Iran on Friday (May 3) released all the crew members that were aboard the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship MSC Aries. Out of the 25 crew members, 17 were Indians.&nbsp;

The development came following a telephonic conversations between Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and his Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna on Friday.

The two sides discussed the recent state of bilateral ties and regional developments, said the Iranian foreign ministry.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards had seized the ship on April 13 in the Strait of Hormuz.

As per the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency, a Guards helicopter had boarded and taken into Iranian waters the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries.

Shipping security agencies had earlier reported a vessel being boarded and seized by "regional authorities" in the Hormuz Strait between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-accused-of-conducting-raid-on-ship-near-strait-of-hormuz-official-states-710852">Iran seizes Israel-linked ship MCS ARIES near Strait of Hormuz</a>

Earlier, Ann Tessa Joseph from Thrissur in south Indian state of&nbsp;Kerala, who was aboard the Israel-linked cargo ship, had been released and reached back home safely on April 18.

Recently, India's Ministry of External Affairs released a statement sharing an update about Joseph's return which further added that other Indian crew members were safe and that they will be released once their contractual obligations are completed.

"One girl who was there has returned. We had asked for consular access for these 16 people and we received that and our officers met them. Their health is good and there is no problem of any kind on the ship. Concerning their return, there are some technicalities and contractual obligations. Once they are done, it will decide their return," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said in a weekly press briefing on April 25.

Iranian Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, had also said that the Indian crew members were not detained and that they were free to go.

Responding to the request of the Estonian side regarding the Portuguese ship, Amirabdollahian said, "The ship, which turned off its radar in the territorial waters of Iran and endangered the security of navigation, is detained under judicial rules."

Earlier today, during the telephone discussion between Iranian and Estonian officials, Iran stated that it "has already released all the ship's crew members on humanitarian grounds, and if the ship's captain accompanies them, the crew including the Estonians can return to their country."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Friday (May 3) released all the crew members that were aboard the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship MSC Aries. Out of the 25 crew members, 17 were Indians. The development came following a telephonic conversations between Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and his Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna on Friday.

Iran on Friday (May 3) released all the crew members that were aboard the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship MSC Aries. Out of the 25 crew members, 17 were Indians. The development came following a telephonic conversations between Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and his Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna on Friday. The two sides discussed the recent state of bilateral ties and regional developments, said the Iranian foreign ministry. Iran's Revolutionary Guards had seized the ship on April 13 in the Strait of Hormuz. As per the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency, a Guards helicopter had boarded and taken into Iranian waters the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries. Shipping security agencies had earlier reported a vessel being boarded and seized by "regional authorities" in the Hormuz Strait between the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Also read: Iran seizes Israel-linked ship MCS ARIES near Strait of Hormuz Earlier, Ann Tessa Joseph from Thrissur in south Indian state of Kerala, who was aboard the Israel-linked cargo ship, had been released and reached back home safely on April 18. Recently, India's Ministry of External Affairs released a statement sharing an update about Joseph's return which further added that other Indian crew members were safe and that they will be released once their contractual obligations are completed. "One girl who was there has returned. We had asked for consular access for these 16 people and we received that and our officers met them. Their health is good and there is no problem of any kind on the ship. Concerning their return, there are some technicalities and contractual obligations. Once they are done, it will decide their return," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said in a weekly press briefing on April 25. Iranian Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, had also said that the Indian crew members were not detained and that they were free to go. Responding to the request of the Estonian side regarding the Portuguese ship, Amirabdollahian said, "The ship, which turned off its radar in the territorial waters of Iran and endangered the security of navigation, is detained under judicial rules." Earlier today, during the telephone discussion between Iranian and Estonian officials, Iran stated that it "has already released all the ship's crew members on humanitarian grounds, and if the ship's captain accompanies them, the crew including the Estonians can return to their country." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran releases all crew members aboard seized cargo ship MSC Aries including Indians on 'humanitarian grounds'

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway.

The Israeli army said that 10 missiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the crossing.

The army however said that only the Kerem Shalom was shut and the rest remained open.

"Approximately 10 projectile launches were identified crossing from the area adjacent to the Rafah Crossing toward the area of Kerem Shalom," the army said in a statement, adding that the "Kerem Shalom Crossing is currently closed to the passage of humanitarian aid trucks".

Later, Hamas claimed responsibility for the attack which as per Israeli and Palestinian local media reports resulted in Israeli casualties.

The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group said that it launched an air offensive targeting the Israeli army base by the crossing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-cabinet-unanimously-votes-to-shut-down-al-jazeera-offices-in-israel-718195">Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts</a>

However, the group did not share details about where it fired the rockets from.

As per the news agency Reuters, Hamas media quoted a source close to the Palestinian Islamist group saying the commercial crossing was not the target.&nbsp;

<h2>'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardening his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power.

However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130.

"But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said.

"Israel cannot accept that."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway.

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway. The Israeli army said that 10 missiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the crossing. The army however said that only the Kerem Shalom was shut and the rest remained open. "Approximately 10 projectile launches were identified crossing from the area adjacent to the Rafah Crossing toward the area of Kerem Shalom," the army said in a statement, adding that the "Kerem Shalom Crossing is currently closed to the passage of humanitarian aid trucks". Later, Hamas claimed responsibility for the attack which as per Israeli and Palestinian local media reports resulted in Israeli casualties. The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group said that it launched an air offensive targeting the Israeli army base by the crossing. Also read: Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts However, the group did not share details about where it fired the rockets from. As per the news agency Reuters, Hamas media quoted a source close to the Palestinian Islamist group saying the commercial crossing was not the target. 'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardening his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power. However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130. "But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said. "Israel cannot accept that." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel shuts key border crossing for aid trucks as Hamas fires rockets

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

These demonstrations are no longer limited to the US with people and students across the world taking to university campuses, setting up encampments and showing up in large numbers to protest the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Indians travelling to Iran, Israel asked to&nbsp;'remain vigilant'

Indians travelling to Iran and Israel&nbsp;should "remain vigilant and be in touch with Indian embassies," said&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson&nbsp;Randhir Jaiswal, on Friday.&nbsp;

"We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region. We have also noted that Iran and Israel have opened their airspace for several days now. We advise Indian nationals to remain vigilant while traveling to these countries and be in touch with the Indian Embassy," said the MEA spokesperson while responding to a question by the media.&nbsp;

This comes after the&nbsp;MEA, on April 12, asked&nbsp;Indian citizens not to travel to Israel and Iran "till further notice".&nbsp;

<h2>US 'temporarily paused' work on&nbsp;Gaza pier</h2>

The United States&nbsp;Central Command (CENTCOM) said soldiers “temporarily paused” the work on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temporary-gaza-pier-to-boost-aid-deliveries-will-cost-us-at-least-320mn-716396">temporary pier</a> to boost aid deliveries to Gaza amid&nbsp;unsafe sea conditions,&nbsp;on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The partially built pier and military vessels involved in its construction have moved to the Port of Ashdod, where assembly will continue, and will be completed prior to the emplacement of the pier in its intended location when sea states subside," said the CENTCOM in a statement, on Friday.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;pier will allow "the delivery of large quantities of humanitarian aid from ship to shore by truck, with vehicles driving directly off ships and across the temporary pier to a marshaling yard ashore," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel to give Hamas a week for ceasefire deal</h2>

Israel has given Hamas one week to agree to the latest deal&nbsp;or warned that it will launch its&nbsp;offensive in Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

The deal brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protests-ucla-faculty-joins-ongoing-protests-on-campus-717530">Over 2,100 arrests made in pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses</a>

The report does not mention when the ultimatum was given but cites&nbsp;Egyptian officials speaking, on Friday, suggesting that Hamas will have until next week to answer.&nbsp;

The report comes after&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734">said</a> Israel will carry out an operation in&nbsp;Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached.

<h2>'Far too many' journalists killed in Gaza: Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden in a statement for&nbsp;World Press Freedom Day, said "far too many"&nbsp;journalists have been killed amid the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

"On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of journalists and media workers around the world risking everything in pursuit of truth," said Biden.&nbsp;

He added, "This is especially resonant today; 2023 was one of the deadliest years for journalists in recent memory. One reason for that is the war in Gaza, where far too many journalists, the vast majority of them Palestinian, have been killed."

<h2>Turkey halts trade with Israel&nbsp;</h2>

Turkey, on Friday, said that it will not resume the more than $7 billion&nbsp;trade with Israel until&nbsp;a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian aid are secured in Gaza.&nbsp;

Israel's "uncompromising attitude" and the worsening situation in&nbsp;Rafah - which Israel has threatened to invade - has prompted Ankara to&nbsp;halt all exports and imports, said Turkey's&nbsp;Trade Minister Omer Bolat.

"We decided to stop exports and imports to and from Israel until a permanent ceasefire is achieved (in Gaza) and humanitarian aid is allowed without interruption," said&nbsp;Bolat.&nbsp;

<h2>Campus protests across the world</h2>

United States

More than 2,000 people have been arrested from dozens of US college campuses in recent weeks, amid the ongoing pro-Palestinian protests, according to a tally by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Paris: Police raid University students&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-police-raid-university-students-kenya-floods-death-toll-crosses-200-717744/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The police arrested more than 300 protesters on college campuses on Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Around 210 were arrested from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).&nbsp;

The&nbsp;police, on Thursday (May 2) crackdown on defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges with UCLA witnessing particularly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-move-in-to-dismantle-ucla-gaza-protest-barricades-717374"> jarring scenes.</a>&nbsp;

France&nbsp;

On Friday, the police in Paris entered France’s prestigious Sciences Po university to remove pro-Palestinian protesters who had occupied the college’s buildings.&nbsp;

A Reuters witness saw police enter the buildings and bring out many of the 70-odd protesters inside. Unlike the US, protests on the French campus have been peaceful, with Sciences Po being the epicentre due to the university’s ties with Israel.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the university, ahead of the police action, told Reuters that they were seeking to negotiate and “end the standoff”.

Sciences Po’s director Jean Basseres, on Thursday, rejected protesters’ demand to review its ties with Israeli universities.&nbsp;

Jack, one of the students who spent Thursday night occupying one of the main buildings on the campus in central Paris, told Reuters, on Friday morning that protesters had rejected the ultimatum to clear large parts of the building and restrict their movement to a determined smaller area.

Australia

Hundreds of people protesting the ongoing war in Gaza rallied at one of Australia’s top universities on Friday and demanded that it divest from companies with ties to Israel.&nbsp;

Last week, protesters set up encampments near the University of Sydney’s sandstone main hall. Similar protests have sprung up at universities in Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities.

The University of Sydney also witnessed dozens of counter-protesters carrying Australian and Israeli flags who had gathered to&nbsp;hear speakers talk about how the pro-Palestinian protests made Jewish students and staff feel unsafe on campus, reported Reuters. The two groups were separated by lines of security guards.&nbsp;

University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott said that the encampment on campus has been allowed since there has been no violence.&nbsp;

Canada

Top Canadian universities including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, the University of Ottawa, and Montreal’s McGill University have also witnessed similar pro-Palestinian protests and set up encampments.&nbsp;

Quebec Premier Francois Legault said that the encampment set up at McGill should be dismantled. The university had requested police intervention, but law enforcement did not clear the encampment and said it was monitoring the situation.&nbsp;

The students at Canadian universities have called on their colleges to disclose investments and divest from any which helps Israel, asking them to end partnerships with some Israeli institutes.&nbsp;

Mexico

Dozens of students at Mexico’s largest university, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), set up an encampment, on Thursday.&nbsp;The students have called on the Mexican government to break diplomatic and commercial ties with Israel.

United Kingdom

Some of the most prominent universities in the United Kingdom have joined the protests&nbsp;against the war in Gaza.&nbsp;Pro-Palestinian protesters in cities like&nbsp;Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds have set up camp outside university buildings.&nbsp;

Ireland

Trinity College Dublin (TCD), one of the top universities in Ireland, fined its students’ union $230,979 over holding protests, including those against the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-move-in-to-dismantle-ucla-gaza-protest-barricades-717374">Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment</a>&nbsp;

The students on the campus have been protesting against the university’s response to the war in Gaza and proposed course fee hikes and increased accommodation costs.&nbsp;

<h2>Houthis offer education to US students</h2>

Yemen-based Iranian-backed militant group Houthi said that it will offer education to students suspended from US universities for anti-Israel protests, reported Reuters, on Friday.&nbsp;

“We are serious about welcoming students that have been suspended from U.S. universities for supporting Palestinians,” an official at Sanaa University, which is run by the Houthis, told the news agency.&nbsp;

“We are fighting this battle with Palestine in every way we can,” the official added. This comes as several universities in the US have threatened to suspend students over the pro-Palestinian student protests.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. These demonstrations are no longer limited to the US with people and students across the world taking to university campuses, setting up encampments and showing up in large numbers to protest the war in Gaza. Indians travelling to Iran, Israel asked to 'remain vigilant' Indians travelling to Iran and Israel should "remain vigilant and be in touch with Indian embassies," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, on Friday. "We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region. We have also noted that Iran and Israel have opened their airspace for several days now. We advise Indian nationals to remain vigilant while traveling to these countries and be in touch with the Indian Embassy," said the MEA spokesperson while responding to a question by the media. This comes after the MEA, on April 12, asked Indian citizens not to travel to Israel and Iran "till further notice". US 'temporarily paused' work on Gaza pier The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said soldiers “temporarily paused” the work on the temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza amid unsafe sea conditions, on Thursday. "The partially built pier and military vessels involved in its construction have moved to the Port of Ashdod, where assembly will continue, and will be completed prior to the emplacement of the pier in its intended location when sea states subside," said the CENTCOM in a statement, on Friday. The pier will allow "the delivery of large quantities of humanitarian aid from ship to shore by truck, with vehicles driving directly off ships and across the temporary pier to a marshaling yard ashore," it added. Israel to give Hamas a week for ceasefire deal Israel has given Hamas one week to agree to the latest deal or warned that it will launch its offensive in Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. The deal brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting. Also Read | Over 2,100 arrests made in pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses The report does not mention when the ultimatum was given but cites Egyptian officials speaking, on Friday, suggesting that Hamas will have until next week to answer. The report comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) said Israel will carry out an operation in Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached. 'Far too many' journalists killed in Gaza: Biden United States President Joe Biden in a statement for World Press Freedom Day, said "far too many" journalists have been killed amid the ongoing war in Gaza. "On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of journalists and media workers around the world risking everything in pursuit of truth," said Biden. He added, "This is especially resonant today; 2023 was one of the deadliest years for journalists in recent memory. One reason for that is the war in Gaza, where far too many journalists, the vast majority of them Palestinian, have been killed." Turkey halts trade with Israel Turkey, on Friday, said that it will not resume the more than $7 billion trade with Israel until a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian aid are secured in Gaza. Israel's "uncompromising attitude" and the worsening situation in Rafah - which Israel has threatened to invade - has prompted Ankara to halt all exports and imports, said Turkey's Trade Minister Omer Bolat. "We decided to stop exports and imports to and from Israel until a permanent ceasefire is achieved (in Gaza) and humanitarian aid is allowed without interruption," said Bolat. Campus protests across the world United States More than 2,000 people have been arrested from dozens of US college campuses in recent weeks, amid the ongoing pro-Palestinian protests, according to a tally by the Associated Press. WATCH | Paris: Police raid University students The police arrested more than 300 protesters on college campuses on Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Around 210 were arrested from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The police, on Thursday (May 2) crackdown on defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges with UCLA witnessing particularly jarring scenes. France On Friday, the police in Paris entered France’s prestigious Sciences Po university to remove pro-Palestinian protesters who had occupied the college’s buildings. A Reuters witness saw police enter the buildings and bring out many of the 70-odd protesters inside. Unlike the US, protests on the French campus have been peaceful, with Sciences Po being the epicentre due to the university’s ties with Israel. A spokesperson for the university, ahead of the police action, told Reuters that they were seeking to negotiate and “end the standoff”. Sciences Po’s director Jean Basseres, on Thursday, rejected protesters’ demand to review its ties with Israeli universities. Jack, one of the students who spent Thursday night occupying one of the main buildings on the campus in central Paris, told Reuters, on Friday morning that protesters had rejected the ultimatum to clear large parts of the building and restrict their movement to a determined smaller area. Australia Hundreds of people protesting the ongoing war in Gaza rallied at one of Australia’s top universities on Friday and demanded that it divest from companies with ties to Israel. Last week, protesters set up encampments near the University of Sydney’s sandstone main hall. Similar protests have sprung up at universities in Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities. The University of Sydney also witnessed dozens of counter-protesters carrying Australian and Israeli flags who had gathered to hear speakers talk about how the pro-Palestinian protests made Jewish students and staff feel unsafe on campus, reported Reuters. The two groups were separated by lines of security guards. University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott said that the encampment on campus has been allowed since there has been no violence. Canada Top Canadian universities including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, the University of Ottawa, and Montreal’s McGill University have also witnessed similar pro-Palestinian protests and set up encampments. Quebec Premier Francois Legault said that the encampment set up at McGill should be dismantled. The university had requested police intervention, but law enforcement did not clear the encampment and said it was monitoring the situation. The students at Canadian universities have called on their colleges to disclose investments and divest from any which helps Israel, asking them to end partnerships with some Israeli institutes. Mexico Dozens of students at Mexico’s largest university, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), set up an encampment, on Thursday. The students have called on the Mexican government to break diplomatic and commercial ties with Israel. United Kingdom Some of the most prominent universities in the United Kingdom have joined the protests against the war in Gaza. Pro-Palestinian protesters in cities like Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds have set up camp outside university buildings. Ireland Trinity College Dublin (TCD), one of the top universities in Ireland, fined its students’ union $230,979 over holding protests, including those against the war in Gaza. Also Read | Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment The students on the campus have been protesting against the university’s response to the war in Gaza and proposed course fee hikes and increased accommodation costs. Houthis offer education to US students Yemen-based Iranian-backed militant group Houthi said that it will offer education to students suspended from US universities for anti-Israel protests, reported Reuters, on Friday. “We are serious about welcoming students that have been suspended from U.S. universities for supporting Palestinians,” an official at Sanaa University, which is run by the Houthis, told the news agency. “We are fighting this battle with Palestine in every way we can,” the official added. This comes as several universities in the US have threatened to suspend students over the pro-Palestinian student protests. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel gives Hamas a week to choose between ceasefire deal or Rafah offensive: Report

Turkey on Thursday (May 2) halted its exports and imports to and from Israel, reported Bloomberg News citing Turkish officials amid the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip.

The Turkish ports have reportedly begun preventing the export of goods to Haifa and Ashdod ports respectively, whereas the goods that are arriving in Turkey from Israel are not being unloaded, said the Times of Israel citing the Globes financial daily reports.

Both countries had a trade volume of $6.8 billion in the year 2023.

<h2>Israeli Foreign Minister Katz accuses Erdogan of 'breaking agreements'</h2>

Following the reports, Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of “breaking agreements by blocking ports for Israeli imports and exports.”

Katz took to his official X handle and said, “This is how a dictator behaves, disregarding the interests of the Turkish people and businessmen, and ignoring international trade agreements.”

He then said that he has directed Director General Yaakov Blitshtein to “immediately engage with all relevant parties in the government to create alternatives for trade with Turkey, focusing on local production and imports from other countries.”

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&nbsp;

“Israel will emerge with a strong and daring economy,” Katz vowed. “We Win, and They Lose.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-reaffirms-he-doesnt-rule-out-troops-for-ukraine-717507">Macron reaffirms he doesn't rule out troops for Ukraine</a>

<h2>Erdogan calls on Palestinians to unite after meeting with Hamas chief</h2>

Last month, Erdogan met with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul and following his meeting, urged the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

As per the Turkish media reports, the talks that took place between the Turkish President and Hamas chief, at the Dolmabahce palace, on the banks of the Bosphorus strait, lasted for about more than two and a half hours.

"It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement.

Erdogan, as per news agency AFP, said that the strained ties between Tel Aviv and Tehran should also not permit Israel to "gain ground and that it is important to act in a way that keeps attention on Gaza".

<h2>Erdogan slams Netanyahu</h2>

Earlier, Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Turkey on Thursday (May 2) halted its exports and imports to and from Israel, reported Bloomberg News citing Turkish officials amid the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip.

Turkey on Thursday (May 2) halted its exports and imports to and from Israel, reported Bloomberg News citing Turkish officials amid the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip. The Turkish ports have reportedly begun preventing the export of goods to Haifa and Ashdod ports respectively, whereas the goods that are arriving in Turkey from Israel are not being unloaded, said the Times of Israel citing the Globes financial daily reports. Both countries had a trade volume of $6.8 billion in the year 2023. Israeli Foreign Minister Katz accuses Erdogan of 'breaking agreements' Following the reports, Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of “breaking agreements by blocking ports for Israeli imports and exports.” Katz took to his official X handle and said, “This is how a dictator behaves, disregarding the interests of the Turkish people and businessmen, and ignoring international trade agreements.” He then said that he has directed Director General Yaakov Blitshtein to “immediately engage with all relevant parties in the government to create alternatives for trade with Turkey, focusing on local production and imports from other countries.” .@RTErdogan is breaking agreements by blocking ports for Israeli imports and exports. This is how a dictator behaves, disregarding the interests of the Turkish people and businessmen, and ignoring international trade agreements. I have instructed the Director General of the… — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 2, 2024 × “Israel will emerge with a strong and daring economy,” Katz vowed. “We Win, and They Lose.” Also read: Macron reaffirms he doesn't rule out troops for Ukraine Erdogan calls on Palestinians to unite after meeting with Hamas chief Last month, Erdogan met with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul and following his meeting, urged the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. As per the Turkish media reports, the talks that took place between the Turkish President and Hamas chief, at the Dolmabahce palace, on the banks of the Bosphorus strait, lasted for about more than two and a half hours. "It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement. Erdogan, as per news agency AFP, said that the strained ties between Tel Aviv and Tehran should also not permit Israel to "gain ground and that it is important to act in a way that keeps attention on Gaza". Erdogan slams Netanyahu Earlier, Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. "Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey's Erdogan halts exports, imports from Israel amid war in Gaza

Britain on Friday imposed sanctions on two "extremist" groups and four individuals in Israel who it blamed for violence in the West Bank, its latest package of measures against Israeli settlers.

Britain's Foreign Office named Hilltop Youth and Lehava as two groups which it said were known to have supported, incited and promoted violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

The four individuals sanctioned were responsible for human rights abuses against these communities, the statement added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-uk-pm-boris-johnson-becomes-victim-of-his-own-voting-rule-heres-how-717624">Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson becomes victim of his own voting rule. Here's how</a>

Among them are Noam Federman, who has trained settler groups in committing violence and Elisha Yered, who has justified killing Palestinians on religious grounds.

Violence in the West Bank was already on the rise before Israel's assault on Gaza, which was triggered by an October&nbsp;7 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel.

It has escalated since, with stepped-up Israeli military raids, settler violence and Palestinian street attacks.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-campus-protests-over-gaza-war-spread-to-australia-houthis-offer-education-to-suspended-us-students-717754">Campus protests over Gaza war spread to Australia; Houthis offer education to suspended US students</a>

British foreign minister David Cameron said extremist settlers were undermining security and stability and threatening the prospects for peace.

"The Israeli authorities must clamp down on those responsible. The UK will not hesitate to take further action if needed, including through further sanctions," he said.

Those sanctioned will be subject to financial and travel restrictions. Britain previously imposed sanctions on four Israeli nationals in February.

Britain on Friday imposed sanctions on two "extremist" groups and four individuals in Israel who it blamed for violence in the West Bank, its latest package of measures against Israeli settlers.

Britain on Friday imposed sanctions on two "extremist" groups and four individuals in Israel who it blamed for violence in the West Bank, its latest package of measures against Israeli settlers. Britain's Foreign Office named Hilltop Youth and Lehava as two groups which it said were known to have supported, incited and promoted violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank. The four individuals sanctioned were responsible for human rights abuses against these communities, the statement added. Also Read | Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson becomes victim of his own voting rule. Here's how Among them are Noam Federman, who has trained settler groups in committing violence and Elisha Yered, who has justified killing Palestinians on religious grounds. Violence in the West Bank was already on the rise before Israel's assault on Gaza, which was triggered by an October 7 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. It has escalated since, with stepped-up Israeli military raids, settler violence and Palestinian street attacks. Also Read | Campus protests over Gaza war spread to Australia; Houthis offer education to suspended US students British foreign minister David Cameron said extremist settlers were undermining security and stability and threatening the prospects for peace. "The Israeli authorities must clamp down on those responsible. The UK will not hesitate to take further action if needed, including through further sanctions," he said. Those sanctioned will be subject to financial and travel restrictions. Britain previously imposed sanctions on four Israeli nationals in February.

Britain sanctions 2 Israeli groups, 4 individuals for violence in West Bank

Pro-Palestinian protestors at UCLA received unexpected support this week. Faculty members, alerted by a student call for help, volunteered to join the protest.

"Students expressed feeling unsafe," said Graeme Blair, a political science professor, "and they wanted our assistance in improving the situation."

Dozens of faculty activists responded swiftly, pledging to join the students in shifts at their on-campus encampment.

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On Thursday (May 2) morning, the police cracked down on the protests where&nbsp;the faculty members were joining hands with students, allowing themselves to be arrested.

Nationwide pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses have resulted in over 2,100 arrests. Police employed riot gear, tactical vehicles, and flash-bangs to dismantle tent encampments and occupied buildings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-student-protests-biden-calls-for-order-says-no-place-for-antisemitism-on-any-campus-717473">US student protests: Biden calls for 'order', says 'no place' for antisemitism</a>

According to an NYPD official, majority of people arrested at Columbia were not affiliated with the university.

It was one of the clearest instances of a little-noted fact of the student demonstrations against the war in Gaza — that a small fraction of faculty members at UCLA, Columbia and other universities have provided logistical and emotional support to the protesters.

<img alt="UCLA protest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b133e35f-834e-408a-a3e9-634be83a082d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Announcements%20broadcasted%20on%20the%20University%20of%20California%20Los%20Angeles%20campus%20Wednesday%20evening%20told%20demonstrators%20to%20disperse%20or%20they%20would%20be%20arrested%20and%20face%20a%20misdemeanor%20charge.%20The%20protester_0.png" />

Some faculty members have formal ties to Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine, the counterpart of Students for Justice in Palestine, a decentralised national network of pro-Palestinian groups.

Meanwhile, an NYPD police officer who was involved in clearing protesters from a Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall earlier this week fired his gun inside the hall, the Manhattan district attorney's office confirmed on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebuilding-gaza-to-at-least-16-years-and-cost-around-30-to-40-billion-un-717472">Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN</a>&nbsp;

The office said students were not in the immediate vicinity of the gunfire and that no one was hurt. The incident is now under review.

<img alt="UCLA protest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="164e4382-c0eb-4889-ac7b-9e4c363c96fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-05-03T132404.284_0.png" />

The pro-Palestinian protests have ignited tensions among faculty. Some criticise the activist professors, accusing them of glorifying demonstrations that have disrupted campus life.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebuilding-gaza-to-at-least-16-years-and-cost-around-30-to-40-billion-un-717472">Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN</a>&nbsp;

However, at Columbia University, some faculty expressed solidarity with the students, even if they didn't fully support their message.

They provided logistical support by delivering supplies, integrating the protests into their curriculum, and participating in discussions. They even formed a physical barrier to potentially delay police action.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestinian protestors at UCLA received unexpected support this week. Faculty members, alerted by a student call for help, volunteered to join the protest. "Students expressed feeling unsafe," said Graeme Blair, a political science professor, "and they wanted our assistance in improving the situation.

Pro-Palestinian protestors at UCLA received unexpected support this week. Faculty members, alerted by a student call for help, volunteered to join the protest. "Students expressed feeling unsafe," said Graeme Blair, a political science professor, "and they wanted our assistance in improving the situation." Dozens of faculty activists responded swiftly, pledging to join the students in shifts at their on-campus encampment. On Thursday (May 2) morning, the police cracked down on the protests where the faculty members were joining hands with students, allowing themselves to be arrested. Nationwide pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses have resulted in over 2,100 arrests. Police employed riot gear, tactical vehicles, and flash-bangs to dismantle tent encampments and occupied buildings. Also read: US student protests: Biden calls for 'order', says 'no place' for antisemitism According to an NYPD official, majority of people arrested at Columbia were not affiliated with the university. It was one of the clearest instances of a little-noted fact of the student demonstrations against the war in Gaza — that a small fraction of faculty members at UCLA, Columbia and other universities have provided logistical and emotional support to the protesters. Some faculty members have formal ties to Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine, the counterpart of Students for Justice in Palestine, a decentralised national network of pro-Palestinian groups. Meanwhile, an NYPD police officer who was involved in clearing protesters from a Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall earlier this week fired his gun inside the hall, the Manhattan district attorney's office confirmed on Thursday. Also read: Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN The office said students were not in the immediate vicinity of the gunfire and that no one was hurt. The incident is now under review. The pro-Palestinian protests have ignited tensions among faculty. Some criticise the activist professors, accusing them of glorifying demonstrations that have disrupted campus life. Also read: Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN However, at Columbia University, some faculty expressed solidarity with the students, even if they didn't fully support their message. They provided logistical support by delivering supplies, integrating the protests into their curriculum, and participating in discussions. They even formed a physical barrier to potentially delay police action. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 2,100 arrests made in pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses, non-students make up majority

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza&nbsp;was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2).&nbsp;

<h2>Around 16 years to rebuild&nbsp;homes in Gaza: UN</h2>

With nearly seven months of Israel’s bombardment and ground offensives in Gaza, images and videos show most of the Palestinian enclave turned to rubble. The&nbsp;rebuilding of Gaza would also cost around $30 billion to $40 billion and require an effort on a scale the world has not seen since World War II, said a UN official.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Over 16,000 academics condemn Israel's scholasticide in Gaza

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The report by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) details the damage to Gaza’s infrastructure and the socio-economic impact since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel.&nbsp;

It also estimates the impact of the war at six months, with estimates of what would happen if the war were to continue. “Every additional day that this war continues is exacting huge and compounding costs to Gazans and all Palestinians,” said UNDP administrator Achim Steiner.

According to the report at least 370,000 housing units in Gaza have been damaged, including 79,000 destroyed completely. The rate of housing after the previous Israel-Hamas conflicts was 992 units per year.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bogota-severs-diplomatic-ties-with-israel-over-genocidal-gaza-campaign-israel-dubs-move-anti-semitic-717189">Bogota severs diplomatic ties with Israel over 'genocidal' Gaza campaign</a>

The report noted that even if Israel allows a five-fold increase of construction material to enter the blockaded Palestinian enclave, it would take until 2040 to rebuild destroyed houses, without fixing the damaged ones.

<h2>Cost of rebuilding and impact on economy</h2>

The UNDP estimates the cost of reconstruction of Gaza to surpass $30 billion and could reach up to $40 billion, said UN Assistant Secretary-General Abdallah al-Dardari, as per AFP.&nbsp;

“The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented...this is a mission that the global community has not dealt with since World War II,” he added.&nbsp;

According to the UNDP report, the Israeli offensive has virtually shut down the economy in Gaza which around 81 per cent in the last quarter of 2023. The “productive basis of the economy has been destroyed,” with sectors experiencing losses of more than 90 per cent, the report noted.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-unleashes-wave-of-sanctions-targets-russian-circumvention-via-china-717249">US unleashes wave of sanctions, targets Russian circumvention via Chinese companies</a>

If the war were to continue for nine months, according to the UNDP projections, the poverty is estimated to more than double with over&nbsp;1.86 million being pushed into poverty.

In 2024, the Palestinian economy – which includes both Gaza and the West Bank – contracted nearly 26 per cent and if the war continues until July, that number would reach 29 per cent with the estimated losses of $7.6 billion, according to the report.&nbsp;

“Unprecedented levels of human losses, capital destruction, and the steep rise in poverty in such a short period of time will precipitate a serious development crisis that jeopardizes the future of generations to come,” said Steiner.&nbsp;

Gaza, which is home to around 2.3 million people, has been blockaded by Israel and Egypt since Hamas’ 2007 takeover with strict control on what enters and exits the territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2).

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2). Around 16 years to rebuild homes in Gaza: UN With nearly seven months of Israel’s bombardment and ground offensives in Gaza, images and videos show most of the Palestinian enclave turned to rubble. The rebuilding of Gaza would also cost around $30 billion to $40 billion and require an effort on a scale the world has not seen since World War II, said a UN official. WATCH | Over 16,000 academics condemn Israel's scholasticide in Gaza The report by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) details the damage to Gaza’s infrastructure and the socio-economic impact since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. It also estimates the impact of the war at six months, with estimates of what would happen if the war were to continue. “Every additional day that this war continues is exacting huge and compounding costs to Gazans and all Palestinians,” said UNDP administrator Achim Steiner. According to the report at least 370,000 housing units in Gaza have been damaged, including 79,000 destroyed completely. The rate of housing after the previous Israel-Hamas conflicts was 992 units per year. Also Read | Bogota severs diplomatic ties with Israel over 'genocidal' Gaza campaign The report noted that even if Israel allows a five-fold increase of construction material to enter the blockaded Palestinian enclave, it would take until 2040 to rebuild destroyed houses, without fixing the damaged ones. Cost of rebuilding and impact on economy The UNDP estimates the cost of reconstruction of Gaza to surpass $30 billion and could reach up to $40 billion, said UN Assistant Secretary-General Abdallah al-Dardari, as per AFP. “The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented...this is a mission that the global community has not dealt with since World War II,” he added. According to the UNDP report, the Israeli offensive has virtually shut down the economy in Gaza which around 81 per cent in the last quarter of 2023. The “productive basis of the economy has been destroyed,” with sectors experiencing losses of more than 90 per cent, the report noted. Also Read | US unleashes wave of sanctions, targets Russian circumvention via Chinese companies If the war were to continue for nine months, according to the UNDP projections, the poverty is estimated to more than double with over 1.86 million being pushed into poverty. In 2024, the Palestinian economy – which includes both Gaza and the West Bank – contracted nearly 26 per cent and if the war continues until July, that number would reach 29 per cent with the estimated losses of $7.6 billion, according to the report. “Unprecedented levels of human losses, capital destruction, and the steep rise in poverty in such a short period of time will precipitate a serious development crisis that jeopardizes the future of generations to come,” said Steiner. Gaza, which is home to around 2.3 million people, has been blockaded by Israel and Egypt since Hamas’ 2007 takeover with strict control on what enters and exits the territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN

Clashes broke out between the police and demonstrators on Thursday (May 2) at the University of California, Los Angeles, where the officers in riot gear tore down barricades at a protest encampment.&nbsp;

This is the latest in a spate of incidents after unrest erupted in the campuses of the United States over Israel's war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The police personnel dragged tents away from the protest site and detained several students dressed in white helmets.

Loud explosions were also reportedly heard during the clashes from the stun grenades or flash-bang charges that were fired by the police.

On another side of the encampment students holding umbrellas, helmets and plastic shields squared up against police in anxious silence, with a few erratic chants of "Free Palestine!" and "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!"

"This is a peaceful protest, there are no counter-protestors tonight, so to call the police on them is despicable. This city should support them," LA resident Jack Bedrosian, who came to show support, told news agency AFP.

UCLA officials on the other hand have announced that the campus will remain shut except for limited operations on Thursday and Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-claims-xenophobia-stalling-economic-growth-in-india-china-japan-717243">Biden claims 'xenophobia' stalling economic growth in India, China, Japan</a>

<h2>Hundreds arrested</h2>

Police in the last 24 hours have arrested hundreds of protesters of whom majority&nbsp;have called for divestment from companies that support Israel and the war in Gaza.

Announcements broadcast on the University of California Los Angeles campus on Wednesday (May 1) told demonstrators to disperse or they would be arrested.

California's governor's office criticised the slow response of law enforcement to a violent incident at UCLA. The incident involved a clash between a pro-Israeli group and a pro-Palestinian student encampment.

A masked pro-Israeli group assaulted a pro-Palestinian student camp before the police officers were called to the campus.

Governor Gavin Newsom's spokesperson said the limited and delayed police intervention was unacceptable.

<h2>India's MEA reacts to protests</h2>

Meanwhile, India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the protests in the US campuses said that so far neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students seeking assistance.

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"Neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students or their family seeking assistance..We expect all our citizens at home and abroad to respect local laws and regulations", MEA on disciplinary action on Indian students at US universities <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> <a href="https://t.co/hWd1GtXdAf">https://t.co/hWd1GtXdAf</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1786005577988178223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students or their families seeking assistance..We expect all our citizens at home and abroad to respect local laws and regulations", said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Clashes broke out between the police and demonstrators on Thursday (May 2) at the University of California, Los Angeles, where the officers in riot gear tore down barricades at a protest encampment.

Clashes broke out between the police and demonstrators on Thursday (May 2) at the University of California, Los Angeles, where the officers in riot gear tore down barricades at a protest encampment. This is the latest in a spate of incidents after unrest erupted in the campuses of the United States over Israel's war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The police personnel dragged tents away from the protest site and detained several students dressed in white helmets. Loud explosions were also reportedly heard during the clashes from the stun grenades or flash-bang charges that were fired by the police. On another side of the encampment students holding umbrellas, helmets and plastic shields squared up against police in anxious silence, with a few erratic chants of "Free Palestine!" and "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!" "This is a peaceful protest, there are no counter-protestors tonight, so to call the police on them is despicable. This city should support them," LA resident Jack Bedrosian, who came to show support, told news agency AFP. UCLA officials on the other hand have announced that the campus will remain shut except for limited operations on Thursday and Friday. Also read: Biden claims 'xenophobia' stalling economic growth in India, China, Japan Hundreds arrested Police in the last 24 hours have arrested hundreds of protesters of whom majority have called for divestment from companies that support Israel and the war in Gaza. Announcements broadcast on the University of California Los Angeles campus on Wednesday (May 1) told demonstrators to disperse or they would be arrested. California's governor's office criticised the slow response of law enforcement to a violent incident at UCLA. The incident involved a clash between a pro-Israeli group and a pro-Palestinian student encampment. A masked pro-Israeli group assaulted a pro-Palestinian student camp before the police officers were called to the campus. Governor Gavin Newsom's spokesperson said the limited and delayed police intervention was unacceptable. India's MEA reacts to protests Meanwhile, India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the protests in the US campuses said that so far neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students seeking assistance. "Neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students or their family seeking assistance..We expect all our citizens at home and abroad to respect local laws and regulations", MEA on disciplinary action on Indian students at US universities @WIONews https://t.co/hWd1GtXdAf — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 2, 2024 × "Neither the Embassy nor any Consulate has been approached by Indian students or their families seeking assistance..We expect all our citizens at home and abroad to respect local laws and regulations", said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. (With inputs from agencies)

Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment; India urges its citizens to 'respect local laws'

On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ask for additional aid in Gaza while pressuring Hamas to accept a hostage deal that would end the violence in Gaza.

On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ask for additional aid in Gaza while pressuring Hamas to accept a hostage deal that would end the violence in Gaza. This is Blinken's seventh visit to Israel, which is the final stop of this Middle East tour, since October 2023. Blinken visited Ashdod Port in the southern area, where recent relief supplies to Gaza have begun. He plans to press the Israeli government to undertake a variety of measures to improve aid distribution to Gaza, where roughly half of the population is starving. Following a 2.5-hour discussion with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken appreciated progress in aid distribution and highlighted the need to speed up and sustain it, according to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also visited Gaza border crossing to see humanitarian aid shipment in person. Blinken went to Kerem Shalom, an Israeli entrance point into Gaza a few kilometers south of the flashpoint city of Rafah, where he spotted hundreds of trucks waiting to enter, as well as many Israeli military tanks stationed nearby. The meeting came nearly a month after US President Joe Biden cautioned that their support might be reassessed if Israel fails to address civilian harm, humanitarian crises, and the safety of aid workers. Also read: Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal, says PM Netanyahu According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken restated the US position that Hamas is hindering attempts to establish a cease-fire. Blinken also asked Hamas to examine a possible ceasefire arrangement arranged by Egyptian mediators, which includes the release of 33 hostages in exchange for a greater number of Palestinian inmates and an end to hostilities. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he intends to launch a military attack on Rafah "with or without" a deal. Over half of Gaza's population has sought shelter in Rafah, after fleeing from elsewhere. Overcrowded Rafah is facing a lack of food, water, and medication. Blinken also visited a few family members of American hostages held in Gaza before boarding a motorcade to Jerusalem, where he attended a private meeting with Netanyahu. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu, talks about Gaza aid, ceasefire and more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) said Israel will carry out operation in southern Gaza’s Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached. Meanwhile, a report by news agency AFP citing a top Israeli official said that the government will wait until Wednesday (May 1) night for Hamas’ answer to the latest proposal.&nbsp;

<h2>‘With or without a deal’: Netanyahu</h2>

Netanyahu, on Tuesday again vowed to launch an incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah where millions of displaced Palestinians are sheltering amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

Israel’s plans for Rafah have garnered international criticism and condemnation even from its allies, but the Israeli PM has reiterated the need&nbsp;to eliminate Hamas’ battalions in the southern Gaza city in order to achieve “total victory.”

WATCH |&nbsp;US Secy of State Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Gaza deal

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“The idea that we will stop the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question,” said Netanyahu, according to a statement by his office.&nbsp;

He added, “We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate Hamas’ battalions there – with or without a deal, to achieve the total victory.”

The Israeli PM made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a small group of families of hostages called the Tikva Forum. The group is distinct from the large group representing the families of captive Israelis in Gaza and has reportedly put crushing Hamas over the freedom of their loved ones.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the group representing the majority of the families of captive Israelis have taken to the streets across the country calling on the government to work out a deal that brings the hostages home, saying it should take precedence over military action.

<h2>Israel to wait until Wednesday night</h2>

A report by AFP citing a top Israeli official said the government will wait until Wednesday night for a Hamas response to a Gaza truce proposal before it decides whether to send envoys to Cairo for ceasefire talks or not.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stabbing-attack-in-jerusalems-old-city-injures-officer-suspect-identified-as-turkish-citizen-fatally-shot-716686">Turkish citizen fatally shot by Israeli police after allegedly stabbing officer in Jerusalem's Old City</a>

“Israel will make a decision once Hamas provides their answer,” the official told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that “we will wait for answers until Wednesday night and then decide”.&nbsp;

<h2>About the ceasefire deal</h2>

United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt on Monday (Apr 29) to “exert all efforts” and secure the release of hostages who have been held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip so that the ceasefire deal is achieved.&nbsp;

Netanyahu’s statement on Tuesday also came hours after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel to advance truce talks which are meant to free hostages and avert an Israeli offensive into Rafah and the potential harm to civilians there.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-egypt-qatar-agree-to-exert-all-efforts-for-hostage-release-ceasefire-deal-716469">US, Egypt, Qatar agree to 'exert all efforts' for hostage release, ceasefire deal</a>

The current deal, which is being brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar, would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting, reported the Associated Press citing Egyptian official and Israeli media.&nbsp;

In line with the deal, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel would also be released. Blinken, on Monday, urged Hamas to accept the latest proposal, calling it “extraordinarily generous” on Israel’s part.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) said Israel will carry out operation in southern Gaza’s Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) said Israel will carry out operation in southern Gaza’s Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached. Meanwhile, a report by news agency AFP citing a top Israeli official said that the government will wait until Wednesday (May 1) night for Hamas’ answer to the latest proposal. ‘With or without a deal’: Netanyahu Netanyahu, on Tuesday again vowed to launch an incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah where millions of displaced Palestinians are sheltering amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas. Israel’s plans for Rafah have garnered international criticism and condemnation even from its allies, but the Israeli PM has reiterated the need to eliminate Hamas’ battalions in the southern Gaza city in order to achieve “total victory.” WATCH | US Secy of State Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Gaza deal “The idea that we will stop the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question,” said Netanyahu, according to a statement by his office. He added, “We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate Hamas’ battalions there – with or without a deal, to achieve the total victory.” The Israeli PM made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a small group of families of hostages called the Tikva Forum. The group is distinct from the large group representing the families of captive Israelis in Gaza and has reportedly put crushing Hamas over the freedom of their loved ones. Meanwhile, the group representing the majority of the families of captive Israelis have taken to the streets across the country calling on the government to work out a deal that brings the hostages home, saying it should take precedence over military action. Israel to wait until Wednesday night A report by AFP citing a top Israeli official said the government will wait until Wednesday night for a Hamas response to a Gaza truce proposal before it decides whether to send envoys to Cairo for ceasefire talks or not. Also Read | Turkish citizen fatally shot by Israeli police after allegedly stabbing officer in Jerusalem's Old City “Israel will make a decision once Hamas provides their answer,” the official told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that “we will wait for answers until Wednesday night and then decide”. About the ceasefire deal United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt on Monday (Apr 29) to “exert all efforts” and secure the release of hostages who have been held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip so that the ceasefire deal is achieved. Netanyahu’s statement on Tuesday also came hours after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel to advance truce talks which are meant to free hostages and avert an Israeli offensive into Rafah and the potential harm to civilians there. Also Read | US, Egypt, Qatar agree to 'exert all efforts' for hostage release, ceasefire deal The current deal, which is being brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar, would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting, reported the Associated Press citing Egyptian official and Israeli media. In line with the deal, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel would also be released. Blinken, on Monday, urged Hamas to accept the latest proposal, calling it “extraordinarily generous” on Israel’s part. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal, says PM Netanyahu

The United States announced that five Israeli military units had committed grave human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank before Hamas launched its assault in the month of October, said the State Department on Monday (Apr 29).

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said that four out of these five units had taken remedial measures, however, consultations were underway over the fifth unit with the Israeli government.

"After a careful process, we found five Israeli units responsible for individual incidents of gross violations of human rights," Patel said.

Patel said that the violations took place before the Oct 7 Hamas assault and that it was not in the Gaza Strip.

He did not identify the units or specify the measures the Israeli government had taken against them.

As per the news agency AFP, press reports identified a battalion called the Netzah Yehuda comprised mainly of ultra-Orthodox Jews, as the one that was accused of abuses.&nbsp;

US law prohibits the government from funding or arming foreign security forces that have credible allegations of human rights abuses against them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gets-40-day-ceasefire-amid-renewed-airstrikes-on-rafah-by-israel-716335">Hamas gets 40-day ceasefire offer amid airstrikes on Rafah by Israel</a>

<h2>Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Gaza deal</h2>

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday said that he was hopeful Palestinian militant group Hamas would accept an "extraordinarily generous" offer to end the Israeli offensive in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages.

"Hamas has before it a proposal that is extraordinarily, extraordinarily generous on the part of Israel," Blinken said in Riyadh at the World Economic Forum.

"In this moment, the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a ceasefire is Hamas," he said.

"They have to decide -- and they have to decide quickly," Blinken said. "I'm hopeful that they will make the right decision."

"We can have a fundamental change in the dynamic" in more than half a year of bloodshed, Blinken said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States announced that five Israeli military units had committed grave human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank before Hamas launched its assault in the month of October, said the State Department on Monday (Apr 29).

The United States announced that five Israeli military units had committed grave human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank before Hamas launched its assault in the month of October, said the State Department on Monday (Apr 29). State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said that four out of these five units had taken remedial measures, however, consultations were underway over the fifth unit with the Israeli government. "After a careful process, we found five Israeli units responsible for individual incidents of gross violations of human rights," Patel said. Patel said that the violations took place before the Oct 7 Hamas assault and that it was not in the Gaza Strip. He did not identify the units or specify the measures the Israeli government had taken against them. As per the news agency AFP, press reports identified a battalion called the Netzah Yehuda comprised mainly of ultra-Orthodox Jews, as the one that was accused of abuses. US law prohibits the government from funding or arming foreign security forces that have credible allegations of human rights abuses against them. Also read: Hamas gets 40-day ceasefire offer amid airstrikes on Rafah by Israel Blinken 'hopeful' Hamas will accept Gaza deal Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday said that he was hopeful Palestinian militant group Hamas would accept an "extraordinarily generous" offer to end the Israeli offensive in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages. "Hamas has before it a proposal that is extraordinarily, extraordinarily generous on the part of Israel," Blinken said in Riyadh at the World Economic Forum. "In this moment, the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a ceasefire is Hamas," he said. "They have to decide -- and they have to decide quickly," Blinken said. "I'm hopeful that they will make the right decision." "We can have a fundamental change in the dynamic" in more than half a year of bloodshed, Blinken said. (With inputs from agencies)

US says five Israeli units committed abuse before Hamas attack

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (Apr 28) spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a phone call and "reviewed ongoing talks" to release the hostages held by Hamas since the unprecedented assault against Israel on Oct 7.

The White House released a statement saying that the two allies "reviewed ongoing talks to secure the release of hostages together with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza." &nbsp;

Biden and Netanyahu "also discussed increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, including through preparations to open new northern crossings starting this week," the statement said.

"The President stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organizations," it said.

The statement further said that Biden also "reiterated his clear position" on any Israeli attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been making repeated efforts to broker a new Gaza ceasefire deal after 80 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinians in the month of November following a ceasefire deal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-says-it-fired-drones-guided-missiles-at-israel-in-retaliatory-strike-715797">Hezbollah says it fired drones, guided missiles at Israel in retaliatory strike</a>

<h2>Hamas official says will respond to Israeli Gaza truce proposal in Egypt on Monday</h2>

A senior Hamas official on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the Palestinian militant group would announce its response to the latest Gaza ceasefire counterproposal by Israel in Egypt on Monday (Apr 29).

"A Hamas delegation headed by Khalil al-Hayya will arrive in Egypt tomorrow... and deliver the movement's response" to the Israeli proposal during a meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials, said the official who declined to be named.

Earlier this week, Egypt had sent its own delegation to restart the stalled negotiations even as the offensive in Gaza intensifies.

<h2>Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah</h2>

Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza.

"We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history".

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (Apr 28) spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a phone call and "reviewed ongoing talks" to release the hostages held by Hamas since the unprecedented assault against Israel on Oct 7.

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday (Apr 28) spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a phone call and "reviewed ongoing talks" to release the hostages held by Hamas since the unprecedented assault against Israel on Oct 7. The White House released a statement saying that the two allies "reviewed ongoing talks to secure the release of hostages together with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza." Biden and Netanyahu "also discussed increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, including through preparations to open new northern crossings starting this week," the statement said. "The President stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organizations," it said. The statement further said that Biden also "reiterated his clear position" on any Israeli attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been making repeated efforts to broker a new Gaza ceasefire deal after 80 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinians in the month of November following a ceasefire deal. Also read: Hezbollah says it fired drones, guided missiles at Israel in retaliatory strike Hamas official says will respond to Israeli Gaza truce proposal in Egypt on Monday A senior Hamas official on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the Palestinian militant group would announce its response to the latest Gaza ceasefire counterproposal by Israel in Egypt on Monday (Apr 29). "A Hamas delegation headed by Khalil al-Hayya will arrive in Egypt tomorrow... and deliver the movement's response" to the Israeli proposal during a meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials, said the official who declined to be named. Earlier this week, Egypt had sent its own delegation to restart the stalled negotiations even as the offensive in Gaza intensifies. Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza. "We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh. He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history". (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House

Israel launched air strikes on three houses, located in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, in which 13 people were killed and several others suffered injuries, as reported by the medics on Monday (April 29).

Israel launched air strikes on three houses, located in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, in which 13 people were killed and several others suffered injuries, as reported by the medics on Monday (April 29). However, Hamas media outlets placed the death toll at 15. As per health officials, two houses were struck by Israeli planes in Gaza City, in the north of the Gaza Strip. Egypt to discuss ceasefire agreement with Hamas Israel launched strikes on Rafah, which is home to more than a million people who have sought refuge to escape the continuous Israeli bombardment, hours before Egyptian government officials and Hamas leaders were likely to discuss prospects of a ceasefire agreement. Speaking to AFP on Sunday (April 28), the Hamas leader said that it had no "major issues" after looking at the latest truce proposal of Israel. Also Read: Biden, Netanyahu review hostage-release talks in new call: White House "The atmosphere is positive unless there are new Israeli obstacles. There are no major issues in the observations and inquiries submitted by Hamas regarding the contents of the proposal," said the official. Hamas officials on Sunday stated that a delegation, headed by the group's deputy Gaza chief, Khalil Al-Hayya, will discuss a ceasefire proposal which was given by Hamas to mediators from Qatar and Egypt, along with Israel's response. Mediators, with the support of the United States, have increased their efforts to finalise a deal as Israel continues threatening a Rafah invasion. Biden reiterates his position on Rafah invasion to Netanyahu United States President Joe Biden held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (April 28) and "reiterated his clear position" on Rafah's possible invasion, said the White House. The White House in a statement said that the US government will not support the Rafah invasion without a proper humanitarian plan. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Israel agreed to listen to the concerns of the United States before it launches an invasion. Watch: Israel War: Hezbollah says fires drones and guided missiles at Israel "The President reaffirmed his ironclad commitment to Israel's security. The President stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organisations," read the statement. The war broke out after the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants in which 1,200 were killed and 253 were taken hostage, as per Israeli authorities. Israel has reiterated its aim of eradicating Hamas, which controls Gaza, in a military operation which has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to the health authorities of Gaza. Most of the 2.3 million population of the Gaza Strip has also been displaced because of the war. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people, hours before ceasefire talks

A senior Hamas official on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the Palestinian militant group would announce its response to the latest Gaza ceasefire counterproposal by Israel in Egypt on Monday (Apr 29).

"A Hamas delegation headed by Khalil al-Hayya will arrive in Egypt tomorrow... and deliver the movement's response" to the Israeli proposal during a meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials, said the official who declined to be named.

Earlier this week, Egypt had sent its own delegation to restart the stalled negotiations even as the offensive in Gaza intensifies.

Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been making repeated efforts to broker a new Gaza ceasefire deal after 80 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinians in the month of November following a ceasefire deal.

Diplomatic efforts have been raked up in the past few days to broker a ceasefire and hostage-release deal.

Israel in its latest proposal has expressed a willingness to discuss the "restoration of sustainable calm" in Gaza after hostages are freed, news agency AFP said citing Axios report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-leader-abbas-says-only-us-can-stop-israels-attack-on-rafah-715962">Palestinian President Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah</a>

The report said that this was the very first time when Israel openly expressed having a discussion to put an end to the war.

"Hamas is open to discussing the new proposal positively," AFP quoted another Hamas source close to the negotiations as saying.

The source added that the group is "keen to reach an agreement that guarantees a permanent ceasefire, the free return of displaced people, an acceptable deal for (prisoner) exchange and ensuring an end to the (Gaza) siege".

The delegation, according to the source, would also discuss an Egyptian proposal concerning a ceasefire and a prisoner swap as a part of the overall deal to halt the fighting in Gaza.

He said the Egyptian proposal showed "some progress".&nbsp;

This, he said, guarantees that there would be no Israeli troops around on Al-Rashid road when displaced Palestinians make their way from the south of the territory back to the north.

It also proposes that Israeli forces remain 500 metres (yards) away from the main Salaheddin highway and also makes sure that the civilians are not shot at, arrested or detained when they return to their homes.

Al-Qahera News, which is linked to Egyptian intelligence services, reported "noticeable progress in bringing the views of the Egyptian and Israeli delegations closer".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior Hamas official on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the Palestinian militant group would announce its response to the latest Gaza ceasefire counterproposal by Israel in Egypt on Monday (Apr 29).

A senior Hamas official on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the Palestinian militant group would announce its response to the latest Gaza ceasefire counterproposal by Israel in Egypt on Monday (Apr 29). "A Hamas delegation headed by Khalil al-Hayya will arrive in Egypt tomorrow... and deliver the movement's response" to the Israeli proposal during a meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials, said the official who declined to be named. Earlier this week, Egypt had sent its own delegation to restart the stalled negotiations even as the offensive in Gaza intensifies. Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been making repeated efforts to broker a new Gaza ceasefire deal after 80 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinians in the month of November following a ceasefire deal. Diplomatic efforts have been raked up in the past few days to broker a ceasefire and hostage-release deal. Israel in its latest proposal has expressed a willingness to discuss the "restoration of sustainable calm" in Gaza after hostages are freed, news agency AFP said citing Axios report. Also read: Palestinian President Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah The report said that this was the very first time when Israel openly expressed having a discussion to put an end to the war. "Hamas is open to discussing the new proposal positively," AFP quoted another Hamas source close to the negotiations as saying. The source added that the group is "keen to reach an agreement that guarantees a permanent ceasefire, the free return of displaced people, an acceptable deal for (prisoner) exchange and ensuring an end to the (Gaza) siege". The delegation, according to the source, would also discuss an Egyptian proposal concerning a ceasefire and a prisoner swap as a part of the overall deal to halt the fighting in Gaza. He said the Egyptian proposal showed "some progress". This, he said, guarantees that there would be no Israeli troops around on Al-Rashid road when displaced Palestinians make their way from the south of the territory back to the north. It also proposes that Israeli forces remain 500 metres (yards) away from the main Salaheddin highway and also makes sure that the civilians are not shot at, arrested or detained when they return to their homes. Al-Qahera News, which is linked to Egyptian intelligence services, reported "noticeable progress in bringing the views of the Egyptian and Israeli delegations closer". (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas official says will respond to Israeli Gaza truce proposal in Egypt on Monday

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza.

"We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history".

"What will happen in the coming few days is what Israel will do with attacking Rafah because all the Palestinians from Gaza are gathered there," Abbas said.

Further reiterating that he rejects the displacement of Palestinians into Jordan and Egypt, he expressed his concern over Israel completing its operation in Gaza stating that this would push the Palestinians to move out of the West Bank and take shelter in Jordan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-hamas-reviewing-new-israeli-ceasefire-proposal-715737">Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured, says Israeli foreign minister</a>

“The third point is that we will not accept by any case the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank outside their homeland, and they must stay in their country, we must not repeat the Nakba of 1948 and of 1967,” the Palestinian president said.

Israel which ramped up the airstrikes on Rafah last week, for weeks threatened to launch an offensive in the Gaza strip with an aim to destroy Hamas' remaining battalions.

Countries including Israel's closest ally the US have called on Tel Aviv not to attack the southern city, which connects the Egyptian border and is providing shelter to over a million Palestinians who fled the Israeli assault.

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Apr 28) said that the United States was the only country that could stop an Israeli invasion of the border city of Rafah in Gaza. "We call on the United States of America to ask Israel not to carry on the Rafah attack. America is the only country able to prevent Israel from committing this crime," Abbas said at a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in the Saudi capital Riyadh. He further stated that the Israeli offensive, which is expected to take place in the coming days, could prompt an evacuation in the region, pushing people out of the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying that this could be the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history". "What will happen in the coming few days is what Israel will do with attacking Rafah because all the Palestinians from Gaza are gathered there," Abbas said. Further reiterating that he rejects the displacement of Palestinians into Jordan and Egypt, he expressed his concern over Israel completing its operation in Gaza stating that this would push the Palestinians to move out of the West Bank and take shelter in Jordan. Also read: Rafah operation could be suspended if hostage deal is secured, says Israeli foreign minister “The third point is that we will not accept by any case the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank outside their homeland, and they must stay in their country, we must not repeat the Nakba of 1948 and of 1967,” the Palestinian president said. Israel which ramped up the airstrikes on Rafah last week, for weeks threatened to launch an offensive in the Gaza strip with an aim to destroy Hamas' remaining battalions. Countries including Israel's closest ally the US have called on Tel Aviv not to attack the southern city, which connects the Egyptian border and is providing shelter to over a million Palestinians who fled the Israeli assault. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas says only US can stop Israel’s attack on Rafah

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of&nbsp;two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel.

The two captives were seen alive in the footage shared by the Palestinian militant group.

Campaign group the Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement identifying the two as Keith Siegel and Omri Miran who were abducted by militants during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7.

"The proof of life from Keith Siegel and Omri Miran is the clearest evidence that the Israeli government must do everything to approve a deal for the return of all the hostages before Independence Day (on May 14)," the forum said.

"The living should return for rehabilitation, and the murdered should receive a dignified burial."

The recent video comes just three days after Hamas released a video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive.

The two men Siegel and Miran reportedly appeared to speak under pressure.

"I have been here in Hamas captivity for 202 days. The situation here is unpleasant, difficult and there are many bombs," Miran is heard saying in the footage, indicating it was taken earlier this week.

"It's time to reach a deal that will get us out of here safe and healthy... Keep protesting, so that there will be a deal now."

Siegel, who also spoke in the video, broke into tears as he spoke of his time in captivity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-says-hamas-captor-proposed-her-for-marriage-he-gave-me-a-ring-715371">Also read:&nbsp;Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’</a>

"We are in danger here, there are bombs, it is stressful and scary," he said, burying his face in his arms as he cried.

"I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It's important to me that you know that I am fine.

"I have very, very beautiful memories of last year's Passover that we all celebrated together. I really hope that we will have the best possible surprise," he said, appealing to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal soon.

<h2>Hamas 'reviewing new Israeli ceasefire proposal'</h2>

The video also comes amid&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the Palestinian militant group was evaluating Israel's proposal, and "upon completion of its study, it will submit its response".&nbsp;

The official, however, did not provide details on Israel's offer but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago.&nbsp;

This development comes as Egypt increased its efforts to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region and calls to prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel.

Hamas on Saturday (Apr 27) released a video of two men, out of almost a hundred, that it held hostage on Oct 7 after launching unprecedented attacks against Israel. The two captives were seen alive in the footage shared by the Palestinian militant group. Campaign group the Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement identifying the two as Keith Siegel and Omri Miran who were abducted by militants during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7. "The proof of life from Keith Siegel and Omri Miran is the clearest evidence that the Israeli government must do everything to approve a deal for the return of all the hostages before Independence Day (on May 14)," the forum said. "The living should return for rehabilitation, and the murdered should receive a dignified burial." The recent video comes just three days after Hamas released a video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive. The two men Siegel and Miran reportedly appeared to speak under pressure. "I have been here in Hamas captivity for 202 days. The situation here is unpleasant, difficult and there are many bombs," Miran is heard saying in the footage, indicating it was taken earlier this week. "It's time to reach a deal that will get us out of here safe and healthy... Keep protesting, so that there will be a deal now." Siegel, who also spoke in the video, broke into tears as he spoke of his time in captivity. Also read: Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’ "We are in danger here, there are bombs, it is stressful and scary," he said, burying his face in his arms as he cried. "I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It's important to me that you know that I am fine. "I have very, very beautiful memories of last year's Passover that we all celebrated together. I really hope that we will have the best possible surprise," he said, appealing to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal soon. Hamas 'reviewing new Israeli ceasefire proposal' The video also comes amid Hamas reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza. A senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya said the Palestinian militant group was evaluating Israel's proposal, and "upon completion of its study, it will submit its response". The official, however, did not provide details on Israel's offer but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago. This development comes as Egypt increased its efforts to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region and calls to prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas releases new video of two Israeli hostages held in Gaza

More than 100 protesters were detained from the Northeastern University&nbsp;campus in Boston, on Saturday (Apr 27) morning as the police moved to break up the encampments set up by the pro-Palestinian demonstrators on campus.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The move&nbsp;comes&nbsp;after the protesters resorted to “virulent anti-Semitic slurs, including ‘Kill the Jews,’ crossed the line,” said the university in a statement, on X.&nbsp;

It added, “We cannot tolerate this kind of hate on our campus.” Meanwhile, local media reported that the students had been preparing for the raid overnight as police had been gathering inside the campuses’ Shillman Hall earlier this morning.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gives-egypt-last-chance-for-hostage-deal-before-rafah-attack-715655">Israel gives Egypt 'last chance' for hostage deal before Rafah attack</a>

Subsequently, as the police marched towards protesters telling them to go home, they remained defiant and the chants just kept getting louder, reported NBC10 Boston.&nbsp;

According to the Massachusetts State Police, 102 people were arrested and will face trespassing and disorderly conduct charges.&nbsp;

The police also said those detained are being transferred to Suffolk County House of Correction to be booked and processed.

“What began as a student demonstration two days ago was infiltrated by professional organizers with no affiliation to Northeastern,” said the university.&nbsp;

It also ensured that those who had a valid school ID were released and would face disciplinary proceedings and not legal action, said the school. However, those who “refused to disclose their affiliation were arrested,” it added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Northeastern sophomore Alina Caudle told NBC10 Boston that the anti-war protest was peaceful and organised by students.&nbsp;

“It shouldn’t be a partisan issue, it should be simple. We don’t want innocent lives to be lost,” said Caudle.&nbsp;

<h2>Pro-Palestinian protests across campuses</h2>

The United States particularly has witnessed massive protests amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, with hundreds of students in American universities across the country joining in.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-faculty-senate-passes-resolution-over-administrative-handling-of-anti-israel-protests-715673">Columbia faculty senate passes resolution over administrative handling of anti-Israel protests</a>

The protests have reportedly posed a challenge for university officials who are in the midst of figuring out how to balance commitments to free expression while also addressing complaints that the rallies have gone too far.&nbsp;

The arrests on Saturday morning also come days after the Boston police tore down a pro-Palestinian encampment on Emerson College campus and arrested nearly 120 people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 protesters were detained from the Northeastern University campus in Boston, on Saturday (Apr 27) morning as the police moved to break up the encampments set up by the pro-Palestinian demonstrators on campus.

More than 100 protesters were detained from the Northeastern University campus in Boston, on Saturday (Apr 27) morning as the police moved to break up the encampments set up by the pro-Palestinian demonstrators on campus. What happened? The move comes after the protesters resorted to “virulent anti-Semitic slurs, including ‘Kill the Jews,’ crossed the line,” said the university in a statement, on X. It added, “We cannot tolerate this kind of hate on our campus.” Meanwhile, local media reported that the students had been preparing for the raid overnight as police had been gathering inside the campuses’ Shillman Hall earlier this morning. Also Read | Israel gives Egypt 'last chance' for hostage deal before Rafah attack Subsequently, as the police marched towards protesters telling them to go home, they remained defiant and the chants just kept getting louder, reported NBC10 Boston. According to the Massachusetts State Police, 102 people were arrested and will face trespassing and disorderly conduct charges. The police also said those detained are being transferred to Suffolk County House of Correction to be booked and processed. “What began as a student demonstration two days ago was infiltrated by professional organizers with no affiliation to Northeastern,” said the university. It also ensured that those who had a valid school ID were released and would face disciplinary proceedings and not legal action, said the school. However, those who “refused to disclose their affiliation were arrested,” it added. Meanwhile, Northeastern sophomore Alina Caudle told NBC10 Boston that the anti-war protest was peaceful and organised by students. “It shouldn’t be a partisan issue, it should be simple. We don’t want innocent lives to be lost,” said Caudle. Pro-Palestinian protests across campuses The United States particularly has witnessed massive protests amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, with hundreds of students in American universities across the country joining in. Also Read | Columbia faculty senate passes resolution over administrative handling of anti-Israel protests The protests have reportedly posed a challenge for university officials who are in the midst of figuring out how to balance commitments to free expression while also addressing complaints that the rallies have gone too far. The arrests on Saturday morning also come days after the Boston police tore down a pro-Palestinian encampment on Emerson College campus and arrested nearly 120 people. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 protesters detained at Boston's Northeastern University as police clear pro-Palestinian camp

"We are judged by what we do at home and not what we say abroad." This statement by an Indian foreign ministry spokesperson about the pro-Palestinian protests in US universities is now going viral.

Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was responding to the pro-Palestine protests that erupted at various Universities in the United States at a press briefing on&nbsp;on Thursday (Apr 25).

He said that there should be a right kind of balance "between freedom of expression, sense of responsibility and public safety and order."&nbsp;

"We have seen reports on the matter and have been following related events. In every democracy, there has to be the right balance between freedom of expression, a sense of responsibility and public safety and order. Democracies in particular should display this understanding in regard to other fellow democracies. After all, we are all judged by what we do at home and not what we say abroad," said Jaiswal.

On being asked if this was a concern for India as many Indian students study in the United States, Jaiswal said, "As far as your question regarding Indian students is concerned, we are always in touch with Indian students and as and when there are issues which have to be resolved, we will look into it."

Colleges and universities across America are witnessing&nbsp;unrest as pro-Palestinian protesters staged demonstrations on campuses, prompting administrators to take measures in order to address the escalating situation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-campus-protests-speaker-johnson-heckled-by-protesters-amid-encampments-and-violent-clashes-714698">Also read: US campus protests: Speaker Johnson heckled by protesters amid encampments and violent clashes&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Netanyahu compares protesters to 1930s Nazis</h2>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the “antisemitic surge” in the US, calling the unrest on campuses "horrific".

“Antisemitic mobs have taken over leading universities. They call for the annihilation of Israel, they attack Jewish students, they attack Jewish faculty,” Netanyahu said in a video.

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Anti-Semitism on campuses in the United States is reminiscent of what happened in German universities in the 1930s. 
 
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He further compared the campus protests to 1930s Nazis, saying, “This is reminiscent of what happened in German universities in the 1930s. It’s unconscionable. It has to be stopped. It has to be condemned unequivocally.”

“But that’s not what happened,” he added. “When you listen to them, they say not only ‘Death to Israel’ and ‘Death to the Jews,’ but also ‘Death to America.'”

<h2>Violent clashes erupt between protesters and police in US</h2>

Meanwhile, various universities appealed to the protesters to disperse as violent clashes erupted between the police and pro-Palestinian student protesters in Texas and California. &nbsp;

The police arrested around 20 protesters at the University of Texas campus in Austin and also detained some of them at the University of Southern California.

The University of Texas had earlier issued a “Notice of Dispersal Order” for the protesters. The university's faculty members, meanwhile, called the police crackdown a “militarised response” to the protests.

“We have witnessed police punching a female student, knocking over a legal observer, dragging a. student over a chain link fence, and violently arresting students for simply standing at the front of the crowd,” read the statement.

The police also arrested some pro-Palestinian protesters at the University of Southern California after they failed to abide by the orders of dispersal.

Some of the protesters even blocked traffic on nearby streets. At least 30 protesters were taken into custody.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

"We are judged by what we do at home and not what we say abroad." This statement by an Indian foreign ministry spokesperson about the pro-Palestinian protests in US universities is now going viral.

"We are judged by what we do at home and not what we say abroad." This statement by an Indian foreign ministry spokesperson about the pro-Palestinian protests in US universities is now going viral. Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was responding to the pro-Palestine protests that erupted at various Universities in the United States at a press briefing on on Thursday (Apr 25). He said that there should be a right kind of balance "between freedom of expression, sense of responsibility and public safety and order." "We have seen reports on the matter and have been following related events. In every democracy, there has to be the right balance between freedom of expression, a sense of responsibility and public safety and order. Democracies in particular should display this understanding in regard to other fellow democracies. After all, we are all judged by what we do at home and not what we say abroad," said Jaiswal. On being asked if this was a concern for India as many Indian students study in the United States, Jaiswal said, "As far as your question regarding Indian students is concerned, we are always in touch with Indian students and as and when there are issues which have to be resolved, we will look into it." Colleges and universities across America are witnessing unrest as pro-Palestinian protesters staged demonstrations on campuses, prompting administrators to take measures in order to address the escalating situation. Also read: US campus protests: Speaker Johnson heckled by protesters amid encampments and violent clashes Netanyahu compares protesters to 1930s Nazis Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the “antisemitic surge” in the US, calling the unrest on campuses "horrific". “Antisemitic mobs have taken over leading universities. They call for the annihilation of Israel, they attack Jewish students, they attack Jewish faculty,” Netanyahu said in a video. Anti-Semitism on campuses in the United States is reminiscent of what happened in German universities in the 1930s. The world cannot stand idly by. pic.twitter.com/oHlwig1vCl — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 24, 2024 × He further compared the campus protests to 1930s Nazis, saying, “This is reminiscent of what happened in German universities in the 1930s. It’s unconscionable. It has to be stopped. It has to be condemned unequivocally.” “But that’s not what happened,” he added. “When you listen to them, they say not only ‘Death to Israel’ and ‘Death to the Jews,’ but also ‘Death to America.'” Violent clashes erupt between protesters and police in US Meanwhile, various universities appealed to the protesters to disperse as violent clashes erupted between the police and pro-Palestinian student protesters in Texas and California. The police arrested around 20 protesters at the University of Texas campus in Austin and also detained some of them at the University of Southern California. The University of Texas had earlier issued a “Notice of Dispersal Order” for the protesters. The university's faculty members, meanwhile, called the police crackdown a “militarised response” to the protests. “We have witnessed police punching a female student, knocking over a legal observer, dragging a. student over a chain link fence, and violently arresting students for simply standing at the front of the crowd,” read the statement. The police also arrested some pro-Palestinian protesters at the University of Southern California after they failed to abide by the orders of dispersal. Some of the protesters even blocked traffic on nearby streets. At least 30 protesters were taken into custody. (With inputs from agencies)

India responds to pro-Palestine protests at US universities: 'We are judged by what we do at home'

The United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity.

"The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added.

However, Hamas said that the group would not concede to international pressure.

All the 18 countries who issued an appeal to Hamas&nbsp;have their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months.

WATCH: 200 days of Israel-Hamas war: Fate of Israeli hostages remains uncertain

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Hamas is believed to still be holding 129 hostages out of the 253 that it took captive on Oct 7. Nearly&nbsp;1,200 people died on the day Hamas crossed the border and massacred mostly civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accuses-defence-minister-yoav-gallant-of-pushing-false-leaks-amid-hostage-crisis-713771">Also read:&nbsp;Netanyahu accuses Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of pushing 'false leaks' amid hostage crisis</a>

The signatories were the leaders of the United States, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Thailand and Britain.

"We emphasise that the deal on the table to release the hostages would bring an immediate and prolonged ceasefire in Gaza, that would facilitate a surge of additional necessary humanitarian assistance to be delivered throughout Gaza, and lead to the credible end of hostilities," the statement said.

"Gazans would be able to return to their homes and their lands with preparations beforehand to ensure shelter and humanitarian provisions," it said.

As per the news agency Reuters, senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri said that the statement would not influence the Palestinian militant group and that the US should push its ally Israel to end its offensive.

"The ball now is in the American court," said Abu Zuhri.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

The United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. "We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity. "The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added. However, Hamas said that the group would not concede to international pressure. All the 18 countries who issued an appeal to Hamas have their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months. WATCH: 200 days of Israel-Hamas war: Fate of Israeli hostages remains uncertain × Hamas is believed to still be holding 129 hostages out of the 253 that it took captive on Oct 7. Nearly 1,200 people died on the day Hamas crossed the border and massacred mostly civilians. Also read: Netanyahu accuses Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of pushing 'false leaks' amid hostage crisis The signatories were the leaders of the United States, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Thailand and Britain. "We emphasise that the deal on the table to release the hostages would bring an immediate and prolonged ceasefire in Gaza, that would facilitate a surge of additional necessary humanitarian assistance to be delivered throughout Gaza, and lead to the credible end of hostilities," the statement said. "Gazans would be able to return to their homes and their lands with preparations beforehand to ensure shelter and humanitarian provisions," it said. As per the news agency Reuters, senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri said that the statement would not influence the Palestinian militant group and that the US should push its ally Israel to end its offensive. "The ball now is in the American court," said Abu Zuhri. (With inputs from agencies)

US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year.

Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids.

“He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying.

“He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled.

“I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added.

However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-campus-protests-spread-like-wildfire-as-police-resort-to-rubber-bullets-teargas-arrest-several-dozens-715051">US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments</a>

<h2>Noga's abduction</h2>

Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage.

Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead.

“They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said.

Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother.

“I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said.

Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later.

<h2>US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages</h2>

Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity.

"The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added.

All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months.

(With inputs from agencies)

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage. Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year. Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids. “He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying. “He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled. “I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added. However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood. Also read: US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments Noga's abduction Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage. Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead. “They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said. Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother. “I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said. Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later. US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. "We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity. "The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added. All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’

Israel is now laying plans to move into Rafah and evacuate the Palestinian civilians before the invasion, amid continuous warnings that it may lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, as confirmed by a senior Israeli defence official on Wednesday (April 24).

Israel is now laying plans to move into Rafah and evacuate the Palestinian civilians before the invasion, amid continuous warnings that it may lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, as confirmed by a senior Israeli defence official on Wednesday (April 24). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led Israeli government spokesperson said that Israel was "moving ahead" with the plans of a ground operation, without specifying any time period. According to an official of Israel's Defence Ministry, they have purchased 40,000 tents, each of which has a capacity for 10 to 12 people to house the Palestinians, once they are displaced from Rafah in advance of an assault. As reported by Reuters, an Israeli government official said that the war cabinet of Netanyahu planned to meet in the next two weeks for authorising civilian evacuations, which is likely to take a month. Also Read: Satellite photos show extent of damage in Iran during alleged Israeli attack Rafah, which is near the Egyptian border, is home to more than a million Palestinians who have travelled from the rest of Gaza amid the Israeli offensive. Why does Israel want to invade Rafah? Israel, which launched an attack on Hamas after its towns were infiltrated by the Islamist group in the October 7 attacks, claims that Rafah is hosting four Hamas combat battalions which are filled with thousands of retreating fighters, and that they need to be eradicated for victory. "Hamas was hit hard in the northern sector. It was also hit hard in the centre of the Strip. And soon it will be hit hard in Rafah, too," said Brigadier-General Itzik Cohen, commander of Israel's 162nd Division operating in Gaza, while speaking to Kan public TV. What is the take of the US on Israel's latest plans? The United States, which is the closest ally of Israel, has appealed to the country to keep the plans for an assault on hold and has stated that Israel is capable of combatting Hamas fighters in other ways. "We could not support a Rafah ground operation without an appropriate, credible, executable humanitarian plan precisely because of the complications for delivery of assistance," said David Satterfield, US special envoy for Middle East humanitarian, while speaking to the reporters on Tuesday (April 23). Watch: Israel-Hamas War: US to begin Gaza aid pier construction 'very soon' "We continue discussions with Israel on what we believe are alternate ways of addressing a challenge which we recognise, which is Hamas military present in Rafah," he added, What are Egypt's concerns over the Rafah invasion? Egypt's State Information Service said that it will not permit Gazans to be pushed beyond the border towards its territory. Egypt also warned Israel to reconsider the Rafah offensive as it "would lead to massive human massacres, losses (and) widespread destruction", stated State Information Service said. In the wake of Israel's plans, Egypt's top intelligence chief held talks with top Israeli intelligence and military officials along with other key officials in Cairo on Wednesday (April 24) to discuss a possible operation by Israel Defense Forces in Rafah, said three senior Israeli officials. Egyptian officials have also hinted that such an operation will rupture the relations with Israel and can also harm the peace agreement between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to go ahead with Rafah invasion even as Egypt warns of humanitarian crisis

The Israeli army intensified its strikes across Gaza on Tuesday (April 23) as it carried out some of the heaviest shelling in weeks. Meanwhile, fresh evacuations were ordered by the army in the north of the enclave, as it warned civilians that they were in a "dangerous combat zone".

The Israeli army intensified its strikes across Gaza on Tuesday (April 23) as it carried out some of the heaviest shelling in weeks. Meanwhile, fresh evacuations were ordered by the army in the north of the enclave, as it warned civilians that they were in a "dangerous combat zone". The residents in central and southern areas of the Gaza Strip also reported strikes by air and shelling from tanks on the ground late on Tuesday (April 23). Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee, in a post on social media platform X, appealed to the residents of four zones in Beit Lahiya, located on the northern edge of Gaza, to shift to two designated areas. He stated that the military "will work with extreme force against terrorist infrastructure and subversive elements" in the region. In a statement, which was issued later on Tuesday (April 23), the military said it "follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm." Also Read: Satellite photos show extent of damage in Iran during alleged Israeli attack Israel renewed its bombing and shelling of northern Gaza almost four months after its army announced that it was moving down troops there and claimed that Hamas no longer controlled those areas. Israel this month also drew down most of its forces in southern Gaza. The bombardment took place on Tuesday after alerts were sounded regarding incoming rockets in two southern Israeli border towns, even though no casualties were reported. The responsibility for the attacks on Sderot and Nir Am was claimed by the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, which is a group allied to Hamas. Hezbollah launches 'dozens' of rockets at Israel Iran-backed Hezbollah group fired dozens of rockets at northern Israel on Tuesday (April 23) while responding to the killing of two civilians in Lebanon's south in a strike which was blamed on Israel. Israel has been exchanging regular fire with the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in the south of Lebanon since October. Hezbollah fighters fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at northern Israel "as part of the response to the Israeli enemy's attacks on... civilian homes, specifically the horrific massacre in Hanin and the killing and injuring of civilians," said the group in a statement. The local officials and rescuers stated that two members of the same family were killed in an Israeli strike on a house in Hanin, close to the Israeli border. Watch: Israel war: 200 days of perpetual attacks reduce Gaza to wastelands Speaking to AFP, a civil defence source said that "a woman in her 50s and a 12-year-old girl have been killed" in the strike, while many others were injured and admitted to the hospital. The deaths were confirmed by Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) which stated that six others were wounded in the strike. "Enemy warplanes carried out a raid on a two-storey house, firing two air-to-surface missiles and completely destroying it," stated the NNA, further reporting that the building housed "a family that had not left... since Israeli attacks started". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel intensifies strikes across Gaza amid new evacuation orders in North

Iran and Pakistan released a joint statement on Wednesday (Apr 24) urging the United Nations Security Council to take stern action against Israel stating that the country had targeted neighbouring countries and foreign diplomatic facilities "illegally".

The development came following Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's three-day visit to Pakistan amid an escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"Recognising that the irresponsible act of the Israeli regime forces was a major escalation in an already volatile region, both sides called on the UN Security Council to prevent the Israeli regime from its adventurism in the region and its illegal acts attacking its neighbours...," Iran and Pakistan said in their joint statement released by Pakistan's foreign ministry.

Last week, explosions were reported in Iran's Isfahan, what Tehran said was an Israeli attack.&nbsp;

However, Iran said that it has no plans to retaliate against Israel.&nbsp;

The visit by Raisi was aimed at mending ties between neighbouring countries Iran and Pakistan where the Iranian President vowed to give a push to the trade between both countries by $10 billion a year.

"Both sides agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to 10 billion U.S. dollars in the next five years," Sharif's office said in a statement after a joint news briefing.

"They also agreed to cooperate in developing joint approaches to confront common challenges including the threat of terrorism," the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-forces-carrying-out-offensive-action-in-south-lebanon-714598">Israel claims forces carrying out 'offensive action' in south Lebanon</a>

<h2>Israeli attack on Iran territory could change dynamics, threatens Tehran</h2>

Raisi, during his three-day visit, threatened to annihilate Israel in case of an attack on Iranian territory.

He said that an Israeli offensive against Iran would lead to a radical change in the dynamics and would also result in and result in there being nothing left of the "Zionist regime".

Tehran on April 13 launched an unprecedented attack against Israel in retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Damascus consulate on April 1 that killed seven officers, including a senior commander of the IRGC.&nbsp;

This conflict between Iran and Israel comes as Israel has been already fighting a war with Hamas since early October last year.

Pakistan previously released a statement calling for de-escalation by "all parties".

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran and Pakistan released a joint statement on Wednesday (Apr 24) urging the United Nations Security Council to take stern action against Israel stating that the country had targeted neighbouring countries and foreign diplomatic facilities "illegally".

Iran and Pakistan released a joint statement on Wednesday (Apr 24) urging the United Nations Security Council to take stern action against Israel stating that the country had targeted neighbouring countries and foreign diplomatic facilities "illegally". The development came following Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's three-day visit to Pakistan amid an escalation of tensions in the Middle East. "Recognising that the irresponsible act of the Israeli regime forces was a major escalation in an already volatile region, both sides called on the UN Security Council to prevent the Israeli regime from its adventurism in the region and its illegal acts attacking its neighbours...," Iran and Pakistan said in their joint statement released by Pakistan's foreign ministry. Last week, explosions were reported in Iran's Isfahan, what Tehran said was an Israeli attack. However, Iran said that it has no plans to retaliate against Israel. The visit by Raisi was aimed at mending ties between neighbouring countries Iran and Pakistan where the Iranian President vowed to give a push to the trade between both countries by $10 billion a year. "Both sides agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to 10 billion U.S. dollars in the next five years," Sharif's office said in a statement after a joint news briefing. "They also agreed to cooperate in developing joint approaches to confront common challenges including the threat of terrorism," the statement said. Also read: Israel claims forces carrying out 'offensive action' in south Lebanon Israeli attack on Iran territory could change dynamics, threatens Tehran Raisi, during his three-day visit, threatened to annihilate Israel in case of an attack on Iranian territory. He said that an Israeli offensive against Iran would lead to a radical change in the dynamics and would also result in and result in there being nothing left of the "Zionist regime". Tehran on April 13 launched an unprecedented attack against Israel in retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Damascus consulate on April 1 that killed seven officers, including a senior commander of the IRGC. This conflict between Iran and Israel comes as Israel has been already fighting a war with Hamas since early October last year. Pakistan previously released a statement calling for de-escalation by "all parties". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran and Pakistan call on UN Security Council to take stern action against Israel

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression".

"This support, which violates international law, is a licence and a green light for the Zionist extremist government (Israel) to continue the brutal aggression against our people," Hamas said in a statement.

"We consider this step a confirmation of the official American complicity and partnership in the war of extermination waged by the fascist occupation army against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip."

The US House on Saturday (Apr 20) approved a $13 billion military aid package for Israel amid its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

Following the significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the "much-appreciated aid bill" exhibits support for Israel and "defends Western civilisation".

The US bill said that more than $9 billion will also be dedicated to address "the dire need for humanitarian assistance for Gaza as well as other vulnerable populations around the world". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-aid-for-ukraine-will-kill-even-more-ukrainians-warns-kremlin-713449">US aid for Ukraine 'will kill even more Ukrainians', warns Kremlin</a>

<h2>Turkey's Erdogan meets Hamas leader</h2>

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip after his meeting with the Hamas chief in Istanbul.

As per the Turkish media reports, the talks between the Turkish President and the Hamas chief lasted for about more than two and a half hours.

"It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement.

<h2>Turkish President slams Netanyahu</h2>

Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara.

He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region.

"Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression".

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday (Apr 21) released a statement condemning the approval of billions of dollars in military aid to Israel stating that this would give Tel Aviv a "licence" for the Gaza "aggression". "This support, which violates international law, is a licence and a green light for the Zionist extremist government (Israel) to continue the brutal aggression against our people," Hamas said in a statement. "We consider this step a confirmation of the official American complicity and partnership in the war of extermination waged by the fascist occupation army against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip." The US House on Saturday (Apr 20) approved a $13 billion military aid package for Israel amid its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Following the significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the "much-appreciated aid bill" exhibits support for Israel and "defends Western civilisation". The US bill said that more than $9 billion will also be dedicated to address "the dire need for humanitarian assistance for Gaza as well as other vulnerable populations around the world". Also read: US aid for Ukraine 'will kill even more Ukrainians', warns Kremlin Turkey's Erdogan meets Hamas leader Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (Apr 20) called on the Palestinians to unite amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip after his meeting with the Hamas chief in Istanbul. As per the Turkish media reports, the talks between the Turkish President and the Hamas chief lasted for about more than two and a half hours. "It is vital that Palestinians act with unity in this process. The strongest response to Israel and the path to victory lie in unity and integrity," Erdogan said according to a Turkish presidency statement. Turkish President slams Netanyahu Earlier, on Tuesday (Apr 16), Erdogan hit out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli leadership condemning them for the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. "Israel violating international law and the Vienna Convention by targeting the Iranian Embassy in Damascus was the straw that broke the camel's back," Erdogan said during a press conference after a cabinet meeting in Ankara. He also launched a scathing attack on Netanyahu stating that he was solely responsible for the lives lost during the war and that he was endangering his own countrymen and people in the region. "Netanyahu is endangering the lives of both his own citizens and all the people of the region to extend his political life. This is an indisputable fact: the one responsible for the tension that made our hearts skip a beat on the night of April 13 is Netanyahu and his government, which is seeing red," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas chief condemns US military aid to Israel as ‘green light for Gaza aggression’

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman&nbsp;who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials.

The officials said that nearly 13 children from one family died after two houses were hit in the strike, the officials said.

According to doctor Mohammed Salama, who was looking after the newborn, the baby weighed 1.4 kg and was delivered by doctors in an emergency C-section. He added she was stable and was gradually improving.

The baby's mother Sabreen Al-Sakani was 30 weeks pregnant when she was killed in the strike.

The doctors placed the baby in an incubator at the Rafah hospital and put a&nbsp;tape on her chest with the words, "The baby of the martyr Sabreen Al-Sakani".

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-22-killed-mostly-children-in-strikes-on-southern-gaza-as-us-prepares-aid-package-713678">&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: 22 killed, mostly children, in strikes on southern Gaza as US prepares aid package</a>

According to her uncle Rami Al-Sheikh, Sakani's young daughter Malak wished to name her new sister Rouh, which meant spirit in Arabic language.

"The little girl Malak was happy that her sister was coming to the world," Al-Sheikh said.

<h2>Baby to remain in hospital for three to four weeks</h2>

Doctor Salama said that the baby will remain in the hospital for three to four weeks. "After that, we will see about her leaving, and where this child will go, to the family, to the aunt or uncle or grandparents. Here is the biggest tragedy. Even if this child survives, she was born an orphan," said the doctor.

As per Palestinian health officials, 13 children died in a strike on the second home which was of the Abdel Aal family. In that strike, two women also died.

An Israeli military spokesperson, speaking to Reuters, said that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel hits out at US plans to sanction IDF unit Netzah Yehuda

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hits-out-at-us-plans-to-sanction-idf-unit-netzah-yehuda-713666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, another Gaza resident, Mohammad al-Behairi said his daughter and grandchild are trapped under the rubble. "It's a feeling of sadness, depression, we have nothing left in this life to cry for, what feeling shall we have? When you lose your children, when you lose the closest of your loved ones, how will your feeling be?" al-Behairi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials.

In a miraculous event, the doctors delivered a baby girl from the womb of a Palestinian woman who was killed along with her daughter and husband, in an attack by Israel on the Gaza city of Rafah, in which 19 people died during intensified strikes, as per the Palestinian health officials. The officials said that nearly 13 children from one family died after two houses were hit in the strike, the officials said. According to doctor Mohammed Salama, who was looking after the newborn, the baby weighed 1.4 kg and was delivered by doctors in an emergency C-section. He added she was stable and was gradually improving. The baby's mother Sabreen Al-Sakani was 30 weeks pregnant when she was killed in the strike. The doctors placed the baby in an incubator at the Rafah hospital and put a tape on her chest with the words, "The baby of the martyr Sabreen Al-Sakani". Also Read: Israel-Hamas war: 22 killed, mostly children, in strikes on southern Gaza as US prepares aid package According to her uncle Rami Al-Sheikh, Sakani's young daughter Malak wished to name her new sister Rouh, which meant spirit in Arabic language. "The little girl Malak was happy that her sister was coming to the world," Al-Sheikh said. Baby to remain in hospital for three to four weeks Doctor Salama said that the baby will remain in the hospital for three to four weeks. "After that, we will see about her leaving, and where this child will go, to the family, to the aunt or uncle or grandparents. Here is the biggest tragedy. Even if this child survives, she was born an orphan," said the doctor. As per Palestinian health officials, 13 children died in a strike on the second home which was of the Abdel Aal family. In that strike, two women also died. An Israeli military spokesperson, speaking to Reuters, said that different militant targets were hit in Gaza which included military compounds, launch posts and armed people. Watch: Israel hits out at US plans to sanction IDF unit Netzah Yehuda Meanwhile, another Gaza resident, Mohammad al-Behairi said his daughter and grandchild are trapped under the rubble. "It's a feeling of sadness, depression, we have nothing left in this life to cry for, what feeling shall we have? When you lose your children, when you lose the closest of your loved ones, how will your feeling be?" al-Behairi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Miracle in doomed Gaza: Baby delivered alive from dead body of mother killed in attack

US House on Saturday (Apr 20) voted 311-112 in favour of giving Ukraine a $60.8bn military aid package, at a time when Kyiv has been fighting against Russia's invasion over the past two years and is now facing a critical shortage of ammunition to continue its defences.

The House also passed a funding of $26.4bn for Israel as the country fights Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

Following the development, the Kremlin released a statement threatening that the approval of the bill would eventually lead to even more deaths of Ukrainians.

"The decision to provide aid to Ukraine was expected and predictable," said Russia's presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as reported by state news agency TASS.

"It will further enrich the United States of America and ruin Ukraine even more, by killing even more Ukrainians because of the Kyiv regime," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-to-vote-on-95bn-foreign-aid-package-amid-republican-opposition-713410">US House votes in favour of giving Ukraine $60.8bn military aid</a>

<h2>Zelensky expresses gratitude</h2>

On the other hand Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude stating that the US assistance would help save lives and "bring a just end" to the war with Russia.

"I am grateful to the United States House of Representatives, both parties, and personally Speaker Mike Johnson for the decision that keeps history on the right track," he wrote on X.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Today, we received the awaited decision on the US aid package that we long fought for. And a very significant one. Our warriors on the front lines, as well as our cities and villages suffering from Russian terror, will feel it. 
 
The U.S. House of Representatives voted on it… <a href="https://t.co/G6z3PxsOMg">pic.twitter.com/G6z3PxsOMg</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1781763400629964834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The president said the bill "will keep the war from expanding, save thousands and thousands of lives, and help both of our nations to become stronger".

<h2>EU chief welcomes US aid package</h2>

EU chief Charles Michel welcomed the decision stating that this would send a clear message to Russia that the ones who believed in freedom would continue backing Ukraine.

Taking to his official X account, he wrote, "I welcome the vote of the US House of Representatives approving the - long overdue - crucial USD 60 billion aid package for Ukraine. This sends a clear message to the Kremlin: Those who believe in freedom and UN charter will continue to support Ukraine and its people."

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I welcome the vote of the US House of Representatives approving the - long overdue - crucial USD 60 billion aid package for Ukraine. 
 
This sends a clear message to the Kremlin: Those who believe in freedom and UN charter will continue to support Ukraine and its people.
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1781745473016979661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>'US military aid vote sends strong message to our enemies,' says Israel</h2>

Israel's foreign minister said that the approval of military aid worth billions of dollars to Ukraine sent a "strong message to our enemies".

"The vote on the Israel aid package with overwhelming bipartisan support proves the strong ties and strategic partnership between Israel and the US, and sends a strong message to our enemies," Israel Katz posted on X. "I hope it passes the Senate soon with strong bipartisan support."

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a> for your leadership which led the efforts to pass the Israel aid package in the House of Representatives today. And thank you Minority Leader <a href="https://twitter.com/RepJeffries?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepJeffries</a> for supporting it. 
The vote on the Israel aid package with an overwhelming bipartisan support…
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/1781745484559790363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>'Day of optimism'</h2>

Germany hailed the decision calling it a "day of optimism".&nbsp;

"The USA and Europe stand together on the side of freedom - against Putin's war of terror. This is a day of optimism for Ukraine and European security," Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

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A major hurdle for U.S. aid to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> has been cleared. The hearts of Ukraine‘s most important supporters are beating in unison again. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a>+Europe stand together on the side of freedom - against Putin's war of terror. This is a day of optimism for Ukraine+European security.
— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABaerbock/status/1781742964890366041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Biden praises lawmakers</h2>

United States President Joe Biden heaped praise on the lawmakers who passed the aid bills for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan stating that "at this critical inflection point, they came together to answer history's call."

"This package will deliver critical support to Israel and Ukraine; provide desperately needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, and other locations... and bolster security and stability in the Indo-Pacific," he said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

US House on Saturday (Apr 20) voted 311-112 in favour of giving Ukraine a $60.8bn military aid package, at a time when Kyiv has been fighting against Russia's invasion over the past two years and is now facing a critical shortage of ammunition to continue its defences.

US House on Saturday (Apr 20) voted 311-112 in favour of giving Ukraine a $60.8bn military aid package, at a time when Kyiv has been fighting against Russia's invasion over the past two years and is now facing a critical shortage of ammunition to continue its defences. The House also passed a funding of $26.4bn for Israel as the country fights Hamas in Gaza. Following the development, the Kremlin released a statement threatening that the approval of the bill would eventually lead to even more deaths of Ukrainians. "The decision to provide aid to Ukraine was expected and predictable," said Russia's presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as reported by state news agency TASS. "It will further enrich the United States of America and ruin Ukraine even more, by killing even more Ukrainians because of the Kyiv regime," he added. Also read: US House votes in favour of giving Ukraine $60.8bn military aid Zelensky expresses gratitude On the other hand Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude stating that the US assistance would help save lives and "bring a just end" to the war with Russia. "I am grateful to the United States House of Representatives, both parties, and personally Speaker Mike Johnson for the decision that keeps history on the right track," he wrote on X. Today, we received the awaited decision on the US aid package that we long fought for. And a very significant one. Our warriors on the front lines, as well as our cities and villages suffering from Russian terror, will feel it. The U.S. House of Representatives voted on it… pic.twitter.com/G6z3PxsOMg — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 20, 2024 × The president said the bill "will keep the war from expanding, save thousands and thousands of lives, and help both of our nations to become stronger". EU chief welcomes US aid package EU chief Charles Michel welcomed the decision stating that this would send a clear message to Russia that the ones who believed in freedom would continue backing Ukraine. Taking to his official X account, he wrote, "I welcome the vote of the US House of Representatives approving the - long overdue - crucial USD 60 billion aid package for Ukraine. This sends a clear message to the Kremlin: Those who believe in freedom and UN charter will continue to support Ukraine and its people." I welcome the vote of the US House of Representatives approving the - long overdue - crucial USD 60 billion aid package for Ukraine. This sends a clear message to the Kremlin: Those who believe in freedom and UN charter will continue to support Ukraine and its people. — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) April 20, 2024 × 'US military aid vote sends strong message to our enemies,' says Israel Israel's foreign minister said that the approval of military aid worth billions of dollars to Ukraine sent a "strong message to our enemies". "The vote on the Israel aid package with overwhelming bipartisan support proves the strong ties and strategic partnership between Israel and the US, and sends a strong message to our enemies," Israel Katz posted on X. "I hope it passes the Senate soon with strong bipartisan support." Thank you @SpeakerJohnson for your leadership which led the efforts to pass the Israel aid package in the House of Representatives today. And thank you Minority Leader @RepJeffries for supporting it. The vote on the Israel aid package with an overwhelming bipartisan support… — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) April 20, 2024 × 'Day of optimism' Germany hailed the decision calling it a "day of optimism". "The USA and Europe stand together on the side of freedom - against Putin's war of terror. This is a day of optimism for Ukraine and European security," Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, formerly Twitter. A major hurdle for U.S. aid to #Ukraine has been cleared. The hearts of Ukraine‘s most important supporters are beating in unison again. The #USA+Europe stand together on the side of freedom - against Putin's war of terror. This is a day of optimism for Ukraine+European security. — Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) April 20, 2024 × Biden praises lawmakers United States President Joe Biden heaped praise on the lawmakers who passed the aid bills for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan stating that "at this critical inflection point, they came together to answer history's call." "This package will deliver critical support to Israel and Ukraine; provide desperately needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, and other locations... and bolster security and stability in the Indo-Pacific," he said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US aid for Ukraine 'will kill even more Ukrainians', warns Kremlin

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan.

Syria's defence ministry released a statement saying, "The Israeli enemy carried out an attack using missiles... targeting our air defence sites in the southern region" and causing material damage.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said that Israel hit the army radar position in the southern province of Daraa that had detected the entry of Israeli planes into Syria's airspace.

Head of the Britain-based Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman said that the air offensive occurred at the time "when the Israeli air force was flying intensively over the Daraa region".

Syria's foreign ministry condemned "in the strongest terms" Friday's "Israeli aggression and the attacks before it on its territory".

Syria called on "the international community and the United Nations... to take all deterrence measures to stop" the Israeli attacks, the ministry said in a statement carried by state news agency SANA.

The latest strikes in Syria come amid reports of Israeli attacks in the Iranian city of Isfahan.

Iran, however, said that it had shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.

"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. &nbsp;

<h2>US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</h2>

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan.

Israel launched targeted strikes at Syria's army position in the South, said the Syrian government and monitor on Friday (Apr 19) following reports of Israeli attacks in Iran's Isfahan. Syria's defence ministry released a statement saying, "The Israeli enemy carried out an attack using missiles... targeting our air defence sites in the southern region" and causing material damage. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said that Israel hit the army radar position in the southern province of Daraa that had detected the entry of Israeli planes into Syria's airspace. Head of the Britain-based Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman said that the air offensive occurred at the time "when the Israeli air force was flying intensively over the Daraa region". Syria's foreign ministry condemned "in the strongest terms" Friday's "Israeli aggression and the attacks before it on its territory". Syria called on "the international community and the United Nations... to take all deterrence measures to stop" the Israeli attacks, the ministry said in a statement carried by state news agency SANA. The latest strikes in Syria come amid reports of Israeli attacks in the Iranian city of Isfahan. Iran, however, said that it had shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria accuses Israel of launching attacks targeting army position

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.

However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power.

Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known.

A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran.

Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak.

His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status."

"In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added.

Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a>

"By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X.

<h2>US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’&nbsp;</h2>

Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said.

However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance.&nbsp;

"The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by.&nbsp;

The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end."

(With inputs from agencies)

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security. However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power. Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday. Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran. Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak. His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status." "In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added. Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan "By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said. However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. "The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by. The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end." (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu aide lambasts minister for suggesting Israel's role behind Iran blasts

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

After an Israeli military attack on April 1&nbsp;killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government&nbsp;received a lot of international flak&nbsp;for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</a>

Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution.

There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter.

Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory.

The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza.

Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore.

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Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier.

The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents.

Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid.

He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore.

(With inputs from agencies)

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel. After an Israeli military attack on April 1 killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government received a lot of international flak for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders. Also read: Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution. There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter. Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory. The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza. Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier. The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents. Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid. He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore. (With inputs from agencies)

UN agency to help in aid distribution in Gaza by sea route, says US

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel&nbsp;launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation,"&nbsp;Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.

"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said.

The top United States diplomat reiterated the same response on being asked about the situation several times during the press briefing.

"The US has not been involved in any offensive operation," he said.&nbsp;

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<h2>'Washington was informed of strikes in advance,' says G7 host Antonio Tajani</h2>

Earlier, at a separate news briefing, G7 host and Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. However, he did not share much details.

"The United States were informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by.&nbsp;

The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end."

<h2>Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel&nbsp;</h2>

Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday's (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying.

“The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said.

Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. However, airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the explosion.

Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".

Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.

"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported.&nbsp;

The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on reports of Israel launching a retaliatory offensive against Iran. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he said. The top United States diplomat reiterated the same response on being asked about the situation several times during the press briefing. "The US has not been involved in any offensive operation," he said. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations 'Washington was informed of strikes in advance,' says G7 host Antonio Tajani Earlier, at a separate news briefing, G7 host and Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. However, he did not share much details. "The United States were informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by. The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end." Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel Iran is not planning any retaliation against Israel after Friday's (Apr 19) attacks, a top Iranian official was quoted by Reuters as saying. “The foreign source of the incident has not been confirmed. We have not received any external attack, and the discussion leans more towards infiltration than attack,” the official said. Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. However, airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the explosion. Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites. (With inputs from agencies)

US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack.&nbsp;

The prime minister made the statement as Western countries called for restraint in responding to a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran.

The United States, the G7 group of industrialised nations and the European Union announced that they will impose tougher sanctions on Iran, with the hope that Israel will avoid any retaliatory attack.

German and British Foreign Ministers, Annalena Baerbock and David Cameron, respectively,&nbsp;also travelled to Israel to stop the confrontation between Israel and Iran from escalating.&nbsp;

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Addressing a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday (April 17), Netanyahu thanked both visiting foreign ministers for extending their support.

However, he said that Israel will make the call on its own on how it will respond despite “all sorts of suggestions and advice” coming from Israel’s allies, which include the United States, the United Kingdom and France.

“I want to be clear: we will make our decisions ourselves. The state of Israel will do whatever is necessary to defend itself,” said Netanyahu.

During his meetings with the German and British foreign ministers, Netanyahu’s office had earlier said that the prime minister “reiterated that Israel would maintain its right to self-defence.”

Israel has promised to respond to the unprecedented attack by Iran amid calls from other countries to exercise restraint.

<h2>Iran vows 'massive and harsh' response amid deteriorating ties</h2>

Amid increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel, Iran’s president warned that even the “tiniest” invasion of its territory by Tel Aviv will see a “massive and harsh” response.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, violence escalated between Israel and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant Hezbollah group on Wednesday (April 17) after the latter fired a volley of rockets and drones on northern Israel.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iran attacks Israel: Does the West have a plan to stop the war?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-israel-does-the-west-have-a-plan-to-stop-the-war-712406/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the attack, nearly 14 Israeli soldiers suffered injuries out of which six were in a serious condition, said the army. The military said that it hit Hezbollah targets&nbsp;in Lebanon&nbsp;in response.

Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated after its embassy in Damascus was allegedly hit by an Israeli airstrike on April 1.&nbsp;

In response, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel, most of which were shot down and no deaths were reported.&nbsp;

However, Israel argues that it should retaliate to the attack to preserve the credibility of its deterrents. According to Iran, the matter is closed as of now but they will retaliate again if Israel attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (April 17) said that the country will make its own decisions on how they will defend themselves as well as retaliate against Iran's attack. The prime minister made the statement as Western countries called for restraint in responding to a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran. The United States, the G7 group of industrialised nations and the European Union announced that they will impose tougher sanctions on Iran, with the hope that Israel will avoid any retaliatory attack. German and British Foreign Ministers, Annalena Baerbock and David Cameron, respectively, also travelled to Israel to stop the confrontation between Israel and Iran from escalating. Also Read: Qatar reassessing its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas Addressing a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday (April 17), Netanyahu thanked both visiting foreign ministers for extending their support. However, he said that Israel will make the call on its own on how it will respond despite “all sorts of suggestions and advice” coming from Israel’s allies, which include the United States, the United Kingdom and France. “I want to be clear: we will make our decisions ourselves. The state of Israel will do whatever is necessary to defend itself,” said Netanyahu. During his meetings with the German and British foreign ministers, Netanyahu’s office had earlier said that the prime minister “reiterated that Israel would maintain its right to self-defence.” Israel has promised to respond to the unprecedented attack by Iran amid calls from other countries to exercise restraint. Iran vows 'massive and harsh' response amid deteriorating ties Amid increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel, Iran’s president warned that even the “tiniest” invasion of its territory by Tel Aviv will see a “massive and harsh” response. Meanwhile, violence escalated between Israel and the Iran-backed Lebanese militant Hezbollah group on Wednesday (April 17) after the latter fired a volley of rockets and drones on northern Israel. Watch: Iran attacks Israel: Does the West have a plan to stop the war? In the attack, nearly 14 Israeli soldiers suffered injuries out of which six were in a serious condition, said the army. The military said that it hit Hezbollah targets in Lebanon in response. Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated after its embassy in Damascus was allegedly hit by an Israeli airstrike on April 1. In response, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones at Israel, most of which were shot down and no deaths were reported. However, Israel argues that it should retaliate to the attack to preserve the credibility of its deterrents. According to Iran, the matter is closed as of now but they will retaliate again if Israel attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says will make its 'own decisions', hints at inevitable response to Iran attacks

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