Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers.

Tensions over Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem have stoked daily confrontations. Washington said Saturday it was "deeply concerned" and wanted "authorities to approach the residents ... with compassion and respect".

East Jerusalem is among territories that Palestinians seek for a future state. US-sponsored statehood negotiations with Israel stalled in 2014. Israel deems of all Jerusalem its capital - a status not recognised abroad.

"We firmly reject the pressure not to build in Jerusalem. To my regret, this pressure has been increasing of late,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said during a televised address ahead of national commemorations of the Israeli capture of East Jerusalem in a 1967 war.

"I say also to the best of our friends: Jerusalem is Israel's capital and just as every nation builds in its capital and builds up its capital, we also have the right to build in Jerusalem and to build up Jerusalem. That is what we have done and that is what we will continue to do,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said.

East Jerusalem tensions have spilled over into clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians around Al-Aqsa, Islam's third-holiest mosque, at the height of the Ramadan fast month.

On Saturday night, Islam's holy night of Laylat al-Qadr, Palestinian youth threw stones, lit fires and tore down police barricades in the streets leading to the walled Old City gates as officers on horseback and in riot gear used stun grenades and water cannons to repel them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-calls-israel-terror-state-over-palestinian-clashes-at-al-aqsa-383800">Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa&nbsp;</a>

Netanyahu&nbsp;said Israel allows freedom of worship but "we will not allow any extremist element to disturb the peace in Jerusalem ... We will not allow violent unrest."

Pope Francis called for an end to violence in Jerusalem, saying he was following events there with concern and inviting parties to seek solutions in order to respect the multicultural identity of the Holy City.

"Violence breeds violence, stop clashes," the pope told pilgrims who gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome on Sunday.

Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers.

Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers. Tensions over Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem have stoked daily confrontations. Washington said Saturday it was "deeply concerned" and wanted "authorities to approach the residents ... with compassion and respect". East Jerusalem is among territories that Palestinians seek for a future state. US-sponsored statehood negotiations with Israel stalled in 2014. Israel deems of all Jerusalem its capital - a status not recognised abroad. "We firmly reject the pressure not to build in Jerusalem. To my regret, this pressure has been increasing of late," Netanyahu said during a televised address ahead of national commemorations of the Israeli capture of East Jerusalem in a 1967 war. "I say also to the best of our friends: Jerusalem is Israel's capital and just as every nation builds in its capital and builds up its capital, we also have the right to build in Jerusalem and to build up Jerusalem. That is what we have done and that is what we will continue to do," Netanyahu said. East Jerusalem tensions have spilled over into clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians around Al-Aqsa, Islam's third-holiest mosque, at the height of the Ramadan fast month. On Saturday night, Islam's holy night of Laylat al-Qadr, Palestinian youth threw stones, lit fires and tore down police barricades in the streets leading to the walled Old City gates as officers on horseback and in riot gear used stun grenades and water cannons to repel them. Also read | Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa Netanyahu said Israel allows freedom of worship but "we will not allow any extremist element to disturb the peace in Jerusalem ... We will not allow violent unrest." Pope Francis called for an end to violence in Jerusalem, saying he was following events there with concern and inviting parties to seek solutions in order to respect the multicultural identity of the Holy City. "Violence breeds violence, stop clashes," the pope told pilgrims who gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome on Sunday.

Netanyahu says Israel firm on Jerusalem as global concern mounts

Turkey criticised Israel and accused it of unleashing "terror" on Palestinians after Israeli police fired rubber bullets and stun grenades towards rock-hurling Palestinian youth at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque late on Friday.

The clashes at Islam's third holiest site and around East Jerusalem, which injured 205 Palestinians and 17 police officers, came amid mounting anger over the potential eviction of Palestinians from homes on land claimed by Jewish settlers.

As the clashes flared, several Turkish officials criticised Israel and called for other countries to voice condemnation, while a Foreign Ministry statement urged Israel to "immediately end its provocative and hostile stance and act with reason".

"Shame on Israel and those who keep silent in the face of disgraceful attacks," Turkish Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said on Twitter late on Friday.

"We call on everyone to stand up against the policies of occupation and aggression of this apartheid state," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jerusalem-nightly-violent-encounter-injures-178-palestinians-and-6-police-officers-383586">Jerusalem: Nightly violent encounter injures 178 Palestinians and 6 police officers</a>

Turkey's communications director Fahrettin Altun told state television Israel was violating human rights and would "pay the price", as opposition parties echoed the government condemnation in a rare sign of unity.

"Attacking innocent people praying is clearly terror," Altun said. "We see that these attacks on Palestinians are against the most fundamental human rights."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jerusalem-clashes-palestinians-clash-with-israeli-police-at-al-aqsa-mosque-383605/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Former allies Turkey and Israel have had a bitter falling-out in recent years despite strong commercial ties, mutually expelling ambassadors in 2018.

Ankara has repeatedly condemned Israel's occupation of the West Bank and its treatment of Palestinians, calling the issue a "red line".

Last month, Turkey also condemned what it said was Israel's "systematic attempt at evicting Palestinians", referring to the long-running legal case that Israel's Supreme Court will hold a hearing over on Monday.

Turkey criticised Israel and accused it of unleashing "terror" on Palestinians after Israeli police fired rubber bullets and stun grenades towards rock-hurling Palestinian youth at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque late on Friday.

Turkey criticised Israel and accused it of unleashing "terror" on Palestinians after Israeli police fired rubber bullets and stun grenades towards rock-hurling Palestinian youth at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque late on Friday. The clashes at Islam's third holiest site and around East Jerusalem, which injured 205 Palestinians and 17 police officers, came amid mounting anger over the potential eviction of Palestinians from homes on land claimed by Jewish settlers. As the clashes flared, several Turkish officials criticised Israel and called for other countries to voice condemnation, while a Foreign Ministry statement urged Israel to "immediately end its provocative and hostile stance and act with reason". "Shame on Israel and those who keep silent in the face of disgraceful attacks," Turkish Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said on Twitter late on Friday. "We call on everyone to stand up against the policies of occupation and aggression of this apartheid state," he said. Also read | Jerusalem: Nightly violent encounter injures 178 Palestinians and 6 police officers Turkey's communications director Fahrettin Altun told state television Israel was violating human rights and would "pay the price", as opposition parties echoed the government condemnation in a rare sign of unity. "Attacking innocent people praying is clearly terror," Altun said. "We see that these attacks on Palestinians are against the most fundamental human rights." Former allies Turkey and Israel have had a bitter falling-out in recent years despite strong commercial ties, mutually expelling ambassadors in 2018. Ankara has repeatedly condemned Israel's occupation of the West Bank and its treatment of Palestinians, calling the issue a "red line". Last month, Turkey also condemned what it said was Israel's "systematic attempt at evicting Palestinians", referring to the long-running legal case that Israel's Supreme Court will hold a hearing over on Monday.

Turkey accuses Israel of 'terror' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians.&nbsp;

"The fight against this despotic regime is the fight against oppression and the fight against terrorism. And this is a public duty to fight against this regime," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech.

He was speaking on Iran's annual Quds Day that is celebrated on the last Friday of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Iran is a staunch supporter of Palestinian and Islamic militant groups opposed to peace with Israel. Iran does not recognise Israel.

"Muslim nations' cooperation on Quds (Jerusalem) is a nightmare for the Zionists," Khamenei said.

Iranian officials have called for an end to Israel, including by a referendum that would exclude most of its Jews while including Palestinians in the region and abroad.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the government to cancel its annual Quds Day parade. But Iranian state media showed footage of motorcyclists and vehicles flying Palestinian and Lebanese Hezbollah flags driving through Tehran streets.

They also published pictures of people burning Israeli and American flags.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians. "The fight against this despotic regime is the fight against oppression and the fight against terrorism. And this is a public duty to fight against this regime," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech. He was speaking on Iran's annual Quds Day that is celebrated on the last Friday of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Iran is a staunch supporter of Palestinian and Islamic militant groups opposed to peace with Israel. Iran does not recognise Israel. "Muslim nations' cooperation on Quds (Jerusalem) is a nightmare for the Zionists," Khamenei said. Iranian officials have called for an end to Israel, including by a referendum that would exclude most of its Jews while including Palestinians in the region and abroad. The coronavirus pandemic forced the government to cancel its annual Quds Day parade. But Iranian state media showed footage of motorcyclists and vehicles flying Palestinian and Lebanese Hezbollah flags driving through Tehran streets. They also published pictures of people burning Israeli and American flags. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei calls fight against Israel a public duty

Israel has temporarily barred its citizens from travelling to India and six other countries, citing high COVID-19 infection rates there.

A joint press release issued by the Prime Minister's Office and the Health Ministry on Friday said that Israelis will not be allowed to travel to Ukraine, Brazil, Ethiopia, South Africa, India, Mexico and Turkey.

This regulation will come into force on May 3 and will remain in place until May 16.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Australia bans arrivals from India, says offenders face jail, fines ">Australia bans arrivals from India, says offenders face jail, fines&nbsp;</a>

Non-Israelis, however, will be able to travel to these countries, provided they plan to reside there permanently, the press release said.

The regulation will not be applicable to those who stay at airports in transit in one of these countries for a time period of up to 12 hours while waiting for a connecting flight.

The Israeli government also authorised its health and interior ministers to appoint representatives to head an appeal committee and the panel reviewing special cases.

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry proposed that those returning from the seven countries enter a two-week mandatory quarantine, even if they have been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19, local media reports said.

Those who have received two negative COVID-19 test reports will be required to be in a 10-day quarantine, they said.

These additional restrictions are also expected to come into force on May 3, but are subject to the approval of the Knesset's (Israeli parliament) Arrangements Committee.

A record 3,689 daily COVID-19 fatalities pushed India's death toll to 2,15,542, while the infection count reached 1,95,57,457 with 3,92,488 more people being confirmed positive for the disease, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

The active cases have crossed the 33-lakh mark, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Israel has reported 838,481 COVID-19 cases so far with 6,363 deaths.

Israel has temporarily barred its citizens from travelling to India and six other countries, citing high COVID-19 infection rates there. A joint press release issued by the Prime Minister's Office and the Health Ministry on Friday said that Israelis will not be allowed to travel to Ukraine, Brazil, Ethiopia, South Africa, India, Mexico and Turkey.

Israel has temporarily barred its citizens from travelling to India and six other countries, citing high COVID-19 infection rates there. A joint press release issued by the Prime Minister's Office and the Health Ministry on Friday said that Israelis will not be allowed to travel to Ukraine, Brazil, Ethiopia, South Africa, India, Mexico and Turkey. This regulation will come into force on May 3 and will remain in place until May 16. Also read: Australia bans arrivals from India, says offenders face jail, fines Non-Israelis, however, will be able to travel to these countries, provided they plan to reside there permanently, the press release said. The regulation will not be applicable to those who stay at airports in transit in one of these countries for a time period of up to 12 hours while waiting for a connecting flight. The Israeli government also authorised its health and interior ministers to appoint representatives to head an appeal committee and the panel reviewing special cases. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry proposed that those returning from the seven countries enter a two-week mandatory quarantine, even if they have been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19, local media reports said. Those who have received two negative COVID-19 test reports will be required to be in a 10-day quarantine, they said. These additional restrictions are also expected to come into force on May 3, but are subject to the approval of the Knesset's (Israeli parliament) Arrangements Committee. A record 3,689 daily COVID-19 fatalities pushed India's death toll to 2,15,542, while the infection count reached 1,95,57,457 with 3,92,488 more people being confirmed positive for the disease, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. The active cases have crossed the 33-lakh mark, the data updated at 8 am showed. Israel has reported 838,481 COVID-19 cases so far with 6,363 deaths.

Israel bans travel to India, six other countries

Israel resumed funerals for stampede victims on Saturday. The stampede that took place on April 30 killed 45 people at a Jewish pilgrimage site. This was Israel's worst peacetime disaster.

One of the funerals was to be for Yedidya Hayut, a 13-year-old boy whose father was injured in the crush, according to local media reports.

Tens of thousands of people had thronged to Mount Meron in northern Israel and the reputed tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai on Thursday to mark the Lag BaOmer holiday and commemorate the second-century Talmudic sage's death.

Most of the victims of the stampede were ultra-Orthodox Jews.

On Friday, the first funerals were held in Jerusalem and the mainly ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak, where men in traditional long black coats lined the streets to mourn.

Sunday has been declared a national day of mourning.

Identifying bodies

In Tel Aviv's Habima square on Saturday evening, people lit candles at a small vigil to honour the victims.

"Once we have finished identifying and burying our dead, I will stand before the cameras and take responsibility" for the events, Public Security Minister Amir Ohana said Saturday.

"I am responsible but responsibility does not mean blame," he added.

The health ministry said late Friday that 32 bodies had been identified and 22 had been released, adding that identifying some of the bodies may require fingerprinting, DNA and dental testing.

It said the identification process would resume Saturday evening.

The pilgrimage was the largest public gathering in Israel since the Covid-19 pandemic erupted last year.

Israel has fully vaccinated more than half of its 9.3 million population against Covid-19, but restrictions remain on large public gatherings.

Officials had warned overcrowding could lead to a spike in infections, and only authorised 10,000 to attend.

(with inputs from agencies)

Israel resumed funerals for stampede victims on Saturday. The stampede that took place on April 30 killed 45 people at a Jewish pilgrimage site. This was Israel's worst peacetime disaster.

Israel resumed funerals for stampede victims on Saturday. The stampede that took place on April 30 killed 45 people at a Jewish pilgrimage site. This was Israel's worst peacetime disaster. One of the funerals was to be for Yedidya Hayut, a 13-year-old boy whose father was injured in the crush, according to local media reports. Tens of thousands of people had thronged to Mount Meron in northern Israel and the reputed tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai on Thursday to mark the Lag BaOmer holiday and commemorate the second-century Talmudic sage's death. Most of the victims of the stampede were ultra-Orthodox Jews. On Friday, the first funerals were held in Jerusalem and the mainly ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak, where men in traditional long black coats lined the streets to mourn. Sunday has been declared a national day of mourning. Identifying bodies In Tel Aviv's Habima square on Saturday evening, people lit candles at a small vigil to honour the victims. "Once we have finished identifying and burying our dead, I will stand before the cameras and take responsibility" for the events, Public Security Minister Amir Ohana said Saturday. "I am responsible but responsibility does not mean blame," he added. The health ministry said late Friday that 32 bodies had been identified and 22 had been released, adding that identifying some of the bodies may require fingerprinting, DNA and dental testing. It said the identification process would resume Saturday evening. The pilgrimage was the largest public gathering in Israel since the Covid-19 pandemic erupted last year. Israel has fully vaccinated more than half of its 9.3 million population against Covid-19, but restrictions remain on large public gatherings. Officials had warned overcrowding could lead to a spike in infections, and only authorised 10,000 to attend. (with inputs from agencies)

Israel funerals for stampede victims resume after Sabbath pause

US&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;are&nbsp;among&nbsp;the dozens&nbsp;killed&nbsp;and injured in a stampede at a religious&nbsp;festival&nbsp;in Israel, the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Embassy said on Saturday, as criticism mounted in the wake of one of the biggest civilian&nbsp;disasters in the country's history.

At least 45 people&nbsp;were&nbsp;crushed to death and more than 100 injured at the ultra-Orthodox Jewish&nbsp;festival&nbsp;on the slopes of Israel's Mount Meron, held overnight between Thursday and Friday.

The exact cause of the&nbsp;disaster&nbsp;is still not clear but witness accounts and videos posted on social media suggested that some people had fallen down stairs leading out of a narrow passageway packed by hundreds of worshippers trying to exit the site, as a surge of people came down upon&nbsp;those&nbsp;ahead of them who had fallen, being trampled and asphyxiated.

One witness described seeing a pyramid of people piling up one on top of the other. Authorities said there&nbsp;were&nbsp;children&nbsp;among&nbsp;those&nbsp;hurt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-killed-in-stampede-at-israeli-religious-bonfire-festival-381531">Israel pilgrimage stampede: At least 44 killed in biggest Covid-era gathering</a>

The Health Ministry said 32 of the dead had been identified by late Friday. The identification process paused for 24 hours&nbsp;in observance of the Jewish Sabbath, resuming on Saturday evening.

More than 20 of the people injured&nbsp;were&nbsp;still in hospital by Friday night. More than 2,000&nbsp;Israelis across the country responded to an emergency call for blood donations, according to Magen David Adom, Israel's ambulance service.

A&nbsp;US&nbsp;Embassy spokesperson said: "We can confirm that multiple&nbsp;US&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;were&nbsp;among&nbsp;the casualties".

Those&nbsp;included both dead and injured. The&nbsp;US&nbsp;Embassy was trying to verify if any more&nbsp;US&nbsp;citizens&nbsp;were&nbsp;involved and are providing all possible consular support to affected&nbsp;US&nbsp;citizens, the spokesperson said, declining to comment further.

The&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;Foreign Ministry said on Friday that consulate officials in New York&nbsp;were&nbsp;in contact with four families of victims and the&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;embassy in Argentina was in contact with one family.

US&nbsp;media have identified some of the dead, including a 19-year-old American citizen who was in Israel on a gap year.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday that two Canadians&nbsp;were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the&nbsp;disaster.

Safety Concerns

The Justice Ministry said investigators would look into whether there had been any police misconduct connected to the tragedy and that police had started their own investigation into the incident.

There had been a concern for years about safety risks at the annual event, held at the tomb of a 2nd-century Jewish sage in Galilee.

Anger has mounted at the government and the police for allowing the event to go ahead despite its size far exceeding the coronavirus restrictions on gatherings. An estimated 100,000 packed the&nbsp;festival.

Some critics said politicians had caved to pressures of ultra-Orthodox leaders who are presently allied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but have flouted the state's authority for years.

"The government wouldn't consider any restrictions for fear of its Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) partners. And as far as physical safety was concerned, this year wasn’t any different from previous ones. Warnings of a potential&nbsp;disaster&nbsp;have been heard many times before, including from members of the Haredi community, but the traditions must not be changed," wrote Anshel Pfeffer, an analyst for the left-wing Haaretz newspaper.

US citizens are among the dozens killed and injured in a stampede at a religious festival in Israel, the US Embassy said on Saturday, as criticism mounted in the wake of one of the biggest civilian disasters in the country's history.

US citizens are among the dozens killed and injured in a stampede at a religious festival in Israel, the US Embassy said on Saturday, as criticism mounted in the wake of one of the biggest civilian disasters in the country's history. At least 45 people were crushed to death and more than 100 injured at the ultra-Orthodox Jewish festival on the slopes of Israel's Mount Meron, held overnight between Thursday and Friday. The exact cause of the disaster is still not clear but witness accounts and videos posted on social media suggested that some people had fallen down stairs leading out of a narrow passageway packed by hundreds of worshippers trying to exit the site, as a surge of people came down upon those ahead of them who had fallen, being trampled and asphyxiated. One witness described seeing a pyramid of people piling up one on top of the other. Authorities said there were children among those hurt. Also read | Israel pilgrimage stampede: At least 44 killed in biggest Covid-era gathering The Health Ministry said 32 of the dead had been identified by late Friday. The identification process paused for 24 hours in observance of the Jewish Sabbath, resuming on Saturday evening. More than 20 of the people injured were still in hospital by Friday night. More than 2,000 Israelis across the country responded to an emergency call for blood donations, according to Magen David Adom, Israel's ambulance service. A US Embassy spokesperson said: "We can confirm that multiple US citizens were among the casualties". Those included both dead and injured. The US Embassy was trying to verify if any more US citizens were involved and are providing all possible consular support to affected US citizens, the spokesperson said, declining to comment further. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said on Friday that consulate officials in New York were in contact with four families of victims and the Israeli embassy in Argentina was in contact with one family. US media have identified some of the dead, including a 19-year-old American citizen who was in Israel on a gap year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday that two Canadians were killed in the disaster. Safety Concerns The Justice Ministry said investigators would look into whether there had been any police misconduct connected to the tragedy and that police had started their own investigation into the incident. There had been a concern for years about safety risks at the annual event, held at the tomb of a 2nd-century Jewish sage in Galilee. Anger has mounted at the government and the police for allowing the event to go ahead despite its size far exceeding the coronavirus restrictions on gatherings. An estimated 100,000 packed the festival. Some critics said politicians had caved to pressures of ultra-Orthodox leaders who are presently allied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but have flouted the state's authority for years. "The government wouldn't consider any restrictions for fear of its Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) partners. And as far as physical safety was concerned, this year wasn’t any different from previous ones. Warnings of a potential disaster have been heard many times before, including from members of the Haredi community, but the traditions must not be changed," wrote Anshel Pfeffer, an analyst for the left-wing Haaretz newspaper.

US citizens were among those killed in Israeli festival disaster

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday postponed planned parliamentary elections amid a dispute over voting in Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem and splits in his Fatah party.

Abbas, 85, blamed Israel for uncertainty about whether it would allow the legislative election to proceed in Jerusalem as well as in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.

The decision came three months after he announced the first national elections for 15 years in what was widely seen as a response to criticism of the democratic legitimacy of Palestinian institutions, including his own presidency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Israel pilgrimage stampede: At least 44 killed in biggest Covid-era gathering">Israel pilgrimage stampede: At least 44 killed in biggest Covid-era gathering</a>

The outcome of an election could be gains for Hamas, the Islamist militant group that controls Gaza. Abbas`s chief domestic rival, Hamas is regarded as a terrorist group by Israel, the United States and European Union but fought a well-organised campaign to defeat a similarly divided Fatah in 2006.

The dispute over Jerusalem was the principal reason cited by Abbas in a speech early Friday following a meeting of Palestinian political factions.

"Facing this difficult situation, we decided to postpone the date of holding legislative elections until the participation of Jerusalem and its people is guaranteed," Abbas said in the speech on Palestinian TV.

The delay of the parliamentary elections set for May is likely to draw intense domestic criticism, with Abbas and his allies weakened by challengers from within his own divided Fatah party.

It was not immediately clear whether a presidential vote scheduled for July would go ahead.

The Palestinian Central Elections Commission said it was suspending the election process following Abbas`s decision. The election campaign was supposed to begin on Friday.

Protesters in Gaza and the West Bank called for the elections to proceed as scheduled - for many it would be their first election.

"As a young Palestinian citizen, I call for conducting elections, and I want my right to elect so I would see new faces, young faces, and see new political stances," said Wael Deys, from Hebron.

Hamas criticised the reversal.

"We reject this decision which violates the national consensus, and Fatah movement bears responsibility for the consequences of this position," spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters.

Abbas had hinted at the delay for weeks by claiming that Israel had not agreed to permit East Jerusalem Palestinians to vote in the city.

A spokesman for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said earlier this week that there had been no formal Israeli announcement on whether it would allow Palestinian voting in Jerusalem - as it did during the last elections in 2006 - and Israeli officials said on Thursday that there had been no change.

But many Palestinians regard the Jerusalem issue as an excuse to avoid elections that a divided Fatah might well lose to Hamas.

Internal divisions surfaced in Abbas`s Fatah party when jailed Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and Nasser Al-Qudwa - a nephew of the party`s late founder Yasser Arafat - announced a rival slate of candidates to run against Abbas`s official lineup.

Nevertheless, election preparations were well under way, with thousands of new voters and three dozen party lists registered.

"The delay will cause a great disappointment among Palestinians, who most of them hoped it was time to end the divisions and bring about a change," said Gaza analyst Talal Okal.

Abbas has been in power since 2005 and has ruled by decree for over a decade.

The timing of his election announcement was seen as aimed at repairing ties with US&nbsp;President Joe Biden after they plummeted under predecessor Donald Trump.

But analysts say that with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict low on Biden's priority list, Washington prefers to avoid elections that could empower Hamas and anger Israel as US&nbsp;officials press ahead on nuclear talks with Iran.

Israel has been making it clear that it prefers an election delay, fearing its coordination with Abbas`s security forces in the West Bank would be undermined by the vote, said Shibley Telhami of the Brookings Institution.

"(To) the extent that Biden was prepared to confront Israel, his top priority has been the Iran nuclear deal," Telhami said, adding that, among other factors, "this appeared to have weighed in on the Biden administration, with reduced enthusiasm for the election."

State Department Spokesman Ned Price said on Thursday: "The exercise of democratic elections is a matter for the Palestinian people and for the Palestinian leadership to determine."

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday postponed planned parliamentary elections amid a dispute over voting in Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem and splits in his Fatah party.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday postponed planned parliamentary elections amid a dispute over voting in Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem and splits in his Fatah party. Abbas, 85, blamed Israel for uncertainty about whether it would allow the legislative election to proceed in Jerusalem as well as in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. The decision came three months after he announced the first national elections for 15 years in what was widely seen as a response to criticism of the democratic legitimacy of Palestinian institutions, including his own presidency. Also read: Israel pilgrimage stampede: At least 44 killed in biggest Covid-era gathering The outcome of an election could be gains for Hamas, the Islamist militant group that controls Gaza. Abbas`s chief domestic rival, Hamas is regarded as a terrorist group by Israel, the United States and European Union but fought a well-organised campaign to defeat a similarly divided Fatah in 2006. The dispute over Jerusalem was the principal reason cited by Abbas in a speech early Friday following a meeting of Palestinian political factions. "Facing this difficult situation, we decided to postpone the date of holding legislative elections until the participation of Jerusalem and its people is guaranteed," Abbas said in the speech on Palestinian TV. The delay of the parliamentary elections set for May is likely to draw intense domestic criticism, with Abbas and his allies weakened by challengers from within his own divided Fatah party. It was not immediately clear whether a presidential vote scheduled for July would go ahead. The Palestinian Central Elections Commission said it was suspending the election process following Abbas`s decision. The election campaign was supposed to begin on Friday. Protesters in Gaza and the West Bank called for the elections to proceed as scheduled - for many it would be their first election. "As a young Palestinian citizen, I call for conducting elections, and I want my right to elect so I would see new faces, young faces, and see new political stances," said Wael Deys, from Hebron. Hamas criticised the reversal. "We reject this decision which violates the national consensus, and Fatah movement bears responsibility for the consequences of this position," spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters. Abbas had hinted at the delay for weeks by claiming that Israel had not agreed to permit East Jerusalem Palestinians to vote in the city. A spokesman for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said earlier this week that there had been no formal Israeli announcement on whether it would allow Palestinian voting in Jerusalem - as it did during the last elections in 2006 - and Israeli officials said on Thursday that there had been no change. But many Palestinians regard the Jerusalem issue as an excuse to avoid elections that a divided Fatah might well lose to Hamas. Internal divisions surfaced in Abbas`s Fatah party when jailed Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and Nasser Al-Qudwa - a nephew of the party`s late founder Yasser Arafat - announced a rival slate of candidates to run against Abbas`s official lineup. Nevertheless, election preparations were well under way, with thousands of new voters and three dozen party lists registered. "The delay will cause a great disappointment among Palestinians, who most of them hoped it was time to end the divisions and bring about a change," said Gaza analyst Talal Okal. Abbas has been in power since 2005 and has ruled by decree for over a decade. The timing of his election announcement was seen as aimed at repairing ties with US President Joe Biden after they plummeted under predecessor Donald Trump. But analysts say that with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict low on Biden's priority list, Washington prefers to avoid elections that could empower Hamas and anger Israel as US officials press ahead on nuclear talks with Iran. Israel has been making it clear that it prefers an election delay, fearing its coordination with Abbas`s security forces in the West Bank would be undermined by the vote, said Shibley Telhami of the Brookings Institution. "(To) the extent that Biden was prepared to confront Israel, his top priority has been the Iran nuclear deal," Telhami said, adding that, among other factors, "this appeared to have weighed in on the Biden administration, with reduced enthusiasm for the election." State Department Spokesman Ned Price said on Thursday: "The exercise of democratic elections is a matter for the Palestinian people and for the Palestinian leadership to determine."

Palestinian parliamentary elections delayed, says Abbas, blaming Israel

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city. &nbsp;

The statement was a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE, which has welcomed tens of thousands of Israeli tourists and signed a slew of deals to strengthen bilateral ties since the administration of President Donald Trump brokered a historic and surprise deal to normalise relations between the two countries some seven months ago. &nbsp;

The UAE move laid the path for Bahrain and Sudan to also formalise ties with Israel.&nbsp;

The UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement, carried on the Emirates' state news agency, that it was concerned over acts of violence committed by right-wing extremist groups in the occupied East Jerusalem. &nbsp;

The ministry called on Israeli authorities to assume responsibility toward de-escalation and putting an end to all aggressions and practices that perpetuate tension and hostility. &nbsp;

The UAE cautioned it was necessary to preserve Jerusalem's historical identity and maintain maximum self-restraint to avoid the region slipping into new levels of instability in a way that threatens peace. &nbsp;

The immediate spark for the unrest was Israel's decision to barricade a plaza outside of Jerusalem's Old City where Palestinian residents traditionally gather in the evenings during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan. &nbsp;

The move deepened Palestinian concerns about Israel's control over east Jerusalem, which is home to sacred Jewish and Muslim sites.&nbsp;

Hundreds of young Palestinians took to the streets each evening to protest the barricades. &nbsp;

Crowds hurled stones, firebombs and other objects at police, while officers used stun grenades and water cannons to disperse them. &nbsp;

The Israeli decision appeared to have been reversed on late Sunday, when the barricades were suddenly removed. &nbsp;

The violence had escalated to cross-border fighting between Israel and Gaza's militant Hamas group. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city.

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city. The statement was a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE, which has welcomed tens of thousands of Israeli tourists and signed a slew of deals to strengthen bilateral ties since the administration of President Donald Trump brokered a historic and surprise deal to normalise relations between the two countries some seven months ago. The UAE move laid the path for Bahrain and Sudan to also formalise ties with Israel. The UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement, carried on the Emirates' state news agency, that it was concerned over acts of violence committed by right-wing extremist groups in the occupied East Jerusalem. The ministry called on Israeli authorities to assume responsibility toward de-escalation and putting an end to all aggressions and practices that perpetuate tension and hostility. The UAE cautioned it was necessary to preserve Jerusalem's historical identity and maintain maximum self-restraint to avoid the region slipping into new levels of instability in a way that threatens peace. The immediate spark for the unrest was Israel's decision to barricade a plaza outside of Jerusalem's Old City where Palestinian residents traditionally gather in the evenings during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan. The move deepened Palestinian concerns about Israel's control over east Jerusalem, which is home to sacred Jewish and Muslim sites. Hundreds of young Palestinians took to the streets each evening to protest the barricades. Crowds hurled stones, firebombs and other objects at police, while officers used stun grenades and water cannons to disperse them. The Israeli decision appeared to have been reversed on late Sunday, when the barricades were suddenly removed. The violence had escalated to cross-border fighting between Israel and Gaza's militant Hamas group. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE urges Israel to stop Jerusalem violence in rare rebuke 

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days.

The strikes hit what the military described as "terror targets" operated by Gaza's Islamist ruling party Hamas. They included a "training facility, an anti-aircraft missile launcher post, a concrete production plant &amp; terror tunnel infrastructure".

Witnesses and security sources said the strikes hit two militant "training sites" in southern Gaza and another target in central Gaza.A Hamas spokesman said that despite the Israeli action, "Gaza still fights and doesn't break."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nighttime-clashes-in-east-jerusalem-flare-palestine-israel-tensions-379636">Nighttime clashes in East Jerusalem flare Palestine-Israel tensions</a>

The strikes came hours after militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket into southern Israel.&nbsp;An Israeli army spokesperson said the rocket hit open ground and caused no casualties or damage.

It was the second such exchange in recent days. Late Thursday, Palestinian militants fired a rocket at southern Israel, prompting the army to launch retaliatory air strikes on Gaza that caused no casualties.

Israel imposed a blockade of Gaza's sea and land borders after Hamas seized control in 2007. The two sides have since fought three wars.&nbsp;A fragile truce has endured in recent years despite occasional flareups, with Palestinians firing rockets at Israel and the Jewish state responding with airstrikes on the coastal enclave.

&nbsp;

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days.

The Israeli military said Saturday it had conducted airstrikes against targets in the Gaza Strip following a rocket attack from the Palestinian enclave, in the second such exchange in as many days. The strikes hit what the military described as "terror targets" operated by Gaza's Islamist ruling party Hamas. They included a "training facility, an anti-aircraft missile launcher post, a concrete production plant & terror tunnel infrastructure". Witnesses and security sources said the strikes hit two militant "training sites" in southern Gaza and another target in central Gaza.A Hamas spokesman said that despite the Israeli action, "Gaza still fights and doesn't break." Also Read | Nighttime clashes in East Jerusalem flare Palestine-Israel tensions The strikes came hours after militants in the Gaza Strip fired a rocket into southern Israel. An Israeli army spokesperson said the rocket hit open ground and caused no casualties or damage. It was the second such exchange in recent days. Late Thursday, Palestinian militants fired a rocket at southern Israel, prompting the army to launch retaliatory air strikes on Gaza that caused no casualties. Israel imposed a blockade of Gaza's sea and land borders after Hamas seized control in 2007. The two sides have since fought three wars. A fragile truce has endured in recent years despite occasional flareups, with Palestinians firing rockets at Israel and the Jewish state responding with airstrikes on the coastal enclave.

Israel strikes Gaza after rocket attack

Over 100 Palestinians were wounded as protesters clashed with Israeli security forces in east Jerusalem in overnight development. Clashes erupted on Thursday night. This is largest such incident since the start of Holy Muslim month of Ramadan/ Ramzan.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said it had treated at least 105 people, with some 20 of them hospitalised. Israeli police said 20 officers were wounded, three of whom were taken to hospital.

Violence took place near the Old City. Police had barred access to some areas where Palestinians usually gather in large numbers during Ramadan.

During Ramadan, when the faithful fast from dawn to dusk, the promenade around the walls of the Old City is a popular place for Palestinians to get together after dark.

The protests erupted after videos posted online showed Palestinians being harrassed by Jewish youths who purportedly said "Death to Arabs"&nbsp;

Similar clashes earlier this week left four Palestinians injured, according to the Red Crescent.

Separately on Thursday night, the Israeli extreme-right group Lehava organised a march in west Jerusalem attended by hundreds to protest against anti-Jewish violence, the police said.

During the march, a policeman was injured in the face by stone-throwing Palestinians who had tried to hold a counter-protest, police said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over 100 Palestinians were wounded as protesters clashed with Israeli security forces in east Jerusalem in overnight development. Clashes erupted on Thursday night.

Over 100 Palestinians were wounded as protesters clashed with Israeli security forces in east Jerusalem in overnight development. Clashes erupted on Thursday night. This is largest such incident since the start of Holy Muslim month of Ramadan/ Ramzan. The Palestinian Red Crescent said it had treated at least 105 people, with some 20 of them hospitalised. Israeli police said 20 officers were wounded, three of whom were taken to hospital. Violence took place near the Old City. Police had barred access to some areas where Palestinians usually gather in large numbers during Ramadan. During Ramadan, when the faithful fast from dawn to dusk, the promenade around the walls of the Old City is a popular place for Palestinians to get together after dark. The protests erupted after videos posted online showed Palestinians being harrassed by Jewish youths who purportedly said "Death to Arabs" Similar clashes earlier this week left four Palestinians injured, according to the Red Crescent. Separately on Thursday night, the Israeli extreme-right group Lehava organised a march in west Jerusalem attended by hundreds to protest against anti-Jewish violence, the police said. During the march, a policeman was injured in the face by stone-throwing Palestinians who had tried to hold a counter-protest, police said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Jerusalem: More than 100 injured as Palestinians clash with Israeli police

A Syrian officer was killed and three soldiers wounded Thursday in strikes launched by Israel after a missile was fired towards a secretive nuclear site in the Jewish state, a monitor said.

A Syrian officer was killed and three soldiers wounded Thursday in strikes launched by Israel after a missile was fired towards a secretive nuclear site in the Jewish state, a monitor said. Since the outbreak of Syria's civil war in 2011, Israel has routinely carried out aerial raids on the country, mostly targeting Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah forces as well as government troops. Also Read | Encrypted chat app Signal alleges flaws in Israeli surveillance provider Cellebrite's equipment Its latest salvo was launched in the early hours of Thursday after a missile was fired from Syria towards southern Israel, where the Dimona nuclear reactor is located. Sirens sounded in Abu Qrenat, a Bedouin village not far from the nuclear site, the Israeli military said, before it responded by striking multiple defence batteries across the border. The exchange of fire comes less than two weeks after Iran accused its arch-foe Israel of "terrorism" following an explosion at the Islamic republic's Natanz nuclear facility. "A surface-to-air missile was fired from Syria to Israel's southern Negev," the Israel Defense Forces tweeted. "In response, we struck the battery from which the missile was launched and additional surface-to-air batteries in Syria." The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the Israeli retaliatory strikes killed a Syrian officer and seriously wounded three soldiers. "An officer with the rank of a lieutenant in the regime's forces was killed in the Israeli bombardments... targeting an air defence base in the Dmeir region east of the capital," it said. Syrian state news agency SANA said the Israeli fire came from the Golan Heights and was targeted "towards positions in the vicinity of Damascus". The strikes destroyed air defence batteries, the Observatory said. The Dmeir area, roughly 40 kilometres (25 miles) northeast of the Syrian capital, is believed to be home to weapons depots belonging to militias loyal to Iran, it added. SANA reported "some material losses" but said Syrian air defence batteries intercepted most of the missiles. Israel is considered the leading military power in the Middle East and is widely believed to possess its sole nuclear arsenal. It has never disclosed its atomic arsenal, but foreign experts say the Jewish state has between 100 to 300 nuclear warheads. There were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage on the Israeli side. Nuclear Facility Israel is investigating its response to the incoming projectile. The army said an initial probe showed it did not intercept the surface-to-air missile. Israeli troops examined fragments of an exploded missile that reached the community of Ashalim, some 40 kilometres (45 miles) from Dimona. Soldiers were still searching for more pieces of the projectile in the late morning. Israel has long sought to prevent bitter foe Iran from establishing itself in war-torn Syria. Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system has thwarted hundreds of attacks from Syria and the Gaza Strip in the past decade. The Israeli army has carried out hundreds of strikes on its war-battered northern neighbour, but it has rarely publicly acknowledged them. The missile launch comes as tensions run high between Israel and Iran, which had vowed to avenge the April 11 attack of its Natanz uranium enrichment plant. Iran accused Israel of being behind the explosion that hit Natanz's electricity distribution. Israel did not claim responsibility for the incident, but unsourced media reports in the country attributed it to the Israeli security services carrying out a "cyber operation". The New York Times, quoting unnamed US and Israeli intelligence officials, said there had been "an Israeli role" in the attack. Israel strongly opposes a landmark 2015 agreement that gave Iran relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its suspect nuclear programme. US President Joe Biden's administration is trying to revive the accord, which has been in tatters since his predecessor Donald Trump withdrew from it in 2018. Israel says Iran is trying to build an atomic bomb, though the Islamic republic says its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.

Israel strikes Syria after attack near secretive nuclear site

Israel and Greece have signed their biggest ever defence procurement deal, which Israel said on Sunday would strengthen political and economic ties between the countries and the two countries` air forces launched a joint exercise.

The agreement includes a $1.65 billion contract for the establishment and operation of a training centre for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defence contractor Elbit Systems over a 22-year period, Israel`s defence ministry said.

The training centre will be modeled on Israel`s own flight academy and will be equipped with 10 M-346 training aircraft produced by Italian company Leonardo, the ministry said.

Elbit will supply kits to upgrade and operate Greece`s T-6 aircraft and also provide training, simulators and logistical support.

"I am certain that (this programme) will upgrade the capabilities and strengthen the economies of Israel and Greece and thus the partnership between our two countries will deepen on the defence, economic and political levels," said Israeli defence minister Benny Gantz.

The announcement follows a meeting in Cyprus on Friday between the UAE, Greek, Cypriot and Israeli foreign ministers, who agreed to deepen cooperation between their countries.

The Israeli and Greek air forces launched a joint exercise in Greece, the Israeli military said.

In at least one past exercise over Greece, Israeli fighter planes practiced against an S-300 posted on Crete.&nbsp; 
The Russian-made air defence system is also deployed in Syria and Iran, Israel’s foes. An Israeli military spokesman did not immediately respond to a Reuters query on whether the air force had again trained against the Greek S-300 in the latest exercise.

Israel and Greece have signed their biggest ever defence procurement deal, which Israel said on Sunday would strengthen political and economic ties between the countries and the two countries` air forces launched a joint exercise.

Israel and Greece have signed their biggest ever defence procurement deal, which Israel said on Sunday would strengthen political and economic ties between the countries and the two countries` air forces launched a joint exercise. The agreement includes a $1.65 billion contract for the establishment and operation of a training centre for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defence contractor Elbit Systems over a 22-year period, Israel`s defence ministry said. The training centre will be modeled on Israel`s own flight academy and will be equipped with 10 M-346 training aircraft produced by Italian company Leonardo, the ministry said. Elbit will supply kits to upgrade and operate Greece`s T-6 aircraft and also provide training, simulators and logistical support. "I am certain that (this programme) will upgrade the capabilities and strengthen the economies of Israel and Greece and thus the partnership between our two countries will deepen on the defence, economic and political levels," said Israeli defence minister Benny Gantz. The announcement follows a meeting in Cyprus on Friday between the UAE, Greek, Cypriot and Israeli foreign ministers, who agreed to deepen cooperation between their countries. The Israeli and Greek air forces launched a joint exercise in Greece, the Israeli military said. In at least one past exercise over Greece, Israeli fighter planes practiced against an S-300 posted on Crete. The Russian-made air defence system is also deployed in Syria and Iran, Israel’s foes. An Israeli military spokesman did not immediately respond to a Reuters query on whether the air force had again trained against the Greek S-300 in the latest exercise.

Israel and Greece sign record defence deal

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces.

"It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering.

"You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled.

For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding.

It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again."&nbsp;

Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day.

That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces.

Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard.

"We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said.

"I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns. Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces. "It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering. "You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled. For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding. It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again." Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day. That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces. Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard. "We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said. "I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated

The Israeli military says Palestinian militants fired a rocket from Gaza into the country's south on Friday, the second incident in 24 hours. The rocket caused no damage or injuries.&nbsp;

In response, Israeli fighter jets and helicopters hit five sites of the militant Hamas group, which controls the Gaza Strip. There were no reports of casualties in the air raids, which the Israeli military said targeted a training site, weapons manufacturing facility and a factory producing building materials for for attack tunnels, among other targets.&nbsp;

Israel blames Hamas for any attack emanating from the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for the Islamic militant group, said the Israeli airstrikes 'will not break' Gaza.&nbsp;

Early on Friday, Israeli aircraft hit three facilities operated by Hamas in response to the previous rocket attack.&nbsp;

The Israeli response came after the military said a projectile fired from the Gaza Strip Thursday evening landed in south of the country. That rocket attacks and Israeli retaliatory raids broke weeks of relative cross-border calm. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Israeli military says Palestinian militants fired a rocket from Gaza into the country's south on Friday, the second incident in 24 hours. The rocket caused no damage or injuries.

The Israeli military says Palestinian militants fired a rocket from Gaza into the country's south on Friday, the second incident in 24 hours. The rocket caused no damage or injuries. In response, Israeli fighter jets and helicopters hit five sites of the militant Hamas group, which controls the Gaza Strip. There were no reports of casualties in the air raids, which the Israeli military said targeted a training site, weapons manufacturing facility and a factory producing building materials for for attack tunnels, among other targets. Israel blames Hamas for any attack emanating from the Palestinian enclave. Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for the Islamic militant group, said the Israeli airstrikes 'will not break' Gaza. Early on Friday, Israeli aircraft hit three facilities operated by Hamas in response to the previous rocket attack. The Israeli response came after the military said a projectile fired from the Gaza Strip Thursday evening landed in south of the country. That rocket attacks and Israeli retaliatory raids broke weeks of relative cross-border calm. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says Palestinian militants fired second rocket from Gaza in 24 hours 

The war of words between Iran and Israel over Iran's Natanz nuclear facility outage has heated up. The nuclear site that has been very active in the past few years is a Uranium enrichment site.&nbsp; 
The site was started by Iran in 2018 after former US President Donald Trump took US out of the nuclear deal with Iran The facility saw a blackout on Sunday.

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Sunday's outage was caused due to a cyberattack. Iran lost a key production facility. Iran has since blamed Israel for what it calls an act of sabotage.

"Various sources confirm that the Zionist regime was behind this incident (at Natanz). However, I am pleased that there have been no human casualties or environmental harm," said Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh.

"Iran's answer will be to take revenge against the Zionist regime at the right time and place," he said.

Iran is also calling the cyber attack 'nuclear terrorism'. It could take 9 months to restore production at Natanz.

Israel has neither denied not taken responsibility of the attack. It has been seen that Israel never confirms or denies such operation.

However, Israeli media is saying a lot about this. It is widely reporting that Israel orchestrated this cyberattack. Israeli public radio even reported that Mossad was behind the operation.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not take responsibility of the attack bur chose to send Iran a message from an undisclosed location.

"The fight against Iran's nuclearisation and its proxies, the fight against the Iranian nuclearisation, the fight against the Iranian arming, is a massive task. The situation that exists today doesn't mean it will be the same situation tomorrow. It is very difficult to explain what we have done here, in this transition from nothingness, from complete helplessness that nothing compares to in the history of nations, to being the world power, yes, world power which we've built here. Definitely a regional power but in certain areas a world power," he said.

The timing of the attack on Natanz facility was significant, it took place when US Secretary of State Lloyd Austin was in Israel.

During his Israel visit, Austin spoke of America's "Ironclad" commitment to Israel.

But when he was asked specifically about Iran and the cyber attack, he didn't have very much to say.

"I'm aware of the reports. I really don't have anything to add on Natanz. In terms of, you know, our efforts to engage Iran in diplomacy on the JCPOA, those efforts will continue. And I'm very obviously supportive of the president's efforts to negotiate a way ahead there. And I'll just leave it at that," said Austin.

A week ago the US and Iran began discussing a truce in Vienna. Israel hasn't been happy about this. It doesn't want the nuclear accord to be revived. It doesn't want Joe Biden to be talking to the Iranians.

There is lot to suggest that Iran and Israel see each other as existential threats. Both countries have vowed to wipe each other off the face of the earth.

Now, with this attack, Israel has sent a message to Washington that it is determined to stop or delay any efforts to restore the Iran nuclear deal. The hardliners in tehran will push for revenge. This could complicate any future negotiations for America.

The war of words between Iran and Israel over Iran's Natanz nuclear facility outage has heated up. The nuclear site that has been very active in the past few years is a Uranium enrichment site.

The war of words between Iran and Israel over Iran's Natanz nuclear facility outage has heated up. The nuclear site that has been very active in the past few years is a Uranium enrichment site. The site was started by Iran in 2018 after former US President Donald Trump took US out of the nuclear deal with Iran The facility saw a blackout on Sunday. Sunday's outage was caused due to a cyberattack. Iran lost a key production facility. Iran has since blamed Israel for what it calls an act of sabotage. "Various sources confirm that the Zionist regime was behind this incident (at Natanz). However, I am pleased that there have been no human casualties or environmental harm," said Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh. "Iran's answer will be to take revenge against the Zionist regime at the right time and place," he said. Iran is also calling the cyber attack 'nuclear terrorism'. It could take 9 months to restore production at Natanz. Israel has neither denied not taken responsibility of the attack. It has been seen that Israel never confirms or denies such operation. However, Israeli media is saying a lot about this. It is widely reporting that Israel orchestrated this cyberattack. Israeli public radio even reported that Mossad was behind the operation. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not take responsibility of the attack bur chose to send Iran a message from an undisclosed location. "The fight against Iran's nuclearisation and its proxies, the fight against the Iranian nuclearisation, the fight against the Iranian arming, is a massive task. The situation that exists today doesn't mean it will be the same situation tomorrow. It is very difficult to explain what we have done here, in this transition from nothingness, from complete helplessness that nothing compares to in the history of nations, to being the world power, yes, world power which we've built here. Definitely a regional power but in certain areas a world power," he said. The timing of the attack on Natanz facility was significant, it took place when US Secretary of State Lloyd Austin was in Israel. During his Israel visit, Austin spoke of America's "Ironclad" commitment to Israel. But when he was asked specifically about Iran and the cyber attack, he didn't have very much to say. "I'm aware of the reports. I really don't have anything to add on Natanz. In terms of, you know, our efforts to engage Iran in diplomacy on the JCPOA, those efforts will continue. And I'm very obviously supportive of the president's efforts to negotiate a way ahead there. And I'll just leave it at that," said Austin. A week ago the US and Iran began discussing a truce in Vienna. Israel hasn't been happy about this. It doesn't want the nuclear accord to be revived. It doesn't want Joe Biden to be talking to the Iranians. There is lot to suggest that Iran and Israel see each other as existential threats. Both countries have vowed to wipe each other off the face of the earth. Now, with this attack, Israel has sent a message to Washington that it is determined to stop or delay any efforts to restore the Iran nuclear deal. The hardliners in tehran will push for revenge. This could complicate any future negotiations for America.

Iran-Israel war of words ensues over Natanz nuclear facility power outage

Amid resumption of talks on reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Israel on Sunday. He met Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz who indicated Israel's willingness to work with US over Iran issue. Gantz told Austin that Israel will work with the US to ensure any&nbsp;"new agreement"&nbsp; on Iran's nuclear programme will&nbsp;safeguard regional security.

Gantz said "we will work closely with our American allies to ensure that any new agreement with Iran will secure the vital interests of the world and the United States, prevent a dangerous arms race in our region and protect the State of Israel".&nbsp;

Stressing America's "iron-clad" bond with Israel, Austin said the US will "continue close consultations to ensure Israel's qualitative military edge and to strengthen Israel's security".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-atomic-agency-claims-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorism-376886">Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'</a>

This is the first high-level visit from the new US administration to Israel.&nbsp;

Austin's visit comes just days after Washington said it had offered "very serious" ideas on reviving the hobbled agreement that is staunchly opposed by Israel.

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Israel under hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been a fierce critic of the Iran nuclear deal, dating back to when it was being negotiated during Barack Obama's administration.

Netanyahu had applauded when former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn from the nuclear deal in 2018. The ensuing developments involved US reimposing sanctions and Iran stepping back from some of its commitments in the deal.

In the latest breach of its undertakings in the troubled agreement, Tehran announced on Saturday that it had started up advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges.

President Hassan Rouhani inaugurated a cascade of 164 IR-6 centrifuges for producing enriched uranium, as well as two test cascades -- of 30 IR-5 and 30 IR-6S devices respectively -- at Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment plant, in a ceremony broadcast by state television.

(With AFP inputs)

Amid resumption of talks on reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Israel on Sunday. He met Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz who indicated Israel's willingness to work with US over Iran issue.

Amid resumption of talks on reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Israel on Sunday. He met Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz who indicated Israel's willingness to work with US over Iran issue. Gantz told Austin that Israel will work with the US to ensure any "new agreement" on Iran's nuclear programme will safeguard regional security. Gantz said "we will work closely with our American allies to ensure that any new agreement with Iran will secure the vital interests of the world and the United States, prevent a dangerous arms race in our region and protect the State of Israel". Stressing America's "iron-clad" bond with Israel, Austin said the US will "continue close consultations to ensure Israel's qualitative military edge and to strengthen Israel's security". Also Read | Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism' This is the first high-level visit from the new US administration to Israel. Austin's visit comes just days after Washington said it had offered "very serious" ideas on reviving the hobbled agreement that is staunchly opposed by Israel. × Israel under hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been a fierce critic of the Iran nuclear deal, dating back to when it was being negotiated during Barack Obama's administration. Netanyahu had applauded when former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn from the nuclear deal in 2018. The ensuing developments involved US reimposing sanctions and Iran stepping back from some of its commitments in the deal. In the latest breach of its undertakings in the troubled agreement, Tehran announced on Saturday that it had started up advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges. President Hassan Rouhani inaugurated a cascade of 164 IR-6 centrifuges for producing enriched uranium, as well as two test cascades -- of 30 IR-5 and 30 IR-6S devices respectively -- at Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment plant, in a ceremony broadcast by state television. (With AFP inputs)

Israel indicates willingness to work with US over Iran

Israel on Thursday said it has formally decided not to cooperate with an International Criminal Court war crimes investigation into the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The ICC's chief prosecutor announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court.

The ICC sent a deferral notice on March 9, giving Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) a month to inform judges whether they are investigating crimes similar to those being probed by the ICC.

Had Israel informed the court that it was carrying out its probe into alleged war crimes perpetrators, it could have asked for a deferral.

Ahead of the deadline, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement saying the government had agreed "to not cooperate" with the ICC.

Israel would instead send a letter to the court "completely rejecting the claim that Israel commits war crimes", it said.

The letter would also "reiterate Israel's unequivocal position that The Hague tribunal has no authority to open an investigation against it".

"The state of Israel is committed to the rule of law... and expects the court to refrain from violating its sovereignty and authority," the statement reads.

'Hypocrisy'

The PA, based in the occupied West Bank, has been a state party to the ICC since 2015.

The Palestinians have welcomed the investigation and said they will not seek any deferral.

The world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, the ICC was set up in 2002 to try humanity's worst crimes where local courts are unwilling or unable to step in.

ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda has said her probe will cover the situation since 2014 in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem.

It will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza war but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards.

After a five-year preliminary probe, Bensouda said there was a "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli military, Hamas Islamists who have controlled Gaza since 2007 and Palestinian armed groups.

Hamas has welcomed the ICC probe and argued that its attacks on Israel were justified acts of "resistance".

Netanyahu, a vocal critic of the ICC, on Thursday, accused the court of "hypocrisy" of targeting Israeli troops who "fight with high moral conduct against terrorists".

The long-serving premier has previously lambasted the decision to open the probe as the "essence of anti-Semitism" and declared Israel was "under attack".

Thursday's statement marked the first time that Netanyahu had made it clear Israel would not directly engage with the ICC.

The United States has also criticised the ICC investigation and voiced support for its ally Israel.

The ICC last week welcomed US President Joe Biden's lifting of sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on Bensouda, saying it signalled a new era of cooperation with Washington.

The Trump administration imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on Bensouda last year after she launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan.

Israel on Thursday said it has formally decided not to cooperate with an International Criminal Court war crimes investigation into the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Israel on Thursday said it has formally decided not to cooperate with an International Criminal Court war crimes investigation into the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories. The ICC's chief prosecutor announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court. The ICC sent a deferral notice on March 9, giving Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) a month to inform judges whether they are investigating crimes similar to those being probed by the ICC. Had Israel informed the court that it was carrying out its probe into alleged war crimes perpetrators, it could have asked for a deferral. Ahead of the deadline, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement saying the government had agreed "to not cooperate" with the ICC. Israel would instead send a letter to the court "completely rejecting the claim that Israel commits war crimes", it said. The letter would also "reiterate Israel's unequivocal position that The Hague tribunal has no authority to open an investigation against it". "The state of Israel is committed to the rule of law... and expects the court to refrain from violating its sovereignty and authority," the statement reads. 'Hypocrisy' The PA, based in the occupied West Bank, has been a state party to the ICC since 2015. The Palestinians have welcomed the investigation and said they will not seek any deferral. The world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, the ICC was set up in 2002 to try humanity's worst crimes where local courts are unwilling or unable to step in. ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda has said her probe will cover the situation since 2014 in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem. It will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza war but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards. After a five-year preliminary probe, Bensouda said there was a "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli military, Hamas Islamists who have controlled Gaza since 2007 and Palestinian armed groups. Hamas has welcomed the ICC probe and argued that its attacks on Israel were justified acts of "resistance". Netanyahu, a vocal critic of the ICC, on Thursday, accused the court of "hypocrisy" of targeting Israeli troops who "fight with high moral conduct against terrorists". The long-serving premier has previously lambasted the decision to open the probe as the "essence of anti-Semitism" and declared Israel was "under attack". Thursday's statement marked the first time that Netanyahu had made it clear Israel would not directly engage with the ICC. The United States has also criticised the ICC investigation and voiced support for its ally Israel. The ICC last week welcomed US President Joe Biden's lifting of sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on Bensouda, saying it signalled a new era of cooperation with Washington. The Trump administration imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on Bensouda last year after she launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan.

Israel refuses to work with ICC on war crimes probe, says 'no authority'

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday.

The highest ranked official of the administration of President Joe Biden to visit Israel, Austin will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, where discussions will cover "shared priorities" and reaffirm Washington's commitment to Israel maintaining military superiority over its neighbors, according to a Pentagon statement.

In Europe, he will hold talks with German defense minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Dr. Jan Hecker, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and British defense minister Ben Wallace.

Austin will leave Washington on Saturday, but the dates for his stops in each country were not given.

The trip coincides with rising tensions between Israel and Iran just as the Biden administration tries to engage Tehran over returning to the nuclear pact effectively torn up by former president Donald Trump.

In Europe it comes as Russia has sent shivers across the continent with the massing of a troops and war equipment along its border with Ukraine.

"Russia now has more troops on the border of Ukraine than at any time since 2014," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday, saying Biden was "increasingly concerned."

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday. The highest ranked official of the administration of President Joe Biden to visit Israel, Austin will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, where discussions will cover "shared priorities" and reaffirm Washington's commitment to Israel maintaining military superiority over its neighbors, according to a Pentagon statement. In Europe, he will hold talks with German defense minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Dr. Jan Hecker, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and British defense minister Ben Wallace. Austin will leave Washington on Saturday, but the dates for his stops in each country were not given. The trip coincides with rising tensions between Israel and Iran just as the Biden administration tries to engage Tehran over returning to the nuclear pact effectively torn up by former president Donald Trump. In Europe it comes as Russia has sent shivers across the continent with the massing of a troops and war equipment along its border with Ukraine. "Russia now has more troops on the border of Ukraine than at any time since 2014," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday, saying Biden was "increasingly concerned."

Pentagon chief Austin to visit Israel, Germany, Britain

American multinational pharmaceutical corporation Pfizer has halted a shipment of 700,000 COVID vaccines scheduled to arrive in Israel on Sunday following the country's failure to pay for the last 2.5 million doses shipped there.

Calling Israel a ‘banana republic,’ Pfizer has frozen further deliveries of the Covid-19 vaccine until it gets paid for the last doses.

Pfizer Officials said that they couldn’t understand how something like this could happen in an organized country.

According to Reuters, the Israeli government sought to buy around 36 million more Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses, which would cost the country around 3.5 billion shekels (around $1.05 million). 
 
But these plans - as well as a motion to approve funds to pay for the 700,000 COVID vaccines - were halted when Netanyahu and defence minister Benny Gantz got into a political tiff over judicial appointments. 
 
The vaccine, approved by the Western nations last year, uses mRNA technology.

It is approved for people aged 16 and above in the US and the European Union.&nbsp;

A real-world study of 1.2 million people in Israel found that the vaccine is 94 per cent effective.&nbsp;

Israel has recorded over 834,000 COVID cases and 6,243 deaths to date.

(With inputs from agencies)

American multinational pharmaceutical corporation Pfizer has halted a shipment of 700,000 COVID vaccines scheduled to arrive in Israel on Sunday following the country's failure to pay for the last 2.

American multinational pharmaceutical corporation Pfizer has halted a shipment of 700,000 COVID vaccines scheduled to arrive in Israel on Sunday following the country's failure to pay for the last 2.5 million doses shipped there. Calling Israel a ‘banana republic,’ Pfizer has frozen further deliveries of the Covid-19 vaccine until it gets paid for the last doses. Pfizer Officials said that they couldn’t understand how something like this could happen in an organized country. According to Reuters, the Israeli government sought to buy around 36 million more Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses, which would cost the country around 3.5 billion shekels (around $1.05 million). But these plans - as well as a motion to approve funds to pay for the 700,000 COVID vaccines - were halted when Netanyahu and defence minister Benny Gantz got into a political tiff over judicial appointments. The vaccine, approved by the Western nations last year, uses mRNA technology. It is approved for people aged 16 and above in the US and the European Union. A real-world study of 1.2 million people in Israel found that the vaccine is 94 per cent effective. Israel has recorded over 834,000 COVID cases and 6,243 deaths to date. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer halts delivery of Covid-19 vaccines to ‘banana republic’ Israel after country fails to pay

Iran has arrested an ‘Israeli spy’ and a number of other people, who were in contact with foreign intelligence services, Iranian state media reported on Monday, without giving the nationality of those arrested.

"An Israeli spy has been arrested in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province ... also other spies, who were in contact with several countries’ intelligence services have been arrested as well," it quoted an Intelligence Ministry official as saying.&nbsp;

Israeli officials did not immediately comment on the report.

The Islamic Republic does not recognise Israel and has accused it of being behind acts of sabotage and assassinations of nuclear scientists.

An Iranian convicted of spying for US and Israeli intelligence was executed in 2020.&nbsp;

Iran has blamed Israel for last year’s killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was seen by Western intelligence services as the mastermind of a covert Iranian nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp;

Tehran has denied seeking to build a nuclear arsenal. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for the killing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran has arrested an ‘Israeli spy’ and a number of other people, who were in contact with foreign intelligence services, Iranian state media reported on Monday, without giving the nationality of those arrested.

Iran has arrested an ‘Israeli spy’ and a number of other people, who were in contact with foreign intelligence services, Iranian state media reported on Monday, without giving the nationality of those arrested. "An Israeli spy has been arrested in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province ... also other spies, who were in contact with several countries’ intelligence services have been arrested as well," it quoted an Intelligence Ministry official as saying. Israeli officials did not immediately comment on the report. The Islamic Republic does not recognise Israel and has accused it of being behind acts of sabotage and assassinations of nuclear scientists. An Iranian convicted of spying for US and Israeli intelligence was executed in 2020. Iran has blamed Israel for last year’s killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was seen by Western intelligence services as the mastermind of a covert Iranian nuclear weapons programme. Tehran has denied seeking to build a nuclear arsenal. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for the killing. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran arrests 'Israeli spy', others in touch with foreign intelligence: Report

Hinting at the possibility of Israel signing more peace accords with other nations, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, said, "There is a lot of talk about different countries. I would guesstimate Oman, who also has a young leader interested in peaceful relations with Israel."&nbsp;

Speaking at the WION Global summit in Dubai on Wednesday, she said there have been "incredible overtures" and "'under the radar cooperation'' in the context of normalisation with Indonesia, which has one of the largest Muslim population in the world. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The countries doing under the radar normalisation with Israel will be the countries who will be going for official normalisation in a year or so, according to the politician. "About 200 Israeli companies were trading with UAE under the radar for years before official normalisation of ties,” added Hassan-Nahoum.&nbsp;

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Speaking at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONGlobalSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONGlobalSummit</a> in Dubai, Israeli politician <a href="https://twitter.com/FleurHassanN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FleurHassanN</a> shed light on what Abraham Accords meant for Israelis on the ground<a href="https://t.co/vHVsUAkxzx">https://t.co/vHVsUAkxzx</a>
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Israel also wants normalisation of ties with Saudi Arabia. "There is a desire to begin under the radar engagement with Saudi Arabia in the form of exchange in innovation through Bahrain," she revealed.&nbsp; 
The deputy mayor expressed hope that these initiatives will continue to accelerate and said Israel has always been ready for peace with all the neighbours, including Palestinians with open hands.&nbsp;

"Israel wants peace and is always ready to make painful compromises to get it. Every parent has to send their sons to army at the age of 18. I am sending my son in six months. No parent would want to if there is a choice." &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Hassan-Nahoum, there is only one way forward, which is peace and co-existence. &nbsp;Israel looks to bring peace to the whole region and wants a peaceful Palestine, she added. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hinting at the possibility of Israel signing more peace accords with other nations, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, said, "There is a lot of talk about different countries.

Hinting at the possibility of Israel signing more peace accords with other nations, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, said, "There is a lot of talk about different countries. I would guesstimate Oman, who also has a young leader interested in peaceful relations with Israel." Speaking at the WION Global summit in Dubai on Wednesday, she said there have been "incredible overtures" and "'under the radar cooperation'' in the context of normalisation with Indonesia, which has one of the largest Muslim population in the world. The countries doing under the radar normalisation with Israel will be the countries who will be going for official normalisation in a year or so, according to the politician. "About 200 Israeli companies were trading with UAE under the radar for years before official normalisation of ties,” added Hassan-Nahoum. Speaking at #WIONGlobalSummit in Dubai, Israeli politician @FleurHassanN shed light on what Abraham Accords meant for Israelis on the groundhttps://t.co/vHVsUAkxzx — WION (@WIONews) March 24, 2021 × Israel also wants normalisation of ties with Saudi Arabia. "There is a desire to begin under the radar engagement with Saudi Arabia in the form of exchange in innovation through Bahrain," she revealed. The deputy mayor expressed hope that these initiatives will continue to accelerate and said Israel has always been ready for peace with all the neighbours, including Palestinians with open hands. "Israel wants peace and is always ready to make painful compromises to get it. Every parent has to send their sons to army at the age of 18. I am sending my son in six months. No parent would want to if there is a choice." According to Hassan-Nahoum, there is only one way forward, which is peace and co-existence. Israel looks to bring peace to the whole region and wants a peaceful Palestine, she added.

Israeli politician hints at peace accords with Oman, Indonesia at WION Global Summit

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at &nbsp;WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

"Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said.

Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals &amp; the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states.

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The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE.

Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. &nbsp;The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency.&nbsp;They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries.

However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic".

"The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai. "Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said. Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals & the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states. × The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE. Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency. They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries. However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic". "The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

Addressing Palestinian grievances necessary: Former Yemen minister tells WION Global Summit

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported.&nbsp;

The Shahr e Kord vessel was hit by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, Iran said on Friday. Two maritime security sources said initial indications suggested the ship was intentionally targeted by an unknown source.&nbsp;

"Considering the geographical location and the way the ship was targeted, one of the strong possibilities is that this terrorist operation was carried out by the Zionist regime (Israel)," an unnamed member of the Iranian team investigating the incident was quoted as saying by semi-official Nournews.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz declined to comment directly about the incident when addressing a webinar on Saturday hosted by his Blue and White party, but he said, Iran regularly sent weapons to its proxies in the region.&nbsp;

"We foil arms supplies and other things relating to operational development and military capabilities by air, sea and land," Gantz said. "And by this, I am not saying whether we did or did not do this or that."&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said reports confirmed an act of sabotage in violation of international law, state media said. "Measures to identify the perpetrators of this sabotage action are on the agenda," he said.&nbsp;

The Iranian investigator said explosive projectiles could have been fired from an aerial vehicle, hitting containers on the ship's deck.&nbsp;

Iran's state-run shipping company IRISL said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of the attack, which it called terrorism and naval piracy.&nbsp;

The incident came two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman.&nbsp;

The cause was not immediately clear, although a US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported.

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported. The Shahr e Kord vessel was hit by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, Iran said on Friday. Two maritime security sources said initial indications suggested the ship was intentionally targeted by an unknown source. "Considering the geographical location and the way the ship was targeted, one of the strong possibilities is that this terrorist operation was carried out by the Zionist regime (Israel)," an unnamed member of the Iranian team investigating the incident was quoted as saying by semi-official Nournews. Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz declined to comment directly about the incident when addressing a webinar on Saturday hosted by his Blue and White party, but he said, Iran regularly sent weapons to its proxies in the region. "We foil arms supplies and other things relating to operational development and military capabilities by air, sea and land," Gantz said. "And by this, I am not saying whether we did or did not do this or that." Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said reports confirmed an act of sabotage in violation of international law, state media said. "Measures to identify the perpetrators of this sabotage action are on the agenda," he said. The Iranian investigator said explosive projectiles could have been fired from an aerial vehicle, hitting containers on the ship's deck. Iran's state-run shipping company IRISL said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of the attack, which it called terrorism and naval piracy. The incident came two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman. The cause was not immediately clear, although a US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel likely behind container ship attack: Iranian investigator  

Yehya Al-Sinwar&nbsp;has been re-elected to head Hamas in the Gaza Strip for a second term, officials said on Wednesday, reflecting his control over both political and military wings of the Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

Sinwar, Hamas leader in Gaza since 2017, was freed in a 2011 prisoner swap with Israel after spending more than 20 years behind bars on charges that included killing suspected informants against Palestinian militants.&nbsp;

While he supports Hamas' opposition to co-existence with Israel,&nbsp;Sinwar&nbsp;has maintained a relatively stable standoff across the Gaza border.&nbsp;

He has also sought improved ties with Egypt, which maintains restrictions along its frontier with Gaza, a small Mediterranean coastal territory.&nbsp;

"Sinwar's&nbsp;victory shows the man maintains a strong grip on things inside the movement, especially within its vital components such as the military wing," said Gaza political analyst Adnan Abu Amer.&nbsp;

"The win will enable&nbsp;Sinwar&nbsp;to pursue his policies, whether inside Gaza or with regional countries and the handling of the conflict with Israel."&nbsp;

Sinwar's&nbsp;main challenger in the election, which is only open to&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;members including those in Israeli prisons, was Nizar Awadallah, a long-time official and co-negotiator of the 2011 swap deal.&nbsp;

In a statement issued by Awadallah, he stressed his support for&nbsp;Sinwar, saying: "We stand by his side in every position to achieve the goals of our project and our movement."&nbsp;

Hamas has yet to elect a leader for the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Sources said his identity would be kept secret as protection against Israel or the administration of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, a Hamas rival.&nbsp;

Filling the position of Hamas’s political chief, who also speaks for its military wing, will require more time. The overall leader of Hamas is Ismail Haniyeh, who is also based in Gaza.&nbsp;

Haniyeh is facing a challenge this time by the former head of the group, Khaled&nbsp;Meshaal, who lives in Qatar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Yehya Al-Sinwar has been re-elected to head Hamas in the Gaza Strip for a second term, officials said on Wednesday, reflecting his control over both political and military wings of the Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave.

Yehya Al-Sinwar has been re-elected to head Hamas in the Gaza Strip for a second term, officials said on Wednesday, reflecting his control over both political and military wings of the Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave. Sinwar, Hamas leader in Gaza since 2017, was freed in a 2011 prisoner swap with Israel after spending more than 20 years behind bars on charges that included killing suspected informants against Palestinian militants. While he supports Hamas' opposition to co-existence with Israel, Sinwar has maintained a relatively stable standoff across the Gaza border. He has also sought improved ties with Egypt, which maintains restrictions along its frontier with Gaza, a small Mediterranean coastal territory. "Sinwar's victory shows the man maintains a strong grip on things inside the movement, especially within its vital components such as the military wing," said Gaza political analyst Adnan Abu Amer. "The win will enable Sinwar to pursue his policies, whether inside Gaza or with regional countries and the handling of the conflict with Israel." Sinwar's main challenger in the election, which is only open to Hamas members including those in Israeli prisons, was Nizar Awadallah, a long-time official and co-negotiator of the 2011 swap deal. In a statement issued by Awadallah, he stressed his support for Sinwar, saying: "We stand by his side in every position to achieve the goals of our project and our movement." Hamas has yet to elect a leader for the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Sources said his identity would be kept secret as protection against Israel or the administration of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, a Hamas rival. Filling the position of Hamas’s political chief, who also speaks for its military wing, will require more time. The overall leader of Hamas is Ismail Haniyeh, who is also based in Gaza. Haniyeh is facing a challenge this time by the former head of the group, Khaled Meshaal, who lives in Qatar. (With inputs from agencies)

Sinwar re-elected as Hamas chief in Gaza 

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported.

A senior official in Netanyahu's office declined to comment on the reports by Israeli public radio, Haaretz newspaper and other outlets.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-austria-and-denmark-establish-vaccine-supply-alliance-368066">&nbsp;Israel, Austria and Denmark establish vaccine-supply alliance</a>

The reported visit would take place less than two weeks before Netanyahu faces re-election, Israel's fourth vote in less than two years.&nbsp;

The veteran prime minister, in power since 2009, has sought to highlight his credentials as Israel's top statesman as part of his re-election pitch.&nbsp;

According to the Israeli reports, Netanyahu will meet with the UAE's leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan at Abu Dhabi's airport.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bahrain-leaders-discuss-vaccine-plant-netanyahu-visit-to-gulf-state-366232">&nbsp;Israel, Bahrain leaders discuss vaccine plant, Netanyahu visit to Gulf state</a>

He will then return to Jerusalem for talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on the vaccination effort against Covid-19.

The United Arab Emirates normalised ties with the Jewish state last September, making it the first Arab country to sign on to the so-called Abraham Accords brokered by former US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The deal made the UAE only the third majority Arab state to establish ties with Israel, following Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan subsequently joined the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;

Netanyahu had been set to visit UAE and Bahrain in February, but the trip was put off after Israel imposed travel limitations to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported. A senior official in Netanyahu's office declined to comment on the reports by Israeli public radio, Haaretz newspaper and other outlets. Also read | Israel, Austria and Denmark establish vaccine-supply alliance The reported visit would take place less than two weeks before Netanyahu faces re-election, Israel's fourth vote in less than two years. The veteran prime minister, in power since 2009, has sought to highlight his credentials as Israel's top statesman as part of his re-election pitch. According to the Israeli reports, Netanyahu will meet with the UAE's leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan at Abu Dhabi's airport. Also read | Israel, Bahrain leaders discuss vaccine plant, Netanyahu visit to Gulf state He will then return to Jerusalem for talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on the vaccination effort against Covid-19. The United Arab Emirates normalised ties with the Jewish state last September, making it the first Arab country to sign on to the so-called Abraham Accords brokered by former US President Donald Trump. The deal made the UAE only the third majority Arab state to establish ties with Israel, following Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan subsequently joined the Abraham Accords. Netanyahu had been set to visit UAE and Bahrain in February, but the trip was put off after Israel imposed travel limitations to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

Israel's Netanyahu to make first official trip to UAE Thursday: Reports

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Including himself among Israelis, who could be threatened with arrest, Benny Gantz said, "I was never afraid to go across enemy lines, I will continue to stand wherever I have to."&nbsp;

The Hague-based tribunal ruled last month that it has jurisdiction over the occupied West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. The ruling could lead to criminal investigations of Israel and of Palestinian militant groups including Hamas.&nbsp;

Israel is not a member of the court and rejects its jurisdiction, a position backed by its close ally the United States. Palestinians have welcomed the ruling as a chance for justice for victims of Israeli attacks.&nbsp;

In an interview on Israel's fortified border with Gaza, Gantz, who also holds Israel's justice portfolio, called the ruling a 'negative development', and added, "We have our own teams working in different (places) to try (and) influence (the ICC)."&nbsp;

Gantz was the military's chief of staff during a 2014 war between Israel and militants in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The ICC has pointed to that conflict as a potential issue to be probed.&nbsp;

Asked how many Israelis, including himself, might expect to be subject to arrest should the probe lead to criminal investigations, Gantz said, "I guess several hundred, but we will take care of everybody."&nbsp;

Gantz called that 'an estimate', declining to say if Israel had drawn up a list of officials. Israel will provide legal assistance to any implicated Israelis and will give them legal warnings regarding travel if necessary, Gantz said.&nbsp;

Asked if he himself might change his travel plans in light of the ICC probe, Gantz said, "So far, no."&nbsp;

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday.

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday. Including himself among Israelis, who could be threatened with arrest, Benny Gantz said, "I was never afraid to go across enemy lines, I will continue to stand wherever I have to." The Hague-based tribunal ruled last month that it has jurisdiction over the occupied West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. The ruling could lead to criminal investigations of Israel and of Palestinian militant groups including Hamas. Israel is not a member of the court and rejects its jurisdiction, a position backed by its close ally the United States. Palestinians have welcomed the ruling as a chance for justice for victims of Israeli attacks. In an interview on Israel's fortified border with Gaza, Gantz, who also holds Israel's justice portfolio, called the ruling a 'negative development', and added, "We have our own teams working in different (places) to try (and) influence (the ICC)." Gantz was the military's chief of staff during a 2014 war between Israel and militants in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The ICC has pointed to that conflict as a potential issue to be probed. Asked how many Israelis, including himself, might expect to be subject to arrest should the probe lead to criminal investigations, Gantz said, "I guess several hundred, but we will take care of everybody." Gantz called that 'an estimate', declining to say if Israel had drawn up a list of officials. Israel will provide legal assistance to any implicated Israelis and will give them legal warnings regarding travel if necessary, Gantz said. Asked if he himself might change his travel plans in light of the ICC probe, Gantz said, "So far, no."

Israel to protect hundreds of personnel against ICC probe 

Austria and Denmark, chafing at the slow rollout of Covid-19 vaccines in the European Union, have broken ranks with Brussels to form an alliance with Israel to produce second-generation vaccines against mutations of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The move by the two EU member states comes amid rising anger over delays in ordering, approving and distributing vaccines that have left the 27-member bloc trailing far behind Israel's world-beating vaccination campaign.&nbsp;

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said while the principle that the EU procures vaccines for member states was correct, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) had been too slow to approve them and lambasted pharmaceutical companies' supply bottlenecks.&nbsp;

"We must therefore prepare for further mutations and should no longer be dependent only on the EU for the production of second-generation vaccines," the conservative chancellor said in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Danish Prime Minister Danish Mette Frederiksen was also critical of the EU's vaccine programme.&nbsp;

“I don’t think it can stand alone, because we need to increase capacity. That is why we are now fortunate to start a partnership with Israel," she told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;

When asked if Denmark and Austria wanted to take unilateral action in obtaining vaccines, Frederiksen said: “You can call it that.”&nbsp;

Kurz and Frederiksen are due to travel to Israel this week to see Israel's rapid vaccine roll-out up close.&nbsp;

A growing number of EU countries have placed side orders for doses of vaccines from Russia and China, even though the EMA is yet to rule on whether they are both safe and effective.&nbsp;

Slovakia on Monday ordered two million doses of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. It expects half to arrive this month as it looks to step up vaccinations amid a surge in Covid-19 infections and deaths.&nbsp;

Austria and Denmark, chafing at the slow rollout of Covid-19 vaccines in the European Union, have broken ranks with Brussels to form an alliance with Israel to produce second-generation vaccines against mutations of the coronavirus.

Austria and Denmark, chafing at the slow rollout of Covid-19 vaccines in the European Union, have broken ranks with Brussels to form an alliance with Israel to produce second-generation vaccines against mutations of the coronavirus. The move by the two EU member states comes amid rising anger over delays in ordering, approving and distributing vaccines that have left the 27-member bloc trailing far behind Israel's world-beating vaccination campaign. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said while the principle that the EU procures vaccines for member states was correct, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) had been too slow to approve them and lambasted pharmaceutical companies' supply bottlenecks. "We must therefore prepare for further mutations and should no longer be dependent only on the EU for the production of second-generation vaccines," the conservative chancellor said in a statement on Tuesday. Danish Prime Minister Danish Mette Frederiksen was also critical of the EU's vaccine programme. “I don’t think it can stand alone, because we need to increase capacity. That is why we are now fortunate to start a partnership with Israel," she told reporters on Monday. When asked if Denmark and Austria wanted to take unilateral action in obtaining vaccines, Frederiksen said: “You can call it that.” Kurz and Frederiksen are due to travel to Israel this week to see Israel's rapid vaccine roll-out up close. A growing number of EU countries have placed side orders for doses of vaccines from Russia and China, even though the EMA is yet to rule on whether they are both safe and effective. Slovakia on Monday ordered two million doses of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. It expects half to arrive this month as it looks to step up vaccinations amid a surge in Covid-19 infections and deaths.

Austria, Denmark break ranks with EU to produce vaccines with Israel

Israel Health Minister Yuli Edelstein said on Friday that 50 per cent of the country's population has received at least one jab of coronavirus vaccine. He added that 35 per cent have received the full two-dose course.

Israel counts East Jerusalem Palestinians, who have been included in the vaccine campaign that began on Dec. 19, as part of the 9.3 million population. Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are not part of the Israeli campaign.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu has set an aim of vaccinating all Israeli over the age of 16 by end of March when he is up for re-election.

He says that would allow for a post-pandemic reopening of the country in April.

But the Health Ministry has been worried by waning turnout for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

To counteract this, it has been limiting access to some leisure sites that have reopened to people who present a "Green Pass" on an app showing they have been fully vaccinated.

(With AFP inputs)

Israel Health Minister Yuli Edelstein said on Friday that 50 per cent of the country's population has received at least one jab of coronavirus vaccine. He added that 35 per cent have received the full two-dose course.

Israel Health Minister Yuli Edelstein said on Friday that 50 per cent of the country's population has received at least one jab of coronavirus vaccine. He added that 35 per cent have received the full two-dose course. Israel counts East Jerusalem Palestinians, who have been included in the vaccine campaign that began on Dec. 19, as part of the 9.3 million population. Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are not part of the Israeli campaign. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu has set an aim of vaccinating all Israeli over the age of 16 by end of March when he is up for re-election. He says that would allow for a post-pandemic reopening of the country in April. But the Health Ministry has been worried by waning turnout for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. To counteract this, it has been limiting access to some leisure sites that have reopened to people who present a "Green Pass" on an app showing they have been fully vaccinated. (With AFP inputs)

Half of the population received one dose of COVID vaccine, says Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Bahrain's Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on Thursday discussed the Gulf state's possible involvement in establishing a vaccine plant in Israel, Netanyahu's office said.&nbsp;

The two leaders also discussed a possible visit by Netanyahu to Bahrain once coronavirus restrictions would allow it, it said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The Bahraini regent also stated that he was interested in examining the possibility of Bahrain joining an investment in a vaccine manufacturing plant that is planned to be established in Israel together with other countries," the statement said.&nbsp;

Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates formalised ties with Israel on September 15, in a US-sponsored deal forged in part over shared concerns about Iran. The deal angered the Palestinians, who have long demanded statehood before any such regional rapprochement.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, who is seeking re-election on March 23, said on Wednesday he was in talks with the heads of Pfizer and Moderna to open facilities in Israel. Neither company responded to Reuters requests for comment.&nbsp;

Israel has been importing Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Inc Covid-19 vaccines.&nbsp;

Israel expects trade with Bahrain to be around $220 million in 2021, not including possible defence and tourism deals.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Bahrain's Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on Thursday discussed the Gulf state's possible involvement in establishing a vaccine plant in Israel, Netanyahu's office said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Bahrain's Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on Thursday discussed the Gulf state's possible involvement in establishing a vaccine plant in Israel, Netanyahu's office said. The two leaders also discussed a possible visit by Netanyahu to Bahrain once coronavirus restrictions would allow it, it said in a statement. "The Bahraini regent also stated that he was interested in examining the possibility of Bahrain joining an investment in a vaccine manufacturing plant that is planned to be established in Israel together with other countries," the statement said. Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates formalised ties with Israel on September 15, in a US-sponsored deal forged in part over shared concerns about Iran. The deal angered the Palestinians, who have long demanded statehood before any such regional rapprochement. Netanyahu, who is seeking re-election on March 23, said on Wednesday he was in talks with the heads of Pfizer and Moderna to open facilities in Israel. Neither company responded to Reuters requests for comment. Israel has been importing Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Inc Covid-19 vaccines. Israel expects trade with Bahrain to be around $220 million in 2021, not including possible defence and tourism deals.

Israel, Bahrain leaders discuss vaccine plant, Netanyahu visit to Gulf state

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened cabinet rivals on Monday for their first discussion of Israeli strategy against the Iranian nuclear programme since US President Joe Biden took office pledging to pursue diplomacy with Tehran.&nbsp;

Netanyahu's meeting with Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi followed his first phone call with the US leader last week, and came a month before Israel holds another election triggered by coalition infighting.&nbsp;

Israeli officials said the conservative Netanyahu, bracing for discord with Biden's Democratic administration on Iran, wanted to present a united front with the centrist Gantz and Ashkenazi.&nbsp;

"This is a matter that is supremely important, certainly more than politicking," an Israeli official said. "We have to ensure everyone is on board and not tempted to speak out of turn in hope of getting more votes."&nbsp;

Under Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, it undertook to limit its disputed uranium enrichment programme in exchange for a lifting of international sanctions.&nbsp;

When he tussled with then-US President Barack Obama over the deal, Netanyahu faced dissent from some of his own national security advisers. Obama's successor, Donald Trump, quit the deal in 2018, asserting that it was one-sided in Iran's favour, and reimposed sanctions on Tehran - moves welcomed by Netanyahu.&nbsp;

Biden, who was Obama's vice president, wants to rejoin the accord, a prospect Netanyahu and the current Israeli military chief have closed ranks against, as long as Iran ends violations since 2018 and returns to full compliance.&nbsp;

Also on the agenda of Monday's meeting was the possible appointment of a special Israeli envoy on the Iranian issue.&nbsp;

Candidates include Mossad spymaster Joseph (Yossi) Cohen and National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat, both of whom took part in the meeting, officials said. As both answer directly to Netanyahu, Gantz had voiced worry the Defence Ministry might be excluded from future diplomacy, one official said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened cabinet rivals on Monday for their first discussion of Israeli strategy against the Iranian nuclear programme since US President Joe Biden took office pledging to pursue diplomacy with Tehran.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened cabinet rivals on Monday for their first discussion of Israeli strategy against the Iranian nuclear programme since US President Joe Biden took office pledging to pursue diplomacy with Tehran. Netanyahu's meeting with Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi followed his first phone call with the US leader last week, and came a month before Israel holds another election triggered by coalition infighting. Israeli officials said the conservative Netanyahu, bracing for discord with Biden's Democratic administration on Iran, wanted to present a united front with the centrist Gantz and Ashkenazi. "This is a matter that is supremely important, certainly more than politicking," an Israeli official said. "We have to ensure everyone is on board and not tempted to speak out of turn in hope of getting more votes." Under Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, it undertook to limit its disputed uranium enrichment programme in exchange for a lifting of international sanctions. When he tussled with then-US President Barack Obama over the deal, Netanyahu faced dissent from some of his own national security advisers. Obama's successor, Donald Trump, quit the deal in 2018, asserting that it was one-sided in Iran's favour, and reimposed sanctions on Tehran - moves welcomed by Netanyahu. Biden, who was Obama's vice president, wants to rejoin the accord, a prospect Netanyahu and the current Israeli military chief have closed ranks against, as long as Iran ends violations since 2018 and returns to full compliance. Also on the agenda of Monday's meeting was the possible appointment of a special Israeli envoy on the Iranian issue. Candidates include Mossad spymaster Joseph (Yossi) Cohen and National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat, both of whom took part in the meeting, officials said. As both answer directly to Netanyahu, Gantz had voiced worry the Defence Ministry might be excluded from future diplomacy, one official said.

Netanyahu seeks Iran consensus with rivals

It is in human nature to appreciate incentives, especially when they are tasty. To attract locals to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> programme, an Israel bar has offered a barter system — a drink for a jab.

A bar in Israel doubled up as a vaccination centre in Tel Aviv and came up with an offer that nobody could refuse.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-first-dose-85-effective-after-2-4-weeks-study-says-364816" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-first-dose-85-effective-after-2-4-weeks-study-says-364816&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi2if-J2PruAhU47XMBHR2cB2EQFjAGegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw33kQfH3Bkh7znLkp1CZmBh" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-first-dose-85-effective-after-2-4-weeks-study-says-364816" target="_blank">Pfizer first dose 85% effective after 2-4 weeks, study says</a>

Tel Aviv's Jenia gastropub, in coordination with the municipality, offered a free drink in exchange for a jab of the coronavirus vaccine.

These drinks being offered were non-alcoholic, though, as a medical precaution.

This idea came up as the Health Ministry was worried that people's motivation to get a jab of the vaccine, or even the second dose, may start declining with time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jab-but-no-tab-israeli-bar-offers-free-drinks-with-vaccines-364877">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jab-but-no-tab-israeli-bar-offers-free-drinks-with-vaccines-364877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While more than 43 per cent of Israel's population has already received at least one dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the turnout is decreasing a tad.

"I thought it is a really good opportunity to come and get the vaccine because I didn't have either the time or the ability to go to other places," said May Perez, who was one of the first to enjoy the 'shot for shot' scheme.

It is in human nature to appreciate incentives, especially when they are tasty. To attract locals to the vaccination programme, an Israel bar has offered a barter system — a drink for a jab.

It is in human nature to appreciate incentives, especially when they are tasty. To attract locals to the vaccination programme, an Israel bar has offered a barter system — a drink for a jab. A bar in Israel doubled up as a vaccination centre in Tel Aviv and came up with an offer that nobody could refuse. Also read| Pfizer first dose 85% effective after 2-4 weeks, study says Tel Aviv's Jenia gastropub, in coordination with the municipality, offered a free drink in exchange for a jab of the coronavirus vaccine. These drinks being offered were non-alcoholic, though, as a medical precaution. This idea came up as the Health Ministry was worried that people's motivation to get a jab of the vaccine, or even the second dose, may start declining with time. WATCH| While more than 43 per cent of Israel's population has already received at least one dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the turnout is decreasing a tad. "I thought it is a really good opportunity to come and get the vaccine because I didn't have either the time or the ability to go to other places," said May Perez, who was one of the first to enjoy the 'shot for shot' scheme.

On the house: Israel bar offers free drinks with COVID-19 vaccine jabs

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