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

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

Israel brings in strict rules, says visitors to West Bank must register romances

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

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

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

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

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

Australia reverses decision of recognising Jerusalem as Israel capital

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

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

Lebanon approves 'historic' sea border deal with Israel

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

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

Two Palestinian teens shot dead in another Israeli West Bank operation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israel PM Yair Lapid supports 'two-state solution' in UNGA speech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the wake of a joint smuggling probe, the US has given Israel a coin that was part of a nearly 2,000-year-old Jewish revolt against Roman control.&nbsp;

The "exceedingly&nbsp;rare" quarter shekel was minted in AD 69, and the Manhattan District Attorney's office, which held a repatriation ceremony in New York on Monday, estimated its value at over $1 million.&nbsp;

The action was taken 20 years after Israeli officials first learnt through sources that the silver coin had been found in the Ella Valley, south of Jerusalem, by antiquities robbers. It is thought to be a part of a stash of coins that criminals discovered in the region, which is home to many significant archaeological sites.

According to investigators, the item was purchased illegally before being trafficked through Jordan to the UK. Then, it was shipped to the US using fraudulent documentation. The coin was scheduled to be auctioned off in Denver, Colorado, but was instead taken by Homeland Security agents in 2017.&nbsp;

The coin has "immense cultural value," according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., who noted that despite the investigation's complexity, his team of prosecutors, analysts, and agents working with Israeli authorities was able to locate it in a couple of months.

In AD 6, the Romans conquered the kingdom of Judaea, but resistance to their rule resulted in a string of uprisings known as the Jewish-Roman Wars. The currency was made during the First Jewish Revolt, also known as the Great Jewish Revolt, which started in AD 66 and lasted for four years.&nbsp;

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In some regions of their empire, including Judaea, the Romans had permitted the creation and circulation of particular regional coinage. According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), rebel commanders covered the emperor's visage on imperial coins by adding "Jewish motifs." It was "a declaration of independence by the Jews in the land of Israel, a statement against the mighty empire that stood before them," according to an IAA press release.

The British Museum bought a coin in the 1930s that is the only other quarter shekel of a similar design that the IAA is aware of. It estimates that "approximately three" more are also available on the illegal market.&nbsp;

Senior Israeli officials, including Gilad Erdan, the nation's ambassador to the UN, were present for the coin's return ceremony. The repatriation of the object, according to IAA director Eli Eskosido, "marks the beginning of a very positive and important trend for the restoration of cultural heritage items."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

In the wake of a joint smuggling probe, the US has given Israel a coin that was part of a nearly 2,000-year-old Jewish revolt against Roman control. The "exceedingly rare" quarter shekel was minted in AD 69, and the Manhattan District Attorney's office, which held a repatriation ceremony in New York on Monday, estimated its value at over $1 million.

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

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

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

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

Israel PM against action on soldier who possibly shot Al Jazeera reporter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An Israeli court on Tuesday sentenced the former Gaza head of a major US-based aid agency to 12 years in prison for funnelling millions of dollars to Islamist group Hamas.

The Beersheba district court in southern Israel issued a sentence of "12 years' prison time, less the detention" already served for World Vision's Mohammed al-Halabi, who has been jailed throughout the past six years of court proceedings.

The sentencing comes after the court issued a ruling in June that Halabi was guilty of siphoning off millions of dollars and tonnes of steel to Hamas, which controls the Palestinian enclave.

Halabi, who was arrested in June 2016 and indicted in August of that year, has consistently denied any irregularities.

His lawyer reiterated his claim of innocence following Tuesday's sentencing.

"He says that he's innocent, he did nothing, and there is no evidence," Maher Hanna said. "On the contrary, he proved in the court above any reasonable doubt that he made sure that no money would be (given) directly to Hamas."

According to Hanna, if Halabi had admitted to wrongdoings, he would have been released.

"But he insisted that truth also has value. And for his personal values and for the international humanitarian work values, he insisted on the truth, and he cannot admit a thing that he did not do," the lawyer said.

Secret evidence

Hanna said they would appeal the verdict to the supreme court.

The Israeli prosecution said it was also considering an appeal.

"These are very severe deeds, the defendant funded terror with millions of shekels, helped strengthen the Hamas tunnel network," Moran Guez of the southern district attorney's office.

"We asked for 16-21 years prison. We'll read the sentencing and consider our actions," she told reporters.

Halabi had been convicted of membership in a terrorist group -- Hamas -- and of financing terrorist activities, of having "transmitted information to the enemy" as well as the possession of a weapon.

Much of the evidence against him was kept secret, with Israel citing "security concerns", prompting his legal team to question the verdict's legitimacy.

In its sentencing, the court said Halabi had joined the military wing of Hamas in 2004, and was "planted in World Vision" the following year.

The court said that besides 12 tonnes of steel and other materials provided to Hamas for their tunnels and positions, he also gave the Islamist rules of the territory "millions of dollars" of World Vision's money "to fund terror".

The 12-year sentence was also meant to deter Gazans working in international aid groups from aiding Hamas, according to the court.

"There are huge amounts of money that if they reach terror organisations, will contribute to strengthening the terror regime in Gaza," the sentencing said.

'Deeply disappointing'

World Vision, a US-based Christian charity with almost 40,000 employees globally, said the sentencing was "deeply disappointing".

Its spokesperson Sharon Marshall stressed her objection to "any form of terrorism or activities that support terrorism," saying they "don't see any evidence of those things in this case."

"We fully support Mohammed's intent to appeal the verdict and the sentence in this case, and we call for a fair and transparent process at the supreme court," she said in a statement.

"We remain committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children in the region and hope we'll be able to advance our humanitarian work in the context of our longstanding cooperation with the relevant authorities in Palestine and Israel," Marshall said.

Omar Shakir, Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch, called the 12-year sentence a "profound miscarriage of justice," with the six-year trial and use of secret evidence constituting a "mockery of due process".

"He should long ago have been released," Shakir said in a statement.

Following Halabi's arrest, the Australian government, a major donor to World Vision, announced it was freezing funding to projects in the Gaza Strip.

A subsequent Australian government probe found no evidence of embezzlement.&nbsp;

An Israeli court on Tuesday sentenced the former Gaza head of a major US-based aid agency to 12 years in prison for funnelling millions of dollars to Islamist group Hamas.

An Israeli court on Tuesday sentenced the former Gaza head of a major US-based aid agency to 12 years in prison for funnelling millions of dollars to Islamist group Hamas. The Beersheba district court in southern Israel issued a sentence of "12 years' prison time, less the detention" already served for World Vision's Mohammed al-Halabi, who has been jailed throughout the past six years of court proceedings. The sentencing comes after the court issued a ruling in June that Halabi was guilty of siphoning off millions of dollars and tonnes of steel to Hamas, which controls the Palestinian enclave. Halabi, who was arrested in June 2016 and indicted in August of that year, has consistently denied any irregularities. His lawyer reiterated his claim of innocence following Tuesday's sentencing. "He says that he's innocent, he did nothing, and there is no evidence," Maher Hanna said. "On the contrary, he proved in the court above any reasonable doubt that he made sure that no money would be (given) directly to Hamas." According to Hanna, if Halabi had admitted to wrongdoings, he would have been released. "But he insisted that truth also has value. And for his personal values and for the international humanitarian work values, he insisted on the truth, and he cannot admit a thing that he did not do," the lawyer said. Secret evidence Hanna said they would appeal the verdict to the supreme court. The Israeli prosecution said it was also considering an appeal. "These are very severe deeds, the defendant funded terror with millions of shekels, helped strengthen the Hamas tunnel network," Moran Guez of the southern district attorney's office. "We asked for 16-21 years prison. We'll read the sentencing and consider our actions," she told reporters. Halabi had been convicted of membership in a terrorist group -- Hamas -- and of financing terrorist activities, of having "transmitted information to the enemy" as well as the possession of a weapon. Much of the evidence against him was kept secret, with Israel citing "security concerns", prompting his legal team to question the verdict's legitimacy. In its sentencing, the court said Halabi had joined the military wing of Hamas in 2004, and was "planted in World Vision" the following year. The court said that besides 12 tonnes of steel and other materials provided to Hamas for their tunnels and positions, he also gave the Islamist rules of the territory "millions of dollars" of World Vision's money "to fund terror". The 12-year sentence was also meant to deter Gazans working in international aid groups from aiding Hamas, according to the court. "There are huge amounts of money that if they reach terror organisations, will contribute to strengthening the terror regime in Gaza," the sentencing said. 'Deeply disappointing' World Vision, a US-based Christian charity with almost 40,000 employees globally, said the sentencing was "deeply disappointing". Its spokesperson Sharon Marshall stressed her objection to "any form of terrorism or activities that support terrorism," saying they "don't see any evidence of those things in this case." "We fully support Mohammed's intent to appeal the verdict and the sentence in this case, and we call for a fair and transparent process at the supreme court," she said in a statement. "We remain committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children in the region and hope we'll be able to advance our humanitarian work in the context of our longstanding cooperation with the relevant authorities in Palestine and Israel," Marshall said. Omar Shakir, Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch, called the 12-year sentence a "profound miscarriage of justice," with the six-year trial and use of secret evidence constituting a "mockery of due process". "He should long ago have been released," Shakir said in a statement. Following Halabi's arrest, the Australian government, a major donor to World Vision, announced it was freezing funding to projects in the Gaza Strip. A subsequent Australian government probe found no evidence of embezzlement.

Israel sentences world vision ex-Gaza chief to 12 years for aiding Hamas

Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday.

Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionally, the company is laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750. According to the company, Hulio will be replaced by Chief Operating Officer Yaron Shohat who will oversee the reorganisation of the company until a new successor is placed. Speaking about the company's flagship product after the announcement, Shohat said, "The company’s products remain in high demand with governments and law enforcement agencies because of its cutting-edge technology and proven ability to assist these customers in fighting crime and terror." It is pertinent to note that in March last year, Hulio had told his employees that he might be leaving the post soon. At the time, Hulio said that he would remain part of the firm but would recommend hiring a professional CEO with experience in managing public companies if NSO Group went public. However, Hulio stepped down the same year as the CEO, only to take the place again after two weeks as his replacement Isaac Benbenisti quit the company. Read more: NSO Group's chairman Asher Levi quits amid row over use of Pegasus spyware on Israeli citizens The Pegasus controversy The company has been wading in stormy waters, ever since its Pegasus spyware and its potent spying capabilities were revealed to the world. Forbidden Stories along with Amnesty International and a consortium of journalists from 17 news outlets across the world first exposed Pegasus and its use by various governments across the globe. As reported by WION, Pegasus infiltrates phones to vacuum up personal and location data and surreptitiously controls the smartphone’s microphones and cameras The company is also being sued by Mark Zuckerberg for allegedly targeting some 1,400 users of its encrypted messaging service WhatsApp with its spyware. Moreover, In November last year, Apple sued NSO, saying it violated US laws by breaking into the software installed on iPhones. Read more: Pegasus snooping: US blacklists spyware maker NSO Group for maliciously targetting journalists (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel: NSO Group CEO steps down amid mounting legal action over Pegasus sypware

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers on Saturday thwarted a major terror attack. The security agency apprehended three Palestinian women who were carrying a makeshift submachine gun and what appeared to be a suicide note.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers on Saturday thwarted a major terror attack. The security agency apprehended three Palestinian women who were carrying a makeshift submachine gun and what appeared to be a suicide note. The incident took place at the Eliyahu Crossing near Kalkilya. The three women in their 20s from Nablus were attempting to enter Israel without any permit. They drove up to the checkpoint before stopping their car and rummaging amongst themselves. A car stopping abruptly before the checkpoint instantly drew suspicion as the security guards alerted the higher authorities. After IDF soldiers searched the car, a makeshift “Carlo” submachine gun and an unclear note in Arabic in the trunk were discovered, according to The Times of Israel. According to local media reports, it was still unclear if the note was a suicide note indeed. The investigation agencies are questioning the arrested women if their plan was to use the guns at the checkpoint or not. Read More: Two Palestinian gunmen killed by Israeli forces in West Bank clash Israel and Palestine have been at it this month The tensions between Israel and Palestine have been at an all-time high in recent weeks. As reported by WION, earlier this month, Israel conducted its operation Breaking Dawn against the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. After three days of incessant violence, a cease-fire was finally announced, brokered by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. However, till then, Israel had launched attacks on some 170 targets, killing over 47 Palestinians including militants from Islamic Jihad and Hamas Read More: Malfunctioning rockets fired by Palestine fell into residential areas, killing more than a dozen Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, in the aftermath of the ceasefire, gave a televised address saying the bombardment had "landed a devastating blow to the enemy", and that the "entire senior military command of Islamic Jihad in Gaza was successfully targeted." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel: Three Palestinian women arrested in West Bank with makeshift submachine gun, ‘suicide note’

Palestinian Islamic Jihad confirms agreement with Israel on the Gaza ceasefire&nbsp;that will begin on Sunday evening. This comes after Israel's weekend shelling of Palestinian targets sparked longer-range rocket assaults against Israeli cities. Israel had accepted the idea, according to an Egyptian security source, while a Palestinian official acquainted with Egyptian operations stated that the truce will begin at 20:00. (1700 GMT).

Speaking representatives for both Israel and the group fighting it in Gaza since combat broke out on Friday would only confirm that they were in communication with Cairo. The flare-up has alarmed foreign powers because it reminds them of the lead-up to earlier battles in Gaza. It has, however, remained mostly in check since Hamas, the Gaza Strip's ruling Islamist organisation and a more potent force than Iranian-backed Islamic Jihad has so far refrained from entering.

According to officials in Gaza, 31 Palestinians have been killed thus far, at least a third of them civilians. Many areas of southern Israel have been paralysed by the missiles, and inhabitants of Tel Aviv and Ashkelon and other cities have been forced to seek refuge. The suggested ceasefire was scheduled to start at 2100 GMT, according to the Egyptian security source.

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In what it termed as reprisal for Israel's overnight execution of its southern Gaza commander—the second such senior officer it has killed in the fighting—Islamic Jihad expanded its range to fire toward Jerusalem on Sunday morning. The attack occurred as observant Jews fasted in remembrance of the two ancient Jerusalem temples that were demolished. Israel said that the rockets were shot down just west of the city by its Iron Dome interceptor, which the army estimated to have a 97 per cent success rate.

(with inputs from agencies)

Palestinian Islamic Jihad confirms agreement with Israel on the Gaza ceasefire that will begin on Sunday evening. This comes after Israel's weekend shelling of Palestinian targets sparked longer-range rocket assaults against Israeli cities.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad confirms agreement with Israel on the Gaza ceasefire that will begin on Sunday evening. This comes after Israel's weekend shelling of Palestinian targets sparked longer-range rocket assaults against Israeli cities. Israel had accepted the idea, according to an Egyptian security source, while a Palestinian official acquainted with Egyptian operations stated that the truce will begin at 20:00. (1700 GMT). Speaking representatives for both Israel and the group fighting it in Gaza since combat broke out on Friday would only confirm that they were in communication with Cairo. The flare-up has alarmed foreign powers because it reminds them of the lead-up to earlier battles in Gaza. It has, however, remained mostly in check since Hamas, the Gaza Strip's ruling Islamist organisation and a more potent force than Iranian-backed Islamic Jihad has so far refrained from entering. According to officials in Gaza, 31 Palestinians have been killed thus far, at least a third of them civilians. Many areas of southern Israel have been paralysed by the missiles, and inhabitants of Tel Aviv and Ashkelon and other cities have been forced to seek refuge. The suggested ceasefire was scheduled to start at 2100 GMT, according to the Egyptian security source. Also Read: IN PICS | What life in Afghanistan looks like after one year of Taliban rule? In what it termed as reprisal for Israel's overnight execution of its southern Gaza commander—the second such senior officer it has killed in the fighting—Islamic Jihad expanded its range to fire toward Jerusalem on Sunday morning. The attack occurred as observant Jews fasted in remembrance of the two ancient Jerusalem temples that were demolished. Israel said that the rockets were shot down just west of the city by its Iron Dome interceptor, which the army estimated to have a 97 per cent success rate. (with inputs from agencies)

Palestinian Islamic Jihad confirms agreement with Israel on Gaza ceasefire

The first set of drills ended on Sunday, but the Chinese media has reported that the next round will continue to take place. The authorities also said they detected an unmanned aerial vehicle near the Chinese coastal city of Xiamen and the army fired to repel it from making any progress into the area. In another, according to officials in Gaza, 31 Palestinians have been killed thus far, at least a third of them civilians. Many areas of southern Israel have been paralysed by the missiles, and inhabitants of Tel Aviv and Ashkelon and other cities have been forced to seek refuge. The suggested ceasefire was scheduled to start at 2100 GMT, according to the Egyptian security source.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-keeps-up-pressure-as-taiwan-detects-66-planes-and-14-warships-in-latest-drills-504639">China keeps up pressure as Taiwan detects 66 planes and 14 warships in latest drills</a>
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China has been conducting military drills around Taiwan in the aftermath of the United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the country. Taiwan said on Sunday that China deployed as many as 66 warplanes and 14 warships in the nearby areas with 22 aircrafts crossing the line dividing the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese authorities were not happy with Pelosi visiting Taiwan despite multiple warnings and the military drills are being considered to be a clear show of retaliation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-palestine-agree-on-ceasefire-from-sunday-evening-after-two-days-of-firing-report-504626">Israel and Palestine agree on ceasefire from Sunday evening after two days of firing: Report</a>
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Israel and Palestinian militants have reached an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza that will begin on Sunday evening, as reported by Reuters. This comes after Israel's weekend shelling of Palestinian targets sparked longer-range rocket assaults against Israeli cities. Israel had accepted the idea, according to an Egyptian security source, while a Palestinian official acquainted with Egyptian operations stated that the truce will begin at 20:00. (1700 GMT).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-what-life-in-afghanistan-looks-like-after-one-year-of-taliban-rule-504576">IN PICS | What life in Afghanistan looks like after one year of Taliban rule?</a>
<img alt="3" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfe5f44a-7236-4dcd-9b34-7fbf628bff56" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/285435-untitled-design.png.jpeg" />
In the ten months since they gained control, the Taliban were allegedly responsible for extrajudicial executions, torture, arbitrary detentions, and cruel punishments, according to the United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). According to a UNAMA investigation, the groups targeted for the breaches included journalists, human rights advocates, and people connected to the overthrown administration. It claimed that women's rights had also been diminished. These pictures depict life in Afghanistan after one year of Taliban rule. 
&nbsp;

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After launching the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D1) on Sunday morning, the Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) said the "satellites are no longer usable".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-lauds-departure-of-grain-ships-from-ukraine-as-sign-of-hope-504608">Pope Francis lauds departure of grain ships from Ukraine as 'sign of hope'</a>
<img alt="5" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afc1ec6b-b53e-427e-ad5c-aefb8f7e2c36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/251937-untitled-design-18.jpg" />
The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the passage of ships carrying food grains in the middle of the crisis was lauded by leaders all around the world. Pope Francis also joined in praising the departure of the ships from the Black Sea ports and said that it can be a “breakthrough” for dialogue that can eventually result in a long-term resolution. The pope has tried to bring the two countries on the discussion table, but no resolution seems likely at present for the ongoing invasion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-strike-on-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-say-russian-authorities-504602">New strike on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, say Russian authorities</a>
<img alt="6" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9db10e74-bcae-4483-92e1-142f842c9016" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/285474-00032g693y.jpg" />
Russian occupation authorities at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in Ukraine said on Sunday that an attack by Ukrainian forces had destroyed administrative buildings within the complex, as reported by AFP. The largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, which Russia took control of early in its attack, has recently been the target of military operations that have resulted in the destruction of a number of structures and the forced shutdown of a reactor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-shortens-suspension-period-for-international-flights-carrying-covid-patients-504546">China shortens suspension period for international flights carrying Covid patients</a>
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China took drastic decisions to stop the spread of COVID-19 cases in the past few months as the country saw one of the worst surges of the year. The authorities implemented lockdowns in a number of areas, and it also affected the transport in and out of the country. However, with the cases going down, the suspension period for inbound international flights carrying Covid-positive passengers has been shortened for the time being. The Civil Aviation Administration (CAAC) announced that incoming flights carrying the passengers will face a one-week suspension.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-diplomat-arrested-in-rio-de-janeiro-for-allegedly-killing-husband-504526">German diplomat arrested in Rio de Janeiro for allegedly killing husband</a>
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A German diplomat was arrested by the police in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday for allegedly killing his Belgian husband and trying to cover up the crime. According to the police report, Uwe Herbert Hahn works at the German consulate, and had reported that his&nbsp;husband died on Friday under mysterious circumstances. Hahn said that his husband – Walter Henri Maximilien Biot – collapsed and hit fatally hit his head. However, the police told AFP that the analysis of the victim’s body and the house in Ipanema showed that he was severely beaten and that resulted in his death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-champion-nikhat-zareen-beats-carly-mcnaul-to-win-her-maiden-gold-medal-at-cwg-2022-504598">World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG</a>
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Reigning world champion Nikhat Zareen lived up to the expectations at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 as she clinched her maiden gold medal at the Games on Sunday (August 07). The ace Indian boxer defeated Northern Ireland's Carly McNaul in the final of the women's 50kg category to return home with a gold medal for the country.

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A letter that John Lennon sent to Paul McCartney in anger after ‘The Beatles’ split is being auctioned. The bid&nbsp;at the auction, held by memorabilia auction firm Gotta Have Rock and Roll, starts&nbsp;at $20,000. Lennon wrote the letter in 1971 that was typewritten and had additional hand-written notes in reaction to an interview that McCartney gave to Melody Maker in which the latter discussed his opinions on John and his wife Yoko Ono, the breakup of the Beatles' business relationship, and several other topics.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The first set of drills ended on Sunday, but the Chinese media has reported that the next round will continue to take place. The authorities also said they detected an unmanned aerial vehicle near the Chinese coastal city of Xiamen and the army fired to repel it from making any progress into the area.

The first set of drills ended on Sunday, but the Chinese media has reported that the next round will continue to take place. The authorities also said they detected an unmanned aerial vehicle near the Chinese coastal city of Xiamen and the army fired to repel it from making any progress into the area. In another, according to officials in Gaza, 31 Palestinians have been killed thus far, at least a third of them civilians. Many areas of southern Israel have been paralysed by the missiles, and inhabitants of Tel Aviv and Ashkelon and other cities have been forced to seek refuge. The suggested ceasefire was scheduled to start at 2100 GMT, according to the Egyptian security source. Click on the headlines to read more: China keeps up pressure as Taiwan detects 66 planes and 14 warships in latest drills China has been conducting military drills around Taiwan in the aftermath of the United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the country. Taiwan said on Sunday that China deployed as many as 66 warplanes and 14 warships in the nearby areas with 22 aircrafts crossing the line dividing the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese authorities were not happy with Pelosi visiting Taiwan despite multiple warnings and the military drills are being considered to be a clear show of retaliation. Israel and Palestine agree on ceasefire from Sunday evening after two days of firing: Report Israel and Palestinian militants have reached an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza that will begin on Sunday evening, as reported by Reuters. This comes after Israel's weekend shelling of Palestinian targets sparked longer-range rocket assaults against Israeli cities. Israel had accepted the idea, according to an Egyptian security source, while a Palestinian official acquainted with Egyptian operations stated that the truce will begin at 20:00. (1700 GMT). IN PICS | What life in Afghanistan looks like after one year of Taliban rule? In the ten months since they gained control, the Taliban were allegedly responsible for extrajudicial executions, torture, arbitrary detentions, and cruel punishments, according to the United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). According to a UNAMA investigation, the groups targeted for the breaches included journalists, human rights advocates, and people connected to the overthrown administration. It claimed that women's rights had also been diminished. These pictures depict life in Afghanistan after one year of Taliban rule. SSLV launch: Satellites no longer usable, says ISRO After launching the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D1) on Sunday morning, the Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) said the "satellites are no longer usable". Pope Francis lauds departure of grain ships from Ukraine as 'sign of hope' The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the passage of ships carrying food grains in the middle of the crisis was lauded by leaders all around the world. Pope Francis also joined in praising the departure of the ships from the Black Sea ports and said that it can be a “breakthrough” for dialogue that can eventually result in a long-term resolution. The pope has tried to bring the two countries on the discussion table, but no resolution seems likely at present for the ongoing invasion. New strike on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, say Russian authorities Russian occupation authorities at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in Ukraine said on Sunday that an attack by Ukrainian forces had destroyed administrative buildings within the complex, as reported by AFP. The largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, which Russia took control of early in its attack, has recently been the target of military operations that have resulted in the destruction of a number of structures and the forced shutdown of a reactor. China shortens suspension period for international flights carrying Covid patients China took drastic decisions to stop the spread of COVID-19 cases in the past few months as the country saw one of the worst surges of the year. The authorities implemented lockdowns in a number of areas, and it also affected the transport in and out of the country. However, with the cases going down, the suspension period for inbound international flights carrying Covid-positive passengers has been shortened for the time being. The Civil Aviation Administration (CAAC) announced that incoming flights carrying the passengers will face a one-week suspension. German diplomat arrested in Rio de Janeiro for allegedly killing husband A German diplomat was arrested by the police in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday for allegedly killing his Belgian husband and trying to cover up the crime. According to the police report, Uwe Herbert Hahn works at the German consulate, and had reported that his husband died on Friday under mysterious circumstances. Hahn said that his husband – Walter Henri Maximilien Biot – collapsed and hit fatally hit his head. However, the police told AFP that the analysis of the victim’s body and the house in Ipanema showed that he was severely beaten and that resulted in his death. World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG Reigning world champion Nikhat Zareen lived up to the expectations at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 as she clinched her maiden gold medal at the Games on Sunday (August 07). The ace Indian boxer defeated Northern Ireland's Carly McNaul in the final of the women's 50kg category to return home with a gold medal for the country. John Lennon's stinging letter to Paul McCartney will expectedly auction for $30K A letter that John Lennon sent to Paul McCartney in anger after ‘The Beatles’ split is being auctioned. The bid at the auction, held by memorabilia auction firm Gotta Have Rock and Roll, starts at $20,000. Lennon wrote the letter in 1971 that was typewritten and had additional hand-written notes in reaction to an interview that McCartney gave to Melody Maker in which the latter discussed his opinions on John and his wife Yoko Ono, the breakup of the Beatles' business relationship, and several other topics.

Top 10 world news: China keeps up pressure on Taiwan, Israel-Palestine agree on ceasefire, and more

Israel and Gaza's militants continued to exchange missile attacks for the second consecutive day on Saturday after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 31&nbsp;people, including the leader of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, and injured 265 others.

The second round of flare-up claimed at least eight&nbsp;lives, including six children, near Jabalya refugee camp,&nbsp;the Palestinian authorities said on Sunday,&nbsp;while pinning the blame on Israeli forces for the deaths.

The Israeli military, however, denied that it was responsible, saying the explosion was caused by a failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch, about a third of which have failed to clear the boundaries of the enclave, reports Washington Post.

“We have concrete data that it was their rocket,” Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht was quoted as saying.

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IDF International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht with an update on the current situation regarding the Islamic Jihad in Gaza: <a href="https://t.co/sR5ZFD9zFk">pic.twitter.com/sR5ZFD9zFk</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1556059447587442688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, there were no significant injuries reported from the rocket fire targeting Israel, according to officials, as thousands of residents of southern and central Israel have been sheltered in safe rooms or community air raid bunkers.

There are reports of civilians suffering minor injuries while running for cover, and two IDF&nbsp;soldiers suffering shrapnel wounds. Multiple bush fires were also reported in areas where rockets fell.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-run-high-as-10-killed-in-israeli-missile-strike-in-gaza-strip-504214">Tensions run high as 10 killed in Israeli missile strike in Gaza Strip</a>

There seems to be no sign of exhaustion as Israel continued to pound Gaza Strip, and the militants retaliating to the air strikes since Saturday. While the Israeli military says it is targeting weapons depots hidden in residential areas and destroying a number of houses, Islamic Jihad has been firing rockets on Israel's commercial hub Tel Aviv.

According to the Israeli military, militants fired more than 449 rockets toward Israel in retaliation overnight and through Saturday.

The Israel military said that its Iron Dome air-defence network has intercepted about 95 percent of the rockets, with 81 of the launches falling short and landing in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Egypt has been engaging in intensive talks to mitigate the situation, Reuters reported. On Saturday, an Egyptian intelligence delegation headed by Major General Ahmed Abdelkhaliq arrived in Israel and later would be travelling to Gaza for talks.

The delegation was hoping to broker a day's ceasefire in order to carry out the talks, the sources told Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel and Gaza's militants continued to exchange missile attacks for the second consecutive day on Saturday after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 31 people, including the leader of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, and injured 265 others.

Israel and Gaza's militants continued to exchange missile attacks for the second consecutive day on Saturday after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 31 people, including the leader of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, and injured 265 others. The second round of flare-up claimed at least eight lives, including six children, near Jabalya refugee camp, the Palestinian authorities said on Sunday, while pinning the blame on Israeli forces for the deaths. The Israeli military, however, denied that it was responsible, saying the explosion was caused by a failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch, about a third of which have failed to clear the boundaries of the enclave, reports Washington Post. “We have concrete data that it was their rocket,” Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht was quoted as saying. IDF International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht with an update on the current situation regarding the Islamic Jihad in Gaza: pic.twitter.com/sR5ZFD9zFk — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) August 6, 2022 × Meanwhile, there were no significant injuries reported from the rocket fire targeting Israel, according to officials, as thousands of residents of southern and central Israel have been sheltered in safe rooms or community air raid bunkers. There are reports of civilians suffering minor injuries while running for cover, and two IDF soldiers suffering shrapnel wounds. Multiple bush fires were also reported in areas where rockets fell. Also read | Tensions run high as 10 killed in Israeli missile strike in Gaza Strip There seems to be no sign of exhaustion as Israel continued to pound Gaza Strip, and the militants retaliating to the air strikes since Saturday. While the Israeli military says it is targeting weapons depots hidden in residential areas and destroying a number of houses, Islamic Jihad has been firing rockets on Israel's commercial hub Tel Aviv. According to the Israeli military, militants fired more than 449 rockets toward Israel in retaliation overnight and through Saturday. The Israel military said that its Iron Dome air-defence network has intercepted about 95 percent of the rockets, with 81 of the launches falling short and landing in Gaza. Meanwhile, Egypt has been engaging in intensive talks to mitigate the situation, Reuters reported. On Saturday, an Egyptian intelligence delegation headed by Major General Ahmed Abdelkhaliq arrived in Israel and later would be travelling to Gaza for talks. The delegation was hoping to broker a day's ceasefire in order to carry out the talks, the sources told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Air raid sirens ring out in Jerusalem; Israel, Gaza militants continue strikes

At least 10 people, including a top commander of a Palestinian militant group, were killed and scores wounded in the Israeli strike in the Gaza Strip.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said the missiles were fired on Saturday in response to a threat following the arrest of another senior militant in the West Bank earlier this week.

According to Gaza health ministry, the missiles hit residential apartments as well as militant watchtowers, killing at least 10 people, including a 5-year-old girl, and wounding 55, The New York Times reported.

Taysir al-Jabari, Islamic Jihad’s commander for northern Gaza, was among those killed, the militant group said. He helmed the organisation after another militant was killed in an airstrike in 2019.

Later, Palestinian militants launched a barrage of rockets in central and southern Israel, bringing both sides on the verge of an all-out war. The Islamic Jihad militants claimed to have fired 100 rockets.

At least hundreds assembled in a funeral procession for the militant and for those who were killed. Many mourners were also seen waving Palestinian flags and Islamic Jihad banners while calling for revenge.

The Israeli Army released footage showing a fighter jet striking rocket launchers belonging to the Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip, according to the description of the army.

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Video from <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDF</a> of strike assassinating PIJ commander in northern <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> Tayseer Jabari. <a href="https://t.co/pUK2sK0kDP">pic.twitter.com/pUK2sK0kDP</a>
— Tzvi Joffre (@TzviJoffre) <a href="https://twitter.com/TzviJoffre/status/1555568337425518594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fires a volley of rockets at israel in retaliation to israeli airstrikes on Gaza which killed 10 people, including PIJ commander Taysir al-Jabari. <a href="https://t.co/8CEvmFp9CX">pic.twitter.com/8CEvmFp9CX</a>
— Richard Medhurst (@richimedhurst) <a href="https://twitter.com/richimedhurst/status/1555761129485377536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid in a late night address on Friday said that his country had launched the attacks based on concrete threats.

“This government has a zero-tolerance policy for any attempted attacks of any kind from Gaza towards Israeli territory. Israel will not sit idly by when there are those who are trying to harm its civilians,” Lapid said.

The airstrikes come amid a week of rising tensions between Israel and Islamic Jihad, which often acts independently of Hamas—the group that governs Gaza Strip.

Friday’s escalation follows one of the least violent phases gripping Gaza for several years. After the war in May 2021, there were relatively few cross-border exchanges of fire, as tensions shifted to the West Bank.

Both Israel and Hamas had vowed to avoid another full-scale war over the enclave, which has been under an Israeli and Egyptian blockade since 2007.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 10 people, including a top commander of a Palestinian militant group, were killed and scores wounded in the Israeli strike in the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said the missiles were fired on Saturday in response to a threat following the arrest of another senior militant in the West Bank earlier this week.

At least 10 people, including a top commander of a Palestinian militant group, were killed and scores wounded in the Israeli strike in the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said the missiles were fired on Saturday in response to a threat following the arrest of another senior militant in the West Bank earlier this week. According to Gaza health ministry, the missiles hit residential apartments as well as militant watchtowers, killing at least 10 people, including a 5-year-old girl, and wounding 55, The New York Times reported. Taysir al-Jabari, Islamic Jihad’s commander for northern Gaza, was among those killed, the militant group said. He helmed the organisation after another militant was killed in an airstrike in 2019. Later, Palestinian militants launched a barrage of rockets in central and southern Israel, bringing both sides on the verge of an all-out war. The Islamic Jihad militants claimed to have fired 100 rockets. At least hundreds assembled in a funeral procession for the militant and for those who were killed. Many mourners were also seen waving Palestinian flags and Islamic Jihad banners while calling for revenge. The Israeli Army released footage showing a fighter jet striking rocket launchers belonging to the Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip, according to the description of the army. Video from @IDF of strike assassinating PIJ commander in northern #Gaza Tayseer Jabari. pic.twitter.com/pUK2sK0kDP — Tzvi Joffre (@TzviJoffre) August 5, 2022 × Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fires a volley of rockets at israel in retaliation to israeli airstrikes on Gaza which killed 10 people, including PIJ commander Taysir al-Jabari. pic.twitter.com/8CEvmFp9CX — Richard Medhurst (@richimedhurst) August 6, 2022 × Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid in a late night address on Friday said that his country had launched the attacks based on concrete threats. “This government has a zero-tolerance policy for any attempted attacks of any kind from Gaza towards Israeli territory. Israel will not sit idly by when there are those who are trying to harm its civilians,” Lapid said. The airstrikes come amid a week of rising tensions between Israel and Islamic Jihad, which often acts independently of Hamas—the group that governs Gaza Strip. Friday’s escalation follows one of the least violent phases gripping Gaza for several years. After the war in May 2021, there were relatively few cross-border exchanges of fire, as tensions shifted to the West Bank. Both Israel and Hamas had vowed to avoid another full-scale war over the enclave, which has been under an Israeli and Egyptian blockade since 2007. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tensions run high as 10 killed in Israeli missile strike in Gaza Strip

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