Syrian air defence responded to Israeli missiles targeting the south and centre of the country, state media said early Thursday.

"Our air defence confronted an Israeli missile attack in the southwest of Quneitra province" in the south and also in a central region, SANA news agency said.

The short statement released after midnight did not provide details on the targets. Quneitra province is near the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-erdogan-seek-to-ease-syria-tensions-at-high-stakes-talks-284398">Putin, Erdogan seek to ease Syria tensions at high-stakes talks</a>

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the strikes targeted two military airports in central Homs province and two areas in Quneitra province where pro-Damascus allies of Lebanese group Hezbollah are present.

But the Britain-based war monitor said there were no immediate reports of a death or any material damage.

Since the start of the Syrian conflict in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria, mainly targeting government troops as well as allied Iranian forces and fighters from Hezbollah.

It is rare for the Jewish state to claim such strikes directly.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-can-play-active-role-in-israel-palestine-peace-process-says-un-committee-on-palestine-284245">India can play active role in Israel-Palestine peace process, says UN Committee on Pales</a>tine&nbsp;

SANA quoted a military source saying that at 12.30 am on Thursday (2230 GMT Wednesday) "our air defence observed Israeli warplane movement... Several missiles were fired towards the central region.

"The hostile missiles were immediately dealt with, and were successfully confronted, none was able to reach its target."

In mid-February, Israeli strikes on Damascus airport killed seven Syrian and Iranian fighters, according to the Observatory.

Syrian air defence responded to Israeli missiles targeting the south and centre of the country, state media said early Thursday. "Our air defence confronted an Israeli missile attack in the southwest of Quneitra province" in the south and also in a central region, SANA news agency said.

Syrian air defence responded to Israeli missiles targeting the south and centre of the country, state media said early Thursday. "Our air defence confronted an Israeli missile attack in the southwest of Quneitra province" in the south and also in a central region, SANA news agency said. The short statement released after midnight did not provide details on the targets. Quneitra province is near the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights. Also read: Putin, Erdogan seek to ease Syria tensions at high-stakes talks The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the strikes targeted two military airports in central Homs province and two areas in Quneitra province where pro-Damascus allies of Lebanese group Hezbollah are present. But the Britain-based war monitor said there were no immediate reports of a death or any material damage. Since the start of the Syrian conflict in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria, mainly targeting government troops as well as allied Iranian forces and fighters from Hezbollah. It is rare for the Jewish state to claim such strikes directly. Also see: India can play active role in Israel-Palestine peace process, says UN Committee on Palestine SANA quoted a military source saying that at 12.30 am on Thursday (2230 GMT Wednesday) "our air defence observed Israeli warplane movement... Several missiles were fired towards the central region. "The hostile missiles were immediately dealt with, and were successfully confronted, none was able to reach its target." In mid-February, Israeli strikes on Damascus airport killed seven Syrian and Iranian fighters, according to the Observatory.

Syrian air defence responds to 'Israeli missiles': Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row&nbsp;this year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-vote-in-the-third-general-election-in-a-year-will-netanyahu-reach-the-magic-number-283622">Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?</a>

The polls indicated that Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party gained about 37 seats while Gantz's centrist Blue and White party got 32-34 seats in the elections that were held on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency.

Meanwhile, the exit polls also showed that Netanyahu's party and allies gained 59 or 60 seats, meaning the bloc fell short of two or one seat(s) needed for a majority coalition in Israel's 120-seat Parliament or Knesset.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mired-in-stalemate-israel-holds-another-election-on-netanyahus-future-283660">Mired in stalemate, Israel holds another election on Netanyahu's future</a>

But exit polls indicate that he could still end up struggling to overhaul the majority mark. On your screens right now are the exit poll numbers.

The far-right bloc led by Netanyahu's Likud party is expected to win around 59 seats — which is 2 less than the majority mark. The opposing bloc led by the blue and white alliance is projected to win 54 seats.

And just like last time — Avigdor Lieberman and his Yisrael Beiteinu have emerged as the possible kingmaker with 7 seats.

There were major celebrations at the Likud party headquarters as Benjamin Netanyahu arrived. The prime minister thanked the voters for giving him what he called 'a huge victory for Israel'.

Netanyahu vowed to form a strong national govt after speaking to all the right-wing parties in Israel. And promised to come good on his campaign promises — which include the annexation of the west bank, and the revival of the economy.

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This could, however, be easier said than done. If these exit poll numbers hold — then Netanyahu is still 2 seats short.

And the obvious person the prime minister will turn to — is Avigdor Lieberman. But Lieberman has ruled out joining Netanyahu's bloc.

He says he will only support a unity govt. While these numbers indicate a mandate inclined towards Netanyahu — it is by no means conclusive.

And experts believe the political deadlock could very well continue.Over in the blue and white headquarters — the scene was exactly the opposite.

Speaking to his supporters, Benny Gantz said that he was disappointed by the exit polls and said he hoped the actual results would be different.

At the same time, he promised to continue his opposition to the prime minister.As of now, 9 per cent of the votes have been counted. The Likud party is firmly ahead with 32 per cent. While the blue and white is trailing with 24 per cent of the votes.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row this year. Also read: Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row this year. Also read: Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number? The polls indicated that Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party gained about 37 seats while Gantz's centrist Blue and White party got 32-34 seats in the elections that were held on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency. Meanwhile, the exit polls also showed that Netanyahu's party and allies gained 59 or 60 seats, meaning the bloc fell short of two or one seat(s) needed for a majority coalition in Israel's 120-seat Parliament or Knesset. Also see: Mired in stalemate, Israel holds another election on Netanyahu's future But exit polls indicate that he could still end up struggling to overhaul the majority mark. On your screens right now are the exit poll numbers. The far-right bloc led by Netanyahu's Likud party is expected to win around 59 seats — which is 2 less than the majority mark. The opposing bloc led by the blue and white alliance is projected to win 54 seats. And just like last time — Avigdor Lieberman and his Yisrael Beiteinu have emerged as the possible kingmaker with 7 seats. There were major celebrations at the Likud party headquarters as Benjamin Netanyahu arrived. The prime minister thanked the voters for giving him what he called 'a huge victory for Israel'. Netanyahu vowed to form a strong national govt after speaking to all the right-wing parties in Israel. And promised to come good on his campaign promises — which include the annexation of the west bank, and the revival of the economy. × This could, however, be easier said than done. If these exit poll numbers hold — then Netanyahu is still 2 seats short. And the obvious person the prime minister will turn to — is Avigdor Lieberman. But Lieberman has ruled out joining Netanyahu's bloc. He says he will only support a unity govt. While these numbers indicate a mandate inclined towards Netanyahu — it is by no means conclusive. And experts believe the political deadlock could very well continue.Over in the blue and white headquarters — the scene was exactly the opposite. Speaking to his supporters, Benny Gantz said that he was disappointed by the exit polls and said he hoped the actual results would be different. At the same time, he promised to continue his opposition to the prime minister.As of now, 9 per cent of the votes have been counted. The Likud party is firmly ahead with 32 per cent. While the blue and white is trailing with 24 per cent of the votes.

Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party on course to win Israel's election: Exit polls

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister.&nbsp;The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-is-israel-holding-its-third-election-in-a-year-283555">Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year?</a>

The earlier two elections have ended in a stalemate. Netanyahu has vowed to build settlements in East Jerusalem ahead of the third round of elections in the country.

But will this gambit help Netanyahu reach the magic number?

Israel is no stranger to political uncertainty. But what is happening now in Israel is unprecedented.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-tries-to-poach-russian-vote-from-old-rival-283601">Also read: Israel's Netanyahu tries to poach 'Russian vote' from old rival</a> 
 
For the first time in its history — Israel is holding 3 back to back general elections. And when a sitting prime minister has been indicted on serious charges of corruption.

According to opinion polls, corruption charges haven't pulled away from traditional Likud party voters. And by building settlements in east Jerusalem, Netanyahu hopes to bring in more hardline voters to his party.

What Netanyahu needs is a coalition which can form a majority in the 120 member Knesset.

"What you guys have to really do is you have to annihilate this line which is not such an easy thing to do. You have to finish annihilating. If we do it in pieces it's one thing, if we do it completely, then you have to delineate all the problems," Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister, Israel.

First mooted in 1995, the plan was shelved by successive Israeli governments due to international condemnation.

"Netanyahu, I will vote for Netanyahu. But I think that what Netanyahu does here is something wrong and dangerous because the Jewish people are not to decide, and the leaders of the Jewish people are not to decide the future, the limits, the borders until we get the full borders of the land of Israel as promised in the bible from god to our patriarchs," said Daniella Weiss, Israeli Orthodox settlement movement activist.

But expansionist pledges during campaigning aren't anything new for Netanyahu. In April 2019, Netanyahu had announced his intention to annex all current settlements in the occupied west bank.&nbsp;

By September 2019, Netanyahu upped the ante. Promising that if he is re-elected, he would claim Israeli sovereignty over a third of the occupied west bank. And now, he has floated a campaign promise to build 3500 homes for Israeli settlers in east Jerusalem.

But the election is still neck and neck. Netanyahu has met his match in Benny Gantz, a former Israeli army chief turned politician. His blue and white party for the first time won more votes than the Likud. Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival. And Benny Gantz is unwilling to cede an inch.

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister. The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out.

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister. The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out. Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year? The earlier two elections have ended in a stalemate. Netanyahu has vowed to build settlements in East Jerusalem ahead of the third round of elections in the country. But will this gambit help Netanyahu reach the magic number? Israel is no stranger to political uncertainty. But what is happening now in Israel is unprecedented. Also read: Israel's Netanyahu tries to poach 'Russian vote' from old rival For the first time in its history — Israel is holding 3 back to back general elections. And when a sitting prime minister has been indicted on serious charges of corruption. According to opinion polls, corruption charges haven't pulled away from traditional Likud party voters. And by building settlements in east Jerusalem, Netanyahu hopes to bring in more hardline voters to his party. What Netanyahu needs is a coalition which can form a majority in the 120 member Knesset. "What you guys have to really do is you have to annihilate this line which is not such an easy thing to do. You have to finish annihilating. If we do it in pieces it's one thing, if we do it completely, then you have to delineate all the problems," Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister, Israel. First mooted in 1995, the plan was shelved by successive Israeli governments due to international condemnation. "Netanyahu, I will vote for Netanyahu. But I think that what Netanyahu does here is something wrong and dangerous because the Jewish people are not to decide, and the leaders of the Jewish people are not to decide the future, the limits, the borders until we get the full borders of the land of Israel as promised in the bible from god to our patriarchs," said Daniella Weiss, Israeli Orthodox settlement movement activist. But expansionist pledges during campaigning aren't anything new for Netanyahu. In April 2019, Netanyahu had announced his intention to annex all current settlements in the occupied west bank. By September 2019, Netanyahu upped the ante. Promising that if he is re-elected, he would claim Israeli sovereignty over a third of the occupied west bank. And now, he has floated a campaign promise to build 3500 homes for Israeli settlers in east Jerusalem. But the election is still neck and neck. Netanyahu has met his match in Benny Gantz, a former Israeli army chief turned politician. His blue and white party for the first time won more votes than the Likud. Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival. And Benny Gantz is unwilling to cede an inch.

Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock.

Why so many elections?

In late 2018, Benjamin Netanyahu, veteran leader of Israel's right-wing Likud Party, seemed to be at the peak of his powers.

The dominant political figure of his generation, Netanyahu was about to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

But he had a precarious one-seat majority in parliament and called a snap election for April 9, 2019.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-seeks-settlers-votes-with-annexation-pledge-282802">Israel's&nbsp;Netanyahu seeks settlers' votes with annexation pledge</a>

The immediate reason given was the vulnerability of his ruling coalition after the resignation of Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman. More hawkish than even Netanyahu, Lieberman quit, accusing the prime minister of being too soft on Palestinian militants in Gaza.

But many Israelis saw it as a ploy by Netanyahu to gain a renewed public mandate to ward off prosecutors who were then in the final stages of drafting charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust against him.

Once re-elected, the theory went, Netanyahu could say an indictment was not in the national interest. He denies wrongdoing, accusing his enemies of a witch-hunt.

What went wrong?

If that was the plan, it backfired. No single party in Israel has ever won an outright majority in parliament, and Netanyahu failed to get enough seats.

He struggled for weeks to put together a government. Then, rather than let his principal rival - former armed forces chief Benny Gantz - have a chance to form a government, Netanyahu triggered another election, on Sept. 17.

What happened in election number two?

Again Netanyahu fell short. Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party ended in a virtual tie.

That left Lieberman a king-maker. But Lieberman cited policy differences with both men to avoid anointing either.

After months of horse-trading in which Netanyahu and Gantz both failed to win enough support, the outcome, much to the dismay of the jaded Israeli electorate, was Monday's election.

Is this time any diffrent

Yes. Since the previous election, formal criminal charges have been filed against Netanyahu. Prosecution is now a reality, not a possibility. His trial is due to open on March 17, just two weeks after the election.

Also, both previous elections were fought without the electorate knowing the contents of U.S. President Donald Trump's long-delayed Middle East peace plan.

That was published in January and would grant U.S. recognition to Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinians were furious, saying it gives away land they seek for a future state. Netanyahu pledged to annex the settlements after the election.

Could Netanyahu win this time?

Yes. But Netanyahu will need to win support from other parties if he is to form a coalition government with at least 61 of the parliament's 120 seats.

The court hearings will prompt rivals to demand that he resign, even before sentencing. A verdict is likely to be months away, and the appeals process could take years.

Could Netanyahu lose to Ghantz?

Opinion polls have shown Likud and Blue and White virtually neck and neck, with Netanyahu's party edging slightly ahead in the final stages of the campaign.

Netanyahu is a known quantity. But Gantz also has problems - barring an unexpected surge in centrist voters he would have to bring together rightists and those representing Israel's Arab minority, which are on opposite sides of the political spectrum.

Could there be a fourth election?

Yes, if Monday's prolongs the deadlock. But some Israeli politicians regard this as unacceptable. Aside from political instability, it would mean further fiscal paralysis for Israel under a continuing caretaker government.

That could lead to the defection of some former Likud partners to a Gantz-led coalition.

What about a "National Unity" in government?

Many Israelis would like Netanyahu and Gantz to unite, to end the bickering. But Gantz says he will not partner with Netanyahu now that an indictment has been filed.

&nbsp;

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock. Why so many elections?

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock. Why so many elections? In late 2018, Benjamin Netanyahu, veteran leader of Israel's right-wing Likud Party, seemed to be at the peak of his powers. The dominant political figure of his generation, Netanyahu was about to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister. But he had a precarious one-seat majority in parliament and called a snap election for April 9, 2019. Also Read: Israel's Netanyahu seeks settlers' votes with annexation pledge The immediate reason given was the vulnerability of his ruling coalition after the resignation of Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman. More hawkish than even Netanyahu, Lieberman quit, accusing the prime minister of being too soft on Palestinian militants in Gaza. But many Israelis saw it as a ploy by Netanyahu to gain a renewed public mandate to ward off prosecutors who were then in the final stages of drafting charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust against him. Once re-elected, the theory went, Netanyahu could say an indictment was not in the national interest. He denies wrongdoing, accusing his enemies of a witch-hunt. What went wrong? If that was the plan, it backfired. No single party in Israel has ever won an outright majority in parliament, and Netanyahu failed to get enough seats. He struggled for weeks to put together a government. Then, rather than let his principal rival - former armed forces chief Benny Gantz - have a chance to form a government, Netanyahu triggered another election, on Sept. 17. What happened in election number two? Again Netanyahu fell short. Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party ended in a virtual tie. That left Lieberman a king-maker. But Lieberman cited policy differences with both men to avoid anointing either. After months of horse-trading in which Netanyahu and Gantz both failed to win enough support, the outcome, much to the dismay of the jaded Israeli electorate, was Monday's election. Is this time any diffrent Yes. Since the previous election, formal criminal charges have been filed against Netanyahu. Prosecution is now a reality, not a possibility. His trial is due to open on March 17, just two weeks after the election. Also, both previous elections were fought without the electorate knowing the contents of U.S. President Donald Trump's long-delayed Middle East peace plan. That was published in January and would grant U.S. recognition to Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank. Palestinians were furious, saying it gives away land they seek for a future state. Netanyahu pledged to annex the settlements after the election. Could Netanyahu win this time? Yes. But Netanyahu will need to win support from other parties if he is to form a coalition government with at least 61 of the parliament's 120 seats. The court hearings will prompt rivals to demand that he resign, even before sentencing. A verdict is likely to be months away, and the appeals process could take years. Could Netanyahu lose to Ghantz? Opinion polls have shown Likud and Blue and White virtually neck and neck, with Netanyahu's party edging slightly ahead in the final stages of the campaign. Netanyahu is a known quantity. But Gantz also has problems - barring an unexpected surge in centrist voters he would have to bring together rightists and those representing Israel's Arab minority, which are on opposite sides of the political spectrum. Could there be a fourth election? Yes, if Monday's prolongs the deadlock. But some Israeli politicians regard this as unacceptable. Aside from political instability, it would mean further fiscal paralysis for Israel under a continuing caretaker government. That could lead to the defection of some former Likud partners to a Gantz-led coalition. What about a "National Unity" in government? Many Israelis would like Netanyahu and Gantz to unite, to end the bickering. But Gantz says he will not partner with Netanyahu now that an indictment has been filed.

Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year?

17 February in history: Foundation of Red Cross, first winter ascent of Mount Everest and more

An Israeli aircraft have flown through Sudanese airspace for the first time, in what Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-frees-detained-migrants-set-for-rwanda-after-relocation-deal-collapses-128448/amp">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> called another example of warming ties with formally hostile states.

Israel remains technically at war with Sudan, which supported hardline Islamists including, for a period, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">Al-Qaeda</a> during the rule of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">Omar al-Bashir</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">How Sudan’s economic crisis had a role in protests that toppled al-Bashir</a>

Bashir was ousted by the army last April following months of mass anti-government demonstrations.

"The first Israeli aeroplane passed yesterday over the skies of Sudan. This is quite a change," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-frees-detained-migrants-set-for-rwanda-after-relocation-deal-collapses-128448/amp">Netanyahu </a>told American Jewish leaders in Jerusalem on Sunday evening, without offering further details.

Israeli daily Haaretz quoted an Israeli government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, saying that the plane was "a private Israeli executive jet".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Donald Trump's peace plan puts Israel on the cutting edge</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Netanyahu </a>met Sudan's leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-frees-detained-migrants-set-for-rwanda-after-relocation-deal-collapses-128448/amp">Abdel Fattah</a> al-Burhan two weeks ago for what the Israeli premier's office described talks aimed at normalising ties.

A Sudanese government spokesman said later that Burhan "did not give a promise of normalising or having diplomatic relations".

Sudan has been part of a&nbsp;decades-old Arab boycott of Israel over its treatment of the Palestinians and its occupation of Arab lands.

In the wake of the Six-Day War of 1967 in which Israel occupied the Palestinian territories and seized the Golan Heights from Syria, Arab leaders gathered in Khartoum to announce what became known as the "three nos": no peace, no recognition and no negotiations with Israel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-frees-detained-migrants-set-for-rwanda-after-relocation-deal-collapses-128448/amp">Israel frees detained migrants set for Rwanda after relocation deal collapses</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-frees-detained-migrants-set-for-rwanda-after-relocation-deal-collapses-128448/amp">Netanyahu </a>said Sunday that visible signs of a thaw in relations with Sudan and other Muslim-majority countries were only the tip of the diplomatic iceberg.

"How much is above the surface in an iceberg? It's about 10 per cent, he said. "What you're seeing is about 10 per cent. Vast changes are coming."&nbsp;

Gulf Arab countries have made a number of recent moves hinting at warmer ties with the Jewish state, prompted largely by a shared enmity towards Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">Netanyahu </a>visited Oman in 2018 and he frequently says the boycott of his country is ending, despite the absence of a peace deal with the Palestinians.

Egypt and Jordan are so far the only Arab states to have full diplomatic relations with Israel.

Netanyahu was speaking two weeks ahead of a March general election, the third in 12 months. He has twice failed to form a government after inconclusive polls.

An Israeli aircraft have flown through Sudanese airspace for the first time, in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called another example of warming ties with formally hostile states.

An Israeli aircraft have flown through Sudanese airspace for the first time, in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called another example of warming ties with formally hostile states. Israel remains technically at war with Sudan, which supported hardline Islamists including, for a period, Al-Qaeda during the rule of President Omar al-Bashir. Also read: How Sudan’s economic crisis had a role in protests that toppled al-Bashir Bashir was ousted by the army last April following months of mass anti-government demonstrations. "The first Israeli aeroplane passed yesterday over the skies of Sudan. This is quite a change," Netanyahu told American Jewish leaders in Jerusalem on Sunday evening, without offering further details. Israeli daily Haaretz quoted an Israeli government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, saying that the plane was "a private Israeli executive jet". Also read: Donald Trump's peace plan puts Israel on the cutting edge Netanyahu met Sudan's leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan two weeks ago for what the Israeli premier's office described talks aimed at normalising ties. A Sudanese government spokesman said later that Burhan "did not give a promise of normalising or having diplomatic relations". Sudan has been part of a decades-old Arab boycott of Israel over its treatment of the Palestinians and its occupation of Arab lands. In the wake of the Six-Day War of 1967 in which Israel occupied the Palestinian territories and seized the Golan Heights from Syria, Arab leaders gathered in Khartoum to announce what became known as the "three nos": no peace, no recognition and no negotiations with Israel. Also read: Israel frees detained migrants set for Rwanda after relocation deal collapses Netanyahu said Sunday that visible signs of a thaw in relations with Sudan and other Muslim-majority countries were only the tip of the diplomatic iceberg. "How much is above the surface in an iceberg? It's about 10 per cent, he said. "What you're seeing is about 10 per cent. Vast changes are coming." Gulf Arab countries have made a number of recent moves hinting at warmer ties with the Jewish state, prompted largely by a shared enmity towards Iran. Netanyahu visited Oman in 2018 and he frequently says the boycott of his country is ending, despite the absence of a peace deal with the Palestinians. Egypt and Jordan are so far the only Arab states to have full diplomatic relations with Israel. Netanyahu was speaking two weeks ahead of a March general election, the third in 12 months. He has twice failed to form a government after inconclusive polls.

Israeli aircraft flew over Sudan for first time: Benjamin Netanyahu

An Israeli court Monday sentenced a firebrand Islamic cleric to 28 months in prison for incitement to terrorism in connection with deadly unrest at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-troops-wounded-in-jerusalem-car-ramming-as-violence-flares-279138">Jerusalem </a>holy site in 2017.

Raed Salah had been convicted by Haifa magistrates' court of "incitement to terror" for "praising, sympathising or encouraging terrorism" in remarks made after attackers killed two policemen on the Haram al-Sharif mosque compound, known to Jews as the Temple Mount.

Watch: Israel's counter-terror policy in a nutshell

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israels-counter-terror-policy-in-a-nutshell-261681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The deadly July 14, 2017 attack, at the Israeli-annexed east <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-troops-wounded-in-jerusalem-car-ramming-as-violence-flares-279138">Jerusalem </a>site, was carried out by perpetrators from his hometown of Umm al-Fahm.

His group, the radical northern branch of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-troops-wounded-in-jerusalem-car-ramming-as-violence-flares-279138">Islamic </a>Movement in Israel, was outlawed in 2015 for incitement linked to the Jerusalem holy site.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-troops-wounded-in-jerusalem-car-ramming-as-violence-flares-279138">Israel troops wounded in Jerusalem car-ramming as violence flares</a>

Salah was also found guilty of "supporting an illegal organisation" in Facebook posts from 2015 and 2016, in which he called his supporters to commit "acts of violence or terrorism" while speaking in favour of his movement.

The Haifa court on Monday also noted that 61-year-old Salah made the criminal remarks on three separate occasions following the Jerusalem shooting.

The prosecution was quoted in the ruling as saying that Salah's deeds "harmed the security of the state and its citizens," and considering the preacher's prominence, "have high potential to cause damage".

Salah, an Arab Israeli, can appeal the sentence within 45 days, the court said.

His arrest in August 2017 followed his release from prison the previous January after serving a nine-month sentence on similar charges.

An Israeli court Monday sentenced a firebrand Islamic cleric to 28 months in prison for incitement to terrorism in connection with deadly unrest at a Jerusalem holy site in 2017.

An Israeli court Monday sentenced a firebrand Islamic cleric to 28 months in prison for incitement to terrorism in connection with deadly unrest at a Jerusalem holy site in 2017. Raed Salah had been convicted by Haifa magistrates' court of "incitement to terror" for "praising, sympathising or encouraging terrorism" in remarks made after attackers killed two policemen on the Haram al-Sharif mosque compound, known to Jews as the Temple Mount. Watch: Israel's counter-terror policy in a nutshell The deadly July 14, 2017 attack, at the Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem site, was carried out by perpetrators from his hometown of Umm al-Fahm. His group, the radical northern branch of the Islamic Movement in Israel, was outlawed in 2015 for incitement linked to the Jerusalem holy site. Also read: Israel troops wounded in Jerusalem car-ramming as violence flares Salah was also found guilty of "supporting an illegal organisation" in Facebook posts from 2015 and 2016, in which he called his supporters to commit "acts of violence or terrorism" while speaking in favour of his movement. The Haifa court on Monday also noted that 61-year-old Salah made the criminal remarks on three separate occasions following the Jerusalem shooting. The prosecution was quoted in the ruling as saying that Salah's deeds "harmed the security of the state and its citizens," and considering the preacher's prominence, "have high potential to cause damage". Salah, an Arab Israeli, can appeal the sentence within 45 days, the court said. His arrest in August 2017 followed his release from prison the previous January after serving a nine-month sentence on similar charges.

Israel sentences Islamic cleric to 28 months for inciting terror

A car-ramming targeting Israeli troops in Jerusalem wounded 14 people Thursday while two Palestinians were shot dead in clashes in the occupied West Bank, as violence spiked a week after Washington's controversial Middle East peace plan.

A third person was killed by Israeli officers inside the Old City in east Jerusalem after firing on police, Israeli officials said.

The alleged perpetrator of the car-ramming was arrested Thursday evening after a day-long manhunt. The suspect was not immediately identified.

The army said it was deploying additional troops across the West Bank ahead of Friday prayers, often a gathering point for Palestinian demonstrations.

The ramming occurred in central Jerusalem shortly before 2:00 am (0000 GMT) where the soldiers had been marching, the army said, adding that one of them was "severely injured". &nbsp;

Public radio said they were recruits on their way to an induction ceremony at Jerusalem's Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray. &nbsp;

The attacker fled to the occupied West Bank but was arrested near the Gush Etzion settlement, Israeli police said.

Before the arrest, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited near the settlement and pledged a firm response.

"Terrorism will not defeat us; we will win!" he said

It was the most serious escalation in violence since US President Donald Trump revealed his peace plan on January 28.

A spokesman for Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas blamed Trump's peace proposal for the unrest.

"It was the deal of the century that created this atmosphere of escalation and tension," Nabil Abu Rudeinah said.

Soaring tensions

Netanyahu hit back, directly addressing Abbas and accusing him of stoking violence.

"This will bring you nothing -- neither the stabbings, car-rammings... or incitement to violence. We will do whatever it takes to keep us safe."

The Islamist Hamas movement, which controls the Gaza Strip and has fought three wars with Israel, hailed the car-ramming as a "practical response" to Trump's plan but stopped short of claiming responsibility.

Trump's plan unilaterally gives Israel most of what it has sought in previous negotiations including an "undivided capital" in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

The plan angered Palestinians, whose leaders called for street protests over what they saw as its pro-Israel bias.&nbsp;

Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner were scheduled to meet UN Security Council members on Thursday to present the plan, which he drew up.&nbsp;

Abbas is due to the UN next week to express opposition to the US initiative.

While the initial Palestinian response to the plan saw little violence, tensions have soared in recent days.&nbsp;

In the northern West Bank town of Jenin on Thursday, Israeli forces shot dead two people -- 19-year-old Yazan Abu Tabikh and Palestinian policeman Tareq Badwan.

The Israeli army said it had gone to the area to demolish the home of a Palestinian involved in the killing of a Jewish settler in 2018.&nbsp;

Troops then shot at Palestinians who had "hurled explosive devices and fired towards them", the army said.&nbsp;

Palestinian security sources said that Abu Tabikh was among the protesters when he was killed, but Badwan was in the courtyard of a police station close to the clashes when he was hit.

Israeli army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters troops had shot a member of the Palestinian security forces and the army was investigating.

Gaza flare-up

Separately a man opened fire on Israeli forces near the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem's Old City, with forces responding by shooting him dead.

Police identified the gunman as an Arab resident of northern Israel who recently converted to Islam and is known to authorities over previous crimes.&nbsp;

The army said that it had decided to "reinforce Judea and Samaria Division with additional combat troops", using the biblical terms for the West Bank. &nbsp;

In the Gaza Strip, Israeli aircraft struck Hamas positions early Thursday, after Palestinians fired rockets or mortar rounds at Israel and launched incendiary balloons.&nbsp;

Since Trump's plan was announced, there has been almost daily fire from Gaza into southern Israel, drawing Israeli retaliation.&nbsp;

There have been no reported casualties.

A car-ramming targeting Israeli troops in Jerusalem wounded 14 people Thursday while two Palestinians were shot dead in clashes in the occupied West Bank, as violence spiked a week after Washington's controversial Middle East peace plan.

A car-ramming targeting Israeli troops in Jerusalem wounded 14 people Thursday while two Palestinians were shot dead in clashes in the occupied West Bank, as violence spiked a week after Washington's controversial Middle East peace plan. A third person was killed by Israeli officers inside the Old City in east Jerusalem after firing on police, Israeli officials said. The alleged perpetrator of the car-ramming was arrested Thursday evening after a day-long manhunt. The suspect was not immediately identified. The army said it was deploying additional troops across the West Bank ahead of Friday prayers, often a gathering point for Palestinian demonstrations. The ramming occurred in central Jerusalem shortly before 2:00 am (0000 GMT) where the soldiers had been marching, the army said, adding that one of them was "severely injured". Public radio said they were recruits on their way to an induction ceremony at Jerusalem's Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray. The attacker fled to the occupied West Bank but was arrested near the Gush Etzion settlement, Israeli police said. Before the arrest, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited near the settlement and pledged a firm response. "Terrorism will not defeat us; we will win!" he said It was the most serious escalation in violence since US President Donald Trump revealed his peace plan on January 28. A spokesman for Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas blamed Trump's peace proposal for the unrest. "It was the deal of the century that created this atmosphere of escalation and tension," Nabil Abu Rudeinah said. Soaring tensions Netanyahu hit back, directly addressing Abbas and accusing him of stoking violence. "This will bring you nothing -- neither the stabbings, car-rammings... or incitement to violence. We will do whatever it takes to keep us safe." The Islamist Hamas movement, which controls the Gaza Strip and has fought three wars with Israel, hailed the car-ramming as a "practical response" to Trump's plan but stopped short of claiming responsibility. Trump's plan unilaterally gives Israel most of what it has sought in previous negotiations including an "undivided capital" in Jerusalem. The plan angered Palestinians, whose leaders called for street protests over what they saw as its pro-Israel bias. Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner were scheduled to meet UN Security Council members on Thursday to present the plan, which he drew up. Abbas is due to the UN next week to express opposition to the US initiative. While the initial Palestinian response to the plan saw little violence, tensions have soared in recent days. In the northern West Bank town of Jenin on Thursday, Israeli forces shot dead two people -- 19-year-old Yazan Abu Tabikh and Palestinian policeman Tareq Badwan. The Israeli army said it had gone to the area to demolish the home of a Palestinian involved in the killing of a Jewish settler in 2018. Troops then shot at Palestinians who had "hurled explosive devices and fired towards them", the army said. Palestinian security sources said that Abu Tabikh was among the protesters when he was killed, but Badwan was in the courtyard of a police station close to the clashes when he was hit. Israeli army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters troops had shot a member of the Palestinian security forces and the army was investigating. Gaza flare-up Separately a man opened fire on Israeli forces near the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem's Old City, with forces responding by shooting him dead. Police identified the gunman as an Arab resident of northern Israel who recently converted to Islam and is known to authorities over previous crimes. The army said that it had decided to "reinforce Judea and Samaria Division with additional combat troops", using the biblical terms for the West Bank. In the Gaza Strip, Israeli aircraft struck Hamas positions early Thursday, after Palestinians fired rockets or mortar rounds at Israel and launched incendiary balloons. Since Trump's plan was announced, there has been almost daily fire from Gaza into southern Israel, drawing Israeli retaliation. There have been no reported casualties.

Israel troops wounded in Jerusalem car-ramming as violence flares

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas positions in&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;early Wednesday, the military said,&nbsp;after&nbsp;Palestinians in the enclave launched&nbsp;projectiles&nbsp;and&nbsp;explosive&nbsp;balloons&nbsp;at the Jewish state.

The "fighter jets targeted Hamas terror targets in the southern&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip" including "a weapons manufacturing site", the army said in a statement.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-warplanes-hit-hamas-in-gaza-after-border-fire-278047">&nbsp;Israeli warplanes hit Hamas in Gaza after border fire</a>

There were no immediate reports from&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;of casualties.

Prior to the Israeli attack, militants in&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;launched three&nbsp;projectiles&nbsp;and a number of "explosive&nbsp;balloons" at southern&nbsp;Israel, the army said, with neither medics nor police reporting casualties or damage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/has-donald-trump-proposed-a-middle-east-peace-plan-or-terms-of-surrender-for-the-palestinians-277760">Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan or terms of surrender for the Palestinians?</a>

Since US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/state-of-the-union-things-trump-didnt-address-but-should-have-278752">Donald Trump</a>'s announcement last week of his plan to resolve the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/has-donald-trump-proposed-a-middle-east-peace-plan-or-terms-of-surrender-for-the-palestinians-277760">Israeli-Palestinian conflict</a>, rockets, mortar shells and&nbsp;explosive&nbsp;balloons&nbsp;have been launched almost daily from&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;into southern&nbsp;Israel, provoking Israeli retaliation.&nbsp;

Palestinians strongly reject the US plan, seen as heavily favouring&nbsp;Israel.

Hamas and&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year the Islamists have gradually shaped an informal truce with&nbsp;Israel, under which the Jewish state has eased its crippling blockade of&nbsp;Gaza.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas positions in Gaza early Wednesday, the military said, after Palestinians in the enclave launched projectiles and explosive balloons at the Jewish state.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas positions in Gaza early Wednesday, the military said, after Palestinians in the enclave launched projectiles and explosive balloons at the Jewish state. The "fighter jets targeted Hamas terror targets in the southern Gaza Strip" including "a weapons manufacturing site", the army said in a statement. Also read: Israeli warplanes hit Hamas in Gaza after border fire There were no immediate reports from Gaza of casualties. Prior to the Israeli attack, militants in Gaza launched three projectiles and a number of "explosive balloons" at southern Israel, the army said, with neither medics nor police reporting casualties or damage. Also read: Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan or terms of surrender for the Palestinians? Since US President Donald Trump's announcement last week of his plan to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, rockets, mortar shells and explosive balloons have been launched almost daily from Gaza into southern Israel, provoking Israeli retaliation. Palestinians strongly reject the US plan, seen as heavily favouring Israel. Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year the Islamists have gradually shaped an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has eased its crippling blockade of Gaza.

Israel strikes in Gaza after Palestinians fire projectiles

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-will-continue-to-strengthen-deep-friendship-with-india-277448">Israeli</a> aircraft struck Hamas targets in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-gaza-after-rocket-attack-270314">Gaza</a> Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said.

Three rockets were fired at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;overnight without causing any casualties. Two were intercepted by air defences, a statement said.

Israel&nbsp;swiftly retaliated against Hamas, the Islamist movement which rules Gaza and which&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;generally holds responsible for all rocket fire from the territory, regardless of who launches it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-gaza-after-rocket-attack-270314">Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack</a>

The military struck "Hamas targets in the south of the Gaza Strip", the army said.

Israel&nbsp;has deployed additional troops to the Gaza border area since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial new peace plan on Tuesday that was angrily rejected by the Palestinians.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-israels-iron-dome-missile-defence-system-blunts-rockets-from-gaza-261860#israel-employs-the-iron-dome-261829">How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system blunts rockets from Gaza</a>

One rocket was fired from Gaza on Wednesday evening, again drawing retaliatory strikes against Hamas targets in the south of Gaza.

Hamas has over the past year gradually shaped an informal truce with&nbsp;Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm.

But&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;in November assassinated a senior leader of the Islamic Jihad militant group in Gaza, sparking a flare-up in which 36 Palestinians were killed. No Israelis died.

Over two days, Islamic Jihad fired some 450 rockets towards&nbsp;Israel, which unusually largely confined its reprisals to Hamas's more radical ally.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said. Three rockets were fired at Israel overnight without causing any casualties.

Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Friday in response to new rocket fire from the blockaded territory, the army said. Three rockets were fired at Israel overnight without causing any casualties. Two were intercepted by air defences, a statement said. Israel swiftly retaliated against Hamas, the Islamist movement which rules Gaza and which Israel generally holds responsible for all rocket fire from the territory, regardless of who launches it. Also read: Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack The military struck "Hamas targets in the south of the Gaza Strip", the army said. Israel has deployed additional troops to the Gaza border area since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial new peace plan on Tuesday that was angrily rejected by the Palestinians. Also read: How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system blunts rockets from Gaza One rocket was fired from Gaza on Wednesday evening, again drawing retaliatory strikes against Hamas targets in the south of Gaza. Hamas has over the past year gradually shaped an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of the enclave in exchange for calm. But Israel in November assassinated a senior leader of the Islamic Jihad militant group in Gaza, sparking a flare-up in which 36 Palestinians were killed. No Israelis died. Over two days, Islamic Jihad fired some 450 rockets towards Israel, which unusually largely confined its reprisals to Hamas's more radical ally.

Israel strikes Hamas targets after new Gaza rocket fire

Stating that India-Israel relationship is "very strong", Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday as the latter congratulated him on the 28th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Twitter, "Today, 28 years ago, Israel and India established formal diplomatic relations. I congratulate my friend Narendra Modi for his warm friendship. Between Israel and India, a deep friendship has emerged that is evident in our many collaborations."

Both Netanyahu's tweet and Modi's response to it were in Hebrew.

"Thank you very much, my friend, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. India-Israel relations are very strong. Our countries cooperate widely among themselves and in many international forums. We share common values," said the Indian PM on Twitter.&nbsp;

Stating that India-Israel relationship is "very strong", Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday as the latter congratulated him on the 28th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Stating that India-Israel relationship is "very strong", Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday as the latter congratulated him on the 28th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Twitter, "Today, 28 years ago, Israel and India established formal diplomatic relations. I congratulate my friend Narendra Modi for his warm friendship. Between Israel and India, a deep friendship has emerged that is evident in our many collaborations." Both Netanyahu's tweet and Modi's response to it were in Hebrew. "Thank you very much, my friend, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. India-Israel relations are very strong. Our countries cooperate widely among themselves and in many international forums. We share common values," said the Indian PM on Twitter.

PM Modi, Netanyahu exchange pleasantries on 28th anniversary of establishment of India-Israel diplomatic ties

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-israeli-palestinian-plan-has-a-chance-276949">Israel'</a>s longest-serving prime minister said in a statement that an immunity debate in parliament would have been a "circus" and he did not want to take part in this "dirty game".

Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing, said: "I informed the Knesset speaker that I am withdrawing my immunity request."

The veteran right-winger, who faces a national election in March, is under no legal obligation to resign.

Netanyahu, 70, is now in Washington for meetings with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">US</a>&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-trial-of-donald-trump-all-star-defence-team-scared-of-going-near-bolton-276987">Donald Trump</a> ahead of the release of Trump's long-delayed Israel-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Palestinian</a> peace plan, which the Palestinians have already rejected.

Netanyahu's main rival, centrist former general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192">Benny Gantz</a>, made Netanyahu's legal troubles a centrepiece of his campaigns in two Israeli elections last year.

Gantz made a brief trip to Washington to discuss the peace plan with Trump, and had rushed back to Israel expecting to lead the parliament debate against granting Netanyahu immunity.

"Netanyahu is going to trial, we have to move on," Gantz said after Netanyahu pulled his immunity request.

"The citizens of Israel have a clear choice: a prime minister who works for them or a prime minister busy with himself. No one can manage the country and in parallel manage three serious criminal cases," Gantz said in a tweet.

Israelis attorney general Avichai Mandelblit indicted Netanyahu on corruption charges - the first of their kind against a serving Israeli prime minister - last November following a long-running investigation.

The charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud.

Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website.

Netanyahu could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday withdrew his bid for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on corruption charges, making a criminal trial against him a near certainty. Israel's longest-serving prime minister said in a statement that an immunity debate in parliament would have been a "circus" and he did not want to take part in this "dirty game". Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing, said: "I informed the Knesset speaker that I am withdrawing my immunity request." The veteran right-winger, who faces a national election in March, is under no legal obligation to resign. Netanyahu, 70, is now in Washington for meetings with US President Donald Trump ahead of the release of Trump's long-delayed Israel-Palestinian peace plan, which the Palestinians have already rejected. Netanyahu's main rival, centrist former general Benny Gantz, made Netanyahu's legal troubles a centrepiece of his campaigns in two Israeli elections last year. Gantz made a brief trip to Washington to discuss the peace plan with Trump, and had rushed back to Israel expecting to lead the parliament debate against granting Netanyahu immunity. "Netanyahu is going to trial, we have to move on," Gantz said after Netanyahu pulled his immunity request. "The citizens of Israel have a clear choice: a prime minister who works for them or a prime minister busy with himself. No one can manage the country and in parallel manage three serious criminal cases," Gantz said in a tweet. Israelis attorney general Avichai Mandelblit indicted Netanyahu on corruption charges - the first of their kind against a serving Israeli prime minister - last November following a long-running investigation. The charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website. Netanyahu could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.

Netanyahu withdraws bid for immunity from corruption prosecution

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">Donald Trump </a>on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias,&nbsp;led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-donald-trump-to-unveil-israel-palestine-peace-plan-by-tuesday-276254">Israeli-Palestinian</a> conflict.

The long-held secret&nbsp;plan will finally be aired jointly by Trump and visiting Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/today-tonight-donald-trump-welcomes-benjamin-netanyahu-wion-news-world-news-276942">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> at the White House.

Given that it has been rejected by the Palestinians, the latest of many US proposals to address the bitter, multi-generational Middle East conflict might seem to have little future.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Palestinian Prime Minister calls on world to boycott Donald Trump's peace plan</a>

But Trump insists he is optimistic and whatever happens, both he and Netanyahu could reap political benefits as they battle respective domestic scandals.

"It might have a chance," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-donald-trump-to-unveil-israel-palestine-peace-plan-by-tuesday-276254">Trump</a> said of the plan at an initial Oval Office meeting with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-us-vice-president-pence-denounce-iran-at-holocaust-memorial-ceremony-276200">Netanyahu</a> on Monday.

Trump, whose impeachment trial in the Senate is entering a critical phase, said his plan was getting widespread support from "many of the Arab nations" and claimed that even Palestinians would come round to the idea.

"It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," Trump told reporters. "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians."

Netanyahu, praising Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House", described the plan as "the deal of the century".

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/today-tonight-donald-trump-welcomes-benjamin-netanyahu-wion-news-world-news-276942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu also faces corruption charges, as well as a tense election in just over a month, with his right-wing Likud currently neck-and-neck with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-to-expect-from-trumps-peace-plan-or-deal-of-century-276976">Benny Gantz</a>'s centrist Blue and White party.

On Monday, Trump also met separately with Gantz, but the limelight fell almost entirely on the incumbent prime minister -- as will any political dividends from a peace plan favouring Israel.

Watch:&nbsp;What to expect from Trump's peace plan or "Deal Of Century" ?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-to-expect-from-trumps-peace-plan-or-deal-of-century-276976/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

No deal

No Palestinians have been invited to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-impeachment-poll-47-want-trump-out-of-white-house-277104">White House </a>event. They say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison.

"It is not a Middle East peace plan," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-prime-minister-calls-on-world-to-boycott-donald-trumps-peace-plan-276902">Shtayyeh</a> told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory."

Details of the plan remained under wraps up to the last minute, but it has been gestating for so long that skeptics asked whether it really existed.

Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wanted to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" and to do so ahead of the US presidential election in November.

Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents throughout his first term.

He has broken with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. He recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from neighboring Syria. And he has ended opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land.

Ahead of Tuesday's announcement, the Israeli army said it was beefing up forces in the Jordan Valley, a swathe of the occupied West Bank expected to feature in Trump's plan.

Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work".

But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations.

"Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah planned to show their opposition to the new proposal by joining forces at a rare meeting on Tuesday in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias, led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday will ignore accusations of pro-Israeli bias, led by the Palestinians themselves, and unveil what he says is a peace plan that can solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The long-held secret plan will finally be aired jointly by Trump and visiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Given that it has been rejected by the Palestinians, the latest of many US proposals to address the bitter, multi-generational Middle East conflict might seem to have little future. Also read: Palestinian Prime Minister calls on world to boycott Donald Trump's peace plan But Trump insists he is optimistic and whatever happens, both he and Netanyahu could reap political benefits as they battle respective domestic scandals. "It might have a chance," Trump said of the plan at an initial Oval Office meeting with Netanyahu on Monday. Trump, whose impeachment trial in the Senate is entering a critical phase, said his plan was getting widespread support from "many of the Arab nations" and claimed that even Palestinians would come round to the idea. "It's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," Trump told reporters. "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians." Netanyahu, praising Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel's had in the White House", described the plan as "the deal of the century". Watch: Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu Netanyahu also faces corruption charges, as well as a tense election in just over a month, with his right-wing Likud currently neck-and-neck with Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party. On Monday, Trump also met separately with Gantz, but the limelight fell almost entirely on the incumbent prime minister -- as will any political dividends from a peace plan favouring Israel. Watch: What to expect from Trump's peace plan or "Deal Of Century" ? No deal No Palestinians have been invited to the White House event. They say they were never included in crafting the plan, which was overseen by Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner. Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on Monday urged international powers to boycott the plan, which he said was designed "to protect Trump from impeachment and protect Netanyahu from prison. "It is not a Middle East peace plan," Shtayyeh told a cabinet meeting. "This plan gives Israel sovereignty over Palestinian territory." Details of the plan remained under wraps up to the last minute, but it has been gestating for so long that skeptics asked whether it really existed. Aaron David Miller, a Mideast expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said Kushner's team wanted to "finally, basically demonstrate that they have a plan" and to do so ahead of the US presidential election in November. Trump has already thrown Netanyahu a string of political presents throughout his first term. He has broken with international diplomatic consensus to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. He recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from neighboring Syria. And he has ended opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land. Ahead of Tuesday's announcement, the Israeli army said it was beefing up forces in the Jordan Valley, a swathe of the occupied West Bank expected to feature in Trump's plan. Last Thursday, Trump described the still-unpublished peace plan as "great" and said it "really would work". But on Sunday, Palestinian leaders warned that instead of bringing peace, the plan could trigger their withdrawal from key provisions of the decades-old Oslo Accords, which sought to map out peaceful Israeli-Palestinian relations. "Trump's plan is the plot of the century to liquidate the Palestinian cause," the Palestinian foreign ministry said in a statement. Rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah planned to show their opposition to the new proposal by joining forces at a rare meeting on Tuesday in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

Trump to unveil Israel-Palestinian peace plan, despite critics

US&nbsp;presidential contender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/potential-presidential-candidate-michael-bloomberg-spends-record-amount-for-tv-ads-264108">Michael Bloomberg</a> pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz."

The joke, made during a speech on anti-Semitism and foreign policy, referred to collectivist farms in Israel and was an apparent dig at fellow Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders.

Bloomberg and Sanders, who are both Jewish, are vying for the Democratic nomination to take on Republican President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-made-us-president-donald-trump-threaten-iran-271452">Donald Trump</a> in the November election.

Sanders is a front-runner in the race and proposes left-wing policies like abolishing private health insurance in favor of a government-run Medicare for All program, based on the government program for older Americans.

Sanders spent several months in Israel in the 1960s as a volunteer on a kibbutz, or communal farm, and calls himself a democratic socialist.

Bloomberg has more centrist positions and has largely avoided attacks against individual Democratic candidates. A former mayor of New York whose wealth is estimated at about $60 billion, he has pledged to spend from his fortune to support the eventual Democratic nominee even if he loses the contest.

Bloomberg previously criticized leading Democratic candidates as too liberal to beat Trump. His remarks on Sunday appeared to take aim at Sanders, although he did not mention the senator from Vermont by name.

"I’m not the only Jewish candidate running for president. But I am the only one who doesn’t want to turn America into a kibbutz," he told a campaign event at a synagogue in Miami.

Bloomberg’s views include a proposal to create a government-run health insurance plan that would exist alongside private plans.

On Sunday, he vowed never to impose any conditions on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-military-strikes-in-iraq-stir-regional-hornets-nest-271866">US&nbsp;military</a> aid to Israel.

Bloomberg added that "as president, I will always have Israel’s back."

He said he originally opposed a 2015 international deal aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons because the agreement did not do enough to protect Israel. But he also criticized Trump's decision to exit the deal because doing so could boost Iran's nuclear program. Tehran says its nuclear program is peaceful.

Bloomberg also said he was shaken by anti-Semitic attacks, including a gunman's killing in 2018 of 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue that Bloomberg said his sister used to attend.

A late entrant to the Democratic nominating race, Bloomberg trails Sanders and fellow front-runners Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren in public opinion polls. But Bloomberg is rising as he floods US&nbsp;airwaves with a television advertising campaign that has cost him more than $225 million, according to estimates by Advertising Analytics.

US presidential contender Michael Bloomberg pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz.

US presidential contender Michael Bloomberg pledged on Sunday to "always have Israel's back," while separately joking he was the only Jewish candidate who does not want to turn the United States into a "kibbutz." The joke, made during a speech on anti-Semitism and foreign policy, referred to collectivist farms in Israel and was an apparent dig at fellow Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders. Bloomberg and Sanders, who are both Jewish, are vying for the Democratic nomination to take on Republican President Donald Trump in the November election. Sanders is a front-runner in the race and proposes left-wing policies like abolishing private health insurance in favor of a government-run Medicare for All program, based on the government program for older Americans. Sanders spent several months in Israel in the 1960s as a volunteer on a kibbutz, or communal farm, and calls himself a democratic socialist. Bloomberg has more centrist positions and has largely avoided attacks against individual Democratic candidates. A former mayor of New York whose wealth is estimated at about $60 billion, he has pledged to spend from his fortune to support the eventual Democratic nominee even if he loses the contest. Bloomberg previously criticized leading Democratic candidates as too liberal to beat Trump. His remarks on Sunday appeared to take aim at Sanders, although he did not mention the senator from Vermont by name. "I’m not the only Jewish candidate running for president. But I am the only one who doesn’t want to turn America into a kibbutz," he told a campaign event at a synagogue in Miami. Bloomberg’s views include a proposal to create a government-run health insurance plan that would exist alongside private plans. On Sunday, he vowed never to impose any conditions on US military aid to Israel. Bloomberg added that "as president, I will always have Israel’s back." He said he originally opposed a 2015 international deal aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons because the agreement did not do enough to protect Israel. But he also criticized Trump's decision to exit the deal because doing so could boost Iran's nuclear program. Tehran says its nuclear program is peaceful. Bloomberg also said he was shaken by anti-Semitic attacks, including a gunman's killing in 2018 of 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue that Bloomberg said his sister used to attend. A late entrant to the Democratic nominating race, Bloomberg trails Sanders and fellow front-runners Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren in public opinion polls. But Bloomberg is rising as he floods US airwaves with a television advertising campaign that has cost him more than $225 million, according to estimates by Advertising Analytics.

US candidate Bloomberg vows to back Israel, takes dig at Sanders

January 26  in history: Discovery of the Cullinan, Constitution of India comes into force and more

Seventy-five years after the liberation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-23-million-people-visited-auschwitz-in-2019-272829">Auschwitz</a>, a dwindling number of elderly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-horrific-account-of-the-holocaust-that-executed-jews-276822">Holocaust</a> survivors gathered at the former German Nazi death camp on Monday to honour its more than 1.1 million mostly Jewish victims and to share their alarm over rising antisemitism.

More than 200 survivors came from across the globe to the camp the Nazis built at Oswiecim in then-occupied Poland, to share their testimony as a stark warning amid a recent surge of anti-semitic attacks on both sides of the Atlantic, some of them deadly.

Survivors dressed in blue and white striped caps and scarves symbolic of the uniforms prisoners wore at the camp, passed through its chilling "Arbeit macht Frei" (German for "Work makes you free") black wrought-iron gate.

Watch: A horrific account of the 'Holocaust' that executed jews

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-horrific-account-of-the-holocaust-that-executed-jews-276822/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Accompanied by Polish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-main-opposition-picks-moderate-veteran-for-presidential-vote-268295">Andrzej Duda</a>, they laid floral wreaths by the Death Wall in Auschwitz where the Nazis shot dead thousands of prisoners.

"We want the next generation to know what we went through and that it should never happen again," Auschwitz survivor David Marks, 93, said earlier at the former death camp, his voice breaking with emotion.

Thirty-five members of his immediate and extended family of Romanian Jews were killed in Auschwitz, the largest of Nazi Germany's camps that has come to symbolise the six million European Jews who died in the Holocaust.

From mid-1942 the Nazis systematically deported Jews from all over Europe to six camps -- Auschwitz-Birkenau, Belzec, Chelmno, Majdanek, Sobibor and Treblinka.

Watch: 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz

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Organisers insist that Monday's memorial ceremony must focus above all on what survivors have to say rather than the bitter political feuds that have tainted the run-up to the anniversary.

"This is about survivors, it's not about politics," Ronald Lauder, head of the World Jewish Congress, told AFP in the Auschwitz camp, now a memorial and state museum run by Poland.

"We see anti-semitism rising now and we don't want their (survivors) past to be their children's future, or their grand children’s future," he added.

Royals, presidents and prime ministers from nearly 60 countries will attend the ceremony, but no top world leaders, some of whom opted instead to attend a high-profile Holocaust forum in Israel last week seen as rivalling the ceremonies in Poland.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-against-polands-plan-to-discipline-judges-274146">Poland</a>'s President Duda boycotted the Jerusalem forum after he was denied the opportunity to speak there while Russian President Vladimir Putin was given the floor, despite having earlier falsely accused Poland of colluding with German Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler and contributing to the outbreak of World War II.

Duda was to make an address at the Monday ceremony in Auschwitz alongside survivors.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-the-lessons-from-the-holocaust-276197">The lessons from the Holocaust</a>

Allies knew in 1942&nbsp;

While the world only learned the full extent of its horrors after the Soviet Red Army entered the camp on January 27, 1945, the Allies had detailed information about Nazi Germany's genocide against Jews much earlier.

In December 1942, Poland's then London-based government-in-exile forwarded a document, titled "The Mass Extermination of Jews in German Occupied Poland", to the Allies.

The document included detailed accounts of the unfolding Holocaust as witnessed by members of the Polish resistance, but drew disbelief and only muted reactions from the international community.

To inform the Allies, Polish resistance fighters Jan Karski and Witold Pilecki famously risked their lives in separate operations to infiltrate and then escape from Nazi death camps and ghettos in occupied Poland, including Auschwitz.

'Final Solution'

Regarded as exaggeration and Polish war propaganda, "a lot of these reports were simply not believed", renowned Oxford historian Professor Norman Davies said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite "strong demands" by the Polish and Jewish resistance for the Allies to bomb the railways leading to Auschwitz and other death camps, "the military's attitude was 'we've got to concentrate on military targets, not on civilian things'", said Davies.

"One of the targets that the (British) military did bomb was a synthetic fuel factory near Auschwitz" in 1943-44, he added.

Although Allied warplanes flew over the death camp itself, no orders were given to bomb it.

"It was one of the biggest crimes committed by those that were indifferent because they (the Allies) knew what was happening here, they could have done something about it and they deliberately didn't," Auschwitz survivor David Lenga, 93, told AFP, standing next to a barbed-wire fence inside the former camp.

"People of this world need to be educated about the consequences when they become indifferent to evil; if you let evil raise its ugly head, this (the Holocaust) is exactly what is going to happen," said Lenga, a Polish Jew who now lives in California.

Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest of all Nazi death and concentration camps and the one where most people were killed, primarily European Jews, but also Roma, Soviet prisoners of war and Poles.

Operated by the Nazis from 1940 until 1945, Auschwitz was part of a vast network of camps across Europe set up for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-hitlers-watercolors-grabs-media-bidders-attention-192665">Hitler</a>'s "Final Solution" of genocide against the estimated 10 million Jews in Europe.

Seventy-five years after the liberation of Auschwitz, a dwindling number of elderly Holocaust survivors gathered at the former German Nazi death camp on Monday to honour its more than 1.

Seventy-five years after the liberation of Auschwitz, a dwindling number of elderly Holocaust survivors gathered at the former German Nazi death camp on Monday to honour its more than 1.1 million mostly Jewish victims and to share their alarm over rising antisemitism. More than 200 survivors came from across the globe to the camp the Nazis built at Oswiecim in then-occupied Poland, to share their testimony as a stark warning amid a recent surge of anti-semitic attacks on both sides of the Atlantic, some of them deadly. Survivors dressed in blue and white striped caps and scarves symbolic of the uniforms prisoners wore at the camp, passed through its chilling "Arbeit macht Frei" (German for "Work makes you free") black wrought-iron gate. Watch: A horrific account of the 'Holocaust' that executed jews Accompanied by Polish President Andrzej Duda, they laid floral wreaths by the Death Wall in Auschwitz where the Nazis shot dead thousands of prisoners. "We want the next generation to know what we went through and that it should never happen again," Auschwitz survivor David Marks, 93, said earlier at the former death camp, his voice breaking with emotion. Thirty-five members of his immediate and extended family of Romanian Jews were killed in Auschwitz, the largest of Nazi Germany's camps that has come to symbolise the six million European Jews who died in the Holocaust. From mid-1942 the Nazis systematically deported Jews from all over Europe to six camps -- Auschwitz-Birkenau, Belzec, Chelmno, Majdanek, Sobibor and Treblinka. Watch: 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz Organisers insist that Monday's memorial ceremony must focus above all on what survivors have to say rather than the bitter political feuds that have tainted the run-up to the anniversary. "This is about survivors, it's not about politics," Ronald Lauder, head of the World Jewish Congress, told AFP in the Auschwitz camp, now a memorial and state museum run by Poland. "We see anti-semitism rising now and we don't want their (survivors) past to be their children's future, or their grand children’s future," he added. Royals, presidents and prime ministers from nearly 60 countries will attend the ceremony, but no top world leaders, some of whom opted instead to attend a high-profile Holocaust forum in Israel last week seen as rivalling the ceremonies in Poland. Poland's President Duda boycotted the Jerusalem forum after he was denied the opportunity to speak there while Russian President Vladimir Putin was given the floor, despite having earlier falsely accused Poland of colluding with German Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler and contributing to the outbreak of World War II. Duda was to make an address at the Monday ceremony in Auschwitz alongside survivors. Also read: The lessons from the Holocaust Allies knew in 1942 While the world only learned the full extent of its horrors after the Soviet Red Army entered the camp on January 27, 1945, the Allies had detailed information about Nazi Germany's genocide against Jews much earlier. In December 1942, Poland's then London-based government-in-exile forwarded a document, titled "The Mass Extermination of Jews in German Occupied Poland", to the Allies. The document included detailed accounts of the unfolding Holocaust as witnessed by members of the Polish resistance, but drew disbelief and only muted reactions from the international community. To inform the Allies, Polish resistance fighters Jan Karski and Witold Pilecki famously risked their lives in separate operations to infiltrate and then escape from Nazi death camps and ghettos in occupied Poland, including Auschwitz. 'Final Solution' Regarded as exaggeration and Polish war propaganda, "a lot of these reports were simply not believed", renowned Oxford historian Professor Norman Davies said. Despite "strong demands" by the Polish and Jewish resistance for the Allies to bomb the railways leading to Auschwitz and other death camps, "the military's attitude was 'we've got to concentrate on military targets, not on civilian things'", said Davies. "One of the targets that the (British) military did bomb was a synthetic fuel factory near Auschwitz" in 1943-44, he added. Although Allied warplanes flew over the death camp itself, no orders were given to bomb it. "It was one of the biggest crimes committed by those that were indifferent because they (the Allies) knew what was happening here, they could have done something about it and they deliberately didn't," Auschwitz survivor David Lenga, 93, told AFP, standing next to a barbed-wire fence inside the former camp. "People of this world need to be educated about the consequences when they become indifferent to evil; if you let evil raise its ugly head, this (the Holocaust) is exactly what is going to happen," said Lenga, a Polish Jew who now lives in California. Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest of all Nazi death and concentration camps and the one where most people were killed, primarily European Jews, but also Roma, Soviet prisoners of war and Poles. Operated by the Nazis from 1940 until 1945, Auschwitz was part of a vast network of camps across Europe set up for Hitler's "Final Solution" of genocide against the estimated 10 million Jews in Europe.

75 years after liberation, Auschwitz survivors return to Nazi death camp

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he would release Middle East peace plan ahead of a meeting in Washington next week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"It's a great plan. It's a plan that really would work," Trump said to reporters travelling with him to Florida on board Air Force One. Trump said that the plan would probably be unveiled before the White House meeting on Tuesday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-us-policy-on-palestine-conflict-has-changed-over-time-159087">Opinion: US policy on Palestine conflict has changed over time</a>

The Palestinians have once again reiterated its rejection to the plans as they believe the plans intend to bury the two-state solution. They are also not invited for the White House meeting regarding the same next week.&nbsp;

Asked on any contacts made by the US to Palestinians, Trump said: "We've spoken to them briefly. But we will speak to them in a period of time."

Trump also said that after the declaration of the plans, Palestinians "maybe will react negatively at first but it's actually very positive for them".&nbsp;

US President also said that he was pleased that both Netanyahu and his main electoral rival Benny Gantz would come for the meeting ahead of the elections in Israel on March 2.&nbsp;

"This step only reaffirms our absolute rejection of what the US administration has done so far, particularly the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital," spokesman of Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas' said in a statement.

Palestinian President broke all ties with the US after the latter recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017, a move that went against decades of international consensus.&nbsp;

Trump earlier described his Israel-Palestine peace agreement brokered by the US as "ultimate deal".

The peace initiative was expected months ago but was postponed after the inconclusive September elections in Israel last year. &nbsp;

Israeli media claimed that the leaked outlines of the deal show that the US has accepted key Israeli demands.&nbsp;

The White House meeting coincides with an expected session in the Israeli parliament to discuss Netanyahu's potential immunity from prosecution over the corruption charges.&nbsp;

(with AFP inputs)

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he would release Middle East peace plan ahead of a meeting in Washington next week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he would release Middle East peace plan ahead of a meeting in Washington next week with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "It's a great plan. It's a plan that really would work," Trump said to reporters travelling with him to Florida on board Air Force One. Trump said that the plan would probably be unveiled before the White House meeting on Tuesday. Also read: Opinion: US policy on Palestine conflict has changed over time The Palestinians have once again reiterated its rejection to the plans as they believe the plans intend to bury the two-state solution. They are also not invited for the White House meeting regarding the same next week. Asked on any contacts made by the US to Palestinians, Trump said: "We've spoken to them briefly. But we will speak to them in a period of time." Trump also said that after the declaration of the plans, Palestinians "maybe will react negatively at first but it's actually very positive for them". US President also said that he was pleased that both Netanyahu and his main electoral rival Benny Gantz would come for the meeting ahead of the elections in Israel on March 2. "This step only reaffirms our absolute rejection of what the US administration has done so far, particularly the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital," spokesman of Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas' said in a statement. Palestinian President broke all ties with the US after the latter recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017, a move that went against decades of international consensus. Trump earlier described his Israel-Palestine peace agreement brokered by the US as "ultimate deal". The peace initiative was expected months ago but was postponed after the inconclusive September elections in Israel last year. Israeli media claimed that the leaked outlines of the deal show that the US has accepted key Israeli demands. The White House meeting coincides with an expected session in the Israeli parliament to discuss Netanyahu's potential immunity from prosecution over the corruption charges. (with AFP inputs)

Donald Trump to unveil Israel-Palestine peace plan by Tuesday

World leaders flock to Israel to mark 75th anniversary of Auschwitz liberation

Several&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;school districts held impromptu tolerance classes on Sunday after the country's&nbsp;education&nbsp;minister, an Orthodox rabbi, angered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/asias-first-lgbt-focused-streaming-service-tackles-taboos-one-film-at-a-time-270940">LGBT</a> campaigners by implying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/indias-first-openly-gay-prince-celebrating-world-pride-in-nyc-231667">homosexuality</a>&nbsp;was&nbsp;unnatural.

The furore over the remarks by&nbsp;Education&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Rafael Peretz, who last year spoke favourably about gay "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-lgbtq-people-in-china-forced-into-illegal-conversion-therapy-groups-263636">conversion therapy</a>", a widely discredited method, reached into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-right-to-self-defence-says-israels-benjamin-netanyahu-after-soleimanis-killing-271977">Israeli&nbsp;cabinet</a>, one of whose members is openly homosexual.

Asked by the weekend edition of the top-selling Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper what he would do if one his children had a "different sexual orientation", Peretz said: "Thank God, my children grew up in a natural and healthy way. They are building their homes on the basis of Jewish values. I don't bother my head with 'what if' thinking."

Several&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;municipalities said they would open the new school week with tolerance classes in response.

"I will promote within the municipal&nbsp;educational system a programme of democracy, equality, recognition of the other and acceptance of differences. In short, everything that is the opposite of Rabbi Rafi," Amir Kochavi, mayor of the city of Hod Hasharon near <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-punish-americans-wherever-they-are-within-its-reach-guards-commander-272154">Tel Aviv</a>, said on Facebook.

Peretz, who heads the ultra-nationalist Jewish Home party, assumed the&nbsp;education&nbsp;portfolio within Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-in-apparent-stumble-calls-israel-a-nuclear-power-272310">Benjamin Netanyahu's</a> conservative coalition government in June.

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אני מגנה את דבריו האומללים של השר פרץ, ולא בפעם הראשונה. התבטאויותיו אינן משקפות את עמדת הממשלה. 
 
זהו קרב מאסף של קולות שלשמחתי הולכים ומתמעטים בציבור הרחב. גדלתי במשפחה בריאה, טובה ואוהבת, כך גדלים גם ילדיי וילדיהם של להט״בים רבים בכל חלקי הארץ, המצויים על כל הספקטרום הפוליטי. <a href="https://t.co/S3EN54JJIC">pic.twitter.com/S3EN54JJIC</a>
— אמיר אוחנה (@AmirOhana) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmirOhana/status/1216109139023233024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Justice&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Amir Ohana, a member of Netanyahu's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-wins-likud-party-leadership-race-270464">Likud party</a> who has children with a same-sex partner, condemned his cabinet colleague's remarks as "wretched, and not for the first time," adding that they "do not reflect the government's position".

"I grew up in a healthy, good and loving family, as are my children and the children of many LGBTs from all parts of the country, from all over the political spectrum," Ohana tweeted.

Several Israeli school districts held impromptu tolerance classes on Sunday after the country's education minister, an Orthodox rabbi, angered LGBT campaigners by implying homosexuality was unnatural.

Several Israeli school districts held impromptu tolerance classes on Sunday after the country's education minister, an Orthodox rabbi, angered LGBT campaigners by implying homosexuality was unnatural. The furore over the remarks by Education Minister Rafael Peretz, who last year spoke favourably about gay "conversion therapy", a widely discredited method, reached into the Israeli cabinet, one of whose members is openly homosexual. Asked by the weekend edition of the top-selling Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper what he would do if one his children had a "different sexual orientation", Peretz said: "Thank God, my children grew up in a natural and healthy way. They are building their homes on the basis of Jewish values. I don't bother my head with 'what if' thinking." Several Israeli municipalities said they would open the new school week with tolerance classes in response. "I will promote within the municipal educational system a programme of democracy, equality, recognition of the other and acceptance of differences. In short, everything that is the opposite of Rabbi Rafi," Amir Kochavi, mayor of the city of Hod Hasharon near Tel Aviv, said on Facebook. Peretz, who heads the ultra-nationalist Jewish Home party, assumed the education portfolio within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conservative coalition government in June. אני מגנה את דבריו האומללים של השר פרץ, ולא בפעם הראשונה. התבטאויותיו אינן משקפות את עמדת הממשלה. זהו קרב מאסף של קולות שלשמחתי הולכים ומתמעטים בציבור הרחב. גדלתי במשפחה בריאה, טובה ואוהבת, כך גדלים גם ילדיי וילדיהם של להט״בים רבים בכל חלקי הארץ, המצויים על כל הספקטרום הפוליטי. pic.twitter.com/S3EN54JJIC — אמיר אוחנה (@AmirOhana) January 11, 2020 × Justice Minister Amir Ohana, a member of Netanyahu's Likud party who has children with a same-sex partner, condemned his cabinet colleague's remarks as "wretched, and not for the first time," adding that they "do not reflect the government's position". "I grew up in a healthy, good and loving family, as are my children and the children of many LGBTs from all parts of the country, from all over the political spectrum," Ohana tweeted.

Israeli education minister Rafael Peretz implies homosexuality 'unnatural'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-right-to-self-defence-says-israels-benjamin-netanyahu-after-soleimanis-killing-271977">Israel</a>'s energy minister said on Tuesday it is too early to determine whether Iran is on the path towards building a nuclear weapon after it announced it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium.

"It's too early to say," the minister, Yuval Steinitz, told Israel Radio when asked if Iran was on the way towards constructing an atomic bomb. "We have to wait and see."

Watch: Israel - Saturday's flood killed two people in Tel Aviv city

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On Sunday, two days after a US&nbsp;drone strike in Baghdad killed a top Iranian military commander, Tehran said it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium.

Iran has already breached many of the restrictions of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">2015 nuclear deal</a> with world powers, from which the United States withdrew in 2018.

But Iran also has said it would continue to cooperate with the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog and could quickly reverse its steps if US&nbsp;sanctions are removed.

Steinitz, a member of Israel's security cabinet, reiterated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-in-apparent-stumble-calls-israel-a-nuclear-power-272310">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>'s pledge that Israel would never allow arch-enemy Iran to have nuclear weapons.

But he appeared to try to distance Israel - whose military, according to Army Radio, went on alert after Friday's US&nbsp;strike in Iraq - from the current heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

"We are standing on the sidelines, observing events," he said.

Israel's energy minister said on Tuesday it is too early to determine whether Iran is on the path towards building a nuclear weapon after it announced it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium.

Israel's energy minister said on Tuesday it is too early to determine whether Iran is on the path towards building a nuclear weapon after it announced it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium. "It's too early to say," the minister, Yuval Steinitz, told Israel Radio when asked if Iran was on the way towards constructing an atomic bomb. "We have to wait and see." Watch: Israel - Saturday's flood killed two people in Tel Aviv city × On Sunday, two days after a US drone strike in Baghdad killed a top Iranian military commander, Tehran said it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium. Iran has already breached many of the restrictions of the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, from which the United States withdrew in 2018. But Iran also has said it would continue to cooperate with the UN nuclear watchdog and could quickly reverse its steps if US sanctions are removed. Steinitz, a member of Israel's security cabinet, reiterated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's pledge that Israel would never allow arch-enemy Iran to have nuclear weapons. But he appeared to try to distance Israel - whose military, according to Army Radio, went on alert after Friday's US strike in Iraq - from the current heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. "We are standing on the sidelines, observing events," he said.

Too early to say if Iran on path towards nuclear weapon: Israeli minister

In an apparent slip of the tongue on Sunday, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-contributed-to-plotting-terror-attacks-in-new-delhi-london-trump-272027">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> described Israel as a nuclear power before correcting himself with a bashful nod and an embarrassed smile.

Israel is widely believed to have an atomic arsenal but has never confirmed or denied that it has nuclear weapons, maintaining a so-called policy of ambiguity on the issue for decades.

Netanyahu stumbled at the weekly cabinet meeting while reading in Hebrew prepared remarks on a deal with Greece and Cyprus on a subsea gas pipeline.

"The significance of this project is that we are turning Israel into nuclear power," he said, before quickly correcting himself to say "energy power".

He then paused for a beat, acknowledging his mistake with a smile, and then ploughed on with his comments.

The rare blooper from one of Israel's most polished politicians swiftly proliferated on social media.

Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival in a March 2 vote after two inconclusive elections in April and September. In November, he was indicted on corruption charges, which he denies.

In an apparent slip of the tongue on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel as a nuclear power before correcting himself with a bashful nod and an embarrassed smile.

In an apparent slip of the tongue on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel as a nuclear power before correcting himself with a bashful nod and an embarrassed smile. Israel is widely believed to have an atomic arsenal but has never confirmed or denied that it has nuclear weapons, maintaining a so-called policy of ambiguity on the issue for decades. Netanyahu stumbled at the weekly cabinet meeting while reading in Hebrew prepared remarks on a deal with Greece and Cyprus on a subsea gas pipeline. "The significance of this project is that we are turning Israel into nuclear power," he said, before quickly correcting himself to say "energy power". He then paused for a beat, acknowledging his mistake with a smile, and then ploughed on with his comments. The rare blooper from one of Israel's most polished politicians swiftly proliferated on social media. Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival in a March 2 vote after two inconclusive elections in April and September. In November, he was indicted on corruption charges, which he denies.

Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu in apparent stumble, calls Israel a 'nuclear power'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-some-eu-countries-are-struggling-to-relocate-migrants-265965">Greece</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyprus-buys-israel-drones-to-monitor-waters-amid-turkey-tensions-254344">Cyprus</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-seeks-immunity-from-graft-charges-271505">Israel</a> on Thursday signed an agreement for a huge <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-finalise-gas-deal-one-day-before-deadline-271258">pipeline</a> project to ship gas from the eastern Mediterranean to Europe despite Turkey's hostility to the deal.

The move comes amid tensions with Turkey over its activities in the area and a maritime deal with Libya expanding Ankara's claims over a large gas-rich area of the sea.

The 2,000-kilometre (1,200-mile)&nbsp;EastMed&nbsp;pipeline will be able to carry between nine and 12 billion cubic metres of gas a year from offshore reserves held by Israel and Cyprus to Greece, and then on to Italy and other southeastern European countries.

The discovery of hydrocarbon reserves in the eastern Mediterranean has sparked a scramble for the energy riches and a row between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-turkey-raises-pitch-india-reaffirms-support-for-cyprus-territorial-integrity-252329">Cyprus</a> and Turkey, which occupies the northern part of the Mediterranean island.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-netanyahu-wins-likud-party-leadership-race-270464">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> and Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades joined the ceremony at which their respective energy ministers signed the deal in the Greek capital.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Today, 🇮🇱🇬🇷🇨🇾 leaders <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraeliPM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PrimeministerGR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PrimeministerGR</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/AnastasiadesCY?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnastasiadesCY</a> signed the East-Med Pipeline agreement. 
 
PM Netanyahu: This is a true alliance in the Eastern Mediterranean, adding to the security &amp; stability of the region. 
 
📎 <a href="https://t.co/h53Zeji3OV">https://t.co/h53Zeji3OV</a><a href="https://t.co/w56KOCQLYn">pic.twitter.com/w56KOCQLYn</a>
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelMFA/status/1212820952167469058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The&nbsp;EastMed&nbsp;project is expected to make the three countries key links in Europe's energy supply chain.

It could also help counter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/250000-migrants-fleeing-from-syrias-idlib-towards-turkey-tayyip-erdogan-271660">Turkey</a>'s effort to extend its control to the eastern Mediterranean.&nbsp;

Turkey already faces European Union sanctions over ships searching for oil and gas off Cyprus, whose government in Nicosia is not recognised by Ankara.

&nbsp;

Boundary row

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in November he envisaged joint energy exploration activities with Libya in the eastern Mediterranean.

His government insists the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus -&nbsp;recognised only by Ankara - has the right to explore around the entire island.

Watch: Turkish parliament passes Libya deployment bill

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Vice President Fuat Oktay said Turkey's pact with Libya had allowed Ankara to foil a plot to confine the country to land.

"No matter who is involved, no plan in the region which excludes Turkey has any chance of success," Oktay told the Anadolu state news agency.

Greece responded angrily to the Turkey-Libya deal, expelling the Libyan ambassador and urging the UN to condemn it.&nbsp;

Part of the agreement sets a maritime boundary between the two countries, which Greece says fails to take into account the Greek island of Crete.

&nbsp;

Peace and cooperation

The&nbsp;EastMed&nbsp;alliance "is of enormous importance to the state of Israel's energy future and its development into an energy power and also from the point of view of stability in the region," Netanyahu said in a statement issued as he left Israel for Greece Thursday.

Mitsotakis said the pipeline was of "geostrategic importance" and would contribute to regional peace.

Earlier, Greek Energy Minister Kostis Hatzidakis called it "a project of peace and cooperation" despite "Turkish threats".

Anastasiades said his aim was "cooperation and not rivalry in the Middle East".

Avinoam Idan, a former Israeli government security official who is now a geostrategy expert at Haifa University, said of the deal: "It's important for Israel, it's important for the transit countries, Greece and Cyprus, and of course Europe".

As the new source of energy would not compete with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-us-sanctions-on-european-gas-project-269464">Russian supplies</a> to the EU, "there is no reason to see it as a big change in the geopolitical dynamic in Europe's energy market", he told sources.

The Greek economic daily Kathimerini said Wednesday that Athens and Nicosia had been in a hurry to finalise&nbsp;EastMed&nbsp;so as "to counter any attempt by the Turkish neighbour to stop the project".

The cost of the installation from the eastern Mediterranean to Italy is estimated at $6.7 billion.

Greece, Cyprus and Israel on Thursday signed an agreement for a huge pipeline project to ship gas from the eastern Mediterranean to Europe despite Turkey's hostility to the deal.

Greece, Cyprus and Israel on Thursday signed an agreement for a huge pipeline project to ship gas from the eastern Mediterranean to Europe despite Turkey's hostility to the deal. The move comes amid tensions with Turkey over its activities in the area and a maritime deal with Libya expanding Ankara's claims over a large gas-rich area of the sea. The 2,000-kilometre (1,200-mile) EastMed pipeline will be able to carry between nine and 12 billion cubic metres of gas a year from offshore reserves held by Israel and Cyprus to Greece, and then on to Italy and other southeastern European countries. The discovery of hydrocarbon reserves in the eastern Mediterranean has sparked a scramble for the energy riches and a row between Cyprus and Turkey, which occupies the northern part of the Mediterranean island. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades joined the ceremony at which their respective energy ministers signed the deal in the Greek capital. Today, 🇮🇱🇬🇷🇨🇾 leaders @IsraeliPM @PrimeministerGR & @AnastasiadesCY signed the East-Med Pipeline agreement. PM Netanyahu: This is a true alliance in the Eastern Mediterranean, adding to the security & stability of the region. 📎 https://t.co/h53Zeji3OVpic.twitter.com/w56KOCQLYn — Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) January 2, 2020 × The EastMed project is expected to make the three countries key links in Europe's energy supply chain. It could also help counter Turkey's effort to extend its control to the eastern Mediterranean. Turkey already faces European Union sanctions over ships searching for oil and gas off Cyprus, whose government in Nicosia is not recognised by Ankara. Boundary row Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in November he envisaged joint energy exploration activities with Libya in the eastern Mediterranean. His government insists the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus - recognised only by Ankara - has the right to explore around the entire island. Watch: Turkish parliament passes Libya deployment bill × Vice President Fuat Oktay said Turkey's pact with Libya had allowed Ankara to foil a plot to confine the country to land. "No matter who is involved, no plan in the region which excludes Turkey has any chance of success," Oktay told the Anadolu state news agency. Greece responded angrily to the Turkey-Libya deal, expelling the Libyan ambassador and urging the UN to condemn it. Part of the agreement sets a maritime boundary between the two countries, which Greece says fails to take into account the Greek island of Crete. Peace and cooperation The EastMed alliance "is of enormous importance to the state of Israel's energy future and its development into an energy power and also from the point of view of stability in the region," Netanyahu said in a statement issued as he left Israel for Greece Thursday. Mitsotakis said the pipeline was of "geostrategic importance" and would contribute to regional peace. Earlier, Greek Energy Minister Kostis Hatzidakis called it "a project of peace and cooperation" despite "Turkish threats". Anastasiades said his aim was "cooperation and not rivalry in the Middle East". Avinoam Idan, a former Israeli government security official who is now a geostrategy expert at Haifa University, said of the deal: "It's important for Israel, it's important for the transit countries, Greece and Cyprus, and of course Europe". As the new source of energy would not compete with Russian supplies to the EU, "there is no reason to see it as a big change in the geopolitical dynamic in Europe's energy market", he told sources. The Greek economic daily Kathimerini said Wednesday that Athens and Nicosia had been in a hurry to finalise EastMed so as "to counter any attempt by the Turkish neighbour to stop the project". The cost of the installation from the eastern Mediterranean to Italy is estimated at $6.7 billion.

Greece, Cyprus, Israel sign EastMed pipeline deal

Israel's embattled premier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-gives-rare-tv-interview-to-address-allegations-205334">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> faces off against longtime rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-faces-court-party-challenges-after-indictment-264271">Gideon Saar</a> in a Likud party leadership contest Thursday that could threaten his grip on power.

A defeat for Netanyahu, 70, would be a shock, but even a relatively close result could weaken his influence over the conservative party he has dominated for 20 years.

Whatever the result, "Netanyahu can only lose", said Stephan Miller, a pollster who has worked on multiple Israeli campaigns.

No matter how much support Saar receives, "it will be the first time in 10 years that a group of voters on the right explicitly express their desire to get rid of Netanyahu," he said.

"If that is more than a third of the party, Netanyahu will be significantly damaged."

In power as premier for a decade, Netanyahu is facing a third general election within 12 months as well as an indictment on a series of corruption allegations.

Saar and Netanyahu have spent recent days crisscrossing the country, making their case to around 116,000 Likud members eligible to vote, though Netanyahu has not responded to Saar's call for one-on-one debates.

More than 100 voting stations were to open across the country at 9:00 am (0600 GMT) and close at 11:00 pm, with results not expected until early Friday morning.

The winner of Thursday's vote will lead Likud into Israel's third election within 12 months.

Polls in April and September saw Netanyahu deadlocked with centrist challenger <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192">Benny Gantz</a>, neither of them able to command a majority in Israel's proportional parliament.

Last month, Netanyahu was indicted for fraud, bribery, and breach of trust in three corruption cases, allegations he strongly denies.

The primaries were called shortly after, the first internal challenge to Netanyahu since 2014.

Saar, 53, has been a senior figure in the Likud for a decade and held multiple ministries, but stepped away from politics for several years in 2014 after being politically sidelined by Netanyahu.

He is seen as slightly to the right of Netanyahu and has called for an even tougher line with the Palestinians.

A series of polls in recent weeks have indicated a Saar-led Likud might win fewer seats in a third election than under Netanyahu, but the overall rightwing bloc might be larger -- potentially enabling it to break the impasse and form a majority government.

Saar has not attacked Netanyahu personally, even hinting he would support him becoming Israel's president.

A source close to Saar insisted they were hopeful of an upset.

"More and more, the Likud rank and file are understanding the choice is between Netanyahu and being in opposition versus Saar and being in government," the source said.

Netanyahu has sought to paint himself as an irreplaceable leader fighting a "witch hunt" by the police, the legal establishment, and the media.

He demands fierce loyalty inside Likud and has isolated and ultimately forced out multiple potential rivals.

Other party figures are seen as potential future leadership candidates including parliamentary speaker Yuli Edelstein, who has&nbsp;so far chosen not to support either candidate, despite the pressure.

Ofer Zalzberg, an Israeli political analyst at the International Crisis Group think tank, said it would have been unthinkable a few years ago for senior party officials not to publicly back Netanyahu.

"They already sense there is a changing of the guard. They are hoping that the contest between Saar and Netanyahu will create the conditions for a third party to take home the spoils," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-says-he-should-be-pm-in-unity-government-250616">Netanyahu</a>'s downfall has been predicted multiple times since he became prime minister for the second time in 2009, but he has defied expectations and outlasted multiple rivals.

Backed into a corner on multiple fronts, Netanyahu appears determined to fight his way out.

Politics professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Gideon Rahat said he would not step down, even in the event of a narrow victory over Saar.

Netanyahu "will continue, even if he gets 50 percent and one extra vote," he said.

Under Israeli law, a prime minister is entitled to remain in office despite the indictment.

Miller said the very fact there was a primary was indicative of signs of discontent among the rightwing over which Netanyahu has ruled largely unchallenged for a decade.

"In every survey of voters I do, 58-60 percent of Jewish Israelis self-identify as center-right or right a built-in rightwing majority," he said.

"The way that the Netanyahu era ends is by a challenge from the right not the left."

Israel's embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu faces off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud party leadership contest Thursday that could threaten his grip on power.

Israel's embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu faces off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud party leadership contest Thursday that could threaten his grip on power. A defeat for Netanyahu, 70, would be a shock, but even a relatively close result could weaken his influence over the conservative party he has dominated for 20 years. Whatever the result, "Netanyahu can only lose", said Stephan Miller, a pollster who has worked on multiple Israeli campaigns. No matter how much support Saar receives, "it will be the first time in 10 years that a group of voters on the right explicitly express their desire to get rid of Netanyahu," he said. "If that is more than a third of the party, Netanyahu will be significantly damaged." In power as premier for a decade, Netanyahu is facing a third general election within 12 months as well as an indictment on a series of corruption allegations. Saar and Netanyahu have spent recent days crisscrossing the country, making their case to around 116,000 Likud members eligible to vote, though Netanyahu has not responded to Saar's call for one-on-one debates. More than 100 voting stations were to open across the country at 9:00 am (0600 GMT) and close at 11:00 pm, with results not expected until early Friday morning. The winner of Thursday's vote will lead Likud into Israel's third election within 12 months. Polls in April and September saw Netanyahu deadlocked with centrist challenger Benny Gantz, neither of them able to command a majority in Israel's proportional parliament. Last month, Netanyahu was indicted for fraud, bribery, and breach of trust in three corruption cases, allegations he strongly denies. The primaries were called shortly after, the first internal challenge to Netanyahu since 2014. Saar, 53, has been a senior figure in the Likud for a decade and held multiple ministries, but stepped away from politics for several years in 2014 after being politically sidelined by Netanyahu. He is seen as slightly to the right of Netanyahu and has called for an even tougher line with the Palestinians. A series of polls in recent weeks have indicated a Saar-led Likud might win fewer seats in a third election than under Netanyahu, but the overall rightwing bloc might be larger -- potentially enabling it to break the impasse and form a majority government. Saar has not attacked Netanyahu personally, even hinting he would support him becoming Israel's president. A source close to Saar insisted they were hopeful of an upset. "More and more, the Likud rank and file are understanding the choice is between Netanyahu and being in opposition versus Saar and being in government," the source said. Netanyahu has sought to paint himself as an irreplaceable leader fighting a "witch hunt" by the police, the legal establishment, and the media. He demands fierce loyalty inside Likud and has isolated and ultimately forced out multiple potential rivals. Other party figures are seen as potential future leadership candidates including parliamentary speaker Yuli Edelstein, who has so far chosen not to support either candidate, despite the pressure. Ofer Zalzberg, an Israeli political analyst at the International Crisis Group think tank, said it would have been unthinkable a few years ago for senior party officials not to publicly back Netanyahu. "They already sense there is a changing of the guard. They are hoping that the contest between Saar and Netanyahu will create the conditions for a third party to take home the spoils," he said. Netanyahu's downfall has been predicted multiple times since he became prime minister for the second time in 2009, but he has defied expectations and outlasted multiple rivals. Backed into a corner on multiple fronts, Netanyahu appears determined to fight his way out. Politics professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Gideon Rahat said he would not step down, even in the event of a narrow victory over Saar. Netanyahu "will continue, even if he gets 50 percent and one extra vote," he said. Under Israeli law, a prime minister is entitled to remain in office despite the indictment. Miller said the very fact there was a primary was indicative of signs of discontent among the rightwing over which Netanyahu has ruled largely unchallenged for a decade. "In every survey of voters I do, 58-60 percent of Jewish Israelis self-identify as center-right or right a built-in rightwing majority," he said. "The way that the Netanyahu era ends is by a challenge from the right not the left."

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu faces party leadership challenge

Christians in the <a href="Israel tightly restricts movements out of the Gaza Strip, territory controlled by Hamas, an Islamist group that it considers a terrorist organization.">Gaza Strip</a> will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits.

In a break from its usual Christmas holiday policy, Israel's military liaison to the Palestinians said on December&nbsp;12 that in accordance with "security orders" Gaza Christians would be allowed to travel abroad but none would be permitted to go Israel or the occupied West Bank.

On Sunday, the liaison office, known as COGAT, announced on Twitter that its director has "extended the travel facilitation for the Christian population of Gaza for the Christmas holiday".

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COGAT Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rukun has extended the travel facilitations for the Christian population of Gaza in recognition of the Christmas holiday. Entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age. <a href="https://t.co/obqJlAoTq1">pic.twitter.com/obqJlAoTq1</a>
— COGAT (@cogatonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/cogatonline/status/1208825212189446144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As a result, COGAT said, "entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age."

Gaza has only around 1,000 Christians, most of them Greek Orthodox, in a population of 2 million in the narrow coastal strip.

Last year, Israel granted permits for close to 700 Gaza Christians to travel to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth and other holy cities that draw thousands of pilgrims each holiday season.

Christian leaders in Jerusalem had condemned the initial entry ban and said they would appeal to Israeli authorities to lift it.

Christians in the Gaza Strip will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits.

Christians in the Gaza Strip will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits. In a break from its usual Christmas holiday policy, Israel's military liaison to the Palestinians said on December 12 that in accordance with "security orders" Gaza Christians would be allowed to travel abroad but none would be permitted to go Israel or the occupied West Bank. On Sunday, the liaison office, known as COGAT, announced on Twitter that its director has "extended the travel facilitation for the Christian population of Gaza for the Christmas holiday". COGAT Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rukun has extended the travel facilitations for the Christian population of Gaza in recognition of the Christmas holiday. Entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age. pic.twitter.com/obqJlAoTq1 — COGAT (@cogatonline) December 22, 2019 × As a result, COGAT said, "entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age." Gaza has only around 1,000 Christians, most of them Greek Orthodox, in a population of 2 million in the narrow coastal strip. Last year, Israel granted permits for close to 700 Gaza Christians to travel to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth and other holy cities that draw thousands of pilgrims each holiday season. Christian leaders in Jerusalem had condemned the initial entry ban and said they would appeal to Israeli authorities to lift it.

Israel allows Christians in Gaza to visit Christmas sites

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