In pictures: Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back

President Joe Biden and aides worked behind the scenes on Monday pressing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid what one source said was frustration over Israel's bombing of a Gaza building that housed some news organisations.&nbsp;

Biden is facing growing pressure from lawmakers in his own Democratic Party to play a more vocal role, but US officials say he and his team have opted for a quieter effort, talking with Israeli officials and US allies in the Arab world.&nbsp; 
 
Watch: US asks Israel for 'justification' for strike on media building

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"Our calculation at this point is that having those conversations behind the scenes ... is the most constructive approach we can take,” White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters.&nbsp;

Biden spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, their third conversation since the violence erupted.&nbsp;

The White House said Biden 'encouraged Israel to make every effort to ensure the protection of innocent civilians' and that the two leaders 'discussed progress in Israel’s military operations against Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza’.&nbsp;

"The president expressed his support for a ceasefire and discussed US engagement with Egypt and other partners towards that end," a White House statement said.&nbsp;

Supporters of the Biden administration demanded quicker action.&nbsp;

“We’re really frustrated that the administration is not moving with more urgency,” said Logan Bayroff, spokesman for J Street, a liberal pro-Israel lobbying group.&nbsp;

Twenty-eight senators, more than half of the Democratic caucus, issued a statement on Sunday calling for an immediate ceasefire 'to prevent any further loss of civilian life and to prevent further escalation of conflict.'&nbsp;

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Monday, he also wanted to see a ceasefire reached quickly.&nbsp;

The Biden administration has increasingly relied on Egypt because of its influence with Hamas, whose rocket barrages into Israeli cities have prompted a fierce response from Israel and led to the biggest outbreak in hostilities since 2014. &nbsp;

The administration would like to get on a glide path to de-escalation in coming days, leading to what a source familiar with the situation called a humanitarian pause in the violence to let relief assistance be delivered to Gaza and build a sustainable calm.&nbsp;

The United States was believed to be preparing significant initiatives on Gaza humanitarian reconstruction, the source said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

President Joe Biden and aides worked behind the scenes on Monday pressing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid what one source said was frustration over Israel's bombing of a Gaza building that housed some news organisations.

President Joe Biden and aides worked behind the scenes on Monday pressing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid what one source said was frustration over Israel's bombing of a Gaza building that housed some news organisations. Biden is facing growing pressure from lawmakers in his own Democratic Party to play a more vocal role, but US officials say he and his team have opted for a quieter effort, talking with Israeli officials and US allies in the Arab world. Watch: US asks Israel for 'justification' for strike on media building "Our calculation at this point is that having those conversations behind the scenes ... is the most constructive approach we can take,” White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters. Biden spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, their third conversation since the violence erupted. The White House said Biden 'encouraged Israel to make every effort to ensure the protection of innocent civilians' and that the two leaders 'discussed progress in Israel’s military operations against Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza’. "The president expressed his support for a ceasefire and discussed US engagement with Egypt and other partners towards that end," a White House statement said. Supporters of the Biden administration demanded quicker action. “We’re really frustrated that the administration is not moving with more urgency,” said Logan Bayroff, spokesman for J Street, a liberal pro-Israel lobbying group. Twenty-eight senators, more than half of the Democratic caucus, issued a statement on Sunday calling for an immediate ceasefire 'to prevent any further loss of civilian life and to prevent further escalation of conflict.' Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Monday, he also wanted to see a ceasefire reached quickly. The Biden administration has increasingly relied on Egypt because of its influence with Hamas, whose rocket barrages into Israeli cities have prompted a fierce response from Israel and led to the biggest outbreak in hostilities since 2014. The administration would like to get on a glide path to de-escalation in coming days, leading to what a source familiar with the situation called a humanitarian pause in the violence to let relief assistance be delivered to Gaza and build a sustainable calm. The United States was believed to be preparing significant initiatives on Gaza humanitarian reconstruction, the source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Under pressure, Biden works for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza violence 

Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement. While Kangana features prominently in the trailer along with Jassie Gill, the other actress of the film Richa Chadha's look has so far been kept under wraps.&nbsp; 
 
On Thursday, the makers unveiled the look of Chadha's character in the film. Chadha too plays a Kabaddi player and her character Meenu plays Kangana Ranaut’s on-screen friend.&nbsp; 
 
Her character is that of a woman who’s empowered and chosen a life for herself where she has made her career in sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;The actress had to train extensively for the role and even had to sport a shorter hairdo in the film.&nbsp; 
 
Here, have a look.&nbsp; 
<img alt="Richa Chadha in 'Panga'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93e9a33b-3ff1-428b-af29-348f4d449844" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-16T210107.782.jpg" /> 
 
'Panga' has been directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and is set to release in theatres on January 24.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement.

Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement. While Kangana features prominently in the trailer along with Jassie Gill, the other actress of the film Richa Chadha's look has so far been kept under wraps. On Thursday, the makers unveiled the look of Chadha's character in the film. Chadha too plays a Kabaddi player and her character Meenu plays Kangana Ranaut’s on-screen friend. Her character is that of a woman who’s empowered and chosen a life for herself where she has made her career in sports. The actress had to train extensively for the role and even had to sport a shorter hairdo in the film. Here, have a look. 'Panga' has been directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and is set to release in theatres on January 24.

Diplomacy underway to halt Israel's military campaign, says Jordan's king

Israeli airstrikes on the Palestinian enclave continue early morning as health officials say at least 197 civilians, including 58 minors, have so far been killed.

More than 250 wounded people were evacuated to Egypt for treatment, according to medical and border sources.

Three convoys transporting a total of 263 Palestinians crossed the Rafah border post into Egypt’s restive North Sinai region. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-defends-media-house-attack-says-building-was-legitimate-target-385466">Also read | Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says the building was 'legitimate target'</a> 
 
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City flatten three buildings and kill at least 42 people on Sunday, as reported by Aljazeera news.

Gaza health authorities said 40,000 people had been displaced from their homes, and the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Philippe Lazzarini, announced over 40 of UNRWA's schools had been converted into shelters. 
 
Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Israel bombs Hamas Gaza chief's home

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Israel's bombardment of Gaza entered its eighth consecutive day after raids on Sunday killed at least 42 Palestinians, wounded dozens more, and flattened at least two residential buildings.

The home of Gaza's Hamas chief, Yehya al-Sinwar, was also targeted, as reported by Aljazeera news.

The United Nations Security Council met on Sunday to discuss the worst outbreak of violence in years in Palestine and Israel.

US President Biden conferred with Netanyahu and Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, about efforts to broker a cease-fire. While supporting Israel's right to defend itself from rocket attacks by Hamas militants, Biden urged Netanyahu to protect civilians and journalists.

Over the past week, the 15-member U.N. Security Council met privately at least twice to discuss ways of reducing tensions. But efforts to reach an agreement on a statement or to hold an open meeting had faced resistance from the United States, Israel's biggest defender on the council.

Even before Sunday morning's attack, Israeli airstrikes had intensified over the weekend, with an attack on a house in a refugee camp in Gaza that killed 10 members of an extended family, including women and children, and another that destroyed a high-rise that housed media outlets of Al Jazeera.

The cross-border fire has sparked inter-communal violence between Jews and Arab-Israelis, as well as deadly clashes in the occupied West Bank, where 19 Palestinians have been killed since Monday.

A rocket on Sunday damaged a synagogue in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon, shortly before prayers for the Shavuot Jewish holiday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli airstrikes on the Palestinian enclave continue early morning as health officials say at least 197 civilians, including 58 minors, have so far been killed.

Israeli airstrikes on the Palestinian enclave continue early morning as health officials say at least 197 civilians, including 58 minors, have so far been killed. More than 250 wounded people were evacuated to Egypt for treatment, according to medical and border sources. Three convoys transporting a total of 263 Palestinians crossed the Rafah border post into Egypt’s restive North Sinai region. Also read | Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says the building was 'legitimate target' Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City flatten three buildings and kill at least 42 people on Sunday, as reported by Aljazeera news. Gaza health authorities said 40,000 people had been displaced from their homes, and the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Philippe Lazzarini, announced over 40 of UNRWA's schools had been converted into shelters. Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Israel bombs Hamas Gaza chief's home Israel's bombardment of Gaza entered its eighth consecutive day after raids on Sunday killed at least 42 Palestinians, wounded dozens more, and flattened at least two residential buildings. The home of Gaza's Hamas chief, Yehya al-Sinwar, was also targeted, as reported by Aljazeera news. The United Nations Security Council met on Sunday to discuss the worst outbreak of violence in years in Palestine and Israel. US President Biden conferred with Netanyahu and Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, about efforts to broker a cease-fire. While supporting Israel's right to defend itself from rocket attacks by Hamas militants, Biden urged Netanyahu to protect civilians and journalists. Over the past week, the 15-member U.N. Security Council met privately at least twice to discuss ways of reducing tensions. But efforts to reach an agreement on a statement or to hold an open meeting had faced resistance from the United States, Israel's biggest defender on the council. Even before Sunday morning's attack, Israeli airstrikes had intensified over the weekend, with an attack on a house in a refugee camp in Gaza that killed 10 members of an extended family, including women and children, and another that destroyed a high-rise that housed media outlets of Al Jazeera. The cross-border fire has sparked inter-communal violence between Jews and Arab-Israelis, as well as deadly clashes in the occupied West Bank, where 19 Palestinians have been killed since Monday. A rocket on Sunday damaged a synagogue in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon, shortly before prayers for the Shavuot Jewish holiday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: Gaza fighting enters second week, death toll nears 200

The deadly clashes between Israel and Hamas militants escalated in what has become the heaviest flare-up since the 2014 Gaza War.&nbsp;

Fighter jets of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) unleashed a series of heavy airstrikes at multiple locations in Gaza City earlier today.&nbsp;

This came hours after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signalled the fourth war with Gaza's Hamas rulers would rage on. Hamas also pressed on, launching rockets from civilian areas in Gaza toward civilian areas in Israel. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-defends-media-house-attack-says-building-was-legitimate-target-385466">Also read | Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says the building was 'legitimate target'</a>

The Israeli attack destroyed 15 kilometres (nine miles) of militant tunnels and the homes of nine alleged Hamas commanders, according to a news report by Israeli media outlet The Times of Israel. 
 
Watch: Several injured in car-ramming attack in Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah 
&nbsp;

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Israel's army said in a statement that it hit the homes of nine "high-ranking" Hamas commanders, without providing details on casualties.

The overnight bombardment also included the third round of strikes on what the army calls the "Metro," its term for a Hamas underground tunnel network.

Fifty-four fighter jets pounded 15 kilometres (nine miles) of tunnels, which the army has previously acknowledged runs in part through civilian areas.

Gazan Mani Qazaat said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "should realise we're civilians, not fighters", adding "I felt like I was dying". 
 
'Legitimate'

The renewed strikes come a day after 42 Palestinians in Gaza -- including at least eight children and two doctors, according to the health ministry -- were killed in the worst daily death toll in the enclave since the bombardments began.

In total, 197 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, including at least 58 children, and more than 1,200 wounded since Israel launched its air campaign against Hamas on May 10 after the group fired rockets. The heaviest exchange of fire in years was sparked by unrest in Jerusalem.

In Israel, 10 people, including one child, have been killed and 294 wounded by rocket fire launched by armed groups in Gaza.

Israel's army said about 3,100 rockets had been fired since last Monday from Gaza -- the highest rate ever recorded -- but added it's Iron Dome anti-missile system had intercepted over 1,000.

Netanyahu said in a televised address Sunday that Israel's "campaign against the terrorist organisations is continuing with full force" and would "take time" to finish.

The Israeli army said it had targeted the infrastructure of Hamas and armed group Islamic Jihad, weapons factories and storage sites.

Israeli airstrikes also hit the home of Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas's political wing in Gaza, the army said, releasing footage of plumes of smoke and intense damage, but without saying if he was killed.

On Saturday, Israel gave journalists from Al Jazeera and AP news agency an hour to evacuate their offices before launching airstrikes, turning their tower block into piles of smoking rubble.

Netanyahu on Sunday said the building also hosted a Palestinian "terrorist" intelligence office.

"It is a legitimate target," he said.

Inter-communal clashes

The violence between Hamas and Israel is the worst since 2014 when Israel launched a military operation on the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of ending rocket fire and destroying tunnels used for smuggling.

The war left 2,251 dead on the Palestinian side, mostly civilians, and 74 on the Israeli side, mostly soldiers.

Opening the first session of the UN Security Council on the renewed violence on Sunday, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the fighting "utterly appalling".

"It must stop immediately," he said.

But the UN talks, already delayed by Israel's ally the United States, resulted in little action, with Washington opposing a resolution.

President Joe Biden's administration says it is working behind the scenes, and that a Security Council statement could backfire.

Israel is also trying to contain inter-communal violence between Jews and Arab-Israelis, as well as deadly clashes in the occupied West Bank, where 19 Palestinians have been killed since May 10, according to a toll from Palestinian authorities.

Major clashes broke out at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound -- one of Islam's holiest sites -- on May 7 following a crackdown against protests over planned expulsions of Palestinians in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem.

Sheikh Jarrah has been at the heart of the flareup, seeing weeks of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces.

On Sunday, a car-ramming attack in Sheikh Jarrah wounded seven police officers, police said, adding that the attacker had been killed.

Police also said "several suspects" had been arrested during clashes in another east Jerusalem neighbourhood overnight Sunday to Monday.

Guterres warned the fighting could have far-reaching consequences if not stopped immediately.

"It has the potential to unleash an uncontainable security and humanitarian crisis and to further foster extremism, not only in the occupied Palestinian territory and Israel but in the region as a whole."

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly clashes between Israel and Hamas militants escalated in what has become the heaviest flare-up since the 2014 Gaza War. Fighter jets of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) unleashed a series of heavy airstrikes at multiple locations in Gaza City earlier today.

The deadly clashes between Israel and Hamas militants escalated in what has become the heaviest flare-up since the 2014 Gaza War. Fighter jets of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) unleashed a series of heavy airstrikes at multiple locations in Gaza City earlier today. This came hours after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signalled the fourth war with Gaza's Hamas rulers would rage on. Hamas also pressed on, launching rockets from civilian areas in Gaza toward civilian areas in Israel. Also read | Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says the building was 'legitimate target' The Israeli attack destroyed 15 kilometres (nine miles) of militant tunnels and the homes of nine alleged Hamas commanders, according to a news report by Israeli media outlet The Times of Israel. Watch: Several injured in car-ramming attack in Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah Israel's army said in a statement that it hit the homes of nine "high-ranking" Hamas commanders, without providing details on casualties. The overnight bombardment also included the third round of strikes on what the army calls the "Metro," its term for a Hamas underground tunnel network. Fifty-four fighter jets pounded 15 kilometres (nine miles) of tunnels, which the army has previously acknowledged runs in part through civilian areas. Gazan Mani Qazaat said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "should realise we're civilians, not fighters", adding "I felt like I was dying". 'Legitimate' The renewed strikes come a day after 42 Palestinians in Gaza -- including at least eight children and two doctors, according to the health ministry -- were killed in the worst daily death toll in the enclave since the bombardments began. In total, 197 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, including at least 58 children, and more than 1,200 wounded since Israel launched its air campaign against Hamas on May 10 after the group fired rockets. The heaviest exchange of fire in years was sparked by unrest in Jerusalem. In Israel, 10 people, including one child, have been killed and 294 wounded by rocket fire launched by armed groups in Gaza. Israel's army said about 3,100 rockets had been fired since last Monday from Gaza -- the highest rate ever recorded -- but added it's Iron Dome anti-missile system had intercepted over 1,000. Netanyahu said in a televised address Sunday that Israel's "campaign against the terrorist organisations is continuing with full force" and would "take time" to finish. The Israeli army said it had targeted the infrastructure of Hamas and armed group Islamic Jihad, weapons factories and storage sites. Israeli airstrikes also hit the home of Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas's political wing in Gaza, the army said, releasing footage of plumes of smoke and intense damage, but without saying if he was killed. On Saturday, Israel gave journalists from Al Jazeera and AP news agency an hour to evacuate their offices before launching airstrikes, turning their tower block into piles of smoking rubble. Netanyahu on Sunday said the building also hosted a Palestinian "terrorist" intelligence office. "It is a legitimate target," he said. Inter-communal clashes The violence between Hamas and Israel is the worst since 2014 when Israel launched a military operation on the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of ending rocket fire and destroying tunnels used for smuggling. The war left 2,251 dead on the Palestinian side, mostly civilians, and 74 on the Israeli side, mostly soldiers. Opening the first session of the UN Security Council on the renewed violence on Sunday, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the fighting "utterly appalling". "It must stop immediately," he said. But the UN talks, already delayed by Israel's ally the United States, resulted in little action, with Washington opposing a resolution. President Joe Biden's administration says it is working behind the scenes, and that a Security Council statement could backfire. Israel is also trying to contain inter-communal violence between Jews and Arab-Israelis, as well as deadly clashes in the occupied West Bank, where 19 Palestinians have been killed since May 10, according to a toll from Palestinian authorities. Major clashes broke out at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound -- one of Islam's holiest sites -- on May 7 following a crackdown against protests over planned expulsions of Palestinians in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem. Sheikh Jarrah has been at the heart of the flareup, seeing weeks of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces. On Sunday, a car-ramming attack in Sheikh Jarrah wounded seven police officers, police said, adding that the attacker had been killed. Police also said "several suspects" had been arrested during clashes in another east Jerusalem neighbourhood overnight Sunday to Monday. Guterres warned the fighting could have far-reaching consequences if not stopped immediately. "It has the potential to unleash an uncontainable security and humanitarian crisis and to further foster extremism, not only in the occupied Palestinian territory and Israel but in the region as a whole." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: IDF strikes Hamas tunnels in Gaza, world leaders call for de-escalation

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday.

The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha ">Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha&nbsp;</a>

The kingdom will host the virtual summit, gathering ministers of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to discuss the Israeli aggression in the Palestinian territory, particularly acts of violence in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the body said on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating">Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating</a>

The Saudi-headquartered OIC includes countries Iran, Turkey, Indonesia and a range of Muslim majority nations.

The sanctity of Al-Aqsa mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites, is a sensitive and emotive issue for Muslims around the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups">Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups</a>

The OIC was formed 51 years ago in response to a Jewish extremist arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in east Jerusalem.

The hilltop on which the mosque stands is also sacred to Jews, who revere it as the Temple Mount because it was the site of the biblical temples.

Some Jews and evangelical Christians support building a new Jewish temple on the site, an idea that Muslims find alarming because they fear it would lead to the mosque being partitioned or demolished.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday. The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem.

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday. The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem. Also read: Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha The kingdom will host the virtual summit, gathering ministers of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to discuss the Israeli aggression in the Palestinian territory, particularly acts of violence in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the body said on Saturday. Also read: Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating The Saudi-headquartered OIC includes countries Iran, Turkey, Indonesia and a range of Muslim majority nations. The sanctity of Al-Aqsa mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites, is a sensitive and emotive issue for Muslims around the world. Also read: Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups The OIC was formed 51 years ago in response to a Jewish extremist arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in east Jerusalem. The hilltop on which the mosque stands is also sacred to Jews, who revere it as the Temple Mount because it was the site of the biblical temples. Some Jews and evangelical Christians support building a new Jewish temple on the site, an idea that Muslims find alarming because they fear it would lead to the mosque being partitioned or demolished.

Saudis to host meeting of Muslim nations' foreign ministers

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'. His comments are sure to attract criticism for Israel which is already facing global heat.

"An intelligence office for the Palestinian terrorist organization (was) housed in that building that plots and organizes the terror attacks against Israeli civilians," Netanyahu told CBS News.

"So it is a perfectly legitimate target. I can tell you that we took every precaution to make sure that there were no civilian injuries, in fact, no deaths."

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On Saturday (May 15), an Israeli air attack flattened the building in Gaza that housed the media offices.

The attack sent alarm bells ringing across world that is already voicing concern about the escalating Israel-Palestine violence. The attack on media houses elicited a response even from the US, a strong ally of Israel. The US on Saturday asked Israel to protect the journalists.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-3000-rockets-fired-from-gaza-towards-israel-army-claims-385423">Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims</a>

On Sunday, several strong statements came from the Israeli camp. Israel army chief said that Hamas had 'misjudged' Israel's strength.

"Hamas misjudged the strength of our response," said Aviv Kochavi, the army's chief of general staff, saying Gaza had since been enduring an aerial bombardment of unprecedented "intensity".

'Premeditated violence', says Israel at UN

Israel alleged that violence by&nbsp;Hamas was 'premeditated'.&nbsp;

"It was completely premeditated by Hamas in order to gain political power," said Israel's ambassador to the world body, Gilad Erdan. He was speaking during a session called by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the crisis.

Hamas said its rocket fire into Israel was in response to Israeli forces' entry into the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, amid high tensions over moves to evict Palestinian families in the city.

"Do you really believe that this property dispute is what caused Hamas to launch these large-scale attacks on the people of Israel?" Erdan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'. His comments are sure to attract criticism for Israel which is already facing global heat. "An intelligence office for the Palestinian terrorist organization (was) housed in that building that plots and organizes the terror attacks against Israeli civilians," Netanyahu told CBS News. "So it is a perfectly legitimate target. I can tell you that we took every precaution to make sure that there were no civilian injuries, in fact, no deaths." × On Saturday (May 15), an Israeli air attack flattened the building in Gaza that housed the media offices. The attack sent alarm bells ringing across world that is already voicing concern about the escalating Israel-Palestine violence. The attack on media houses elicited a response even from the US, a strong ally of Israel. The US on Saturday asked Israel to protect the journalists. Also Read | Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims On Sunday, several strong statements came from the Israeli camp. Israel army chief said that Hamas had 'misjudged' Israel's strength. "Hamas misjudged the strength of our response," said Aviv Kochavi, the army's chief of general staff, saying Gaza had since been enduring an aerial bombardment of unprecedented "intensity". 'Premeditated violence', says Israel at UN Israel alleged that violence by Hamas was 'premeditated'. "It was completely premeditated by Hamas in order to gain political power," said Israel's ambassador to the world body, Gilad Erdan. He was speaking during a session called by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the crisis. Hamas said its rocket fire into Israel was in response to Israeli forces' entry into the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, amid high tensions over moves to evict Palestinian families in the city. "Do you really believe that this property dispute is what caused Hamas to launch these large-scale attacks on the people of Israel?" Erdan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says building was 'legitimate target'

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, addressing a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as hostilities between Israel and militants in Gaza entered a seventh day, condemned what he called the violation of the sanctity of Islamic holy sites.

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The foreign minister also denounced "forcible eviction of Palestinians from East Jerusalem. He urged international community to end this "dangerous escalation" and revive peace negotiations based on a two-state solution.

Pre-dawn Israeli strikes in the centre of Gaza City on Sunday brought the death toll in Gaza to 181, including 52 children, health officials said. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children.

Islamist militant group Hamas began its rocket assault on Monday after weeks of tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city's Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest site, during the holy month of Ramadan.

Israel has retaliated with air and artillery strikes into Gaza.

The fighting comes at a sensitive time for Arab states like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain which last year broke a longstanding taboo in the region by establishing formal ties with Israel, with tacit approval from Gulf power Saudi Arabia.

Emirati and Bahraini ministers at the virtual gathering of the 57-member OIC called for a ceasefire and stressed the importance of preserving the identity of Jerusalem, which contains sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hasty-us-withdrawal-a-blow-to-afghan-peace-process-says-china-385452">Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims</a>

"De-escalation and the highest degree of restraint are important to avoid dragging the region to new levels of instability," said UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem al-Hashimy.

Israel sees all of Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital, while the Palestinians want the eastern section as a capital of a future state. Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is unrecognised internationally.

Turkish foreign ministry sources said Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the OIC that Israel should be held accountable for war crimes and that the International Criminal Court could play a role. He also called for an international protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians, they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability.

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, addressing a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as hostilities between Israel and militants in Gaza entered a seventh day, condemned what he called the violation of the sanctity of Islamic holy sites. × The foreign minister also denounced "forcible eviction of Palestinians from East Jerusalem. He urged international community to end this "dangerous escalation" and revive peace negotiations based on a two-state solution. Pre-dawn Israeli strikes in the centre of Gaza City on Sunday brought the death toll in Gaza to 181, including 52 children, health officials said. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children. Islamist militant group Hamas began its rocket assault on Monday after weeks of tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city's Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest site, during the holy month of Ramadan. Israel has retaliated with air and artillery strikes into Gaza. The fighting comes at a sensitive time for Arab states like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain which last year broke a longstanding taboo in the region by establishing formal ties with Israel, with tacit approval from Gulf power Saudi Arabia. Emirati and Bahraini ministers at the virtual gathering of the 57-member OIC called for a ceasefire and stressed the importance of preserving the identity of Jerusalem, which contains sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Also Read | Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims "De-escalation and the highest degree of restraint are important to avoid dragging the region to new levels of instability," said UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem al-Hashimy. Israel sees all of Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital, while the Palestinians want the eastern section as a capital of a future state. Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is unrecognised internationally. Turkish foreign ministry sources said Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the OIC that Israel should be held accountable for war crimes and that the International Criminal Court could play a role. He also called for an international protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia decries Israel's 'flagrant violations' of Palestinian rights

Palestinian&nbsp;foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki on Sunday criticised countries that moved to&nbsp;normalise&nbsp;relations with&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;last year, as violence escalates between the Palestinians and the Jewish state.

"Normalisation and running towards this colonial Israeli system without achieving peace and ending the Israeli occupation of Arab and&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;lands represents support for the apartheid regime and participation in its crimes," Maliki told an emergency meeting of foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/media-demands-israel-to-explain-destruction-of-news-offices-385315">Media demands Israel to explain destruction of news offices</a>&nbsp;

"This colonial occupation must be confronted, dismantled, ended, and banned. The recently accelerated normalisation will not have an impact on the sentiments of the Arab world or change their assessment."

The deadly flare-up of violence between&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and the Palestinians has embarrassed states which moved to&nbsp;normalise&nbsp;relations with the Jewish state, Sudan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-clashes-deadliest-airstrike-by-israel-since-clashes-began-385304/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The OIC's emergency meeting was hosted by Saudi Arabia, which has not formally normalised&nbsp;ties&nbsp;with&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;but is known to maintain clandestine relations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-3000-rockets-fired-from-gaza-towards-israel-army-claims-385423">Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims</a>

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan called on the international community to take "urgent action" to halt the Israeli military operation and to revive peace talks aimed at securing a two-state solution.

"Preserving Jerusalem is the responsibility of all of us," he said.

The recent bloodshed, just as Muslims were celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramadan, has put&nbsp;Israel's new Arab partners on the back foot, prompting them to turn to critical rhetoric less than a year after they signed normalisation agreements.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-stretches-into-seventh-day-385378/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The so-called Abraham Accords swept away decades of consensus and were condemned as "treason" by&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;leaders who feared they undercut their demands for a homeland.</div>

They were struck at the urging of then US President Donald Trump, who hailed the "dawn of a new Middle East" as his son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner dismissed the Israeli-Palestinian&nbsp;conflict as a mere "real estate dispute".

Reem&nbsp;Al Hashimy, the United Arab Emirates' minister of state for&nbsp;international&nbsp;cooperation, spoke at the meeting but did not address the criticism, only calling for a halt to the violence and not specifically blaming&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;for the troubles.

Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki on Sunday criticised countries that moved to normalise relations with Israel last year, as violence escalates between the Palestinians and the Jewish state.

Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki on Sunday criticised countries that moved to normalise relations with Israel last year, as violence escalates between the Palestinians and the Jewish state. "Normalisation and running towards this colonial Israeli system without achieving peace and ending the Israeli occupation of Arab and Palestinian lands represents support for the apartheid regime and participation in its crimes," Maliki told an emergency meeting of foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Also read | Media demands Israel to explain destruction of news offices "This colonial occupation must be confronted, dismantled, ended, and banned. The recently accelerated normalisation will not have an impact on the sentiments of the Arab world or change their assessment." The deadly flare-up of violence between Israel and the Palestinians has embarrassed states which moved to normalise relations with the Jewish state, Sudan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. The OIC's emergency meeting was hosted by Saudi Arabia, which has not formally normalised ties with Israel but is known to maintain clandestine relations. Also read | Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan called on the international community to take "urgent action" to halt the Israeli military operation and to revive peace talks aimed at securing a two-state solution. "Preserving Jerusalem is the responsibility of all of us," he said. The recent bloodshed, just as Muslims were celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramadan, has put Israel's new Arab partners on the back foot, prompting them to turn to critical rhetoric less than a year after they signed normalisation agreements. The so-called Abraham Accords swept away decades of consensus and were condemned as "treason" by Palestinian leaders who feared they undercut their demands for a homeland. They were struck at the urging of then US President Donald Trump, who hailed the "dawn of a new Middle East" as his son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner dismissed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a mere "real estate dispute". Reem Al Hashimy, the United Arab Emirates' minister of state for international cooperation, spoke at the meeting but did not address the criticism, only calling for a halt to the violence and not specifically blaming Israel for the troubles.

Palestinian FM criticises moves to 'normalise' Israel ties

Nearly 3,000 rockets have been fired from Gaza towards Israel on Sunday as the two countries entered the seventh day of continued violent protests.

The Israel army reported that the rockets were fired from Hamas-controlled Gaza on Sunday and termed it as an ‘intense attack'.

"Hamas has been carrying out a very intense attack in terms of rate of fire," General Ori Gordin told local reporters.

The army has also claimed that Israel is facing the highest ever rate of rocket attacks. Gaza authorities have also reported a record daily death toll of 33, caused due to the Israeli airstrikes, officials claimed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-stretches-into-seventh-day-385378">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-stretches-into-seventh-day-385378/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Gaza’s rebuttal has come after Israel’s airstrikes on Sunday killed 17 people, taking the death toll in Palestine to 174 people, of which 47 are children.

Meanwhile, Iran's&nbsp;Revolutionary Guards Quds Force commander has also lent its support to the Palestinian community and has termed the strikes by Israel as "crimes".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-on-gaza-kill-17-people-on-sunday-taking-death-toll-to-174-385372" hreflang="en">Israeli strikes on Gaza kill 17 people on Sunday, taking death toll to 174</a>

The commander made a phone call to the Islamist factions' officials and assured Tehran’s support for all the Palestinians facing the attacks by Israel.

Brigadier General Ismail Qaani talked to the head of Hamas' political bureau,&nbsp;Ismail Haniyeh, and the secretary-general of the Islamic Jihad group, Ziyad al-Nakhalah.

He assured the leaders that Iran "stands alongside the nation of Palestine" and "praised the development of Palestinian resistance and its capabilities in defending the people of Palestine".

Qaani also said his force supports “the Palestinians' right to confront the aggression and crimes of the Zionist enemy”.

Nearly 3,000 rockets have been fired from Gaza towards Israel on Sunday as the two countries entered the seventh day of continued violent protests. The Israel army reported that the rockets were fired from Hamas-controlled Gaza on Sunday and termed it as an ‘intense attack'.

Nearly 3,000 rockets have been fired from Gaza towards Israel on Sunday as the two countries entered the seventh day of continued violent protests. The Israel army reported that the rockets were fired from Hamas-controlled Gaza on Sunday and termed it as an ‘intense attack'. "Hamas has been carrying out a very intense attack in terms of rate of fire," General Ori Gordin told local reporters. The army has also claimed that Israel is facing the highest ever rate of rocket attacks. Gaza authorities have also reported a record daily death toll of 33, caused due to the Israeli airstrikes, officials claimed. Watch | Gaza’s rebuttal has come after Israel’s airstrikes on Sunday killed 17 people, taking the death toll in Palestine to 174 people, of which 47 are children. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guards Quds Force commander has also lent its support to the Palestinian community and has termed the strikes by Israel as "crimes". Also read | Israeli strikes on Gaza kill 17 people on Sunday, taking death toll to 174 The commander made a phone call to the Islamist factions' officials and assured Tehran’s support for all the Palestinians facing the attacks by Israel. Brigadier General Ismail Qaani talked to the head of Hamas' political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, and the secretary-general of the Islamic Jihad group, Ziyad al-Nakhalah. He assured the leaders that Iran "stands alongside the nation of Palestine" and "praised the development of Palestinian resistance and its capabilities in defending the people of Palestine". Qaani also said his force supports “the Palestinians' right to confront the aggression and crimes of the Zionist enemy”.

Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims

Leicester won their first-ever FA Cup in the club's 137-year history after beating Chelsea in the finals at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday. After lifting the cup Leicester players Hamza Choudhury and Wesley Fofana showed support for the Palestinians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leicester-beat-chelsea-to-claim-first-fa-cup-385368" hreflang="en">Leicester beat Chelsea to claim first FA Cup</a>

The duo was seen holding the Palestinian flag. English midfielder Choudhury had the flag draped over his shoulders as he collected his winner's medal after beating Tuchel's Chelsea.

Both the players showed their solidarity amid the latest conflict between Palestine and Israel, which has seen violence over the past few weeks.

Many major European cities witnessed thousands of people marching in support of Palestine on Saturday.&nbsp;

Arsenal midfielder Mohammed Elneny took to social media to voice his support for Palestine but he faced a lot of flak from Jewish fans.

The Egyptian posted on his Twitter account: "My heart and my soul and my support for you Palestine."

Arsenal confirmed to Sky Sports that they have spoken with Elneny after concerns about the post were raised from one of the club's sponsors, coffee maker Lavazza.

"As with any employees of Arsenal, our players are entitled to express their views on their own platforms," the club told Sky Sports News.

"That said we have spoken to Mo about this so he understands the wider implications of his post.

"As a club we are committed to confronting and eliminating all forms of discrimination and continue to champion the need for equality and diversity across all areas of life."

(Inputs from AFP)

Leicester won their first-ever FA Cup in the club's 137-year history after beating Chelsea in the finals at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday. After lifting the cup Leicester players Hamza Choudhury and Wesley Fofana showed support for the Palestinians.

Leicester won their first-ever FA Cup in the club's 137-year history after beating Chelsea in the finals at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday. After lifting the cup Leicester players Hamza Choudhury and Wesley Fofana showed support for the Palestinians. ALSO READ: Leicester beat Chelsea to claim first FA Cup The duo was seen holding the Palestinian flag. English midfielder Choudhury had the flag draped over his shoulders as he collected his winner's medal after beating Tuchel's Chelsea. Both the players showed their solidarity amid the latest conflict between Palestine and Israel, which has seen violence over the past few weeks. Many major European cities witnessed thousands of people marching in support of Palestine on Saturday. Arsenal midfielder Mohammed Elneny took to social media to voice his support for Palestine but he faced a lot of flak from Jewish fans. The Egyptian posted on his Twitter account: "My heart and my soul and my support for you Palestine." Arsenal confirmed to Sky Sports that they have spoken with Elneny after concerns about the post were raised from one of the club's sponsors, coffee maker Lavazza. "As with any employees of Arsenal, our players are entitled to express their views on their own platforms," the club told Sky Sports News. "That said we have spoken to Mo about this so he understands the wider implications of his post. "As a club we are committed to confronting and eliminating all forms of discrimination and continue to champion the need for equality and diversity across all areas of life." (Inputs from AFP)

Leicester City players express support for Palestine after FA Cup win

The US asked Israel to ensure safety of journalists on Saturday just hours after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza flattened a building that housed offices of Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press.

The United States told Israel "that ensuring the safety and security of journalists and independent media is a paramount responsibility," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

The AP and Al Jazeera strongly condemned the attack.

The death toll from latest Israel-Palestine conflict is rising but diplomatic efforts have so far failed to calm the tensions.

Palestinians say at least 139 people, including 39 children, have been killed in Gaza since the conflict erupted on Monday.

Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children.

Before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-gaza-destroy-highrise-housing-al-jazeera-associated-press-offices-385245">airstrike on mediahouses</a>, Israel gave advance warning of so it could be evacuated and said later the building contained military assets of Hamas, the Islamist group that runs Gaza.

In Tel Aviv, residents fled for cover amid wailing sirens as Hamas militants fired barrages of rockets. One hit a residential block in the Ramat Gan suburb, killing a 50-year old man, medics said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-gaza-destroy-highrise-housing-al-jazeera-associated-press-offices-385245">Israeli airstrikes in Gaza destroy highrise housing Al-Jazeera, Associated Press offices</a>

The group said the salvos responded to overnight strikes on Gaza`s Beach refugee camp, where a woman and four of her children were killed when her house was hit. Five others died, medics said. Israel said it targeted an apartment used by Hamas.

Hamas began its assault on Monday after tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city`s al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam`s third holiest site.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US asked Israel to ensure safety of journalists on Saturday just hours after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza flattened a building that housed offices of Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press.

The US asked Israel to ensure safety of journalists on Saturday just hours after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza flattened a building that housed offices of Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press. The United States told Israel "that ensuring the safety and security of journalists and independent media is a paramount responsibility," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. The AP and Al Jazeera strongly condemned the attack. The death toll from latest Israel-Palestine conflict is rising but diplomatic efforts have so far failed to calm the tensions. Palestinians say at least 139 people, including 39 children, have been killed in Gaza since the conflict erupted on Monday. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children. Before the airstrike on mediahouses, Israel gave advance warning of so it could be evacuated and said later the building contained military assets of Hamas, the Islamist group that runs Gaza. In Tel Aviv, residents fled for cover amid wailing sirens as Hamas militants fired barrages of rockets. One hit a residential block in the Ramat Gan suburb, killing a 50-year old man, medics said. Also Read | Israeli airstrikes in Gaza destroy highrise housing Al-Jazeera, Associated Press offices The group said the salvos responded to overnight strikes on Gaza`s Beach refugee camp, where a woman and four of her children were killed when her house was hit. Five others died, medics said. Israel said it targeted an apartment used by Hamas. Hamas began its assault on Monday after tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city`s al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam`s third holiest site. (With inputs from agencies)

US tells Israel to protect media after Gaza tower hit

Paris&nbsp;police&nbsp;used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a&nbsp;pro-Palestinian&nbsp;rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years.

Several hundreds of people converged on the heavily immigrant Barbes neighbourhood in the north of the capital, amid a massive security presence involving some 4,200 officers, officials said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-bans-pro-palestine-demo-organisers-defiant-385185">French court bans pro-Palestine demo, organisers defiant&nbsp;</a>

Police&nbsp;blocked off wide boulevards as well as narrow streets where some of the&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;were forced to retreat, while knots of residents and passers-by watched or recorded the scene with their phones.

Some threw stones or tried to set up roadblocks with construction barriers, but for the most part, police&nbsp;pursued groups across the district while preventing any march toward the Place de la Bastille as planned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-conflict-fallout-germany-will-not-tolerate-anti-semitic-protests-says-merkels-spokesman-384985/amp">Gaza conflict fallout: Germany will not tolerate 'anti-Semitic' protests, says Merkel's spokesman</a>

"You want to prohibit me from showing solidarity with my people, even as my village is being bombed?" Mohammed, 23 and wearing a "Free Palestine" t-shirt, told AFP.

As a cold rainstorm settled over the city toward evening, many&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;left, leaving a large group of mostly young men facing off against ranks of officers who held their ground on a stretch of boulevard.

A handful of garbage bins were set on fire and rocks and other projectiles were hurled toward&nbsp;police, but no arrests were reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank</a>

Ban 'unacceptable'

The march was banned Thursday over concerns of a repeat of fierce clashes that erupted at a similar&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;march during the last war in 2014 when&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;took aim at synagogues and other Israeli and Jewish targets.

"We all remember that extremely troubling protest where terrible phrases like 'death to Jews' were yelled," Mayor Anne Hidalgo told AFP on Friday, welcoming a "wise" decision to ban the march.

But Walid Atallah, president of the Association of Palestinians in Ile-de-France, the region encompassing&nbsp;Paris, accused the government of inflaming&nbsp;tensions&nbsp;with the ban.

Repeat of&nbsp;unrest?&nbsp;

"If there were genuine risks of public disorder, of serious problems, they would have prohibited it right away," he told a press conference ahead of the march.

"They banned it at the last minute, it's unacceptable," he said. Similar protests in Germany and Denmark this week have degenerated into clashes leading to several arrests.

The protest had originally been called to mark the Nakba, as Palestinians call the "catastrophe" of Israel's creation in 1948, which turned hundreds of thousands into refugees.

But a&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;court upheld the ban Friday, saying the "international and domestic context" justified fears of unrest "that could be as serious or even worse than in 2014."

Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin also called for similar bans in other cities if necessary, and officials prohibited marches in Nice, where around 150 people gathered nonetheless, and in some&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;suburbs.&nbsp;

"We don't want scenes of violence, we don't want to import a conflict onto French soil, we don't want eruptions of hate on our streets," government spokesman Gabriel Attal said Saturday in Marseille.

But no incidents were reported as thousands of people gathered for protests and marches in several other cities including Montpellier, Toulouse and Bordeaux. Many accuse France of being too favourable toward Israel in the latest conflict, which has seen a barrage of rocket fire from Gaza that has been met with Israeli artillery and airstrikes.

The ban has caused a split among French politicians, with President Emmanuel Macron's centre-right party and the right-wing opposition supporting the move, but leftists calling it an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression.

Macron's office said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, offering his "condolences for the victims of the rocket fire claimed by Hamas and other terrorist groups."

The statement said Macron urged a return to peace and "his concern about the civilian population in Gaza."

France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, with an estimated five to six million people.

It also has the largest Jewish population after Israel and the United States.

Paris police used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a pro-Palestinian rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years.

Paris police used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a pro-Palestinian rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years. Several hundreds of people converged on the heavily immigrant Barbes neighbourhood in the north of the capital, amid a massive security presence involving some 4,200 officers, officials said. Also read | French court bans pro-Palestine demo, organisers defiant Police blocked off wide boulevards as well as narrow streets where some of the protesters were forced to retreat, while knots of residents and passers-by watched or recorded the scene with their phones. Some threw stones or tried to set up roadblocks with construction barriers, but for the most part, police pursued groups across the district while preventing any march toward the Place de la Bastille as planned. Also read | Gaza conflict fallout: Germany will not tolerate 'anti-Semitic' protests, says Merkel's spokesman "You want to prohibit me from showing solidarity with my people, even as my village is being bombed?" Mohammed, 23 and wearing a "Free Palestine" t-shirt, told AFP. As a cold rainstorm settled over the city toward evening, many protesters left, leaving a large group of mostly young men facing off against ranks of officers who held their ground on a stretch of boulevard. A handful of garbage bins were set on fire and rocks and other projectiles were hurled toward police, but no arrests were reported. Also read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank Ban 'unacceptable' The march was banned Thursday over concerns of a repeat of fierce clashes that erupted at a similar Paris march during the last war in 2014 when protesters took aim at synagogues and other Israeli and Jewish targets. "We all remember that extremely troubling protest where terrible phrases like 'death to Jews' were yelled," Mayor Anne Hidalgo told AFP on Friday, welcoming a "wise" decision to ban the march. But Walid Atallah, president of the Association of Palestinians in Ile-de-France, the region encompassing Paris, accused the government of inflaming tensions with the ban. Repeat of unrest? "If there were genuine risks of public disorder, of serious problems, they would have prohibited it right away," he told a press conference ahead of the march. "They banned it at the last minute, it's unacceptable," he said. Similar protests in Germany and Denmark this week have degenerated into clashes leading to several arrests. The protest had originally been called to mark the Nakba, as Palestinians call the "catastrophe" of Israel's creation in 1948, which turned hundreds of thousands into refugees. But a Paris court upheld the ban Friday, saying the "international and domestic context" justified fears of unrest "that could be as serious or even worse than in 2014." Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin also called for similar bans in other cities if necessary, and officials prohibited marches in Nice, where around 150 people gathered nonetheless, and in some Paris suburbs. "We don't want scenes of violence, we don't want to import a conflict onto French soil, we don't want eruptions of hate on our streets," government spokesman Gabriel Attal said Saturday in Marseille. But no incidents were reported as thousands of people gathered for protests and marches in several other cities including Montpellier, Toulouse and Bordeaux. Many accuse France of being too favourable toward Israel in the latest conflict, which has seen a barrage of rocket fire from Gaza that has been met with Israeli artillery and airstrikes. The ban has caused a split among French politicians, with President Emmanuel Macron's centre-right party and the right-wing opposition supporting the move, but leftists calling it an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression. Macron's office said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, offering his "condolences for the victims of the rocket fire claimed by Hamas and other terrorist groups." The statement said Macron urged a return to peace and "his concern about the civilian population in Gaza." France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, with an estimated five to six million people. It also has the largest Jewish population after Israel and the United States.

Tensions in Paris as pro-Palestinian protesters defy police

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg

"We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said.

Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years.

The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank&nbsp;</a>

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move.

"Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA &amp; UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking &amp; painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg "We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said. Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years. The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers. Also Read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move. "Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA & UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking & painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran foreign minister cancels meet with Austrian counterpart over Israel flag

Showing its solidarity with Gaza, Egypt opened its Rafah border to send 10 ambulances to bring the critically injured Palestinians to the Egyptian hospitals for immediate treatment.

The country "exceptionally opened the Rafah crossing to allow 10 Egyptian ambulances into the Gaza Strip to transport wounded Palestinians... to be treated in Egypt," a medical officer reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank&nbsp;</a>

This specific border is usually closed during public holidays, including the recent Eid al-Fitr. This year, however, the Egyptian authorities decided to suspend the Eid holidays were suspended for a group of medical professionals who were asked to report to the hospitals to help "those coming from the Gaza Strip".

As per the data reported by Gaza medical officials, the Israeli strikes have taken nearly 139 people, of which 39 were kids, and more than 950 people were injured critically during the violent clash.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestinian-conflict-us-diplomat-in-israel-to-initiate-negotiations-385190">Watch |</a>

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Meanwhile, the grand imam of Egypt's famous Al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, has launched a social media campaign to support the Palestinians in this war between the two communities.

"Stop the killing," the imam said. "Enough with silence and double standards if we are really working towards peace."

On Saturday morning, the Palestinian religious affairs ministry has claimed the Israeli planes have destroyed a mosque.

Showing its solidarity with Gaza, Egypt opened its Rafah border to send 10 ambulances to bring the critically injured Palestinians to the Egyptian hospitals for immediate treatment.

Showing its solidarity with Gaza, Egypt opened its Rafah border to send 10 ambulances to bring the critically injured Palestinians to the Egyptian hospitals for immediate treatment. The country "exceptionally opened the Rafah crossing to allow 10 Egyptian ambulances into the Gaza Strip to transport wounded Palestinians... to be treated in Egypt," a medical officer reported. Also read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank This specific border is usually closed during public holidays, including the recent Eid al-Fitr. This year, however, the Egyptian authorities decided to suspend the Eid holidays were suspended for a group of medical professionals who were asked to report to the hospitals to help "those coming from the Gaza Strip". As per the data reported by Gaza medical officials, the Israeli strikes have taken nearly 139 people, of which 39 were kids, and more than 950 people were injured critically during the violent clash. Watch | Meanwhile, the grand imam of Egypt's famous Al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, has launched a social media campaign to support the Palestinians in this war between the two communities. "Stop the killing," the imam said. "Enough with silence and double standards if we are really working towards peace." On Saturday morning, the Palestinian religious affairs ministry has claimed the Israeli planes have destroyed a mosque.

Egypt sends ambulance to Gaza for critically injured Palestinians

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine. They said that action will be taken against social media users who try ' ‘to leverage the unfortunate situation in Palestine to disturb public peace and order in the Kashmir valley.’

“We are a professional force and are sensitive to public anguish. But J&amp;K police has a legal responsibility to ensure law and order as well. It, however, wouldn’t allow cynical encashment of the public anger to trigger violence, lawlessness and disorder on Kashmir streets," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir

The police say people have the right to express their opinions but they cannot hold any protests during the Covid pandemic. IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar stressed that engineering and inciting violence on streets is unlawful.

All irresponsible social media comments that result in actual violence and breaking of the law including Covid protocol will attract legal action.

Police have urged people to cooperate and desist from inciting tension in the valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine. They said that action will be taken against social media users who try ' ‘to leverage the unfortunate situation in Palestine to disturb public peace and order in the Kashmir valley.’ “We are a professional force and are sensitive to public anguish. But J&K police has a legal responsibility to ensure law and order as well. It, however, wouldn’t allow cynical encashment of the public anger to trigger violence, lawlessness and disorder on Kashmir streets," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir The police say people have the right to express their opinions but they cannot hold any protests during the Covid pandemic. IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar stressed that engineering and inciting violence on streets is unlawful. All irresponsible social media comments that result in actual violence and breaking of the law including Covid protocol will attract legal action. Police have urged people to cooperate and desist from inciting tension in the valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police to take action against sensitive social media content on Palestine

Israeli planes renewed air strikes in Gaza early on Saturday and Hamas militants responded by firing rockets into Israel as their battle entered a fifth night and US and Arab diplomats sought an end to the violence.&nbsp;

Palestinian medics said at least 12 people were killed overnight in air strikes throughout Gaza. Health officials said a woman and her three children were among the dead after their house was hit in a refugee camp.&nbsp;

The Israeli military said it carried out strikes on a Hamas military intelligence facility and a number of rocket launching sites in northern Gaza.&nbsp;

The Palestinian religious affairs ministry said Israeli planes destroyed a mosque. A military spokesman said the army was checking the report.&nbsp;

Across the border, sirens sounded throughout much of southern Israel, sending residents running for shelter. In the cities of Beersheba and Ashdod buildings were struck by rockets. There were no immediate reports of injuries.&nbsp;

With no sign of an end to the fighting, casualties spread further afield, with Palestinians reporting on Friday 11 killed in the occupied West Bank amid clashes between protesters and Israeli security forces.&nbsp;

At least 132 people have been killed in Gaza since Monday, including 32 children and 21 women, and 950 others wounded, Palestinian medical officials said.&nbsp;

Among the eight dead in Israel were a soldier patrolling the Gaza border and six civilians, including two children, Israeli authorities said.&nbsp;

Ahead of a session of the UN Security Council on Sunday to discuss the situation, Biden administration envoy Hady Amr, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Israel and Palestinian Affairs, flew in on Friday.&nbsp;

The US Embassy in Israel said the aim was "to reinforce the need to work toward a sustainable calm."&nbsp;

Israel launched day-long attacks on Friday to destroy what it said were several kilometres of tunnels, launch sites and weapons manufacturing warehouses used by the militants in an effort to halt the rocket attacks.&nbsp;

Across central and southern Israel, from small towns bordering Gaza to metropolitan Tel Aviv and southern Beersheba, people have adjusted to sirens wailing, radio and TV broadcast interruptions and the beeps of cellphones bearing red alerts that send them rushing for cover.&nbsp;

Cross-border hostilities between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza have been accompanied by violence in mixed communities of Jews and Arabs in Israel. Synagogues have been attacked and street fights have broken out, prompting Israel's president to warn of civil war. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli planes renewed air strikes in Gaza early on Saturday and Hamas militants responded by firing rockets into Israel as their battle entered a fifth night and US and Arab diplomats sought an end to the violence.

Israeli planes renewed air strikes in Gaza early on Saturday and Hamas militants responded by firing rockets into Israel as their battle entered a fifth night and US and Arab diplomats sought an end to the violence. Palestinian medics said at least 12 people were killed overnight in air strikes throughout Gaza. Health officials said a woman and her three children were among the dead after their house was hit in a refugee camp. The Israeli military said it carried out strikes on a Hamas military intelligence facility and a number of rocket launching sites in northern Gaza. The Palestinian religious affairs ministry said Israeli planes destroyed a mosque. A military spokesman said the army was checking the report. Across the border, sirens sounded throughout much of southern Israel, sending residents running for shelter. In the cities of Beersheba and Ashdod buildings were struck by rockets. There were no immediate reports of injuries. With no sign of an end to the fighting, casualties spread further afield, with Palestinians reporting on Friday 11 killed in the occupied West Bank amid clashes between protesters and Israeli security forces. At least 132 people have been killed in Gaza since Monday, including 32 children and 21 women, and 950 others wounded, Palestinian medical officials said. Among the eight dead in Israel were a soldier patrolling the Gaza border and six civilians, including two children, Israeli authorities said. Ahead of a session of the UN Security Council on Sunday to discuss the situation, Biden administration envoy Hady Amr, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Israel and Palestinian Affairs, flew in on Friday. The US Embassy in Israel said the aim was "to reinforce the need to work toward a sustainable calm." Israel launched day-long attacks on Friday to destroy what it said were several kilometres of tunnels, launch sites and weapons manufacturing warehouses used by the militants in an effort to halt the rocket attacks. Across central and southern Israel, from small towns bordering Gaza to metropolitan Tel Aviv and southern Beersheba, people have adjusted to sirens wailing, radio and TV broadcast interruptions and the beeps of cellphones bearing red alerts that send them rushing for cover. Cross-border hostilities between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza have been accompanied by violence in mixed communities of Jews and Arabs in Israel. Synagogues have been attacked and street fights have broken out, prompting Israel's president to warn of civil war. (With inputs from agencies)

Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank 

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

"I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter.

Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims

ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority.

That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards.

After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups.

Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute."

"My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction."

(With inputs from agencies)

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes. "I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter. Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority. That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards. After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups. Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute." "My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine violence: International Criminal Court warns against war crimes

May 14 in history: Administration of first smallpox vaccination, Israel becomes an independent state and more

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

"In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call.

The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places.

Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims.

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country.

In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict. "In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call. The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places. Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims. Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine: UN chief Antonio Guterres, Vladimir Putin appeal for calm

Ellen DeGeneres announced the end of her long running TV show. The show is scheduled to end in 2022. Meanwhile&nbsp;Gal Gadot was called 'propaganda tool for Israel' for her tweet on Israel and Palestine clashes. Here are the top five headlines that made a buzz in the Hollywood corridors today.

Ellen DeGeneres to end TV show after 19 years, says she needs 'break from talking' 
It is going to be the end of an era. Popular chat show host Ellen DeGeneres is ending her daytime show in 2022. DeGeneres says that after hosting one of America's most popular chat shows for 19 years it was time to do something different.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ellen-degeneres-to-end-tv-show-after-19-years-says-she-needs-break-from-talking-384649"> Read more</a> 
 
Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine 
Hollywood star Gal Gadot's call for unity in her latest tweet amid rising tension between Israel and Palestine has not gone down well with many on Twitter.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-gal-gadot-called-propaganda-tool-for-israel-as-she-tweets-for-unity-amid-ongoing-conflict-with-palestine-384761">Read more</a> 
 
Demi Lovato will investigate UFOs in upcoming docuseries 
American singer-actor Demi Lovato is set to star in a four-part limited unscripted series on Peacock, where she will investigate UFO reports.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/demi-lovato-will-investigate-ufos-in-upcoming-docuseries-384725">&nbsp;Read more</a> 
 
Tina Turner, Jay-Z, Go-Go's selected for Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame. 
Singer Tina Turner, rapper Jay-Z and 1980s female pop group The Go-Go`s were among the newest performers selected for induction into the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame, the organization announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-tina-turner-jay-z-go-gos-selected-for-rock--roll-hall-of-fame-384682">Read more</a> 
 
Janelle Monae joins the star cast of 'Knives Out' sequel 
Much like the first part, the casting of 'Knives Out 2' is turning out to be a star-studded one. American singer-actor Janelle Monae is the latest star to have joined the cast of the film which is being helmed by Rian Johnson.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-janelle-monae-joins-the-star-cast-of-knives-out-sequel-384656">Read more</a>

Ellen DeGeneres announced the end of her long running TV show. The show is scheduled to end in 2022. Meanwhile Gal Gadot was called 'propaganda tool for Israel' for her tweet on Israel and Palestine clashes.

Ellen DeGeneres announced the end of her long running TV show. The show is scheduled to end in 2022. Meanwhile Gal Gadot was called 'propaganda tool for Israel' for her tweet on Israel and Palestine clashes. Here are the top five headlines that made a buzz in the Hollywood corridors today. Ellen DeGeneres to end TV show after 19 years, says she needs 'break from talking' It is going to be the end of an era. Popular chat show host Ellen DeGeneres is ending her daytime show in 2022. DeGeneres says that after hosting one of America's most popular chat shows for 19 years it was time to do something different. Read more Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine Hollywood star Gal Gadot's call for unity in her latest tweet amid rising tension between Israel and Palestine has not gone down well with many on Twitter. Read more Demi Lovato will investigate UFOs in upcoming docuseries American singer-actor Demi Lovato is set to star in a four-part limited unscripted series on Peacock, where she will investigate UFO reports. Read more Tina Turner, Jay-Z, Go-Go's selected for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Singer Tina Turner, rapper Jay-Z and 1980s female pop group The Go-Go`s were among the newest performers selected for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the organization announced on Wednesday. Read more Janelle Monae joins the star cast of 'Knives Out' sequel Much like the first part, the casting of 'Knives Out 2' is turning out to be a star-studded one. American singer-actor Janelle Monae is the latest star to have joined the cast of the film which is being helmed by Rian Johnson. Read more

Top 5 Hollywood news today: Ellen DeGeneres show to end,  Gal Gadot slammed on Twitter

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel.

World leaders have called for an end to violence. Some have emphasized Israel's right to defend itself, while others warn of full-scale war if the two sides fail to de-escalate.

Hamas Gaza City commander, Bassem Issa, has been killed in one of the Israeli airstrikes along with our senior members, the Hamas group confirmed. 
 
The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women.&nbsp; 
 
Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza

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In a statement issued late on Wednesday, Blinken also “expressed his condolences for the lives lost” as a result of the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory of Gaza, while also condemning the deadly rocket attacks into Israel.

“The Secretary also expressed his belief that Palestinians and Israelis deserve equal measures of freedom, dignity, security and prosperity,” said Ned Price, the state department spokesman.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by telephone with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> Joe Biden. The Prime Minister thanked President Biden for the American backing of Israel's right to self-defense.
— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1392608255671771143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. In a rare incident, rocket shrapnel punctured the shelter`s window, critically injuring the minor and also wounding his mother.&nbsp;

He was pronounced dead several hours later, reported local mediaWith the boy`s death, the number of fatalities has reached seven, including five Israeli civilians, an Indian national and an IDF soldier killed by anti-tank missile fire on the Gaza border. According to the Israeli army, 180 rockets were fired at Israel since 6 a.m. on Wednesday, of which 40 fell in Gaza.

In response to the rocket fire, the IDF launched strikes on upwards of 500 targets in the Gaza Strip, aimed at Hamas personnel, weaponry and infrastructure throughout the enclave Israeli police have said that 374 people have been arrested so far tonight in rioting throughout the country, with 36 cops hurt during events, reported The Times of Israel.

The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity.

A senior Hamas official on Wednesday said the terror organisation is ready to end the current intensive fighting with Israel, the Times of Israel reported citing the Russian foreign ministry`s statement. Deputy Chairman of the Hamas political bureau conditioned it on Israel halting strikes and on the international community pressuring the Jewish state to end "military actions" at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount.

Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before.

"Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel.

The Israeli military and Hamas militants in Gaza continue to exchange rocket fire and airstrikes. The death toll continues to climb as violence spreads to the streets of mixed Arab-Jewish cities in Israel. World leaders have called for an end to violence. Some have emphasized Israel's right to defend itself, while others warn of full-scale war if the two sides fail to de-escalate. Hamas Gaza City commander, Bassem Issa, has been killed in one of the Israeli airstrikes along with our senior members, the Hamas group confirmed. The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women. Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza In a statement issued late on Wednesday, Blinken also “expressed his condolences for the lives lost” as a result of the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory of Gaza, while also condemning the deadly rocket attacks into Israel. “The Secretary also expressed his belief that Palestinians and Israelis deserve equal measures of freedom, dignity, security and prosperity,” said Ned Price, the state department spokesman. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by telephone with @POTUS Joe Biden. The Prime Minister thanked President Biden for the American backing of Israel's right to self-defense. — PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) May 12, 2021 × Meanwhile, a five-year-old boy was killed and at least 20 Israelis were hurt as Gaza launched a fresh spade of rocket attacks that set off warning sirens in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area and cities in the south on Wednesday night, reported The Times of Israel. In a rare incident, rocket shrapnel punctured the shelter`s window, critically injuring the minor and also wounding his mother. He was pronounced dead several hours later, reported local mediaWith the boy`s death, the number of fatalities has reached seven, including five Israeli civilians, an Indian national and an IDF soldier killed by anti-tank missile fire on the Gaza border. According to the Israeli army, 180 rockets were fired at Israel since 6 a.m. on Wednesday, of which 40 fell in Gaza. In response to the rocket fire, the IDF launched strikes on upwards of 500 targets in the Gaza Strip, aimed at Hamas personnel, weaponry and infrastructure throughout the enclave Israeli police have said that 374 people have been arrested so far tonight in rioting throughout the country, with 36 cops hurt during events, reported The Times of Israel. The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. A senior Hamas official on Wednesday said the terror organisation is ready to end the current intensive fighting with Israel, the Times of Israel reported citing the Russian foreign ministry`s statement. Deputy Chairman of the Hamas political bureau conditioned it on Israel halting strikes and on the international community pressuring the Jewish state to end "military actions" at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount. Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before. "Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas violence: At least 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. 
&nbsp; 
"We are in an emergency situation due to the national violence and it is now necessary to have a massive reinforcement of forces on the ground, and they are to be sent immediately to enforce law and order," he said.&nbsp;

He specified the forces would be reservists from Israel's border police.

Israel is scrambling to contain unrest on two fronts. There is violence on its own street days after exchange of deadly fire with Islamist militants.

Hundreds of rockets tore through the skies over the Gaza Strip overnight

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Israel's air force launched multiple strikes with fighter jets, targeting what it described as locations linked to Hamas, the Islamist group that controls Gaza.&nbsp;

In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel.&nbsp;

Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over weekend has triggered spell of violence unmatched in last seven years. Al Aqsa mosque,&nbsp;considered a holy place by both Jews and Muslims,&nbsp;is in Jerusalem.

The unrest has been driven by anger over the looming evictions of Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of east Jerusalem.

'Preventing pogroms'

Coinciding with the aerial bombardments is surging violence between Arabs and Jews inside Israel.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told AFP that violence was at a nadir not seen for decades and that police were "literally preventing pogroms from taking place".&nbsp;

Hundreds were protesting in the Arab town of Kafr Kassem in central Israel, burning tires and torching police vehicles, he said.&nbsp;

He added that nearly 1,000 border police were called in to quell the violence, and that more than 400 people had been arrested.&nbsp;

On Wednesday night, Israeli far-right groups took to the streets across the country, clashing with security forces and Arab Israelis.&nbsp;

Stalled diplomacy

The UN Security Council has held two closed-door videoconferences since Monday, with close Israeli ally Washington opposing adoption of a joint declaration, arguing it would not "help de-escalate" the situation.

Netanyahu spoke later Wednesday with Biden, who said that "Israel has a right to defend itself".

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country.

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. "We are in an emergency situation due to the national violence and it is now necessary to have a massive reinforcement of forces on the ground, and they are to be sent immediately to enforce law and order," he said. He specified the forces would be reservists from Israel's border police. Israel is scrambling to contain unrest on two fronts. There is violence on its own street days after exchange of deadly fire with Islamist militants. Hundreds of rockets tore through the skies over the Gaza Strip overnight × Israel's air force launched multiple strikes with fighter jets, targeting what it described as locations linked to Hamas, the Islamist group that controls Gaza. In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel. Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over weekend has triggered spell of violence unmatched in last seven years. Al Aqsa mosque, considered a holy place by both Jews and Muslims, is in Jerusalem. The unrest has been driven by anger over the looming evictions of Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of east Jerusalem. 'Preventing pogroms' Coinciding with the aerial bombardments is surging violence between Arabs and Jews inside Israel. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told AFP that violence was at a nadir not seen for decades and that police were "literally preventing pogroms from taking place". Hundreds were protesting in the Arab town of Kafr Kassem in central Israel, burning tires and torching police vehicles, he said. He added that nearly 1,000 border police were called in to quell the violence, and that more than 400 people had been arrested. On Wednesday night, Israeli far-right groups took to the streets across the country, clashing with security forces and Arab Israelis. Stalled diplomacy The UN Security Council has held two closed-door videoconferences since Monday, with close Israeli ally Washington opposing adoption of a joint declaration, arguing it would not "help de-escalate" the situation. Netanyahu spoke later Wednesday with Biden, who said that "Israel has a right to defend itself". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence

Hollywood star and Israeli actor- film producer Gal Gadot has expressed concern over the ongoing clashes between in Israel and Palestinians which has left many dead and hundreds injured.&nbsp; 
 
The 'Wonder Woman' star took to social media to express her concern and stated she was heartbroken at the clashes that that have rocked the region.&nbsp; 
 
"My heart breaks. My country is at war. I worry for my family, my friends. I worry for my people. This is a vicious cycle that has been going on for far too long," wrote Gadot."Israel deserves to live as a free and safe nation, Our neighbours deserve the same. I pray for the victims and their families, I pray for this unimaginable hostility to end, I pray for our leaders to find the solution so we could live side by side in peace. I pray for better days," added the Oscar-nominated actor.Along with the tweet, the `Criminal` actor added a breaking heart emoticon.

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💔 <a href="https://t.co/cLgDdn70No">pic.twitter.com/cLgDdn70No</a>
— Gal Gadot (@GalGadot) <a href="https://twitter.com/GalGadot/status/1392496742822776839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-violence-at-least-65-killed-in-gaza-7-in-israel-as-clashes-intensify-384645" hreflang="en">Israel-Hamas violence: 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify</a> 
 
The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. 
 
The confrontation intensified in recent days as Ramzan brought large crowds to al-Aqsa and clashes broke out between Palestinians and Israeli police. More than 300 Palestinians were injured on Monday. Health authorities in Gaza said at least 36 Palestinians - including 10 children - were killed in Israeli airstrikes on the Strip since late on Monday after Hamas launched rockets from the coastal territory towards Israel.&nbsp; 
 
At least 250 others were injured. At least five people in Israel have also been killed.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-gal-gadot-called-propaganda-tool-for-israel-as-she-tweets-for-unity-amid-ongoing-conflict-with-palestine-384761" hreflang="en">Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pakistani-actress-veena-malik-quotes-adolf-hitler-on-twitter-amid-israel-palestine-tensions-deletes-tweet-later-384701">Pakistani actress Veena Malik quotes Adolf Hitler on Twitter amid Israel-Palestine tensions</a>

Hollywood star and Israeli actor- film producer Gal Gadot has expressed concern over the ongoing clashes between in Israel and Palestinians which has left many dead and hundreds injured.

Hollywood star and Israeli actor- film producer Gal Gadot has expressed concern over the ongoing clashes between in Israel and Palestinians which has left many dead and hundreds injured. The 'Wonder Woman' star took to social media to express her concern and stated she was heartbroken at the clashes that that have rocked the region. "My heart breaks. My country is at war. I worry for my family, my friends. I worry for my people. This is a vicious cycle that has been going on for far too long," wrote Gadot."Israel deserves to live as a free and safe nation, Our neighbours deserve the same. I pray for the victims and their families, I pray for this unimaginable hostility to end, I pray for our leaders to find the solution so we could live side by side in peace. I pray for better days," added the Oscar-nominated actor.Along with the tweet, the `Criminal` actor added a breaking heart emoticon. 💔 pic.twitter.com/cLgDdn70No — Gal Gadot (@GalGadot) May 12, 2021 × Israel-Hamas violence: 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. The confrontation intensified in recent days as Ramzan brought large crowds to al-Aqsa and clashes broke out between Palestinians and Israeli police. More than 300 Palestinians were injured on Monday. Health authorities in Gaza said at least 36 Palestinians - including 10 children - were killed in Israeli airstrikes on the Strip since late on Monday after Hamas launched rockets from the coastal territory towards Israel. At least 250 others were injured. At least five people in Israel have also been killed. Also read: Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine Pakistani actress Veena Malik quotes Adolf Hitler on Twitter amid Israel-Palestine tensions

Gal Gadot expresses concern over Israel-Palestine conflict: My country is at war, worry for my family and friends

Pakistani actress Veena Malik may have ruffled a few feathers with her latest tweets. Amid the ongoing clash between Israeli security forces and the Palestinian group Hamas, Malik quoted Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler in a quote that was seemingly anti-Semitic.&nbsp; 
 
"'I would have killed all the Jews of the world… but I kept some to show the world why I killed them,'" Malik wrote and attributed the made-up quote to 'Adolf Hitler.' She later deleted the tweet. Malik has over 1.2 million followers on Twitter.&nbsp; 
 
Malik also wrote in a separate tweet that the Iron Dome- Israel's missile defense system-"is doomed."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-gal-gadot-expresses-concern-over-israel-palestine-conflict-my-country-is-at-war-worry-for-my-family-and-friends-384679">Gal Gadot concerned over Israel-Palestine conflict: My country is at war</a>

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Muslim actress from Pakistan with 1.2 million followers quotes Adolph Hitler as unrest breaks out between Israel &amp; Palestinian militants. <a href="https://t.co/3RBeolUeip">https://t.co/3RBeolUeip</a> <a href="https://t.co/rXBm5PXCcy">pic.twitter.com/rXBm5PXCcy</a>
— Andy Ngô (@MrAndyNgo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrAndyNgo/status/1392272690484973571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The former actress also published a tweet with the hashtag 'Free Palestine'.

Her account has since then been withheld by Twitter.&nbsp; 
 
The tweets come as tensions in Israel continue to build due to the clashes between Israelis and&nbsp;Palestinians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-violence-at-least-65-killed-in-gaza-7-in-israel-as-clashes-intensify-384645" hreflang="en">Israel-Hamas violence: 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify</a> 
 
The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-gal-gadot-called-propaganda-tool-for-israel-as-she-tweets-for-unity-amid-ongoing-conflict-with-palestine-384761" hreflang="en">Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine</a>

Pakistani actress Veena Malik may have ruffled a few feathers with her latest tweets. Amid the ongoing clash between Israeli security forces and the Palestinian group Hamas, Malik quoted Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler in a quote that was seemingly anti-Semitic.

Pakistani actress Veena Malik may have ruffled a few feathers with her latest tweets. Amid the ongoing clash between Israeli security forces and the Palestinian group Hamas, Malik quoted Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler in a quote that was seemingly anti-Semitic. "'I would have killed all the Jews of the world… but I kept some to show the world why I killed them,'" Malik wrote and attributed the made-up quote to 'Adolf Hitler.' She later deleted the tweet. Malik has over 1.2 million followers on Twitter. Malik also wrote in a separate tweet that the Iron Dome- Israel's missile defense system-"is doomed." Gal Gadot concerned over Israel-Palestine conflict: My country is at war Muslim actress from Pakistan with 1.2 million followers quotes Adolph Hitler as unrest breaks out between Israel & Palestinian militants. https://t.co/3RBeolUeip pic.twitter.com/rXBm5PXCcy — Andy Ngô (@MrAndyNgo) May 12, 2021 × The former actress also published a tweet with the hashtag 'Free Palestine'. Her account has since then been withheld by Twitter. The tweets come as tensions in Israel continue to build due to the clashes between Israelis and Palestinians. Israel-Hamas violence: 65 killed in Gaza, 7 in Israel as clashes intensify The death toll in Gaza rose to 65 Palestinians, including 16 children and five women, according to Gaza`s Health Ministry. At least 365 people have been wounded, including 86 children and 39 women. Also read: Gal Gadot called 'propaganda tool for Israel' as she tweets for unity amid ongoing conflict with Palestine

Pakistani actress Veena Malik quotes Adolf Hitler on Twitter amid Israel-Palestine tensions, deletes tweet later

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza more than 600 times since Monday evening while Hamas has fired more than 1,600 rockets towards Israel.&nbsp;

"Dozens of those killed were terrorists and that additionally, some Palestinian fatalities were caused by misfired rockets from Gaza that failed to reach Israel and fell short in the Strip," The Times of Israel reported quoting Israel Defense Forces.

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The Israeli-Palestine conflict 
 
"The situation on the ground is simply tragic, you have two and a half million Palestinians in Gaza who are under siege, who have no shelter to seek safety in": <a href="https://twitter.com/nour_odeh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nour_odeh</a>, senior journalist and Palestinian Legislative Council candidate<a href="https://twitter.com/SaroyaHem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaroyaHem</a> <a href="https://t.co/V7RBv9xv1k">pic.twitter.com/V7RBv9xv1k</a>
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The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. 
 
Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza

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Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`.

United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before.

"Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted.

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Stop the fire immediately. We’re escalating towards a full scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of deescalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating &amp; is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now
— Tor Wennesland (@TWennesland) <a href="https://twitter.com/TWennesland/status/1392218044433420291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded.

The health ministry controlled by Hamas in Gaza territory has said that 83 people have died since the violence outbreak, 17 of them children, and 487 have been wounded. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza more than 600 times since Monday evening while Hamas has fired more than 1,600 rockets towards Israel. "Dozens of those killed were terrorists and that additionally, some Palestinian fatalities were caused by misfired rockets from Gaza that failed to reach Israel and fell short in the Strip," The Times of Israel reported quoting Israel Defense Forces. The Israeli-Palestine conflict "The situation on the ground is simply tragic, you have two and a half million Palestinians in Gaza who are under siege, who have no shelter to seek safety in": @nour_odeh, senior journalist and Palestinian Legislative Council candidate@SaroyaHem pic.twitter.com/V7RBv9xv1k — WION (@WIONews) May 13, 2021 × The ongoing violence between Israel and Palestine marks a dramatic escalation of tensions linked to the potential eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem by Israeli settlers and access to one of the most sacred sites in the city, which is a key hub for Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Gravitas: Violence escalates between Israel, Gaza Tensions between Israel and Palestine are rapidly rising with the ramping up of rocket attacks and the United Nations has warned that the conflict is moving towards a `full-scale war`. United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Tor Wennesland, called on both sides to de-escalate tensions the day before. "Stop the fire immediately. We are escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility for de-escalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating and is being paid for by ordinary people. The UN is working with all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he tweeted. Stop the fire immediately. We’re escalating towards a full scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of deescalation. The cost of war in Gaza is devastating & is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now — Tor Wennesland (@TWennesland) May 11, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas health ministry says 83 killed in Gaza since the start of violence

In service for nearly a decade to protect Israel from rocket fire from the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, Iron Dome is credited with helping Israel to maintain military supremacy over its neighbours.&nbsp;

But Iron Dome failed to intercept the projectile late Tuesday resulting in a major pipeline belonging to an Israeli state-owned energy company was hit in a rocket attack.

In the worst flare-up of violence in seven years, Israel&nbsp;launched hundreds of airstrikes and Palestinians fired hundreds of missiles so far this week, killing more than 70 people and injuring hundreds more amid rising fears the conflict could spiral into all-out war.

What started as a week of tense clashes in Jerusalem escalated on Wednesday into an aerial conflict and violent unrest on the streets of mixed Arab-Israeli towns.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Israel-Palestine conflict and said he hopes that the hostilities will come to a conclusion.

"My expectation and hope are that this will be closing down sooner than later. But Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying into your territory. But I had a conversation for a while with the -- with the Prime Minister of Israel. And I think that -- my hope is that we will see this coming to a conclusion sooner than later," Biden told reporters at the White House.

(With inputs from agencies)

In service for nearly a decade to protect Israel from rocket fire from the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, Iron Dome is credited with helping Israel to maintain military supremacy over its neighbours.

In service for nearly a decade to protect Israel from rocket fire from the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, Iron Dome is credited with helping Israel to maintain military supremacy over its neighbours. But Iron Dome failed to intercept the projectile late Tuesday resulting in a major pipeline belonging to an Israeli state-owned energy company was hit in a rocket attack. In the worst flare-up of violence in seven years, Israel launched hundreds of airstrikes and Palestinians fired hundreds of missiles so far this week, killing more than 70 people and injuring hundreds more amid rising fears the conflict could spiral into all-out war. What started as a week of tense clashes in Jerusalem escalated on Wednesday into an aerial conflict and violent unrest on the streets of mixed Arab-Israeli towns. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Israel-Palestine conflict and said he hopes that the hostilities will come to a conclusion. "My expectation and hope are that this will be closing down sooner than later. But Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying into your territory. But I had a conversation for a while with the -- with the Prime Minister of Israel. And I think that -- my hope is that we will see this coming to a conclusion sooner than later," Biden told reporters at the White House. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza rocket attack: Israeli energy pipeline hit as Iron Dome fails to intercept missile

Hostilities between Israel and Hamas escalated overnight, with 35 Palestinians killed in Gaza and five in Israel in the most intensive aerial exchanges in years.&nbsp;

Israel carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Gaza into the early hours of Wednesday, as the Islamist group and other Palestinian militant groups fired multiple rocket barrages at Tel Aviv and Beersheba.&nbsp;

One multi-storey residential building in Gaza collapsed and another was heavily damaged after they were repeatedly hit by Israeli airstrikes. Israel said it attacked Hamas targets, including intelligence centres and rocket launch sites. 
 
Gravitas: Israel &amp; Hamas exchange rocket fire

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It was the heaviest offensive between Israel and Hamas since a 2014 war in Gaza and prompted international concern that the situation could spiral out of control.&nbsp;

UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland tweeted: "Stop the fire immediately. We're escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility of de-escalation.&nbsp;

"The cost of war in Gaza is devastating &amp; is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he wrote. &nbsp;

Into the early hours of Wednesday morning, Gazans reported their homes shaking and the sky lighting up with Israeli attacks, outgoing rockets and Israeli air defence missiles intercepting them.&nbsp;

Israelis ran for shelters or flattened themselves on pavements in communities more than 70 km (45 miles) up the coast and into southern Israel amid sounds of explosions as interceptor missiles streaked into the sky.&nbsp;

In the mixed Arab-Jewish town of Lod, near Tel Aviv, two people were killed after a rocket hit a vehicle in the area. Israeli media reported one was a 7-year-old girl. &nbsp;

Hamas's armed wing said it fired 210 rockets towards Beersheba and Tel Aviv in response to the bombing of the tower buildings in Gaza City.&nbsp;

For Israel, the militants' targeting of Tel Aviv, its commercial capital, posed a new challenge in the confrontation with the Islamist Hamas group, regarded as a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States.&nbsp;

The violence followed weeks of tension in Jerusalem during the Muslim fasting month of Ramzan, with clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters in and around Al-Aqsa Mosque, on the compound revered by Jews as Temple Mount and by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary.&nbsp;

These escalated in recent days ahead of a, now postponed, court hearing in a case that could end with Palestinian families evicted from East Jerusalem homes claimed by Jewish settlers.&nbsp;

Violence has also flared in the occupied West Bank, where a 26-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli gunfire during stone-throwing clashes in a refugee camp near the city of Hebron.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Hostilities between Israel and Hamas escalated overnight, with 35 Palestinians killed in Gaza and five in Israel in the most intensive aerial exchanges in years.

Hostilities between Israel and Hamas escalated overnight, with 35 Palestinians killed in Gaza and five in Israel in the most intensive aerial exchanges in years. Israel carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Gaza into the early hours of Wednesday, as the Islamist group and other Palestinian militant groups fired multiple rocket barrages at Tel Aviv and Beersheba. One multi-storey residential building in Gaza collapsed and another was heavily damaged after they were repeatedly hit by Israeli airstrikes. Israel said it attacked Hamas targets, including intelligence centres and rocket launch sites. Gravitas: Israel & Hamas exchange rocket fire It was the heaviest offensive between Israel and Hamas since a 2014 war in Gaza and prompted international concern that the situation could spiral out of control. UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland tweeted: "Stop the fire immediately. We're escalating towards full-scale war. Leaders on all sides have to take responsibility of de-escalation. "The cost of war in Gaza is devastating & is being paid by ordinary people. UN is working w/ all sides to restore calm. Stop the violence now," he wrote. Into the early hours of Wednesday morning, Gazans reported their homes shaking and the sky lighting up with Israeli attacks, outgoing rockets and Israeli air defence missiles intercepting them. Israelis ran for shelters or flattened themselves on pavements in communities more than 70 km (45 miles) up the coast and into southern Israel amid sounds of explosions as interceptor missiles streaked into the sky. In the mixed Arab-Jewish town of Lod, near Tel Aviv, two people were killed after a rocket hit a vehicle in the area. Israeli media reported one was a 7-year-old girl. Hamas's armed wing said it fired 210 rockets towards Beersheba and Tel Aviv in response to the bombing of the tower buildings in Gaza City. For Israel, the militants' targeting of Tel Aviv, its commercial capital, posed a new challenge in the confrontation with the Islamist Hamas group, regarded as a terrorist organisation by Israel and the United States. The violence followed weeks of tension in Jerusalem during the Muslim fasting month of Ramzan, with clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters in and around Al-Aqsa Mosque, on the compound revered by Jews as Temple Mount and by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary. These escalated in recent days ahead of a, now postponed, court hearing in a case that could end with Palestinian families evicted from East Jerusalem homes claimed by Jewish settlers. Violence has also flared in the occupied West Bank, where a 26-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli gunfire during stone-throwing clashes in a refugee camp near the city of Hebron. (With inputs from agencies)

35 killed in Gaza, 5 in Israel, as violence escalates 

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza.

Moving to head off further violence in&nbsp;Lod, which has also seen assaults by Jews on Arab passersby, police declared a night-time curfew and deployed heavily armed reinforcements.

In several other areas populated by Israel's 21 per cent Arab minority, Palestinian flags adorned electricity poles and hundreds of residents have turned out for protests, sometimes clashing with police or Jewish residents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/35-killed-in-gaza-5-in-israel-as-violence-escalates-384412">35 killed in Gaza, 5 in Israel, as violence escalates&nbsp;</a>

"We have lost control of the city and the streets,"&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;Mayor Yair Revivo told Channel 12 News after nightly confrontations in which an Arab townsman was shot dead, a killing in which two Jewish suspects have been arrested.

Scores of other people have been arrested in&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and in majority-Arab towns in central and northern Israel, including Umm al-Fahm along the West Bank border and Jisr al-Zarqa on the Mediterranean coast, police said.

In&nbsp;Lod, men carried Torah scrolls through the blackened and debris-strewn yard of the torched synagogue. President Reuven Rivlin described events in terms of recalling anti-Semitism abroad.

"The sight of the pogrom in&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and the disturbances across the country by an incited and bloodthirsty Arab mob ... is unforgivable," he said, calling the flying of the Palestinian flag by protesters "a brutal assault on shared existence".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-killed-in-israel-was-struck-by-rocket-strike-during-a-video-call-with-husband-384415">Indian woman killed in Israel was struck by rocket strike during a video call with husband</a>

Israel's Arab minority - Palestinian by heritage, Israeli by citizenship - is mostly descended from the Palestinians who lived under Ottoman and then British colonial rule before staying in Israel after the country’s 1948 creation.

Most are bilingual in Arabic and Hebrew and feel a sense of kinship with Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip. They often complain of systemic discrimination, unfair access to housing, healthcare, and education services.

Tension in Arab-Jewish towns has risen as Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza and Palestinian militants fired rockets into Israel in an escalation of violence since clashes in East Jerusalem on Monday morning.

Ibrahim, an Arab councillor with the&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;municipality, said: "What is happening now is (an) uprising that is going on (in) cities like Ramle,&nbsp;Lod, Jaffa, Acre and Haifa," calling events in Gaza and Jerusalem a "red line" for Arabs.

In the coastal city of Acre, Uri Buri, a Jewish-owned fish restaurant, was set fire to and some Arab residents said they were scared to leave home.

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In Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Arab protesters clashed with police firing stun grenades to disperse them.

"We condemn that our people's solidarity and cohesion with our brethren in Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip is being channelled through acts of sabotage to public and private property, as is now happening at Umm al-Fahm's entrance," said Samir Mahamid, Mayor of Umm al-Fahm.

Neighbourhoods with Arab residents, including&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and Jaffa, were among those where sirens were triggered by rocket fire. An Arab resident of&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and his daughter were killed on Wednesday when a vehicle was hit by a rocket, Israeli authorities said.

In Haifa and Jaffa, and in the Arab city of Nazareth, protesters have chanted slogans in support of Palestinians facing eviction from an East Jerusalem neighbourhood under a long-running legal case.

Arab citizens of Israel were among the thousands of protesters who have faced off in recent days with Israeli police near Al-Aqsa mosque and elsewhere in Jerusalem's Old City.

A spokesman for the Hamas Islamist militant group in Gaza encouraged Arab citizens to "rise up" against "our enemy and yours".

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza.

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza. Moving to head off further violence in Lod, which has also seen assaults by Jews on Arab passersby, police declared a night-time curfew and deployed heavily armed reinforcements. In several other areas populated by Israel's 21 per cent Arab minority, Palestinian flags adorned electricity poles and hundreds of residents have turned out for protests, sometimes clashing with police or Jewish residents. Also read | 35 killed in Gaza, 5 in Israel, as violence escalates "We have lost control of the city and the streets," Lod Mayor Yair Revivo told Channel 12 News after nightly confrontations in which an Arab townsman was shot dead, a killing in which two Jewish suspects have been arrested. Scores of other people have been arrested in Lod and in majority-Arab towns in central and northern Israel, including Umm al-Fahm along the West Bank border and Jisr al-Zarqa on the Mediterranean coast, police said. In Lod, men carried Torah scrolls through the blackened and debris-strewn yard of the torched synagogue. President Reuven Rivlin described events in terms of recalling anti-Semitism abroad. "The sight of the pogrom in Lod and the disturbances across the country by an incited and bloodthirsty Arab mob ... is unforgivable," he said, calling the flying of the Palestinian flag by protesters "a brutal assault on shared existence". Also read | Indian woman killed in Israel was struck by rocket strike during a video call with husband Israel's Arab minority - Palestinian by heritage, Israeli by citizenship - is mostly descended from the Palestinians who lived under Ottoman and then British colonial rule before staying in Israel after the country’s 1948 creation. Most are bilingual in Arabic and Hebrew and feel a sense of kinship with Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip. They often complain of systemic discrimination, unfair access to housing, healthcare, and education services. Tension in Arab-Jewish towns has risen as Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza and Palestinian militants fired rockets into Israel in an escalation of violence since clashes in East Jerusalem on Monday morning. Ibrahim, an Arab councillor with the Lod municipality, said: "What is happening now is (an) uprising that is going on (in) cities like Ramle, Lod, Jaffa, Acre and Haifa," calling events in Gaza and Jerusalem a "red line" for Arabs. In the coastal city of Acre, Uri Buri, a Jewish-owned fish restaurant, was set fire to and some Arab residents said they were scared to leave home. In Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Arab protesters clashed with police firing stun grenades to disperse them. "We condemn that our people's solidarity and cohesion with our brethren in Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip is being channelled through acts of sabotage to public and private property, as is now happening at Umm al-Fahm's entrance," said Samir Mahamid, Mayor of Umm al-Fahm. Neighbourhoods with Arab residents, including Lod and Jaffa, were among those where sirens were triggered by rocket fire. An Arab resident of Lod and his daughter were killed on Wednesday when a vehicle was hit by a rocket, Israeli authorities said. In Haifa and Jaffa, and in the Arab city of Nazareth, protesters have chanted slogans in support of Palestinians facing eviction from an East Jerusalem neighbourhood under a long-running legal case. Arab citizens of Israel were among the thousands of protesters who have faced off in recent days with Israeli police near Al-Aqsa mosque and elsewhere in Jerusalem's Old City. A spokesman for the Hamas Islamist militant group in Gaza encouraged Arab citizens to "rise up" against "our enemy and yours".

Israel declares curfew in city of Lod, an Arab-Jewish town hit by violence

An Indian national who was working as a caregiver has been killed in a Hamas rocket attack at Ashkelon in Israel.

According to the family members of 31-year old Soumya Santhosh, the rocket fell on her residence in the city of Ashkelon while she was talking to her husband Santhosh, who is in the southern Indian state of Kerala, over a video call in the evening.

"My brother heard a huge sound during the video call. Suddenly the phone got disconnected. Then we immediately contacted fellow Malayalees working there. Thus we came to know about the incident," Santhosh's brother Saji said.

Soumya Santosh, who hailed from Kerala's Idukki district, worked as a caregiver attending to an elderly woman at a house in the southern Israeli coastal city of Ashkelon.

Ashkelon, which borders the Gaza Strip, has come under massive fire from the Palestinian terrorists.

Soumya was reportedly living in Israel for the past seven years. She has a nine-year-old son whom she had left with her husband in Kerala. Her 80-year-old elderly charge is said to have survived the direct hit on the house and is hospitalised in a serious condition, local media reports said.

Soumya is the daughter of former Kanjikuzhy panchayat member Satish and Savithri. Her last visit to Kerala was in 2017. The deadly rocket attack directly struck the house of the elderly woman.

Channel 12 reported that the rocket shelter was at least a minute's run away from the woman's home and the pair could not manage to reach it in time.

The home lacked a fortified room of its own.

Some media reports said that a technical glitch with an Iron Dome battery (an all-weather air defence system that intercepts and destroys short-range rockets) during the massive rocket barrage towards the Israeli coastal city prevented some rockets from being intercepted and may have been responsible for the casualties and deaths.

Ashkelon's Mayor Tomer Glam said that some 25 per cent of the residents do not have access to a protected area when rockets are fired at the city. It is impossible when normal life becomes a state of emergency within minutes, Glam told Army Radio.

There are houses from the 1960s where there is no basic protection. It is time for treasury officials and decision-makers to understand what is happening here in the city, he stressed.

Israel's ambassador to India Ron Malka on Tuesday took to Twitter to condole the Indian woman's death.

"On behalf of the state of Israel, I convey heartfelt condolences to the family of Soumya Santosh, murdered by Hamas indiscriminate terror attack on innocent lives. Our hearts are crying with her 9-years-old son that lost his mother in this cruel terrorist attack," he said. 
 
"I just spoke to the family of Ms. Soumya Santosh, the victim of the Hamas terrorist strike. I expressed my sorrow for their unfortunate loss &amp; extended my condolences on behalf of the state of Israel. The whole country is mourning her loss &amp; we are here for them."

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I just spoke to the family of Ms. Soumya Santosh, the victim of the Hamas terrorist strike. I expressed my sorrow for their unfortunate loss &amp; extended my condolences on behalf of the state of Israel. The whole country is mourning her loss &amp; we are here for them. <a href="https://t.co/btmoewYMSS">pic.twitter.com/btmoewYMSS</a>
— Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRonMalka/status/1392358596227203073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Newly-elected MLA and Nationalist Congress Kerala leader Mani C Kappan condemned the incident.

In a Facebook post, Kappan, who is representing Pala seat in the Kerala Assembly, said thousands of Keralites working in Israel were living in fear. He also sought the intervention of the central and state governments.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian national who was working as a caregiver has been killed in a Hamas rocket attack at Ashkelon in Israel. According to the family members of 31-year old Soumya Santhosh, the rocket fell on her residence in the city of Ashkelon while she was talking to her husband Santhosh, who is in the southern Indian state of Kerala, over a video call in the evening.

An Indian national who was working as a caregiver has been killed in a Hamas rocket attack at Ashkelon in Israel. According to the family members of 31-year old Soumya Santhosh, the rocket fell on her residence in the city of Ashkelon while she was talking to her husband Santhosh, who is in the southern Indian state of Kerala, over a video call in the evening. "My brother heard a huge sound during the video call. Suddenly the phone got disconnected. Then we immediately contacted fellow Malayalees working there. Thus we came to know about the incident," Santhosh's brother Saji said. Soumya Santosh, who hailed from Kerala's Idukki district, worked as a caregiver attending to an elderly woman at a house in the southern Israeli coastal city of Ashkelon. Ashkelon, which borders the Gaza Strip, has come under massive fire from the Palestinian terrorists. Soumya was reportedly living in Israel for the past seven years. She has a nine-year-old son whom she had left with her husband in Kerala. Her 80-year-old elderly charge is said to have survived the direct hit on the house and is hospitalised in a serious condition, local media reports said. Soumya is the daughter of former Kanjikuzhy panchayat member Satish and Savithri. Her last visit to Kerala was in 2017. The deadly rocket attack directly struck the house of the elderly woman. Channel 12 reported that the rocket shelter was at least a minute's run away from the woman's home and the pair could not manage to reach it in time. The home lacked a fortified room of its own. Some media reports said that a technical glitch with an Iron Dome battery (an all-weather air defence system that intercepts and destroys short-range rockets) during the massive rocket barrage towards the Israeli coastal city prevented some rockets from being intercepted and may have been responsible for the casualties and deaths. Ashkelon's Mayor Tomer Glam said that some 25 per cent of the residents do not have access to a protected area when rockets are fired at the city. It is impossible when normal life becomes a state of emergency within minutes, Glam told Army Radio. There are houses from the 1960s where there is no basic protection. It is time for treasury officials and decision-makers to understand what is happening here in the city, he stressed. Israel's ambassador to India Ron Malka on Tuesday took to Twitter to condole the Indian woman's death. "On behalf of the state of Israel, I convey heartfelt condolences to the family of Soumya Santosh, murdered by Hamas indiscriminate terror attack on innocent lives. Our hearts are crying with her 9-years-old son that lost his mother in this cruel terrorist attack," he said. "I just spoke to the family of Ms. Soumya Santosh, the victim of the Hamas terrorist strike. I expressed my sorrow for their unfortunate loss & extended my condolences on behalf of the state of Israel. The whole country is mourning her loss & we are here for them." I just spoke to the family of Ms. Soumya Santosh, the victim of the Hamas terrorist strike. I expressed my sorrow for their unfortunate loss & extended my condolences on behalf of the state of Israel. The whole country is mourning her loss & we are here for them. pic.twitter.com/btmoewYMSS — Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) May 12, 2021 × Newly-elected MLA and Nationalist Congress Kerala leader Mani C Kappan condemned the incident. In a Facebook post, Kappan, who is representing Pala seat in the Kerala Assembly, said thousands of Keralites working in Israel were living in fear. He also sought the intervention of the central and state governments. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian woman killed in Israel was struck by rocket strike during a video call with husband

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Sunday expressed ‘serious concerns' to his Israeli counterpart about violent clashes in Jerusalem sparked by planned evictions of Palestinians from East Jerusalem, the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

Sullivan in a phone call with Israeli National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat 'encouraged the Israeli government to pursue appropriate measures to ensure calm during Jerusalem Day commemorations’.&nbsp;

New confrontations broke out between Palestinians and Israeli police in parts of East Jerusalem on Sunday, including in Sheikh Jarrah and outside the walled Old City, as well as in Haifa, a mixed Arab-Jewish city in northern Israel at the height of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan.&nbsp;

The clashes have been sparked by the planned evictions of several Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem, an area captured by Israel in a 1967 war.&nbsp;

Israel's attorney-general secured a deferment on Sunday of an Israeli Supreme Court hearing on the evictions, a session that had threatened to stoke more violence in the holy city and heighten international concern.&nbsp;

"Mr Sullivan also reiterated the United States’ serious concerns about the potential evictions of Palestinian families from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood," the White House statement said.&nbsp;

Sullivan and Ben-Shabbat "agreed that the launching of rocket attacks and incendiary balloons from Gaza towards Israel is unacceptable and must be condemned," the White House added.&nbsp;

It said Sullivan also expressed the Biden administration's commitment to Israel's security and to supporting peace and stability throughout the Middle East and would remain fully engaged in the days ahead to promote calm in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Sunday expressed ‘serious concerns' to his Israeli counterpart about violent clashes in Jerusalem sparked by planned evictions of Palestinians from East Jerusalem, the White House said in a statement.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Sunday expressed ‘serious concerns' to his Israeli counterpart about violent clashes in Jerusalem sparked by planned evictions of Palestinians from East Jerusalem, the White House said in a statement. Sullivan in a phone call with Israeli National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat 'encouraged the Israeli government to pursue appropriate measures to ensure calm during Jerusalem Day commemorations’. New confrontations broke out between Palestinians and Israeli police in parts of East Jerusalem on Sunday, including in Sheikh Jarrah and outside the walled Old City, as well as in Haifa, a mixed Arab-Jewish city in northern Israel at the height of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan. The clashes have been sparked by the planned evictions of several Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem, an area captured by Israel in a 1967 war. Israel's attorney-general secured a deferment on Sunday of an Israeli Supreme Court hearing on the evictions, a session that had threatened to stoke more violence in the holy city and heighten international concern. "Mr Sullivan also reiterated the United States’ serious concerns about the potential evictions of Palestinian families from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood," the White House statement said. Sullivan and Ben-Shabbat "agreed that the launching of rocket attacks and incendiary balloons from Gaza towards Israel is unacceptable and must be condemned," the White House added. It said Sullivan also expressed the Biden administration's commitment to Israel's security and to supporting peace and stability throughout the Middle East and would remain fully engaged in the days ahead to promote calm in Jerusalem. (With inputs from agencies)

US expresses 'serious concerns' over Jerusalem clashes, evictions

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