency WAFA quoted the governor of Jericho as saying that a man was fatally shot and three others wounded by the troops. (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 shells target in Syria near Golan Heights: Reports

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets on Saturday to protest against the judicial overhaul plan of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which will tighten the government's control on the Supreme Court.

The protest was held ahead of the country's independence day, which will mark the completion of 75 years since the Jewish state was established.

Last month, the plans for judicial reform were halted by the government in the wake of mass demonstrations and strikes. The latest protest against the government is being planned as Israelis are preparing to mark both Israeli independence day and Israeli memorial day, which will commemorate the people who lost their lives in the country's wars and terror attacks.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-people-shot-injured-in-suspected-terrorist-attack-in-tel-aviv-570400">Three people shot, injured in suspected 'terrorist attack' in Tel Aviv, gunman killed</a>

"My father was killed on Yom Kippur War," said 53-year-old photographer Miri Pinchuk while speaking to Reuters. "He gave his life for this country because he was raised up also with the belief that it's going to be a democracy,” he added.

The proposals would be given effective control to the government over the appointment of judges in the Supreme Court and will give power to the parliament to override the decisions taken by the court. The proposed judicial reforms have led to one of the biggest domestic crises in the recent history of Israel.

The activist judges have been accused by the government of increasingly usurping the parliament's role. The government claims that a judicial overhaul is required to restore the balance between the elected politicians and the judiciary.

Critics said that it will remove important checks and balances underpinning a democratic country and hand unchecked power to the government.

"There is this sentence from the bible, from David's lamentation, saying 'How heroes fell'. And actually, the question now turns to instead of 'How heroes fell?', to 'For what?'," said 63-year-old lawyer David Gilat while speaking to Reuters.

Israel's public broadcaster released a poll on Friday which found that the proposed plans are deeply unpopular among people, with 53 per cent stating that they believe the judicial reforms will harm the country.

WATCH | Israelis take to streets against Netanyahu's judicial reforms ahead of 75th independence day

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In the poll, around 60 per cent of the citizens said that the government is not representing them while 48 per cent believe that the country's situation will only deteriorate in future.

For the 16th week consecutively, crowds gathered in central Tel Aviv to show their defiance against the plans of judicial reform which they feel is an existential threat to the democracy of Israel.

The protesters were waving the blue and white Israeli flags which have become a hallmark of the demonstrations going on for the past three months.

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Thousands of Israelis took to the streets on Saturday to protest against the judicial overhaul plan of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which will tighten the government's control on the Supreme Court.

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets on Saturday to protest against the judicial overhaul plan of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which will tighten the government's control on the Supreme Court. The protest was held ahead of the country's independence day, which will mark the completion of 75 years since the Jewish state was established. Last month, the plans for judicial reform were halted by the government in the wake of mass demonstrations and strikes. The latest protest against the government is being planned as Israelis are preparing to mark both Israeli independence day and Israeli memorial day, which will commemorate the people who lost their lives in the country's wars and terror attacks. ALSO READ | Three people shot, injured in suspected 'terrorist attack' in Tel Aviv, gunman killed "My father was killed on Yom Kippur War," said 53-year-old photographer Miri Pinchuk while speaking to Reuters. "He gave his life for this country because he was raised up also with the belief that it's going to be a democracy,” he added. The proposals would be given effective control to the government over the appointment of judges in the Supreme Court and will give power to the parliament to override the decisions taken by the court. The proposed judicial reforms have led to one of the biggest domestic crises in the recent history of Israel. The activist judges have been accused by the government of increasingly usurping the parliament's role. The government claims that a judicial overhaul is required to restore the balance between the elected politicians and the judiciary. Critics said that it will remove important checks and balances underpinning a democratic country and hand unchecked power to the government. "There is this sentence from the bible, from David's lamentation, saying 'How heroes fell'. And actually, the question now turns to instead of 'How heroes fell?', to 'For what?'," said 63-year-old lawyer David Gilat while speaking to Reuters. Israel's public broadcaster released a poll on Friday which found that the proposed plans are deeply unpopular among people, with 53 per cent stating that they believe the judicial reforms will harm the country. WATCH | Israelis take to streets against Netanyahu's judicial reforms ahead of 75th independence day In the poll, around 60 per cent of the citizens said that the government is not representing them while 48 per cent believe that the country's situation will only deteriorate in future. For the 16th week consecutively, crowds gathered in central Tel Aviv to show their defiance against the plans of judicial reform which they feel is an existential threat to the democracy of Israel. The protesters were waving the blue and white Israeli flags which have become a hallmark of the demonstrations going on for the past three months. 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

Thousands of Israelis protest against judicial overhaul ahead of independence day

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided on Tuesday that Temple Mount will be closed to Jewish visitors from Wednesday until the end of the month of Ramadan, because of security concerns.&nbsp;

Tensions have escalated over the last week spoiling a period when the holy month of Ramadan coincides with the Jewish Passover and Christian Easter.&nbsp;

In a statement, Netanyahu said that visits by non-Muslims to the sacred compound will be stopped until the end of Ramadan, expected around April 20.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Netanyahu also that he would "restore calm and security" to the country after tensions mounted across the nation since last week, with reports of clashes, shootings, rocket strikes, etc.&nbsp;

Last week, an Israeli police raid at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound triggered rocket attacks from Gaza, south Lebanon and Syria that drew Israeli air and artillery strikes.&nbsp;

Notably, the decision to bar Jewish visitors was in line with Israeli policy, which is aimed at reducing the clashes during the holiday period. However, some speculated that the new government might change the system.&nbsp;

Netanyahu said that the decision was taken after security talks and recommendations by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said that the decision to close Temple Mount for Jewish visitors is a "grave mistake that will not bring quiet" to the region. In a direct attack on Netanyahu Ben-Gvir said: "It can only escalate the situation."&nbsp;

"The lack of Jewish presence on Temple Mount will automatically cause a decrease in police presence on the Mount, which will create fertile ground for calls of incitement to murder Jews. When terror strikes, one must respond strongly rather than succumb to its whims," he said.&nbsp;

The Jerusalem Post report mentioned that a total of 3,013 Jews visited the Temple Mount during the intermediate days of Passover this year, which is a 32 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided on Tuesday that Temple Mount will be closed to Jewish visitors from Wednesday until the end of the month of Ramadan, because of security concerns.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided on Tuesday that Temple Mount will be closed to Jewish visitors from Wednesday until the end of the month of Ramadan, because of security concerns. Tensions have escalated over the last week spoiling a period when the holy month of Ramadan coincides with the Jewish Passover and Christian Easter. In a statement, Netanyahu said that visits by non-Muslims to the sacred compound will be stopped until the end of Ramadan, expected around April 20. Earlier this week, Netanyahu also that he would "restore calm and security" to the country after tensions mounted across the nation since last week, with reports of clashes, shootings, rocket strikes, etc. Last week, an Israeli police raid at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound triggered rocket attacks from Gaza, south Lebanon and Syria that drew Israeli air and artillery strikes. Notably, the decision to bar Jewish visitors was in line with Israeli policy, which is aimed at reducing the clashes during the holiday period. However, some speculated that the new government might change the system. Netanyahu said that the decision was taken after security talks and recommendations by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai. Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said that the decision to close Temple Mount for Jewish visitors is a "grave mistake that will not bring quiet" to the region. In a direct attack on Netanyahu Ben-Gvir said: "It can only escalate the situation." "The lack of Jewish presence on Temple Mount will automatically cause a decrease in police presence on the Mount, which will create fertile ground for calls of incitement to murder Jews. When terror strikes, one must respond strongly rather than succumb to its whims," he said. The Jerusalem Post report mentioned that a total of 3,013 Jews visited the Temple Mount during the intermediate days of Passover this year, which is a 32 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. (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 bars Jewish visitors from Temple Mount for last 10 days of Ramadan

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party has lost public support as per a poll which showed that the party is likely to lose more than a third of its seats if it goes into an election currently and won't be able to get a majority along with his hard-right coalition partners.

As the country continues to flare up over the government's controversial plan to tighten control over the Supreme Court which has been paused amid the escalating tension with the Palestinians, the poll carried out by Channel 13 News showed that more than two-thirds of the country's voters were unhappy with Netanyahu’s performance in office.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hits-southern-syria-after-six-rockets-launched-at-golan-heights-explosions-heard-near-damascus-580568">Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes</a>

The poll indicated that Netanyahu’s Likud party would be able to clinch victory over 20 seats in the 120-member parliament of the country, which is a fall from the 32 seats he won last November.

The poll also stated that his religious-nationalist coalition would not be able to get a majority with 46 seats, which is a fall from 64.

If the elections are held in the current scenario, Benny Gantz's Blue and White party would emerge victorious with 29 seats, followed by Yair Lapid’s centrist party which would clinch victory over 21 seats, as per the survey conducted by Camil Fuchs.

When the people were asked about the performance of Netanyahu as prime minister, 71 per cent of the 699 respondents called it “not good” and 20 per cent agreed that it was “good”, reported Channel 13 News.

The survey was dismissed by the Likud party’s Boaz Bismuth.

“There was an amazing and very, very reliable poll on November 1, I still rely on it,” he said while speaking to Army Radio on Monday, as he referred to the last national election held which ended the political deadlock which was seen five elections in less than four years.

The government led by Netanyahu had pledged to overhaul the judicial system, however, the legislation was paused to allow for compromise discussions with the opposition political parties after weeks of nationwide protests.

WATCH | Israel: Funeral held at Kfar Etzion for 2 sisters killed in shootout in West Bank

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The supporters of the government's plan stated that the change will help restore the balance between the different branches of the government. However, the critics stated that the plan will only weaken the courts and unbridled power will be handed to the government.

The protests have been taking place amid escalating violence between Israelis and Palestinians in which more than 250 Palestinians and around 42 Israelis and foreigners have lost their lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party has lost public support as per a poll which showed that the party is likely to lose more than a third of its seats if it goes into an election currently and won't be able to get a majority along with his hard-right coalition partners.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party has lost public support as per a poll which showed that the party is likely to lose more than a third of its seats if it goes into an election currently and won't be able to get a majority along with his hard-right coalition partners. As the country continues to flare up over the government's controversial plan to tighten control over the Supreme Court which has been paused amid the escalating tension with the Palestinians, the poll carried out by Channel 13 News showed that more than two-thirds of the country's voters were unhappy with Netanyahu’s performance in office. ALSO READ | Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes The poll indicated that Netanyahu’s Likud party would be able to clinch victory over 20 seats in the 120-member parliament of the country, which is a fall from the 32 seats he won last November. The poll also stated that his religious-nationalist coalition would not be able to get a majority with 46 seats, which is a fall from 64. If the elections are held in the current scenario, Benny Gantz's Blue and White party would emerge victorious with 29 seats, followed by Yair Lapid’s centrist party which would clinch victory over 21 seats, as per the survey conducted by Camil Fuchs. When the people were asked about the performance of Netanyahu as prime minister, 71 per cent of the 699 respondents called it “not good” and 20 per cent agreed that it was “good”, reported Channel 13 News. The survey was dismissed by the Likud party’s Boaz Bismuth. “There was an amazing and very, very reliable poll on November 1, I still rely on it,” he said while speaking to Army Radio on Monday, as he referred to the last national election held which ended the political deadlock which was seen five elections in less than four years. The government led by Netanyahu had pledged to overhaul the judicial system, however, the legislation was paused to allow for compromise discussions with the opposition political parties after weeks of nationwide protests. WATCH | Israel: Funeral held at Kfar Etzion for 2 sisters killed in shootout in West Bank The supporters of the government's plan stated that the change will help restore the balance between the different branches of the government. However, the critics stated that the plan will only weaken the courts and unbridled power will be handed to the government. The protests have been taking place amid escalating violence between Israelis and Palestinians in which more than 250 Palestinians and around 42 Israelis and foreigners have lost their lives. (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’s Likud party likely to lose more than a third of its seats, predicts poll

Israel's military hit targets in southern Syria&nbsp;in retaliation&nbsp;after six rockets were launched from the Syrian territory toward Israel in a rare attack from its northeastern neighbour,&nbsp;said the Israeli military&nbsp;early on Sunday (April 9). &nbsp; 
 
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the area which was attacked is from where&nbsp;the rockets were fired the night before. The Israeli counterattack came hours after a total of six rockets were fired from Syria near Golan Heights.&nbsp;

The Israel Defense Forces said in a&nbsp;statement&nbsp;that its fighter jets hit targets, including “military radars systems and artillery posts,” and “a military compound of the Fourth Division of the Syrian Armed Forces.” Then the rocket launchers that had fired toward Israeli territory were also struck, the statement said.

Yoav Gallant, Israel's defence minister, in a tweet said he had ordered the crossing from&nbsp;Gaza to&nbsp;be closed “until the end of the Jewish Passover holiday".&nbsp;

According to the IDF, only three of the rockets crossed into Israeli-controlled territory, with two falling into open ground and a third intercepted by air defence systems. Syria’s state news agency SANA reported that explosions have been heard near the capital Damascus. 
 
The IDF said it carried out artillery and drone strikes in southern Syria, targeting the launchers that had been used to fire the rockets&nbsp;and later, its fighter jets carried out additional airstrikes near Damascus.

Subsequently, the Syrian army claims its air defences intercepted some of the Israeli missiles, reported the Syrian state media, adding that the&nbsp;strikes caused damage, without mentioning casualties.&nbsp;

So far, no damage has been reported from any of the six rockets launched towards Israel. Meanwhile, the Golan Regional Council has asked residents of southern Golan Heights to open public bomb shelters and stay near safe zones, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp; 
 
According to a report by&nbsp;Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV,&nbsp;a Damascus-based Palestinian group loyal to the Syrian regime claimed responsibility for launching the three missiles on Israel, on Saturday. 
 
A local Palestinian militia called Liwa al-Quds, or the Jerusalem Brigade, claimed responsibility for the rocket launches, said the Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese Al Mayadeen network. 
 
The IDF added that they used remotely operated drones to strike the launch pads in Syria that were used to fire rockets towards the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. After a total of six projectiles were fired in two separate barrages, warning sirens sounded in several areas of the region, said media reports.&nbsp;

“The strike was carried out in response to the rockets fired towards Israeli territory,” the IDF said, in a short statement. According to local media reports&nbsp;in Israel and Syria, the IDF is continuing its strikes in Syrian territory. 
 
In a subsequent statement, the IDF said that its fighter jets targeted a military compound belonging to the Syrian army’s 4th Division, as well as radar and artillery posts.&nbsp;

Notably, Israel seized 1,200 square kilometres of the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 six-day war and later annexed it. This move was never recognised by the international community.&nbsp;

The uptick in attacks comes days after more than 30 rockets were fired from Lebanese soil into Israel, which the Israeli army blamed on Palestinian groups and retaliated by carrying out strikes in Gaza and southern Lebanon.&nbsp; 
 
Police deployed near al-Aqsa mosque

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Palestinian group,&nbsp;al-Quds, said that the&nbsp;rockets were fired&nbsp;to retaliate for the Israeli police raid on al-Aqsa Mosque, reported the Associated Press. 
 
Amid the rise in tensions over the holy site in&nbsp;Jerusalem’s Old City sacred to both Muslims and Jews, late Saturday,&nbsp;a few hundred Palestinian worshippers had barricaded themselves in the mosque.&nbsp; 
 
According to Israeli media reports, many&nbsp;Israeli police forces are deployed in the area and are expected to enter the mosque to remove the Palestinians who have reportedly threatened&nbsp;to disrupt morning visits by Jews to the site and are refusing to disperse. 
 
Similarly, earlier this week, the Israeli police raided the mosque and fired&nbsp;tear gas and stun grenades to disperse hundreds of Palestinians who had barricaded themselves inside.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Israel's military hit targets in southern Syria in retaliation after six rockets were launched from the Syrian territory toward Israel in a rare attack from its northeastern neighbour, said the Israeli military early on Sunday (April 9).

Israel's military hit targets in southern Syria in retaliation after six rockets were launched from the Syrian territory toward Israel in a rare attack from its northeastern neighbour, said the Israeli military early on Sunday (April 9). The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the area which was attacked is from where the rockets were fired the night before. The Israeli counterattack came hours after a total of six rockets were fired from Syria near Golan Heights. The Israel Defense Forces said in a statement that its fighter jets hit targets, including “military radars systems and artillery posts,” and “a military compound of the Fourth Division of the Syrian Armed Forces.” Then the rocket launchers that had fired toward Israeli territory were also struck, the statement said. Yoav Gallant, Israel's defence minister, in a tweet said he had ordered the crossing from Gaza to be closed “until the end of the Jewish Passover holiday". According to the IDF, only three of the rockets crossed into Israeli-controlled territory, with two falling into open ground and a third intercepted by air defence systems. Syria’s state news agency SANA reported that explosions have been heard near the capital Damascus. The IDF said it carried out artillery and drone strikes in southern Syria, targeting the launchers that had been used to fire the rockets and later, its fighter jets carried out additional airstrikes near Damascus. Subsequently, the Syrian army claims its air defences intercepted some of the Israeli missiles, reported the Syrian state media, adding that the strikes caused damage, without mentioning casualties. So far, no damage has been reported from any of the six rockets launched towards Israel. Meanwhile, the Golan Regional Council has asked residents of southern Golan Heights to open public bomb shelters and stay near safe zones, reported the Times of Israel. According to a report by Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV, a Damascus-based Palestinian group loyal to the Syrian regime claimed responsibility for launching the three missiles on Israel, on Saturday. A local Palestinian militia called Liwa al-Quds, or the Jerusalem Brigade, claimed responsibility for the rocket launches, said the Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese Al Mayadeen network. The IDF added that they used remotely operated drones to strike the launch pads in Syria that were used to fire rockets towards the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. After a total of six projectiles were fired in two separate barrages, warning sirens sounded in several areas of the region, said media reports. “The strike was carried out in response to the rockets fired towards Israeli territory,” the IDF said, in a short statement. According to local media reports in Israel and Syria, the IDF is continuing its strikes in Syrian territory. In a subsequent statement, the IDF said that its fighter jets targeted a military compound belonging to the Syrian army’s 4th Division, as well as radar and artillery posts. Notably, Israel seized 1,200 square kilometres of the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 six-day war and later annexed it. This move was never recognised by the international community. The uptick in attacks comes days after more than 30 rockets were fired from Lebanese soil into Israel, which the Israeli army blamed on Palestinian groups and retaliated by carrying out strikes in Gaza and southern Lebanon. Police deployed near al-Aqsa mosque Meanwhile, the Palestinian group, al-Quds, said that the rockets were fired to retaliate for the Israeli police raid on al-Aqsa Mosque, reported the Associated Press. Amid the rise in tensions over the holy site in Jerusalem’s Old City sacred to both Muslims and Jews, late Saturday, a few hundred Palestinian worshippers had barricaded themselves in the mosque. According to Israeli media reports, many Israeli police forces are deployed in the area and are expected to enter the mosque to remove the Palestinians who have reportedly threatened to disrupt morning visits by Jews to the site and are refusing to disperse. Similarly, earlier this week, the Israeli police raided the mosque and fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse hundreds of Palestinians who had barricaded themselves inside. (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 fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes

The Israeli military on Friday informed that two women were killed while a third was seriously injured in a shooting attack after a gunman opened fire on a vehicle in West Bank.

The Israeli military on Friday informed that two women were killed while a third was seriously injured in a shooting attack after a gunman opened fire on a vehicle in West Bank. The attacker targetted the car near the Hamra junction in the northern part of the Jordan Valley. The Magen David Adom emergency service confirmed the death of the two Israeli women. The army has swung into action by sweeping the area, blocking the roads and launching a manhunt for the assailant. “A shooting attack was carried out on a vehicle at the Hamra Junction. IDF [Israel Defense Force] soldiers are searching the area,” the military said in a statement. Israel attacks Lebanon following provocation Earlier in the day, it was reported that Israel launched missile strikes on Lebanon and Gaza Strip after the Palestine side fired around 34 rockets from the region. According to Israeli media, it was the biggest salvo of fire from Lebanon since Jerusalem fought the 34-day war with the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in 2006. Moreover, this was the first instance Israel had fired missiles on Lebanon territory since April last year. WATCH | Al-Aqsa mosque: Violence as Israeli police raid Jerusalem holy site × Israeli police raid al-Aqsa The development comes hot on the heels of Israeli police clashing with Palestinians at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque on Wednesday (April 5). Experts had feared that the violence in the compound could trigger a cross-border exchange of fire in Gaza and lead to instances of increased violence. “Israel’s raid into al-Aqsa mosque, its assault on worshippers, is a slap to recent US efforts which tried to create calm and stability during the month of Ramadan,” a spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said. ALSO READ | Clashes erupt again at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque, six injured This is not the first instance when violence has escalated in the region. In February, Israel carried out a rare daytime arrest operation that triggered fighting in the occupied West Bank, killing at least 11 people and wounding more than 100. Prior to the ground operation, both sides had fired projectiles that caused significant damage. At the time, many dubbed it as one of the deadliest escalations in the occupied West Bank since 2005. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the situation in the Palestinian territory was the 'most combustible in a year', adding that tensions remained 'sky high'. "Our immediate priority must be to prevent further escalation, reduce tensions and restore calm," said Guterres. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Two Israeli women killed, one seriously injured in West Bank shooting: Report

Israel is moving ahead with the plans to establish the 'national guard' that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has been pushing. The ministers on Sunday voted in favour of a budget cut across ministries that may fund the creation of the security division.

Israel is moving ahead with the plans to establish the 'national guard' that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has been pushing. The ministers on Sunday voted in favour of a budget cut across ministries that may fund the creation of the security division. According to Israeli media, the proposal received opposition from several ministers in the cabinet but in the end, most voted in favour. Most estimates suggest that the government may have to make cuts of almost $280 million to be able to fund the national guard. Ultranationalist leader Ben-Gvir has been demanding the creation of the force with 2,000 service members that will be directly answerable to him. The text of the resolution states that national guard will be tasked with tackling terrorism, 'nationalist crime' and 'restoring governance where needed'. “The Israel National Guard will be used as a special force to deal with different emergency situations, nationalist crimes, the fight against terrorism and strengthening governance in regions where it is required,” reads the proposed legislation. ALSO READ | Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, enraging Palestinians, Jordan condemns move Ben-Gvir received an impetus for his plans after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backtracked on his judicial overhaul legislation. As Netanyahu was pressing pause on the plan, Ben-Gvir and his party, an important part of the national coalition, threatened to walk out of the alliance. It was only after Netanyahu promised he will put Gvir's resolution in for a vote that the far-right leader eased on his position. Naysayers of the resolution believe that the creation of a national guard under the rule of Ben-Gvir will severely undermine the authority of the police. On Sunday, Israel's police commissioner Kobi Shabtai wrote a letter to Ben-Gvir, stating that the national guard could 'harm citizens' personal security' and cause 'heavy damage to the country's internal security systems'. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site × Israel Security Agency also known as Shin Bet cast aspersions over the plan as well. Ronen Bar, the director of the agency expressed his displeasure saying "it is not possible for two police forces to operate at the same location in the field". Similarly, Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has claimed that there will be significant legal difficulties in the establishment of the new security agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israeli cabinet approves budget cut for ministries, may pave way for Ben-Gvir's national guard

A 26-year-old named Mohammed Elasibi was shot dead near the disputed Al Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem by the Israeli police, on Saturday (April 1). According to the police, the man grabbed the gun of a police officer and fired it twice, which prompted the unit to shoot him dead, reported Times of Israel.&nbsp;

The incident has also reportedly been described as a terrorist attack by Israeli forces. The police later identified the individual as a 26-year-old resident of Hura, a Bedouin town in southern Israel. Subsequently, lawmaker Mansour Abbas whose party United Arab List is popular in that area said that he was a medical student and questioned the police account, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

Additionally, many former senior Israeli police officials also questioned the account as the unit who was present at the scene said that the incident took place at a spot not covered by security cameras. The Israeli police noted that “unfortunately the terror attack itself was not recorded on the body cameras of the officers involved,” as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/42-injured-as-israeli-police-clash-with-palestinians-at-jerusalems-al-aqsa-mosque-474885">42 injured as Israeli police clash with Palestinians at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque</a>

However, former Jerusalem police chief Yair Itzhaki, addressing a cultural event in the Israeli city of Rishon Lezion following the incident said that it seemed unlikely there was no footage of the incident on Saturday. “I don’t see the possibility that there is no police documentation. I personally placed the array of security cameras there,” said Itzhaki, as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Israeli forces have said that the incident will be investigated by the Central Unit of Investigations of the Jerusalem District.&nbsp;

The Al-Aqsa mosque compound is known as Temple Mount to Jews and Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, to Muslims. The holy site is of religious significance to Jews, Muslims, as well as Christians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

It incident on Saturday occurred at the edge of the Al Aqsa mosque complex which being the third-holiest after Mecca and Medina has also witnessed an uptick in Muslim attendance for the holy month of Ramadan. Notably, the holy site was relatively quiet on Saturday, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A 26-year-old named Mohammed Elasibi was shot dead near the disputed Al Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem by the Israeli police, on Saturday (April 1). According to the police, the man grabbed the gun of a police officer and fired it twice, which prompted the unit to shoot him dead, reported Times of Israel.

A 26-year-old named Mohammed Elasibi was shot dead near the disputed Al Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem by the Israeli police, on Saturday (April 1). According to the police, the man grabbed the gun of a police officer and fired it twice, which prompted the unit to shoot him dead, reported Times of Israel. The incident has also reportedly been described as a terrorist attack by Israeli forces. The police later identified the individual as a 26-year-old resident of Hura, a Bedouin town in southern Israel. Subsequently, lawmaker Mansour Abbas whose party United Arab List is popular in that area said that he was a medical student and questioned the police account, as per Reuters. Additionally, many former senior Israeli police officials also questioned the account as the unit who was present at the scene said that the incident took place at a spot not covered by security cameras. The Israeli police noted that “unfortunately the terror attack itself was not recorded on the body cameras of the officers involved,” as per Times of Israel. ALSO READ | 42 injured as Israeli police clash with Palestinians at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque However, former Jerusalem police chief Yair Itzhaki, addressing a cultural event in the Israeli city of Rishon Lezion following the incident said that it seemed unlikely there was no footage of the incident on Saturday. “I don’t see the possibility that there is no police documentation. I personally placed the array of security cameras there,” said Itzhaki, as per Times of Israel. Meanwhile, the Israeli forces have said that the incident will be investigated by the Central Unit of Investigations of the Jerusalem District. The Al-Aqsa mosque compound is known as Temple Mount to Jews and Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, to Muslims. The holy site is of religious significance to Jews, Muslims, as well as Christians. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? It incident on Saturday occurred at the edge of the Al Aqsa mosque complex which being the third-holiest after Mecca and Medina has also witnessed an uptick in Muslim attendance for the holy month of Ramadan. Notably, the holy site was relatively quiet on Saturday, reported Reuters. (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.

Man shot dead after grabbing Israeli police’s gun near Al Aqsa mosque

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