Gaza militants on Saturday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-closing-gaza-crossings-in-response-to-rocket-fire-215954">fired some 250 rockets at Israel</a>, which responded with strikes as a fragile ceasefire again faltered in an escalation that left four Palestinians dead, including a baby in disputed circumstances.

The latest flare-up came with Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules the blockaded Gaza Strip, seeking further concessions from Israel under the ceasefire.

Israel said around 250 rockets were fired from the Palestinian enclave and its air defences intercepted dozens of them.

One woman was seriously injured in a rocket strike on the Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, some 20 kilometres (13 miles) from the Gaza border, police said.

Police said a man was also hospitalised in the city of Ashkelon and spoke of other injuries without providing details.

Medics said the woman was 80 and the man was 50.

A house near Ashkelon was damaged while other rockets hit open areas.

The Israeli army said its tanks and planes hit some 120 militant targets.

They included an Islamic Jihad attack tunnel that stretched from southern Gaza into Israeli territory, military spokesman Jonathan Conricus said.

Two multi-storey buildings in Gaza City were destroyed, residents said.

Israel said one of the buildings included Hamas military intelligence and security offices.

Turkey said an office for its state news agency Anadolu was located in the building and strongly condemned the strike.

The Gaza health ministry reported a 14-month-old baby and her pregnant mother in addition to two Palestinian men killed in Israeli strikes, while 40 were wounded.

It was not immediately clear if the two men were affiliated with militant groups.

Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee on Twitter challenged the account of the mother and her baby being killed in an Israeli strike, suggesting they may have died from Palestinian fire.

Adraee did not provide more details and the army refused to comment further.

Video threat

As the exchange of fire continued, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations with security chiefs.

A statement from Hamas ally Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for at least some of the rocket fire and said it was prepared for more.

Its armed wing distributed a video showing militants handling rockets and threatening key Israeli sites, including Ben-Gurion international airport near Tel Aviv.

Israel said it was closing its people and goods crossings with Gaza as well as the zone it allows for fishermen off the enclave until further notice due to the rocket fire.

Egyptian and UN officials were engaged in discussions to calm the situation, as they have done repeatedly in the past, while the European Union called for an immediate halt to rocket fire from Gaza.

The UN envoy for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Nickolay Mladenov, called on "all parties to immediately de-escalate and return to the understandings of the past few months."

The United States condemned the rocket attacks on Israel and said Washington fully supported the Jewish state's "right to self-defense against these abhorrent attacks."

Visit to Cairo

The escalation follows the most violent clashes along the Gaza border in weeks on Friday.

Four Palestinians, including two Hamas militants, were killed after two Israeli soldiers were wounded in a shooting during weekly protests on the border.

Israel blamed Islamic Jihad for what it called the sniper attack, but stressed it held Hamas responsible for all violence from Gaza.

Israel and Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip have fought three wars since 2008 and fears remain of a fourth.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas brokered by Egypt and the United Nations had led to relative calm around Israel's April 9 general election.

But the past week saw a gradual uptick in violence.

With the ceasefire at risk, a Hamas delegation led by its Gaza head Yahya Sinwar went to Cairo on Thursday for talks with Egyptian officials.

The ceasefire has seen Israel allow Qatar to provide millions of dollars in aid to Gaza to pay salaries and to finance fuel purchases to ease a severe electricity shortage.

Eurovision looms

Several factors may lead Israel to seek to calm the situation quickly.

Netanyahu is engaged in tough negotiations to form a new government following last month's election, while Israel is due to host the Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv from May 14-18.

The country also celebrates its Independence Day on Thursday.

On the Gazan side, the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins in the week ahead.

Palestinians have participated in regular demonstrations and clashes along the Gaza border for more than a year, calling on Israel to ease its crippling blockade of the enclave.&nbsp;

At least 271 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the protests began in March 2018, the majority along the border.

Two Israeli soldiers have been killed in that period.

Israel accuses Hamas of using the protests as cover to carry out attacks and says its actions are necessary to defend the border and stop infiltrations.

The results of a UN investigation released at the end of February found that Israel may have committed crimes against humanity in responding to the border protests, as snipers "intentionally" shot civilians including children, journalists and the disabled.&nbsp;

Israel rejected the report "outright" but Hamas called for it to be held accountable.

Gaza militants on Saturday fired some 250 rockets at Israel, which responded with strikes as a fragile ceasefire again faltered in an escalation that left four Palestinians dead, including a baby in disputed circumstances.

Gaza militants on Saturday fired some 250 rockets at Israel, which responded with strikes as a fragile ceasefire again faltered in an escalation that left four Palestinians dead, including a baby in disputed circumstances. The latest flare-up came with Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules the blockaded Gaza Strip, seeking further concessions from Israel under the ceasefire. Israel said around 250 rockets were fired from the Palestinian enclave and its air defences intercepted dozens of them. One woman was seriously injured in a rocket strike on the Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, some 20 kilometres (13 miles) from the Gaza border, police said. Police said a man was also hospitalised in the city of Ashkelon and spoke of other injuries without providing details. Medics said the woman was 80 and the man was 50. A house near Ashkelon was damaged while other rockets hit open areas. The Israeli army said its tanks and planes hit some 120 militant targets. They included an Islamic Jihad attack tunnel that stretched from southern Gaza into Israeli territory, military spokesman Jonathan Conricus said. Two multi-storey buildings in Gaza City were destroyed, residents said. Israel said one of the buildings included Hamas military intelligence and security offices. Turkey said an office for its state news agency Anadolu was located in the building and strongly condemned the strike. The Gaza health ministry reported a 14-month-old baby and her pregnant mother in addition to two Palestinian men killed in Israeli strikes, while 40 were wounded. It was not immediately clear if the two men were affiliated with militant groups. Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee on Twitter challenged the account of the mother and her baby being killed in an Israeli strike, suggesting they may have died from Palestinian fire. Adraee did not provide more details and the army refused to comment further. Video threat As the exchange of fire continued, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations with security chiefs. A statement from Hamas ally Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for at least some of the rocket fire and said it was prepared for more. Its armed wing distributed a video showing militants handling rockets and threatening key Israeli sites, including Ben-Gurion international airport near Tel Aviv. Israel said it was closing its people and goods crossings with Gaza as well as the zone it allows for fishermen off the enclave until further notice due to the rocket fire. Egyptian and UN officials were engaged in discussions to calm the situation, as they have done repeatedly in the past, while the European Union called for an immediate halt to rocket fire from Gaza. The UN envoy for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Nickolay Mladenov, called on "all parties to immediately de-escalate and return to the understandings of the past few months." The United States condemned the rocket attacks on Israel and said Washington fully supported the Jewish state's "right to self-defense against these abhorrent attacks." Visit to Cairo The escalation follows the most violent clashes along the Gaza border in weeks on Friday. Four Palestinians, including two Hamas militants, were killed after two Israeli soldiers were wounded in a shooting during weekly protests on the border. Israel blamed Islamic Jihad for what it called the sniper attack, but stressed it held Hamas responsible for all violence from Gaza. Israel and Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip have fought three wars since 2008 and fears remain of a fourth. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas brokered by Egypt and the United Nations had led to relative calm around Israel's April 9 general election. But the past week saw a gradual uptick in violence. With the ceasefire at risk, a Hamas delegation led by its Gaza head Yahya Sinwar went to Cairo on Thursday for talks with Egyptian officials. The ceasefire has seen Israel allow Qatar to provide millions of dollars in aid to Gaza to pay salaries and to finance fuel purchases to ease a severe electricity shortage. Eurovision looms Several factors may lead Israel to seek to calm the situation quickly. Netanyahu is engaged in tough negotiations to form a new government following last month's election, while Israel is due to host the Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv from May 14-18. The country also celebrates its Independence Day on Thursday. On the Gazan side, the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins in the week ahead. Palestinians have participated in regular demonstrations and clashes along the Gaza border for more than a year, calling on Israel to ease its crippling blockade of the enclave. At least 271 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the protests began in March 2018, the majority along the border. Two Israeli soldiers have been killed in that period. Israel accuses Hamas of using the protests as cover to carry out attacks and says its actions are necessary to defend the border and stop infiltrations. The results of a UN investigation released at the end of February found that Israel may have committed crimes against humanity in responding to the border protests, as snipers "intentionally" shot civilians including children, journalists and the disabled. Israel rejected the report "outright" but Hamas called for it to be held accountable.

Four Palestinians killed as rocket barrages from Gaza draw Israeli strikes

Israel said Thursday its aircraft struck a<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/nyt-must-be-accountable-for-anti-semitic-cartoon-israels-un-envoy-214602&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0ssr8sPzhAhVj63MBHSV4AQ44ChAWMAZ6BAgDEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2HhdC4Fg3JWi7j9rrt-Z2p"> Hamas military compound </a>in the Gaza Strip overnight after balloons carrying firebombs and explosives were launched from the Palestinian enclave.

Following the air strike, the Israeli military said two rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip toward Israel, setting off sirens in parts of the south.

It was not clear where the rockets landed or if there was damage.

The air strike hit targets within a compound for Hamas's armed wing in the northern Gaza Strip, the army and a Gaza security source said.

The security source said there was damage but no indication of casualties.

It was unclear if the firebombs and explosives that prompted the strike caused any damage inside Israel.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/isreal-gaza-unrest-palestinians-send-fire-kites-across-gaza-border-to-burn-crops--forests-142505&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQusqYsfzhAhX78HMBHfg2Cy84ChAWMAV6BAgFEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw3eM-syey3m3lLQhfUZWs1H">Palestinians in Gaza</a> have frequently floated balloons fitted with firebombs over the border to damage Israeli property and have in the past succeeded in setting fire to large areas of farmland.

A ceasefire between Israel and Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas brokered by Egypt and the United Nations had led to relative calm around Israel's April 9 general election.

But on Tuesday, Israel reduced the offshore fishing limit it imposes for vessels operating out of Gaza after a rocket was fired from the territory by Palestinian militants.

The rocket fell into the Mediterranean. The Israeli army blamed its launch on Hamas ally Islamic Jihad.

Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza have fought three wars since 2008.

Israel said Thursday its aircraft struck a Hamas military compound in the Gaza Strip overnight after balloons carrying firebombs and explosives were launched from the Palestinian enclave.

Israel said Thursday its aircraft struck a Hamas military compound in the Gaza Strip overnight after balloons carrying firebombs and explosives were launched from the Palestinian enclave. Following the air strike, the Israeli military said two rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip toward Israel, setting off sirens in parts of the south. It was not clear where the rockets landed or if there was damage. The air strike hit targets within a compound for Hamas's armed wing in the northern Gaza Strip, the army and a Gaza security source said. The security source said there was damage but no indication of casualties. It was unclear if the firebombs and explosives that prompted the strike caused any damage inside Israel. Palestinians in Gaza have frequently floated balloons fitted with firebombs over the border to damage Israeli property and have in the past succeeded in setting fire to large areas of farmland. A ceasefire between Israel and Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas brokered by Egypt and the United Nations had led to relative calm around Israel's April 9 general election. But on Tuesday, Israel reduced the offshore fishing limit it imposes for vessels operating out of Gaza after a rocket was fired from the territory by Palestinian militants. The rocket fell into the Mediterranean. The Israeli army blamed its launch on Hamas ally Islamic Jihad. Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza have fought three wars since 2008.

Israel hits Hamas compound after arson balloon launch

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-invited-to-form-new-government-in-israel-211343&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEluT1sPDhAhVZiXAKHXNiAHQQFjAFegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3UoFqShGfVG1w50ZdQMHMN">Israel</a> will release two prisoners after the remains of an Israeli soldier missing since 1982 were recovered by Russian special forces in Syria, an Israeli official said.

Russia, a key Damascus ally, this month handed over the remains and personal effects of Zachary Baumel who was 21 when he was declared missing in action along with two other soldiers in the Battle of Sultan Yacoub during Israel's invasion of Lebanon.

A Syrian government source told Reuters that two or more Syrian hostages would be freed from Israeli prisons after Russian mediation.

The source said authorities had pressured Moscow to secure the prisoners' release after the news of the Israeli soldier's remains were being handed over.

Both sides appeared to step away from any suggestion that the release was part of a negotiated swap between the two enemy states Israel and Syria.

"Israel decided in the past few days to release two prisoners as a goodwill gesture, only after the return of Zachary Baumel's remains," the Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Saturday.

There was no immediate comment from Russian authorities.

A spokesman for the Israeli military declined to comment. 
&nbsp;

Israel will release two prisoners after the remains of an Israeli soldier missing since 1982 were recovered by Russian special forces in Syria, an Israeli official said.

Israel will release two prisoners after the remains of an Israeli soldier missing since 1982 were recovered by Russian special forces in Syria, an Israeli official said. Russia, a key Damascus ally, this month handed over the remains and personal effects of Zachary Baumel who was 21 when he was declared missing in action along with two other soldiers in the Battle of Sultan Yacoub during Israel's invasion of Lebanon. A Syrian government source told Reuters that two or more Syrian hostages would be freed from Israeli prisons after Russian mediation. The source said authorities had pressured Moscow to secure the prisoners' release after the news of the Israeli soldier's remains were being handed over. Both sides appeared to step away from any suggestion that the release was part of a negotiated swap between the two enemy states Israel and Syria. "Israel decided in the past few days to release two prisoners as a goodwill gesture, only after the return of Zachary Baumel's remains," the Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Saturday. There was no immediate comment from Russian authorities. A spokesman for the Israeli military declined to comment.

Israel to free two Syrian prisoners after recovering soldier's remains

From Israel to India, countries that held or will conduct general polls this year

Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-polls-the-rise-and-rise-of-israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-208436">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-how-does-the-country-vote-208213"> April 9 election</a>.

In office for the past decade, Netanyahu won a fifth term despite an announcement by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in February that he intends to charge the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing.

"At a time of great turmoil in our region, we have managed not only to maintain the state's security and stability, we have even managed to turn Israel into a rising world power," Netanyahu said at the nomination ceremony after President Reuven Rivlin gave him the mandate to form a new government.

Netanyahu has 28 days, with a two-week extension if needed, to complete the task. If, as seems likely, he succeeds, he will become in July Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

Netanyahu has said he intends to build a coalition with five far-right, right-wing and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties that would give the government, led by his Likud party, 65 seats. No party has ever won an outright majority in the 120-seat Knesset.

PEACE PLAN

Among the most pressing issues awaiting the new government will be US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Trump's senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday it would be unveiled once the new Israeli government is in place and after the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, which ends in early June. The plan, Kushner said, would require compromise by all parties.

A right-wing coalition in Israel would, however, likely object to any proposed territorial concessions to the Palestinians, who are boycotting the Trump administration over what they see as its pro-Israel bias.

Such a coalition would also be less likely to pressure Netanyahu to step down if he is indicted for corruption.

Netanyahu is under no legal obligation to resign if charges are brought against him and has said he plans to serve Israel for many more years. He can still argue, at a pre-trial hearing whose date has not been set, against the formal filing of bribery and fraud charges against him.

The election, brought forward from November, was widely seen in Israel as a bid by Netanyahu to win a renewed mandate in the hopes that it would strengthen his hand in the legal proceedings against him.

"I am not afraid of threats and I am not deterred by the media. The public has given me its full confidence, clearly and unequivocally, and I will continue to do everything in order to serve you, the citizens of Israel," he said on Facebook on Tuesday.

Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an April 9 election.

Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an April 9 election. In office for the past decade, Netanyahu won a fifth term despite an announcement by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in February that he intends to charge the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing. "At a time of great turmoil in our region, we have managed not only to maintain the state's security and stability, we have even managed to turn Israel into a rising world power," Netanyahu said at the nomination ceremony after President Reuven Rivlin gave him the mandate to form a new government. Netanyahu has 28 days, with a two-week extension if needed, to complete the task. If, as seems likely, he succeeds, he will become in July Israel's longest-serving prime minister. Netanyahu has said he intends to build a coalition with five far-right, right-wing and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties that would give the government, led by his Likud party, 65 seats. No party has ever won an outright majority in the 120-seat Knesset. PEACE PLAN Among the most pressing issues awaiting the new government will be US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Trump's senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday it would be unveiled once the new Israeli government is in place and after the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, which ends in early June. The plan, Kushner said, would require compromise by all parties. A right-wing coalition in Israel would, however, likely object to any proposed territorial concessions to the Palestinians, who are boycotting the Trump administration over what they see as its pro-Israel bias. Such a coalition would also be less likely to pressure Netanyahu to step down if he is indicted for corruption. Netanyahu is under no legal obligation to resign if charges are brought against him and has said he plans to serve Israel for many more years. He can still argue, at a pre-trial hearing whose date has not been set, against the formal filing of bribery and fraud charges against him. The election, brought forward from November, was widely seen in Israel as a bid by Netanyahu to win a renewed mandate in the hopes that it would strengthen his hand in the legal proceedings against him. "I am not afraid of threats and I am not deterred by the media. The public has given me its full confidence, clearly and unequivocally, and I will continue to do everything in order to serve you, the citizens of Israel," he said on Facebook on Tuesday.

Netanyahu invited to form new government in Israel

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-looks-to-form-right-wing-government-after-victory-209551"> Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition.

The Maariv newspaper quoted a senior official as saying that President Reuven Rivlin was trying to convene a meeting between Netanyahu and his defeated centrist challenger Benny Gantz on forming a broad government of national unity.

Such a government would enjoy a comfortable majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament and enable it to take difficult decisions on public spending cuts and the future of controversial military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews free of pressure from special interest groups.

A spokesman for the president's office said he had no word of any plans for such a meeting, when contacted by AFP.

No political party in Israel's more than 70-year history has ever won a majority entirely alone and Netanyahu faces a choice between forming a new coalition of right-wing and religious parties, or a grand alliance with the centre.

Speaking after declaring victory in Tuesday's election, he pledged to form a right-wing government.

But the looming prospect of indictments in several corruption cases against him, which he is determined to fight from office, makes him vulnerable to demands for concessions from smaller party allies.

The final results gave Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party 36 votes, one more than Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance.

It was also one more seat than preliminary results had given to the Likud.

But the United Torah Judaism party representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Jews, won seven seats, one less than in the preliminary results, meaning that the right-wing and religious bloc still commands a total of 65 seats.

The final results confirmed that the newly formed far-right party of two prominent members of the outgoing government, Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, failed to pass the three-per cent threshold required to win seats in parliament.

The poor showing by their New Right party, which had been projected to be a major potential coalition partner, was one of the upsets of the election.

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left Benjamin Netanyahu on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition.

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left Benjamin Netanyahu on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition. The Maariv newspaper quoted a senior official as saying that President Reuven Rivlin was trying to convene a meeting between Netanyahu and his defeated centrist challenger Benny Gantz on forming a broad government of national unity. Such a government would enjoy a comfortable majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament and enable it to take difficult decisions on public spending cuts and the future of controversial military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews free of pressure from special interest groups. A spokesman for the president's office said he had no word of any plans for such a meeting, when contacted by AFP. No political party in Israel's more than 70-year history has ever won a majority entirely alone and Netanyahu faces a choice between forming a new coalition of right-wing and religious parties, or a grand alliance with the centre. Speaking after declaring victory in Tuesday's election, he pledged to form a right-wing government. But the looming prospect of indictments in several corruption cases against him, which he is determined to fight from office, makes him vulnerable to demands for concessions from smaller party allies. The final results gave Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party 36 votes, one more than Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance. It was also one more seat than preliminary results had given to the Likud. But the United Torah Judaism party representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Jews, won seven seats, one less than in the preliminary results, meaning that the right-wing and religious bloc still commands a total of 65 seats. The final results confirmed that the newly formed far-right party of two prominent members of the outgoing government, Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, failed to pass the three-per cent threshold required to win seats in parliament. The poor showing by their New Right party, which had been projected to be a major potential coalition partner, was one of the upsets of the election.

Final Israel election results leave Netanyahu on course

Israeli spacecraft Beresheet made its final maneuver ahead of a planned descent to the moon on Thursday, which, if successful, will propel Israel into an elite group of countries that have mastered the lunar landing.

The unmanned robotic lander dubbed Beresheet - Hebrew for the biblical phrase “in the beginning” - has travelled through space for seven weeks in a series of expanding orbits around Earth before crossing into the moon's gravity last week.

The final maneuver brought the spacecraft into a tight elliptical orbit around the moon, just 15-17 kilometres (9-10.5 miles) from the surface at its closest. The landing is set to begin late on Thursday, with touchdown expected around 10:25 p.m. in Israel (1925 GMT), the Israeli space team said.

So far, only three other nations have carried out controlled "soft" landings of spacecraft on the lunar surface - the United States, the former Soviet Union and China.

The US Apollo program tallied six manned missions to the moon - the only ones yet achieved - between 1969 and 1972, and the United States and Soviets conducted a total of about a dozen more robotic landings between them. China made history in January with its Chang'e 4, the first craft to touch down on the dark side of the moon.

If successful, Beresheet would also make the first lunar landing by a craft not from a government programme. It was built by Israeli nonprofit space venture SpaceIL and state-owned defense contractor Israel Aerospace Industries with $100 million furnished almost entirely by private donors.

Shaped like a round table with four carbon-fibre legs, Beresheet stands about 1.5 metres (4.9 feet) tall. It blasted off from Cape Canaveral in the United States on Feb. 21 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and entered Earth's orbit about 34 minutes after launch.

At launch it weighed 585 kg (1,290 pounds), most of which was fuel burned during its circuitous flight path of around 4 million miles (6.5 million km). A direct route from the Earth to the moon covers roughly 240,000 miles (386,000 km).

The excitement was high over the lunar mission in Israel, where it has been discussed in schools and promoted on television.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Israeli spacecraft Beresheet made its final maneuver ahead of a planned descent to the moon on Thursday, which, if successful, will propel Israel into an elite group of countries that have mastered the lunar landing.

Israeli spacecraft Beresheet made its final maneuver ahead of a planned descent to the moon on Thursday, which, if successful, will propel Israel into an elite group of countries that have mastered the lunar landing. The unmanned robotic lander dubbed Beresheet - Hebrew for the biblical phrase “in the beginning” - has travelled through space for seven weeks in a series of expanding orbits around Earth before crossing into the moon's gravity last week. The final maneuver brought the spacecraft into a tight elliptical orbit around the moon, just 15-17 kilometres (9-10.5 miles) from the surface at its closest. The landing is set to begin late on Thursday, with touchdown expected around 10:25 p.m. in Israel (1925 GMT), the Israeli space team said. So far, only three other nations have carried out controlled "soft" landings of spacecraft on the lunar surface - the United States, the former Soviet Union and China. The US Apollo program tallied six manned missions to the moon - the only ones yet achieved - between 1969 and 1972, and the United States and Soviets conducted a total of about a dozen more robotic landings between them. China made history in January with its Chang'e 4, the first craft to touch down on the dark side of the moon. If successful, Beresheet would also make the first lunar landing by a craft not from a government programme. It was built by Israeli nonprofit space venture SpaceIL and state-owned defense contractor Israel Aerospace Industries with $100 million furnished almost entirely by private donors. Shaped like a round table with four carbon-fibre legs, Beresheet stands about 1.5 metres (4.9 feet) tall. It blasted off from Cape Canaveral in the United States on Feb. 21 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and entered Earth's orbit about 34 minutes after launch. At launch it weighed 585 kg (1,290 pounds), most of which was fuel burned during its circuitous flight path of around 4 million miles (6.5 million km). A direct route from the Earth to the moon covers roughly 240,000 miles (386,000 km). The excitement was high over the lunar mission in Israel, where it has been discussed in schools and promoted on television.

Israeli spacecraft nears moon landing and place in elite lunar club

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-likud-party-gaining-slender-lead-against-gantz-israel-exit-polls-209161"> Benjamin Netanyahu was projected</a> to win a fifth term in office on Wednesday after nearly complete results from Israel's general election put him in position to form a right-wing coalition, media reports said.

The victory, despite corruption allegations against the 69-year-old premier, puts him on a path to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister later this year.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DNQ6XR414hE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

His Likud party looked set to finish with a similar number of seats in parliament to his main rival, ex-military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance.

&nbsp;

But with 97 per cent of the vote counted, results showed Likud and other rightwing parties allied to him with some 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament, media reports said.

The close race between the two main parties had led to uncertainty after polls closed on Tuesday night and exit surveys were released.

Both Netanyahu and Gantz claimed victory after the initial exit surveys that gave Blue and White the most seats.

But even then Netanyahu appeared best placed to form a coalition, with both parties, in any case, falling far short of an outright majority.

Netanyahu spoke in the early hours of Wednesday at Likud's post-election party in Tel Aviv and called it a "magnificent victory."

As he walked onto the stage to chanting crowds, he planted a kiss on the lips of his wife Sara before dramatically wiping lipstick from his face.

"It will be a right-wing government, but I will be prime minister for all," he said.

Earlier, while addressing cheering supporters who waived Israeli flags at an event hall in Tel Aviv, Gantz called it a "historic day."

"The president must give us the task of forming the next government since we are the biggest party," he said after initial exit polls.

The vote had long been expected to be close and lead to frantic negotiations to form a coalition, even with Netanyahu facing potential corruption charges.

"Things can change, but in any case the right-wing bloc won," Meshi Sivani, 52 and wearing a Likud t-shirt, said at Netanyahu's post-election party.

Shushan Levi, 61, called Gantz's performance an "enormous victory for an alliance so new."

"Once he announced he was entering politics, I followed him," he said at Blue and White's party.&nbsp;

"He was my commander in the army 40 years ago."

Gantz, a newcomer to politics, mounted a strong challenge to the veteran prime minister by brandishing his security credentials while pledging to undo damage he says Netanyahu has inflicted on the country with divisive politics.

The election was in many ways a referendum on the 69-year-old premier who has built a reputation as the guarantor of the country's security and economic growth, but whose populism and alleged corruption have left many ready for change.

He engaged in populist rhetoric that critics said amounted to the demonisation of Arab Israelis and others.

Netanyahu faced further criticism on election day when members of his Likud party brought small cameras into polling stations in Arab areas.

Arab politicians called it an attempt at intimidation, while Netanyahu said cameras would prevent fraud.

True to form, Netanyahu issued a deeply controversial pledge only three days before the election, saying he planned to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank should he win.

Extending Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale in the West Bank could be the death knell to already fading hopes for a two-state solution with the Palestinians.

It is a move long-sought by Israel's far right.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was projected to win a fifth term in office on Wednesday after nearly complete results from Israel's general election put him in position to form a right-wing coalition, media reports said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was projected to win a fifth term in office on Wednesday after nearly complete results from Israel's general election put him in position to form a right-wing coalition, media reports said. The victory, despite corruption allegations against the 69-year-old premier, puts him on a path to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister later this year. His Likud party looked set to finish with a similar number of seats in parliament to his main rival, ex-military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance. But with 97 per cent of the vote counted, results showed Likud and other rightwing parties allied to him with some 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament, media reports said. The close race between the two main parties had led to uncertainty after polls closed on Tuesday night and exit surveys were released. Both Netanyahu and Gantz claimed victory after the initial exit surveys that gave Blue and White the most seats. But even then Netanyahu appeared best placed to form a coalition, with both parties, in any case, falling far short of an outright majority. Netanyahu spoke in the early hours of Wednesday at Likud's post-election party in Tel Aviv and called it a "magnificent victory." As he walked onto the stage to chanting crowds, he planted a kiss on the lips of his wife Sara before dramatically wiping lipstick from his face. "It will be a right-wing government, but I will be prime minister for all," he said. Earlier, while addressing cheering supporters who waived Israeli flags at an event hall in Tel Aviv, Gantz called it a "historic day." "The president must give us the task of forming the next government since we are the biggest party," he said after initial exit polls. The vote had long been expected to be close and lead to frantic negotiations to form a coalition, even with Netanyahu facing potential corruption charges. "Things can change, but in any case the right-wing bloc won," Meshi Sivani, 52 and wearing a Likud t-shirt, said at Netanyahu's post-election party. Shushan Levi, 61, called Gantz's performance an "enormous victory for an alliance so new." "Once he announced he was entering politics, I followed him," he said at Blue and White's party. "He was my commander in the army 40 years ago." Gantz, a newcomer to politics, mounted a strong challenge to the veteran prime minister by brandishing his security credentials while pledging to undo damage he says Netanyahu has inflicted on the country with divisive politics. The election was in many ways a referendum on the 69-year-old premier who has built a reputation as the guarantor of the country's security and economic growth, but whose populism and alleged corruption have left many ready for change. He engaged in populist rhetoric that critics said amounted to the demonisation of Arab Israelis and others. Netanyahu faced further criticism on election day when members of his Likud party brought small cameras into polling stations in Arab areas. Arab politicians called it an attempt at intimidation, while Netanyahu said cameras would prevent fraud. True to form, Netanyahu issued a deeply controversial pledge only three days before the election, saying he planned to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank should he win. Extending Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale in the West Bank could be the death knell to already fading hopes for a two-state solution with the Palestinians. It is a move long-sought by Israel's far right.

PM Benjamin Netanyahu projected to win Israel polls: Report

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes.

At the Central Election Committee logistical centre near Jerusalem, about 300 tons of papers carried by hundreds of trucks from voting stations all over Israel, will be disposed of or recycled in the coming days, the committee said.

Netanyahu secured a record fifth term in office despite running neck-and-neck with his challenger Benny Gantz, the country's three main television channels said on Wednesday.

With 97 per cent of the votes counted, neither of the candidates' parties had captured a ruling majority, but Netanyahu was clearly in a strong position to form a coalition government with other right-wing factions that have backed him.

The closely contested race was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases and has denied wrongdoing in all of them.

The veteran right-wing leader's Likud party and Gantz's new centrist Blue and White party both won 35 seats, according to the Knesset website and the Israeli TV channels. That would mean a five-seat gain for Likud.

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes.

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes. At the Central Election Committee logistical centre near Jerusalem, about 300 tons of papers carried by hundreds of trucks from voting stations all over Israel, will be disposed of or recycled in the coming days, the committee said. Netanyahu secured a record fifth term in office despite running neck-and-neck with his challenger Benny Gantz, the country's three main television channels said on Wednesday. With 97 per cent of the votes counted, neither of the candidates' parties had captured a ruling majority, but Netanyahu was clearly in a strong position to form a coalition government with other right-wing factions that have backed him. The closely contested race was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases and has denied wrongdoing in all of them. The veteran right-wing leader's Likud party and Gantz's new centrist Blue and White party both won 35 seats, according to the Knesset website and the Israeli TV channels. That would mean a five-seat gain for Likud.

Over 300 tons of ballot slips and boxes go to waste after Israel's election day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-all-you-need-to-know-about-benjamin-netanyahu-209056">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-benjamin-netanyahu-projected-to-win-israel-polls-report-209198">parliamentary majority</a> despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed.

With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier.

The close and often vitriolic contest was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases,&nbsp;and has denied wrongdoing in all of them.

Despite that, Netanyahu gained four seats compared to his outgoing coalition government, according to a spreadsheet published by the Central Elections Committee of parties that won enough votes to enter the next parliament.

"It is a night of colossal victory," the 69-year-old Netanyahu told cheering supporters in a late-night speech at Likud headquarters after Tuesday's vote.

"He's a magician," the crowd chanted as fireworks flared and Netanyahu kissed his wife Sara.

Tel Aviv Stock Exchange main indexes opened up 0.5 per cent on Wednesday, showing confidence in a prime minister who has overseen a humming economy and restrained security challenges.

His challenger, the new Blue and White party of ex-general Benny Gantz, claimed a more modest victory after winning a 35-seat tie with Likud. Unless he reverses on campaign pledges to shun Netanyahu and joins him in a future broad coalition, Gantz looked destined to lead a centre-left parliamentary opposition.

"The skies may look overcast...but they cannot conceal the sun of hope that we have brought to the Israeli people and society," Gantz, 59, wrote in an open letter to supporters.

Should Netanyahu retain the helm, he will become the longest-serving Israeli prime minister in July, overtaking the country's founding father, David Ben-Gurion. That could be scuppered if criminal charges are filed and force his removal.

Immunity?

An indictment decision would follow a review hearing where Netanyahu can be expected to argue he should be spared, in the national interest. Some political analysts predict he may try to pass a law granting himself immunity, as a sitting leader, from trial.

During the campaign, the rival parties accused each other of corruption, fostering bigotry and being soft on security.

Netanyahu highlighted his close relationship with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who delighted Israelis and angered Palestinians by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017 and moving the US&nbsp;Embassy to the holy city last May.

Two weeks before the election, Trump signed a proclamation, with Netanyahu at his side at the White House, recognising Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war.

In a rare turn during the race towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Netanyahu further alarmed Palestinians by pledging to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank if re-elected. Palestinians seek a state there and in the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Netanyahu's pre-election promise was widely seen as an attempt to draw right-wing votes rather than a change of policy. But with Trump’s moves on Jerusalem and The Golan, the prime minister may feel emboldened to advocate for annexation.

Commenting on the election, Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said, "Israelis have voted to preserve the status quo. They have said no to peace and yes to the occupation".

The last round of US-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014.

Trump is expected to release his administration's long-awaited Middle East peace plan after the election. If it includes Israeli concessions to the Palestinians, Netanyahu’s probable far-right coalition allies will likely object.

Once the vote tally is final, President Reuven Rivlin will ask parties that have won parliamentary seats who they support for prime minister. He will then pick a party leader to try to form a coalition, giving the candidate 28 days to do so, with a two-week extension if needed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed. With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier. The close and often vitriolic contest was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases, and has denied wrongdoing in all of them. Despite that, Netanyahu gained four seats compared to his outgoing coalition government, according to a spreadsheet published by the Central Elections Committee of parties that won enough votes to enter the next parliament. "It is a night of colossal victory," the 69-year-old Netanyahu told cheering supporters in a late-night speech at Likud headquarters after Tuesday's vote. "He's a magician," the crowd chanted as fireworks flared and Netanyahu kissed his wife Sara. Tel Aviv Stock Exchange main indexes opened up 0.5 per cent on Wednesday, showing confidence in a prime minister who has overseen a humming economy and restrained security challenges. His challenger, the new Blue and White party of ex-general Benny Gantz, claimed a more modest victory after winning a 35-seat tie with Likud. Unless he reverses on campaign pledges to shun Netanyahu and joins him in a future broad coalition, Gantz looked destined to lead a centre-left parliamentary opposition. "The skies may look overcast...but they cannot conceal the sun of hope that we have brought to the Israeli people and society," Gantz, 59, wrote in an open letter to supporters. Should Netanyahu retain the helm, he will become the longest-serving Israeli prime minister in July, overtaking the country's founding father, David Ben-Gurion. That could be scuppered if criminal charges are filed and force his removal. Immunity? An indictment decision would follow a review hearing where Netanyahu can be expected to argue he should be spared, in the national interest. Some political analysts predict he may try to pass a law granting himself immunity, as a sitting leader, from trial. During the campaign, the rival parties accused each other of corruption, fostering bigotry and being soft on security. Netanyahu highlighted his close relationship with US President Donald Trump, who delighted Israelis and angered Palestinians by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017 and moving the US Embassy to the holy city last May. Two weeks before the election, Trump signed a proclamation, with Netanyahu at his side at the White House, recognising Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. In a rare turn during the race towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Netanyahu further alarmed Palestinians by pledging to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank if re-elected. Palestinians seek a state there and in the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Netanyahu's pre-election promise was widely seen as an attempt to draw right-wing votes rather than a change of policy. But with Trump’s moves on Jerusalem and The Golan, the prime minister may feel emboldened to advocate for annexation. Commenting on the election, Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said, "Israelis have voted to preserve the status quo. They have said no to peace and yes to the occupation". The last round of US-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014. Trump is expected to release his administration's long-awaited Middle East peace plan after the election. If it includes Israeli concessions to the Palestinians, Netanyahu’s probable far-right coalition allies will likely object. Once the vote tally is final, President Reuven Rivlin will ask parties that have won parliamentary seats who they support for prime minister. He will then pick a party leader to try to form a coalition, giving the candidate 28 days to do so, with a two-week extension if needed.

Israel election: PM Netanyahu wins record fifth term with a parliamentary majority

Tight poll race between Benjamin Netanyahu, Gantz

Israeli PM plans to annex settlements in West Bank if re-elected

Incumbent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-netanyahu-wont-move-even-one-settler-for-us-peace-plan-208399">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> has held the position since 2009 but he faces a tough election this year. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-how-does-the-country-vote-208213">Israel goes to polls on April 9</a>. A victory would make him the longest-serving Israeli Prime Minister, a defeat could end his career.&nbsp;

Israel’s attorney general is preparing to indict Netanyahu for corruption but Netanyahu seems defiant and combative. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I intend to serve you and the country as prime minister for many more years. Don't believe all the spin," Netanyahu had said recently.&nbsp;

Political start

Born in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu lived in the United States when he was a teenager and returned to Israel as an 18-year-old to serve in an elite commando unit.

He has fought in Lebanon and during the 1973 Arab-Israel war. He entered politics in 1976 after his brother was killed in a raid while rescuing hijacked Israeli hostages in Uganda.

The rise&nbsp;

Netanyahu used the network he built while studying in the US to forge his public persona. He became one of Israel’s main international advocates.&nbsp;

In 1984, his efforts gained him the prestigious position of Israel's envoy to the United Nations.

In 1988, Netanyahu became a lawmaker from the right-wing Likud party. He knew how to play politics and in 1992 became the party’s secretary. But Netanyahu was more ambitious than that. In 1996, he ran for the prime minister's post.&nbsp;

Israeli political veterans laughed at him, but he proved them wrong beating Shimon Peres to become Israel's youngest prime minister.

Rocky road&nbsp;

Netanyahu spent more time managing political infighting rather than developing the country, this cost him a re-election. He left politics for a while but returned to work under prime minister Ariel Sharon - only to quit again in 2005 in protest against the decision of a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Lately, he has been criticised for being too tolerant of the escalation in hostilities with Gaza. But it is worth remembering that under his leadership, Israel fought two wars against the strip in 2012 and 2014, when Israeli forces killed 2100 Palestinians and lost 67 of its own soldiers.&nbsp;

A right-wing leader?

Netanyahu sees himself on the right wing of the political arena and has always supported the expansion of Israeli settlements on Palestinian land.

He believes Israel is a Jewish state and negates the possibility of an independent Palestinian state, which, he thinks, would turn into a potential hotbed for militant Islam.&nbsp;

The 'Trump'&nbsp;card

Netanyahu’s strongest card is his international network and, particularly, his longstanding friendship with the United States. After a difficult time with former US president Barack Obama, Netanyahu found in Donald trump an overly pro-Israeli president.&nbsp;

Trump withdrew from the Iran 2015 nuclear deal which Netanyahu opposed. The US president declared Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, cut all American funds to the Palestinians and signed a decree recognising the occupied Golan Heights as Israeli territory.&nbsp;

These are all successes prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu can present as his own - and it may just help him overcome his latest challenge; it will soon be revealed.&nbsp;

Incumbent Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held the position since 2009 but he faces a tough election this year. Israel goes to polls on April 9. A victory would make him the longest-serving Israeli Prime Minister, a defeat could end his career.

Incumbent Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held the position since 2009 but he faces a tough election this year. Israel goes to polls on April 9. A victory would make him the longest-serving Israeli Prime Minister, a defeat could end his career. Israel’s attorney general is preparing to indict Netanyahu for corruption but Netanyahu seems defiant and combative. "I intend to serve you and the country as prime minister for many more years. Don't believe all the spin," Netanyahu had said recently. Political start Born in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu lived in the United States when he was a teenager and returned to Israel as an 18-year-old to serve in an elite commando unit. He has fought in Lebanon and during the 1973 Arab-Israel war. He entered politics in 1976 after his brother was killed in a raid while rescuing hijacked Israeli hostages in Uganda. The rise Netanyahu used the network he built while studying in the US to forge his public persona. He became one of Israel’s main international advocates. In 1984, his efforts gained him the prestigious position of Israel's envoy to the United Nations. In 1988, Netanyahu became a lawmaker from the right-wing Likud party. He knew how to play politics and in 1992 became the party’s secretary. But Netanyahu was more ambitious than that. In 1996, he ran for the prime minister's post. Israeli political veterans laughed at him, but he proved them wrong beating Shimon Peres to become Israel's youngest prime minister. Rocky road Netanyahu spent more time managing political infighting rather than developing the country, this cost him a re-election. He left politics for a while but returned to work under prime minister Ariel Sharon - only to quit again in 2005 in protest against the decision of a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Lately, he has been criticised for being too tolerant of the escalation in hostilities with Gaza. But it is worth remembering that under his leadership, Israel fought two wars against the strip in 2012 and 2014, when Israeli forces killed 2100 Palestinians and lost 67 of its own soldiers. A right-wing leader? Netanyahu sees himself on the right wing of the political arena and has always supported the expansion of Israeli settlements on Palestinian land. He believes Israel is a Jewish state and negates the possibility of an independent Palestinian state, which, he thinks, would turn into a potential hotbed for militant Islam. The 'Trump' card Netanyahu’s strongest card is his international network and, particularly, his longstanding friendship with the United States. After a difficult time with former US president Barack Obama, Netanyahu found in Donald trump an overly pro-Israeli president. Trump withdrew from the Iran 2015 nuclear deal which Netanyahu opposed. The US president declared Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, cut all American funds to the Palestinians and signed a decree recognising the occupied Golan Heights as Israeli territory. These are all successes prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu can present as his own - and it may just help him overcome his latest challenge; it will soon be revealed.

Israel polls: The rise and rise of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-polls-see-netanyahu-ahead-but-many-still-undecided-208162">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> said he has told US President Donald Trump that Israel would not remove "even one person" from a settlement as part of a future peace plan.

"I said there shouldn't be the removal of even one settlement" from the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu told Israel's Channel 13 television in an interview broadcast Friday.

Washington is expected to unveil proposals for Israeli-Palestinian peace sometime after Tuesday's Israeli election in which Netanyahu is seeking a fifth term.

The Israeli prime minister was asked if he was familiar with the details of the US plan, replying he knew "what should be in it."

Along with settlements, "our ongoing control of all the territory west of the Jordan" River was a further condition set by the Israeli premier for any US-led peace initiative.

Netanyahu said he informed Trump not "even one person" would be evicted from a settlement, telling Channel 13 he doubted such a request would be made.

If such a measure is tabled, Israel would pull out of Washington's plan according to Netanyahu.

Settlements built on land occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War are deemed illegal by the international community and their ongoing construction is seen as a major barrier to peace.

More than 400,000 Israelis live in West Bank settlements, while a further 200,000 live in settlements in occupied east Jerusalem.

While Netanyahu has a close relationship with the US president, Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas cut off relations with Washington after Trump declared the disputed city of Jerusalem Israel's capital in December 2017.

The Palestinians say the US government's pro-Israel bias meant it could no longer lead peace negotiations between them and Israel, while US officials argue their plan will be fair.

Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts have been at a standstill since 2014, when a drive for a deal by Barack Obama's administration collapsed.

Netanyahu said Friday his position on settlers had also been relayed to the former US president.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has told US President Donald Trump that Israel would not remove "even one person" from a settlement as part of a future peace plan.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has told US President Donald Trump that Israel would not remove "even one person" from a settlement as part of a future peace plan. "I said there shouldn't be the removal of even one settlement" from the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu told Israel's Channel 13 television in an interview broadcast Friday. Washington is expected to unveil proposals for Israeli-Palestinian peace sometime after Tuesday's Israeli election in which Netanyahu is seeking a fifth term. The Israeli prime minister was asked if he was familiar with the details of the US plan, replying he knew "what should be in it." Along with settlements, "our ongoing control of all the territory west of the Jordan" River was a further condition set by the Israeli premier for any US-led peace initiative. Netanyahu said he informed Trump not "even one person" would be evicted from a settlement, telling Channel 13 he doubted such a request would be made. If such a measure is tabled, Israel would pull out of Washington's plan according to Netanyahu. Settlements built on land occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War are deemed illegal by the international community and their ongoing construction is seen as a major barrier to peace. More than 400,000 Israelis live in West Bank settlements, while a further 200,000 live in settlements in occupied east Jerusalem. While Netanyahu has a close relationship with the US president, Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas cut off relations with Washington after Trump declared the disputed city of Jerusalem Israel's capital in December 2017. The Palestinians say the US government's pro-Israel bias meant it could no longer lead peace negotiations between them and Israel, while US officials argue their plan will be fair. Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts have been at a standstill since 2014, when a drive for a deal by Barack Obama's administration collapsed. Netanyahu said Friday his position on settlers had also been relayed to the former US president.

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu won't move 'even one' settler for US peace plan

On April 9, nearly six million voters in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-polls-see-netanyahu-ahead-but-many-still-undecided-208162">Israel will vote for the country’s next Prime Minister</a>. If you are wondering how Israel votes, the next report is for you.

Israel traditionally votes on a Tuesday, they vote for a party and not for a candidate. Israelis living abroad cannot vote, the country follows proportional representation. As many as 47 parties are running this time around. In Israel's electoral history, no single party has ever won a majority.&nbsp;

Israel uses the traditional paper ballot system. The winning candidate has around 42 days to form the government.

The grand total of 120 seats in the Israeli legislature - known as the Knesset - will be divided according to vote share. &nbsp;

Although there are more than 40 political parties running in the 2019 elections, ironically many of them will not gather enough votes to secure even a single seat.

Interestingly, coalitions are fundamental to Israeli politics. Even a deal or an alliance for three seats can make all the difference which makes Israeli election results often very difficult to predict.

This time, the country will print some 250 million ballots, most of it will go unused since every voter can make only one choice.&nbsp;

The polling takes place on a single day, counting starts immediately after the polls close. The results are usually available in a matter of a few hours.&nbsp;

Once a candidate wins, the president of Israel gives 42 days to form a stable coalition to govern the country. In case the appointed candidate fails to do so, the second in line is given the mandate.

On April 9, nearly six million voters in Israel will vote for the country’s next Prime Minister. If you are wondering how Israel votes, the next report is for you.

On April 9, nearly six million voters in Israel will vote for the country’s next Prime Minister. If you are wondering how Israel votes, the next report is for you. Israel traditionally votes on a Tuesday, they vote for a party and not for a candidate. Israelis living abroad cannot vote, the country follows proportional representation. As many as 47 parties are running this time around. In Israel's electoral history, no single party has ever won a majority. Israel uses the traditional paper ballot system. The winning candidate has around 42 days to form the government. The grand total of 120 seats in the Israeli legislature - known as the Knesset - will be divided according to vote share. Although there are more than 40 political parties running in the 2019 elections, ironically many of them will not gather enough votes to secure even a single seat. Interestingly, coalitions are fundamental to Israeli politics. Even a deal or an alliance for three seats can make all the difference which makes Israeli election results often very difficult to predict. This time, the country will print some 250 million ballots, most of it will go unused since every voter can make only one choice. The polling takes place on a single day, counting starts immediately after the polls close. The results are usually available in a matter of a few hours. Once a candidate wins, the president of Israel gives 42 days to form a stable coalition to govern the country. In case the appointed candidate fails to do so, the second in line is given the mandate.

Israel elections: How does the country vote? 

The body of an Israeli soldier missing since the 1982 Lebanon War was found by the Russian and Syrian armies, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.

Sergeant First Class Zachary Baumel had been listed as missing along with two other Israeli soldiers in a deadly battle with Syrian forces in a Lebanese village, and the return of his remains will bring to a close a highly sensitive case for Israelis.

Putin made the revelation at a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting Moscow five days before he is to seek a fifth term in office in a difficult election.

Netanyahu, 69, is running in the April 9 vote despite facing potential corruption charges and experts said he hopes the Moscow visit would increase his chances of success on election day.

"Our military together with Syrian partners found the place of his burial," Putin said of Baumel.

"We are very happy that he will be able to receive the right military honours in his homeland."

Netanyahu said Baumel would be laid to rest at a "very moving" ceremony in Israel later Thursday.&nbsp;

"Zachary's friends and family will take part," he said, adding that his family had been "very touched".

"His father is no longer alive, unfortunately," he added. "His mother is around 100 years old. Zachary also has a sister."

Neither Putin nor Israel have given details on how or where the remains were found.&nbsp;

Putin said only that Syria -- with which Israel has technically been at war -- participated in the operation.&nbsp;

'Risking their lives'

Netanyahu's spokesman posted photographs on Twitter showing a ceremony in the Russian defence ministry handing over the remains to Netanyahu on Thursday.

"Russia has handed over to Israel the remains of a member of a tank battalion, Zachary Baumel, missing for over 37 years," the ministry said in a statement.

The Israeli army had announced Wednesday that the body had already been recovered and returned to the country.

According to translated comments published on the Kremlin website, Netanyahu said, "Russian fighters, risking their lives, brought Zachary's remains to Israeli territory."&nbsp;

But Putin said Thursday: "The remains are with us and, in accordance with military tradition, we will send them to Israel with your participation."

Putin said "it was not easy" for Russian special forces to find the remains. He added that "all the necessary genetic tests have been completed".

He said he valued Netanyahu's "attitude to the memory of Red Army soldiers", adding that Baumel shared the same fate as thousands of Soviet soldiers who went missing during World War II. &nbsp;

'We will not forget this'

Baumel, who was born in the US in 1960 but immigrated to Israel, had been missing since what is known as the Battle of Sultan Yacoub in a Lebanese village of the same name near the Syrian border. Some 20 Israeli soldiers were killed in the fight.&nbsp;

Tank driver Baumel and two other soldiers, Zvi Feldman and Yehuda Katz, had been listed as missing and presumed dead. The other two remain missing.

Netanyahu said he asked Putin two years ago to help in the search for the remains of the missing men.

"You personally responded and gave the order to help in this holy deed," he said, thanking the Russian leader.&nbsp;

"We will not forget this act, it will go down in history."

The return of the remains of soldiers missing in action is a highly important issue in Israel, which has fought repeated wars with its Arab neighbours since the state of Israel was established in 1948.

The body of an Israeli soldier missing since the 1982 Lebanon War was found by the Russian and Syrian armies, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday. Sergeant First Class Zachary Baumel had been listed as missing along with two other Israeli soldiers in a deadly battle with Syrian forces in a Lebanese village, and the return of his remains will bring to a close a highly sensitive case for Israelis.

The body of an Israeli soldier missing since the 1982 Lebanon War was found by the Russian and Syrian armies, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday. Sergeant First Class Zachary Baumel had been listed as missing along with two other Israeli soldiers in a deadly battle with Syrian forces in a Lebanese village, and the return of his remains will bring to a close a highly sensitive case for Israelis. Putin made the revelation at a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting Moscow five days before he is to seek a fifth term in office in a difficult election. Netanyahu, 69, is running in the April 9 vote despite facing potential corruption charges and experts said he hopes the Moscow visit would increase his chances of success on election day. "Our military together with Syrian partners found the place of his burial," Putin said of Baumel. "We are very happy that he will be able to receive the right military honours in his homeland." Netanyahu said Baumel would be laid to rest at a "very moving" ceremony in Israel later Thursday. "Zachary's friends and family will take part," he said, adding that his family had been "very touched". "His father is no longer alive, unfortunately," he added. "His mother is around 100 years old. Zachary also has a sister." Neither Putin nor Israel have given details on how or where the remains were found. Putin said only that Syria -- with which Israel has technically been at war -- participated in the operation. 'Risking their lives' Netanyahu's spokesman posted photographs on Twitter showing a ceremony in the Russian defence ministry handing over the remains to Netanyahu on Thursday. "Russia has handed over to Israel the remains of a member of a tank battalion, Zachary Baumel, missing for over 37 years," the ministry said in a statement. The Israeli army had announced Wednesday that the body had already been recovered and returned to the country. According to translated comments published on the Kremlin website, Netanyahu said, "Russian fighters, risking their lives, brought Zachary's remains to Israeli territory." But Putin said Thursday: "The remains are with us and, in accordance with military tradition, we will send them to Israel with your participation." Putin said "it was not easy" for Russian special forces to find the remains. He added that "all the necessary genetic tests have been completed". He said he valued Netanyahu's "attitude to the memory of Red Army soldiers", adding that Baumel shared the same fate as thousands of Soviet soldiers who went missing during World War II. 'We will not forget this' Baumel, who was born in the US in 1960 but immigrated to Israel, had been missing since what is known as the Battle of Sultan Yacoub in a Lebanese village of the same name near the Syrian border. Some 20 Israeli soldiers were killed in the fight. Tank driver Baumel and two other soldiers, Zvi Feldman and Yehuda Katz, had been listed as missing and presumed dead. The other two remain missing. Netanyahu said he asked Putin two years ago to help in the search for the remains of the missing men. "You personally responded and gave the order to help in this holy deed," he said, thanking the Russian leader. "We will not forget this act, it will go down in history." The return of the remains of soldiers missing in action is a highly important issue in Israel, which has fought repeated wars with its Arab neighbours since the state of Israel was established in 1948.

Putin says body of missing Israeli soldier found by Russian army

Hamas leader Ismail Haniya said Tuesday the rocket from Gaza that hit a house in Israel last week launched due to a technical error, his first official statement on the strike.

The rocket that was fired from the Gaza Strip on March 25 destroyed a house north of Tel and injured seven Israelis.

Israel responded by striking a series of Hamas targets in the Palestinian enclave, including flattening Haniya's office, before Egypt brokered a ceasefire that prevented a full conflict.

In his comments on Tuesday, Haniya said the rocket was "due to a technical defect, but was a mini demonstration if (Israel) thought to commit folly against the Palestinian people."

The statement from his office said he made the remarks during a meeting with political analysts.

He did not provide further details on what type of technical defect could have caused the launch.

Previously only unnamed officials from Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules Gaza, have said the rocket was fired due to a technical error.

Following the latest ceasefire, Hamas said Egypt had brokered a truce that would see Israel ease its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm.

Israel has not publicly commented on the reported agreement.

On Monday, Israel expanded the fishing zone around Gaza, increasing it in one area to the largest distance in years, in what Hamas officials said was the first step.

An Egyptian security delegation visited Gaza late Monday and met with Hamas.

Haniya said the delegation brought a timetable from the Israeli side for implementing the agreements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in the middle of a gruelling election campaign and faces a strong challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz.

Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008. 
&nbsp;

Hamas leader Ismail Haniya said Tuesday the rocket from Gaza that hit a house in Israel last week launched due to a technical error, his first official statement on the strike.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniya said Tuesday the rocket from Gaza that hit a house in Israel last week launched due to a technical error, his first official statement on the strike. The rocket that was fired from the Gaza Strip on March 25 destroyed a house north of Tel and injured seven Israelis. Israel responded by striking a series of Hamas targets in the Palestinian enclave, including flattening Haniya's office, before Egypt brokered a ceasefire that prevented a full conflict. In his comments on Tuesday, Haniya said the rocket was "due to a technical defect, but was a mini demonstration if (Israel) thought to commit folly against the Palestinian people." The statement from his office said he made the remarks during a meeting with political analysts. He did not provide further details on what type of technical defect could have caused the launch. Previously only unnamed officials from Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules Gaza, have said the rocket was fired due to a technical error. Following the latest ceasefire, Hamas said Egypt had brokered a truce that would see Israel ease its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm. Israel has not publicly commented on the reported agreement. On Monday, Israel expanded the fishing zone around Gaza, increasing it in one area to the largest distance in years, in what Hamas officials said was the first step. An Egyptian security delegation visited Gaza late Monday and met with Hamas. Haniya said the delegation brought a timetable from the Israeli side for implementing the agreements. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in the middle of a gruelling election campaign and faces a strong challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008.

Hamas leader says rocket that hit Israeli house was fired in error

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - April 1st, 2019

Palestine: 1 killed in Israeli firing ahead of protests

Thousands protest at border, but Gaza-Israel truce holds

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro arrived in Israel on Sunday just ahead of the country's polls in which his right-wing ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a tough re-election fight.

Bolsonaro was welcomed by Netanyahu and an official ceremony at the airport near Tel Aviv.

"We are making history together," Netanyahu said, adding that they had "opened a new era in relations between our two countries."

Bolsonaro said, "my government is firmly resolved to strengthen the partnership between Brazil and Israel."

"Cooperation in the areas of security and defence is also of great interest to Brazil," he said.

Bolsonaro will walk a diplomatic tightrope during the three-day visit as he seeks to shore up ties with Netanyahu while avoiding angering key Arab trade partners.

Bolsonaro's controversial pledge to move Brazil's embassy to the disputed city of Jerusalem is expected to be high on the agenda, as Netanyahu uses the occasion to boost his standing ahead of April 9 elections.

Months after promising the step already taken by US President Donald Trump -- leading the Palestinians to freeze ties with the White House -- Bolsonaro has yet to announce a timetable.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Bolsonaro suggested he was in no hurry to make a decision.

"Trump took nine months to decide, to give his final word, so that the embassy was transferred," Bolsonaro said.

"Perhaps now we will open a commercial office in Jerusalem."

While moving the embassy would please Bolsonaro's evangelical Christian support base, it would run the risk of provoking commercial retaliation from Arab states, some of which are major importers of Brazilian meat.

Western Wall visit

Bolsonaro is expected to visit Jerusalem's Western Wall alongside Netanyahu on Monday -- a controversial move in itself.

Earlier this month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo became the first high-ranking American official to visit the Western Wall, located in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, with an Israeli premier.

It could be taken as tacit approval of Israel's sovereignty over the site, one of the holiest in Judaism and located in the city's mainly Palestinian eastern sector.

The compound above the wall is known to Jews as the Temple Mount -- the holiest in Judaism -- and also contains the Al-Aqsa mosque, the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina.

Later Sunday, Netanyahu will meet with Bolsonaro and sign agreements before they have dinner.&nbsp;

Netanyahu became the first Israeli prime minister to visit Brazil when he travelled there for Bolsonaro's January 1 inauguration.

In their discussions then, the two right-wingers talked up their budding "brotherhood" which they said would boost military, economic, technological and agricultural cooperation.

Netanyahu is facing a tough challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz in Israel's elections and is also under threat of indictment on corruption allegations.

Pompeo's visit this month and Netanyahu's trip to the United States to meet Trump last week -- cut short due to a flare-up in the Gaza Strip -- was widely seen as providing a boost to his campaign.

He has sought to present himself as Israel's essential statesman, and Bolsonaro's visit may include similar rhetoric.

Both Netanyahu and Bolsonaro have good relations with Trump.

During the Brazilian leader's visit to Washington this month, the US president heaped praise on Bolsonaro in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO.

For years Bolsonaro was little more than a marginal congressman, but his Trump-like campaign in 2018, promising to combat corruption and end politics as usual, propelled him to a surprise victory.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro arrived in Israel on Sunday just ahead of the country's polls in which his right-wing ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a tough re-election fight.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro arrived in Israel on Sunday just ahead of the country's polls in which his right-wing ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a tough re-election fight. Bolsonaro was welcomed by Netanyahu and an official ceremony at the airport near Tel Aviv. "We are making history together," Netanyahu said, adding that they had "opened a new era in relations between our two countries." Bolsonaro said, "my government is firmly resolved to strengthen the partnership between Brazil and Israel." "Cooperation in the areas of security and defence is also of great interest to Brazil," he said. Bolsonaro will walk a diplomatic tightrope during the three-day visit as he seeks to shore up ties with Netanyahu while avoiding angering key Arab trade partners. Bolsonaro's controversial pledge to move Brazil's embassy to the disputed city of Jerusalem is expected to be high on the agenda, as Netanyahu uses the occasion to boost his standing ahead of April 9 elections. Months after promising the step already taken by US President Donald Trump -- leading the Palestinians to freeze ties with the White House -- Bolsonaro has yet to announce a timetable. Speaking to reporters Thursday, Bolsonaro suggested he was in no hurry to make a decision. "Trump took nine months to decide, to give his final word, so that the embassy was transferred," Bolsonaro said. "Perhaps now we will open a commercial office in Jerusalem." While moving the embassy would please Bolsonaro's evangelical Christian support base, it would run the risk of provoking commercial retaliation from Arab states, some of which are major importers of Brazilian meat. Western Wall visit Bolsonaro is expected to visit Jerusalem's Western Wall alongside Netanyahu on Monday -- a controversial move in itself. Earlier this month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo became the first high-ranking American official to visit the Western Wall, located in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, with an Israeli premier. It could be taken as tacit approval of Israel's sovereignty over the site, one of the holiest in Judaism and located in the city's mainly Palestinian eastern sector. The compound above the wall is known to Jews as the Temple Mount -- the holiest in Judaism -- and also contains the Al-Aqsa mosque, the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina. Later Sunday, Netanyahu will meet with Bolsonaro and sign agreements before they have dinner. Netanyahu became the first Israeli prime minister to visit Brazil when he travelled there for Bolsonaro's January 1 inauguration. In their discussions then, the two right-wingers talked up their budding "brotherhood" which they said would boost military, economic, technological and agricultural cooperation. Netanyahu is facing a tough challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz in Israel's elections and is also under threat of indictment on corruption allegations. Pompeo's visit this month and Netanyahu's trip to the United States to meet Trump last week -- cut short due to a flare-up in the Gaza Strip -- was widely seen as providing a boost to his campaign. He has sought to present himself as Israel's essential statesman, and Bolsonaro's visit may include similar rhetoric. Both Netanyahu and Bolsonaro have good relations with Trump. During the Brazilian leader's visit to Washington this month, the US president heaped praise on Bolsonaro in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO. For years Bolsonaro was little more than a marginal congressman, but his Trump-like campaign in 2018, promising to combat corruption and end politics as usual, propelled him to a surprise victory.

Brazil's Bolsonaro arrives in Israel for pre-vote visit

Israel reopened its commercial crossing with the Gaza Strip on Sunday but kept military reinforcements deployed on the volatile frontier, a day after a smaller than expected Palestinian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-killed-as-thousands-protest-at-border-but-gaza-israel-truce-holds-206856">protest along the border</a>.

Gaza medical officials said four Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire during demonstrations on Saturday marking the first anniversary of the "Great March of Return" protests.

Around 200 Gazans have been killed by Israeli troops since the protests started on March 30 last year, according to Palestinian Health Ministry figures. An Israeli soldier was also killed by a Palestinian sniper in July.

But while around 40,000 protesters, some hurling grenades and explosives, turned out on Saturday, according to the Israeli military, several signs pointed to pullback from wider confrontation amid Egyptian efforts to reach a long-term ceasefire that would also ease blockaded Gaza's economic plight.

An Israeli military spokesman noted that there had been "significantly less violence" during Saturday's protest, which organisers had billed a "million person march", than in past weekly demonstrations.

In addition, hundreds of Palestinian men, some from Gaza's ruling Hamas group, were deployed in bright orange vests to deter people from going near Israel's border fence, a frequent flashpoint.

A Hamas official said Egyptian mediators were expected to hold talks in Israel to try to finalise a deal.

Israel, which considers Hamas to be a terrorist group, has maintained official silence about any pending agreement, a week before a closely contested election in which rocket strikes from Gaza on Israeli border towns have become the main issue.

Trucks carrying food and fuel rolled into Gaza through the reopened Kerem Shalom crossing on Sunday despite the firing of several rockets at southern Israel overnight and Israeli tank fire on Hamas positions in response. No injuries were reported on either side of the border.

Flare-up

The crossing had been closed on Monday after a rocket that wounded seven Israelis north of Tel Aviv touched off a two-day surge in cross-border violence.

Israel launched a wave of air strikes and ramped up its forces at the border after the rocket strike, as Egypt stepped up its mediation.

A prospective deal, according to three Palestinian officials close to the talks, would include steady Qatari-funded fuel supplies for Gaza, job creation projects and expansion of the territory's fishing zone off the Mediterranean coast.

For their part, militant groups in Gaza agreed before Saturday's protest to keep demonstrators from the border fence and stop the launching of incendiary balloons that have burned farmland in southern Israel, the officials said.

"Days separate us from achieving our demands. We are patient and the enemy is under a test," Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas's deputy Gaza chief, told the group's Aqsa TV.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accused by far-right rivals of being too soft on Hamas, said on Sunday he ordered Israeli forces to remain at "full strength" along the Gaza frontier.

But in public remarks on Thursday, he said Israel would undertake a broad military campaign in Gaza - Hamas and Israel last fought a war in 2014 - only after exhausting all other options.

Israel reopened its commercial crossing with the Gaza Strip on Sunday but kept military reinforcements deployed on the volatile frontier, a day after a smaller than expected Palestinian protest along the border.

Israel reopened its commercial crossing with the Gaza Strip on Sunday but kept military reinforcements deployed on the volatile frontier, a day after a smaller than expected Palestinian protest along the border. Gaza medical officials said four Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire during demonstrations on Saturday marking the first anniversary of the "Great March of Return" protests. Around 200 Gazans have been killed by Israeli troops since the protests started on March 30 last year, according to Palestinian Health Ministry figures. An Israeli soldier was also killed by a Palestinian sniper in July. But while around 40,000 protesters, some hurling grenades and explosives, turned out on Saturday, according to the Israeli military, several signs pointed to pullback from wider confrontation amid Egyptian efforts to reach a long-term ceasefire that would also ease blockaded Gaza's economic plight. An Israeli military spokesman noted that there had been "significantly less violence" during Saturday's protest, which organisers had billed a "million person march", than in past weekly demonstrations. In addition, hundreds of Palestinian men, some from Gaza's ruling Hamas group, were deployed in bright orange vests to deter people from going near Israel's border fence, a frequent flashpoint. A Hamas official said Egyptian mediators were expected to hold talks in Israel to try to finalise a deal. Israel, which considers Hamas to be a terrorist group, has maintained official silence about any pending agreement, a week before a closely contested election in which rocket strikes from Gaza on Israeli border towns have become the main issue. Trucks carrying food and fuel rolled into Gaza through the reopened Kerem Shalom crossing on Sunday despite the firing of several rockets at southern Israel overnight and Israeli tank fire on Hamas positions in response. No injuries were reported on either side of the border. Flare-up The crossing had been closed on Monday after a rocket that wounded seven Israelis north of Tel Aviv touched off a two-day surge in cross-border violence. Israel launched a wave of air strikes and ramped up its forces at the border after the rocket strike, as Egypt stepped up its mediation. A prospective deal, according to three Palestinian officials close to the talks, would include steady Qatari-funded fuel supplies for Gaza, job creation projects and expansion of the territory's fishing zone off the Mediterranean coast. For their part, militant groups in Gaza agreed before Saturday's protest to keep demonstrators from the border fence and stop the launching of incendiary balloons that have burned farmland in southern Israel, the officials said. "Days separate us from achieving our demands. We are patient and the enemy is under a test," Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas's deputy Gaza chief, told the group's Aqsa TV. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accused by far-right rivals of being too soft on Hamas, said on Sunday he ordered Israeli forces to remain at "full strength" along the Gaza frontier. But in public remarks on Thursday, he said Israel would undertake a broad military campaign in Gaza - Hamas and Israel last fought a war in 2014 - only after exhausting all other options.

Israel reopens Gaza commercial crossing in sign of easing tensions

Thousands of Gazans began gathering to mark the first anniversary of mass <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-gaza-after-border-bombs-205246">protests along the Israeli border</a> on Saturday, testing a fragile truce only 10 days ahead of an Israeli general election.

Egypt has sought to mediate between Israel and Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas to rein in violence and avoid the sort of deadly response from the Israeli army that has accompanied past protests.

But warnings to stay far back from the heavily fortified fence that marks the border were already not being heeded by some.

"We will move towards the borders even if we die," said Yusef Ziyada, 21, his face painted in the colours of the Palestinian flag.

"We are not leaving. We are returning to our land."

Dozens of Palestinians were seen approaching the border fence east of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip at around midday (0900 GMT) before retreating as Israeli troops fired tear gas.

The protesters threw stones at the Israeli soldiers and burnt tyres.

Further south, an Egyptian security delegation visited a protest site east of Gaza City.

The city's mosques were using loudspeakers to call on people to attend, but rainy weather could affect turnout.

"There are about 5,500 rioters gathered at several locations along the fence," the Israeli army said at around 1 pm (1000 GMT).

"Some of them are throwing stones and setting tyres on fire," it said, adding soldiers were responding with "riot dispersal means."

Before dawn Saturday, a Palestinian was killed by Israeli fire during an overnight protest ahead of the main demonstration, the enclave's health ministry said.

Israel's army had not commented on the death, but late Friday said explosive devices were thrown at the fence "throughout the evening."

A tank "struck a Hamas military post in the northern Gaza Strip" in response, it said.

Sensitive time

Protesters were marking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gazas-night-disturbers-put-israeli-border-villagers-on-edge-ahead-of-anniversary-206550">first anniversary </a>of often violent weekly demonstrations in which around 200 Palestinians and an Israeli soldier have been killed.

The anniversary comes only days after another severe flare-up of violence between Israel and Hamas. An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire restored calm.

The timing is especially sensitive for Israel, which holds a keenly contested general election on April 9 in which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a stiff challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz.

He is widely seen as wanting to avoid a major escalation, but has at the same time faced political pressure over accusations of being soft on Hamas.

The protests peaked on May 14, when Israeli forces shot dead at least 62 Palestinians in clashes on the same day Washington moved its embassy to Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem.

The demonstrators are calling for Palestinians to be allowed to return to land their families fled or were expelled from during the 1948 war that accompanied Israel's creation.

Israel says any such mass return would spell the end of a Jewish state and that its actions have been necessary to defend the border.

It accuses Hamas of orchestrating violence, but its soldiers' use of live fire has come under heavy criticism.

Last month, a UN probe said Israeli soldiers had intentionally fired on civilians in what could constitute war crimes.

Two million Palestinians live in impoverished Gaza, crammed between Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean.

Analysts highlight desperate living conditions and lack of freedom of movement as driving forces behind the protests.

Israel, which has fought three wars with Hamas, has blockaded the enclave for more than a decade, and Egypt often closes Gaza's only other gateway to the outside world.

The UN says more than 90 per cent of the water is unsafe for drinking and residents receive less than 12 hours of mains electricity a day.

'Risky strategy'

Many protesters have remained far back from the fence and have demonstrated peacefully, but others have approached in numbers and clashed with soldiers.

Small groups have attached incendiary devices to balloons to float them over the border in an attempt to set fire to nearby Israeli homes and farmland.

The Israeli army has increased its presence along the border in recent days deploying several thousand troops, including dozens of snipers.

On Monday, a rocket fired from Gaza struck a house north of the Israeli commercial capital Tel Aviv, wounding seven people.

In response, Israel struck dozens of Hamas targets, drawing further rocket fire before calm was restored.

Hugh Lovatt, Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council of Foreign Relations, said Hamas was trying to use the protests to get concessions from Israel.

"Hamas seems to think that the run-up to Israeli elections, and Netanyahu's desire to maintain calm in Gaza, has given it increased leverage," he said.&nbsp;

"But as we have seen with Israel's military build-up along the Gaza border, this could be a risky strategy."

Thousands of Gazans began gathering to mark the first anniversary of mass protests along the Israeli border on Saturday, testing a fragile truce only 10 days ahead of an Israeli general election.

Thousands of Gazans began gathering to mark the first anniversary of mass protests along the Israeli border on Saturday, testing a fragile truce only 10 days ahead of an Israeli general election. Egypt has sought to mediate between Israel and Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas to rein in violence and avoid the sort of deadly response from the Israeli army that has accompanied past protests. But warnings to stay far back from the heavily fortified fence that marks the border were already not being heeded by some. "We will move towards the borders even if we die," said Yusef Ziyada, 21, his face painted in the colours of the Palestinian flag. "We are not leaving. We are returning to our land." Dozens of Palestinians were seen approaching the border fence east of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip at around midday (0900 GMT) before retreating as Israeli troops fired tear gas. The protesters threw stones at the Israeli soldiers and burnt tyres. Further south, an Egyptian security delegation visited a protest site east of Gaza City. The city's mosques were using loudspeakers to call on people to attend, but rainy weather could affect turnout. "There are about 5,500 rioters gathered at several locations along the fence," the Israeli army said at around 1 pm (1000 GMT). "Some of them are throwing stones and setting tyres on fire," it said, adding soldiers were responding with "riot dispersal means." Before dawn Saturday, a Palestinian was killed by Israeli fire during an overnight protest ahead of the main demonstration, the enclave's health ministry said. Israel's army had not commented on the death, but late Friday said explosive devices were thrown at the fence "throughout the evening." A tank "struck a Hamas military post in the northern Gaza Strip" in response, it said. Sensitive time Protesters were marking the first anniversary of often violent weekly demonstrations in which around 200 Palestinians and an Israeli soldier have been killed. The anniversary comes only days after another severe flare-up of violence between Israel and Hamas. An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire restored calm. The timing is especially sensitive for Israel, which holds a keenly contested general election on April 9 in which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a stiff challenge from centrist former military chief Benny Gantz. He is widely seen as wanting to avoid a major escalation, but has at the same time faced political pressure over accusations of being soft on Hamas. The protests peaked on May 14, when Israeli forces shot dead at least 62 Palestinians in clashes on the same day Washington moved its embassy to Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem. The demonstrators are calling for Palestinians to be allowed to return to land their families fled or were expelled from during the 1948 war that accompanied Israel's creation. Israel says any such mass return would spell the end of a Jewish state and that its actions have been necessary to defend the border. It accuses Hamas of orchestrating violence, but its soldiers' use of live fire has come under heavy criticism. Last month, a UN probe said Israeli soldiers had intentionally fired on civilians in what could constitute war crimes. Two million Palestinians live in impoverished Gaza, crammed between Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean. Analysts highlight desperate living conditions and lack of freedom of movement as driving forces behind the protests. Israel, which has fought three wars with Hamas, has blockaded the enclave for more than a decade, and Egypt often closes Gaza's only other gateway to the outside world. The UN says more than 90 per cent of the water is unsafe for drinking and residents receive less than 12 hours of mains electricity a day. 'Risky strategy' Many protesters have remained far back from the fence and have demonstrated peacefully, but others have approached in numbers and clashed with soldiers. Small groups have attached incendiary devices to balloons to float them over the border in an attempt to set fire to nearby Israeli homes and farmland. The Israeli army has increased its presence along the border in recent days deploying several thousand troops, including dozens of snipers. On Monday, a rocket fired from Gaza struck a house north of the Israeli commercial capital Tel Aviv, wounding seven people. In response, Israel struck dozens of Hamas targets, drawing further rocket fire before calm was restored. Hugh Lovatt, Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council of Foreign Relations, said Hamas was trying to use the protests to get concessions from Israel. "Hamas seems to think that the run-up to Israeli elections, and Netanyahu's desire to maintain calm in Gaza, has given it increased leverage," he said. "But as we have seen with Israel's military build-up along the Gaza border, this could be a risky strategy."

On anniversary, thousands gather at Gaza-Israel border in test of truce

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how.

"India is a precious friend. What friend do is that they help each other to defend each other. As long as India needs our help, assistance, sharing of technology, know-how to defend itself, we are here," a top Isreali government source told WION.&nbsp;

"No compromise&nbsp;with those who speak the language of power since they do not understand any other language," the source said.

The development comes against the backdrop of reports that India used Israeli developed SPICE 2000 bombs during its counter-terror operations in Balakot, Pakistan to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed camps.&nbsp;

SPICE stands for Smart, precise, Impact, cost-effective.

On India's ties with the Arab world, the sources said, "So far as diplomacy is concerned everyone has different interest."

"Friends can be friends and agree and disagree and can still be friends,'' the source said.

Ties between India and Israel have been growing in the past few years with a number of high-level visits between both countries.&nbsp;

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi visited Israel in July 2017, the first visit by an Indian PM to the country. It was followed by a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in January 2018.

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how. "India is a precious friend.

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how. "India is a precious friend. What friend do is that they help each other to defend each other. As long as India needs our help, assistance, sharing of technology, know-how to defend itself, we are here," a top Isreali government source told WION. "No compromise with those who speak the language of power since they do not understand any other language," the source said. The development comes against the backdrop of reports that India used Israeli developed SPICE 2000 bombs during its counter-terror operations in Balakot, Pakistan to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed camps. SPICE stands for Smart, precise, Impact, cost-effective. On India's ties with the Arab world, the sources said, "So far as diplomacy is concerned everyone has different interest." "Friends can be friends and agree and disagree and can still be friends,'' the source said. Ties between India and Israel have been growing in the past few years with a number of high-level visits between both countries. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi visited Israel in July 2017, the first visit by an Indian PM to the country. It was followed by a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in January 2018.

Ready to share counter-terror technology, crucial know-how with India: Israel govt source

Schools reopened in southern Israel and traffic-clogged Gaza's streets on Wednesday in signs of a pullback from the most serious escalation of cross-border fighting in months.

But while violence eased amid Egyptian mediation, Israeli forces and Palestinian militants were on hair-trigger footing, with rocket attacks from Gaza and Israeli air strikes in the enclave briefly resuming late on Tuesday after a day-long lull.

Despite dozens of rocket launchings and Israeli attacks, no deaths have been reported. Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile interceptors have destroyed some of the rockets and Palestinian militants vacated facilities targeted in the air strikes.

Towns in southern Israel, where rocket-warning sirens have disrupted daily life since the current round of fighting began on Monday, reopened classrooms. In Gaza, schools were also operating and cars filled the streets.

The Gaza frontier remained tense, however, with Israeli troops and tanks deployed along the border. Both Israel and Gaza's ruling Hamas militant group made clear that attacks by the other side would not be tolerated.

Even if the crisis subsides, it could shadow Israel's April 9 election, in which right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has campaigned on a tough security platform.

TENSIONS BUILDING

The latest fighting has added to tensions that were already building ahead of the first anniversary on March 30 of the start of weekly Gaza protests at the border. Some 200 Gazans have been killed and thousands wounded by Israeli fire during those protests, and one Israeli soldier has been killed.

Israel says its use of lethal force is meant to stop attempts to breach the border and launch attack on its troops and civilians.

The protesters are demanding the right to return to lands Palestinians fled or were forced to leave in Israel during fighting that accompanied its founding in 1948.

Seven Israelis were injured in Monday's initial rocket attack that hit the village of Mishmeret, 120 km (75 miles) north of Gaza. No other casualties in Israel have been reported. Twelve Palestinians have been wounded by Israeli strikes, Gaza health officials said.

Egypt was expected to pursue further truce talks on Wednesday, said a Palestinian official involved in the efforts.

UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov told the Security Council on Tuesday he had been working with Egypt to secure a ceasefire and that a fragile calm had taken hold.

Security is a major issue for Netanyahu, in power for a decade and beset by corruption allegations that he denies. He is facing his strongest electoral challenge from a centrist coalition led by a former general.

In Dheisha refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, a 17-year-old Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli troops during clashes with stone-throwers, an ambulance service official said, identifying him as a volunteer wearing a paramedic uniform. The Israeli military had no immediate comment.

Schools reopened in southern Israel and traffic-clogged Gaza's streets on Wednesday in signs of a pullback from the most serious escalation of cross-border fighting in months.

Schools reopened in southern Israel and traffic-clogged Gaza's streets on Wednesday in signs of a pullback from the most serious escalation of cross-border fighting in months. But while violence eased amid Egyptian mediation, Israeli forces and Palestinian militants were on hair-trigger footing, with rocket attacks from Gaza and Israeli air strikes in the enclave briefly resuming late on Tuesday after a day-long lull. Despite dozens of rocket launchings and Israeli attacks, no deaths have been reported. Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile interceptors have destroyed some of the rockets and Palestinian militants vacated facilities targeted in the air strikes. Towns in southern Israel, where rocket-warning sirens have disrupted daily life since the current round of fighting began on Monday, reopened classrooms. In Gaza, schools were also operating and cars filled the streets. The Gaza frontier remained tense, however, with Israeli troops and tanks deployed along the border. Both Israel and Gaza's ruling Hamas militant group made clear that attacks by the other side would not be tolerated. Even if the crisis subsides, it could shadow Israel's April 9 election, in which right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has campaigned on a tough security platform. TENSIONS BUILDING The latest fighting has added to tensions that were already building ahead of the first anniversary on March 30 of the start of weekly Gaza protests at the border. Some 200 Gazans have been killed and thousands wounded by Israeli fire during those protests, and one Israeli soldier has been killed. Israel says its use of lethal force is meant to stop attempts to breach the border and launch attack on its troops and civilians. The protesters are demanding the right to return to lands Palestinians fled or were forced to leave in Israel during fighting that accompanied its founding in 1948. Seven Israelis were injured in Monday's initial rocket attack that hit the village of Mishmeret, 120 km (75 miles) north of Gaza. No other casualties in Israel have been reported. Twelve Palestinians have been wounded by Israeli strikes, Gaza health officials said. Egypt was expected to pursue further truce talks on Wednesday, said a Palestinian official involved in the efforts. UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov told the Security Council on Tuesday he had been working with Egypt to secure a ceasefire and that a fragile calm had taken hold. Security is a major issue for Netanyahu, in power for a decade and beset by corruption allegations that he denies. He is facing his strongest electoral challenge from a centrist coalition led by a former general. In Dheisha refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, a 17-year-old Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli troops during clashes with stone-throwers, an ambulance service official said, identifying him as a volunteer wearing a paramedic uniform. The Israeli military had no immediate comment.

Tense calm on Gaza-Israel border after flareup

Saudi Arabia rejected US President Donald <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-proclamation-recognising-israeli-sovereignty-over-golan-heights-205595">Trump's decision of signing a proclamation</a> recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights on Monday also saying that it "condemned" the move as a violation of international law.&nbsp;

"Saudi Arabia expresses its firm rejection and condemnation of the US administration's declaration that it recognises Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights," read a statement published by the Saudi state news agency.&nbsp;

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu termed Trump's move as ''historic''.

"Your decision to recognize Israel's sovereignty on the Golan Heights is so historic," Netanyahu told Trump.

"Your recognition is a twofold act of historic justice. Israel won the Golan Heights in a just war of self-defence, and the Jewish people's roots in the Golan go back thousands of years," Netanyahu added.

The Jewish state captured the territory from Syria during the Six-Day War of 1967.

Saudi Arabia rejected US President Donald Trump's decision of signing a proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights on Monday also saying that it "condemned" the move as a violation of international law.

Saudi Arabia rejected US President Donald Trump's decision of signing a proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights on Monday also saying that it "condemned" the move as a violation of international law. "Saudi Arabia expresses its firm rejection and condemnation of the US administration's declaration that it recognises Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights," read a statement published by the Saudi state news agency. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu termed Trump's move as ''historic''. "Your decision to recognize Israel's sovereignty on the Golan Heights is so historic," Netanyahu told Trump. "Your recognition is a twofold act of historic justice. Israel won the Golan Heights in a just war of self-defence, and the Jewish people's roots in the Golan go back thousands of years," Netanyahu added. The Jewish state captured the territory from Syria during the Six-Day War of 1967.

Saudi Arabia rejects, condemns Trump's decision on Golan Heights

US President Donald Trump on Monday signed a proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights.

"This was a long time in the making," Trump said in the presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House.&nbsp;

Israel had seized <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-will-formally-recognise-israels-sovereignty-over-golan-heights-pence-205575">Golan Heights from Syria </a>during the six-day conflict in June, 1967, when it defeated the Arab coalition consisting of Egypt, Syria and Jordan. Israel later annexed the territory - a move not recognised by the international community. The move hasn't been supported by US President since then.

PM Netanyahu had called up President Trump after he had made the announcement on Golan Heights to tell him he had made "history," and called the gesture a "Purim miracle," a reference to the Jewish holiday that Israel was celebrating that day.

Syria, Turkey and other Arab nations had condemned Trump's move.

However, Trump's Middle East envoy, Jason Greenblatt, added that it was inconceivable Israel "would allow the Golan to be controlled by the state of Syria or by any of the rogue actors operating in the areas, including Iran."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Monday signed a proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights. "This was a long time in the making," Trump said in the presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House.

US President Donald Trump on Monday signed a proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights. "This was a long time in the making," Trump said in the presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House. Israel had seized Golan Heights from Syria during the six-day conflict in June, 1967, when it defeated the Arab coalition consisting of Egypt, Syria and Jordan. Israel later annexed the territory - a move not recognised by the international community. The move hasn't been supported by US President since then. PM Netanyahu had called up President Trump after he had made the announcement on Golan Heights to tell him he had made "history," and called the gesture a "Purim miracle," a reference to the Jewish holiday that Israel was celebrating that day. Syria, Turkey and other Arab nations had condemned Trump's move. However, Trump's Middle East envoy, Jason Greenblatt, added that it was inconceivable Israel "would allow the Golan to be controlled by the state of Syria or by any of the rogue actors operating in the areas, including Iran."

Trump signs proclamation recognising Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights

US President Trump on Monday will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-asks-un-council-to-uphold-resolutions-on-golan-heights-204971">formally recognise Israeli </a>sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Vice President Mike Pence said.

"Today for the first time in 52 years, with Prime Minister Netanyahu at his side, the president of the US will formally recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Pence said as he addressed the American Israel Public Affairs Committee(AIPAC) on Monday.

Last week <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-unfortunate-statement-on-golan-heights-brings-region-to-edge-of-new-crisis-erdogan-204870">President Trump had said</a> it was time to back Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

"After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the state of Israel and regional stability!" Trump had said on Twitter.

Israel had seized Golan Heights from Syria during the six-day conflict in June, 1967 when it defeated the Arab coalition consisting of Egypt, Syria and Jordan. Israel later annexed the territory - a move not recognised by the international community. The move hasn't been supported by successive US Presidents since then.

Yisrael Katz, Israel's foreign minister had said on Monday on Twitter that, "President Trump will sign tomorrow in the presence of PM Netanyahu an order recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights."

Although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was supposed to be present at the AIPAC conference but he cut short his visit after a rocket attack from Gaza Strip hit northern Israel on Monday morning.

Netanyahu called up President Trump after he had made the announcement on Golan Heights to tell him he had made "history," and called the gesture a "Purim miracle," a reference to the Jewish holiday that Israel was celebrating that day.

Syria, Turkey and other Arab nations condemned Trump's move. However, Trump's Middle East envoy, Jason Greenblatt, said it was inconceivable Israel "would allow the Golan to be controlled by the state of Syria or by any of the rogue actors operating in the areas, including Iran."

US President Trump on Monday will formally recognise Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Vice President Mike Pence said. "Today for the first time in 52 years, with Prime Minister Netanyahu at his side, the president of the US will formally recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Pence said as he addressed the American Israel Public Affairs Committee(AIPAC) on Monday.

US President Trump on Monday will formally recognise Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Vice President Mike Pence said. "Today for the first time in 52 years, with Prime Minister Netanyahu at his side, the president of the US will formally recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Pence said as he addressed the American Israel Public Affairs Committee(AIPAC) on Monday. Last week President Trump had said it was time to back Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. "After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the state of Israel and regional stability!" Trump had said on Twitter. Israel had seized Golan Heights from Syria during the six-day conflict in June, 1967 when it defeated the Arab coalition consisting of Egypt, Syria and Jordan. Israel later annexed the territory - a move not recognised by the international community. The move hasn't been supported by successive US Presidents since then. Yisrael Katz, Israel's foreign minister had said on Monday on Twitter that, "President Trump will sign tomorrow in the presence of PM Netanyahu an order recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights." Although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was supposed to be present at the AIPAC conference but he cut short his visit after a rocket attack from Gaza Strip hit northern Israel on Monday morning. Netanyahu called up President Trump after he had made the announcement on Golan Heights to tell him he had made "history," and called the gesture a "Purim miracle," a reference to the Jewish holiday that Israel was celebrating that day. Syria, Turkey and other Arab nations condemned Trump's move. However, Trump's Middle East envoy, Jason Greenblatt, said it was inconceivable Israel "would allow the Golan to be controlled by the state of Syria or by any of the rogue actors operating in the areas, including Iran."

President Trump will formally recognise Israel's sovereignty over Golan Heights: Pence

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-gives-rare-tv-interview-to-address-allegations-205334">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> vowed Monday to retaliate "with force"&nbsp;after a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in a community north of Tel Aviv wounding five people. &nbsp;

Netanyahu, who is in the US, said he would be cutting short his US visit and would return home.&nbsp;

"I have decided, due to the security incidents, to cut short my visit to the United States. I will meet President (Donald) Trump in a few hours and just after that I will return to Israel to lead closely the operations," Netanyahu said in a video released by his office.&nbsp;

Rocket fired by Hamas: Israeli Army 
Authorities said the house hit by the rocket had caught&nbsp;fire.&nbsp;

Israel's army said the rocket was fired from the Palestinian enclave run by Islamist movement Hamas, raising the risk of another escalation between the two sides just ahead of April 9 Israeli elections.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington, where he is due to meet US President Donald Trump later Monday, and there was no word on whether he would shorten his trip.

The house hit was located in the community of Mishmeret, police said. Medics said they were treating one Israeli with moderate wounds and four others injured lightly.

Mishmeret is more than 80 kilometres (50 miles) from the Gaza Strip and rocket fire from the Palestinian enclave at that distance is rare.

It would be sure to draw an Israeli response and comes after mounting tensions in recent weeks.

Netanyahu is believed by many analysts to want to avoid another war in the Gaza Strip -- the fourth since 2008 -- with unpredictable results ahead of the elections.

But he faces a tough challenge from a centrist political alliance led by former military chief Benny Gantz and he will come under heavy political pressure to react firmly.

One-year anniversary 
Monday's incident comes after two rockets were fired from Gaza towards Tel Aviv -- also rare -- on March 14.

No damage or injuries were caused, but Israel responded to that and further rocket fire by hitting what it said were around 100 Hamas targets across the Gaza Strip.

Four Palestinians were reported wounded in those strikes.

Both Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad denied they were behind the March 14 rocket fire towards Tel Aviv, raising the possibility they were launched by fringe groups.

Israel's military said they were launched by Hamas, but later there were Israeli media reports that the army's preliminary assessment was that they had been fired by mistake during maintenance work.

The reports were a sign that Israel was seeking to calm tensions. The military had refused to comment on the reports at the time.

Monday's rocket comes just days ahead of the March 30 one-year anniversary of Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza Strip's border with Israel.

An informal truce between Hamas and Israel had led to relative calm along the border of the blockaded strip, but recent weeks have seen another uptick in violence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Monday to retaliate "with force" after a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in a community north of Tel Aviv wounding five people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Monday to retaliate "with force" after a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in a community north of Tel Aviv wounding five people. Netanyahu, who is in the US, said he would be cutting short his US visit and would return home. "I have decided, due to the security incidents, to cut short my visit to the United States. I will meet President (Donald) Trump in a few hours and just after that I will return to Israel to lead closely the operations," Netanyahu said in a video released by his office. Rocket fired by Hamas: Israeli Army Authorities said the house hit by the rocket had caught fire. Israel's army said the rocket was fired from the Palestinian enclave run by Islamist movement Hamas, raising the risk of another escalation between the two sides just ahead of April 9 Israeli elections. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington, where he is due to meet US President Donald Trump later Monday, and there was no word on whether he would shorten his trip. The house hit was located in the community of Mishmeret, police said. Medics said they were treating one Israeli with moderate wounds and four others injured lightly. Mishmeret is more than 80 kilometres (50 miles) from the Gaza Strip and rocket fire from the Palestinian enclave at that distance is rare. It would be sure to draw an Israeli response and comes after mounting tensions in recent weeks. Netanyahu is believed by many analysts to want to avoid another war in the Gaza Strip -- the fourth since 2008 -- with unpredictable results ahead of the elections. But he faces a tough challenge from a centrist political alliance led by former military chief Benny Gantz and he will come under heavy political pressure to react firmly. One-year anniversary Monday's incident comes after two rockets were fired from Gaza towards Tel Aviv -- also rare -- on March 14. No damage or injuries were caused, but Israel responded to that and further rocket fire by hitting what it said were around 100 Hamas targets across the Gaza Strip. Four Palestinians were reported wounded in those strikes. Both Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad denied they were behind the March 14 rocket fire towards Tel Aviv, raising the possibility they were launched by fringe groups. Israel's military said they were launched by Hamas, but later there were Israeli media reports that the army's preliminary assessment was that they had been fired by mistake during maintenance work. The reports were a sign that Israel was seeking to calm tensions. The military had refused to comment on the reports at the time. Monday's rocket comes just days ahead of the March 30 one-year anniversary of Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza Strip's border with Israel. An informal truce between Hamas and Israel had led to relative calm along the border of the blockaded strip, but recent weeks have seen another uptick in violence.

Israel's Netanyahu vows to retaliate 'with force' after rocket attack

WION Dispatch: Time to recognise Golan Heights as Israeli territory, says US President Donald Trump

Turkish <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-slams-trump-vows-to-recover-israeli-occupied-golan-204839">President Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> on Friday warned US President Donald Trump's pledge to recognise Israel's disputed annexation of the Golan Heights would risk a "new crisis".

"Yesterday US President Trump's unfortunate statement about the Golan Heights brings the region to the edge of a new crisis," Erdogan told an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul.

"We will never allow the occupation of Golan Heights to be made legitimate," he added.

Erdogan said the OIC would not "remain silent to such a sensitive issue like this".

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8eloFnLOPDc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Trump on Thursday said the United States should acknowledge Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from Syria in 1967.

"After 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Trump said in a Tweet.

About 20,000 Israeli settlers live in the Golan, which overlooks Syrian territory. The annexing of the area has never been recognised by the international community.

Trump's call was welcomed by his ally Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of April 9 elections in which the incumbent is facing a tough challenge.

But Damascus on Friday said the pledge ignored international law.

Relations between Israel and Turkey have been tense.&nbsp;

Erdogan, who regards himself as a champion of the Palestinian cause, recently traded barbs with Netanyahu ahead of critical polls for both leaders.

Turkey will vote in local elections on March 31.

Trump's latest move comes after he recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and moved the US embassy there last year, which Erdogan strongly condemned.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday warned US President Donald Trump's pledge to recognise Israel's disputed annexation of the Golan Heights would risk a "new crisis".

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday warned US President Donald Trump's pledge to recognise Israel's disputed annexation of the Golan Heights would risk a "new crisis". "Yesterday US President Trump's unfortunate statement about the Golan Heights brings the region to the edge of a new crisis," Erdogan told an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul. "We will never allow the occupation of Golan Heights to be made legitimate," he added. Erdogan said the OIC would not "remain silent to such a sensitive issue like this". Trump on Thursday said the United States should acknowledge Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from Syria in 1967. "After 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Trump said in a Tweet. About 20,000 Israeli settlers live in the Golan, which overlooks Syrian territory. The annexing of the area has never been recognised by the international community. Trump's call was welcomed by his ally Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of April 9 elections in which the incumbent is facing a tough challenge. But Damascus on Friday said the pledge ignored international law. Relations between Israel and Turkey have been tense. Erdogan, who regards himself as a champion of the Palestinian cause, recently traded barbs with Netanyahu ahead of critical polls for both leaders. Turkey will vote in local elections on March 31. Trump's latest move comes after he recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and moved the US embassy there last year, which Erdogan strongly condemned.

Trump's unfortunate statement on Golan Heights brings region to edge of new crisis: Erdogan

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