<p>Israeli forces strapped a wounded Palestinian man to the hood of their military jeep during a raid in the West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday (Jun 22), a move some observers said was an attempt to&nbsp;create a human shield. The Israeli military acknowledged the incident after a video surfaced on social media and said that its forces violated protocol.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the video circulating on social media</strong></h2>

<p>A video circulating on social media, verified by news agency Reuters, shows a wounded man strapped on the hood of an Israeli military jeep as it is driven by two ambulances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users.&nbsp;Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">JENIN: Israeli forces tied an injured Palestinian man to the hood of their vehicle, using him as a human shield during a raid in the Occupied West Bank city. <a href="https://t.co/wht3rBVuhX">pic.twitter.com/wht3rBVuhX</a></p>
— Hamdah Salhut (@hamdahsalhut) <a href="https://twitter.com/hamdahsalhut/status/1804461823380349280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Palestinian man, later identified Jenin resident Mujahed Azmi, was said to have been shot and detained following an exchange of fire as the Israeli forces believed he was involved in the gun battle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israeli-strikes-kill-at-least-42-palestinians-in-gaza-refugee-camp-hamas-734178">Israeli strikes kill at least 42 Palestinians in Gaza refugee camp: Hamas</a></strong></p>

<p>The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in a statement said that the man was later transferred to medics for treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Azmi’s family told Reuters that there was an arrest raid during which he was injured and when they asked for an ambulance, the army took Mujahed, strapped him on the hood and drove off.</p>

<h2><strong>IDF says investigating soldiers involved</strong></h2>

<p>According to Israeli media reports, the IDF personnel were in the midst of an operation in the Wadi Burqin area near the city of Jenin to detain wanted Palestinians.</p>

<p>The IDF said that their soldiers violated military protocol and would launch an investigation into their actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The suspect was taken by the forces while tied on top of a vehicle,” said the Israeli military in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The conduct seen in the video is inconsistent with IDF orders and what is expected of its soldiers,” said the IDF.&nbsp;It added that the “incident is being investigated and will be dealt with accordingly.”</p>

<h2><strong>Surge of violence in West Bank</strong></h2>

<p>Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, there has also been a surge of violence in the West Bank where Israeli forces conduct near-daily, often deadly, raids.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-cross-says-at-least-22-killed-after-shelling-near-its-gaza-office-idf-denies-responsibility-for-attack-734014">Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Violence in the West Bank, which was already on the rise before the war, also escalated due to rampages by Jewish settlers in Palestinian villages and deadly Palestinian street attacks.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the United Nations said more than 500 Palestinians, mostly children, have been killed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Israeli forces strapped a wounded Palestinian man to the hood of their military jeep during a raid in the West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday (Jun 22), a move some observers said was an attempt to create a human shield.

Israeli forces strapped a wounded Palestinian man to the hood of their military jeep during a raid in the West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday (Jun 22), a move some observers said was an attempt to create a human shield. The Israeli military acknowledged the incident after a video surfaced on social media and said that its forces violated protocol. About the video circulating on social media A video circulating on social media, verified by news agency Reuters, shows a wounded man strapped on the hood of an Israeli military jeep as it is driven by two ambulances. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. JENIN: Israeli forces tied an injured Palestinian man to the hood of their vehicle, using him as a human shield during a raid in the Occupied West Bank city. pic.twitter.com/wht3rBVuhX — Hamdah Salhut (@hamdahsalhut) June 22, 2024 × The Palestinian man, later identified Jenin resident Mujahed Azmi, was said to have been shot and detained following an exchange of fire as the Israeli forces believed he was involved in the gun battle. Also Read | Israeli strikes kill at least 42 Palestinians in Gaza refugee camp: Hamas The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in a statement said that the man was later transferred to medics for treatment. Azmi’s family told Reuters that there was an arrest raid during which he was injured and when they asked for an ambulance, the army took Mujahed, strapped him on the hood and drove off. IDF says investigating soldiers involved According to Israeli media reports, the IDF personnel were in the midst of an operation in the Wadi Burqin area near the city of Jenin to detain wanted Palestinians. The IDF said that their soldiers violated military protocol and would launch an investigation into their actions. “The suspect was taken by the forces while tied on top of a vehicle,” said the Israeli military in a statement. “The conduct seen in the video is inconsistent with IDF orders and what is expected of its soldiers,” said the IDF. It added that the “incident is being investigated and will be dealt with accordingly.” Surge of violence in West Bank Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, there has also been a surge of violence in the West Bank where Israeli forces conduct near-daily, often deadly, raids. Also Read | Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack Violence in the West Bank, which was already on the rise before the war, also escalated due to rampages by Jewish settlers in Palestinian villages and deadly Palestinian street attacks. Earlier this month, the United Nations said more than 500 Palestinians, mostly children, have been killed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Human shield? Israeli forces strap wounded Palestinian on hood of military vehicle during West Bank raid

<p>The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in the Palestinian enclave said at least 25 people were killed and 50 others were injured after Israeli forces shelled tent camps for displaced Palestinians outside Gaza’s southern city of Rafah on Friday.</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about the shelling</strong></h2>

<p>The ICRC said that the shelling took place near its Gaza office, which is surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>“Heavy-calibre projectiles landed within metres” of the Red Cross offices and residences, said the humanitarian organisation, in a statement, adding that it also “damaged the structure” of the ICRC base.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Firing so dangerously close to humanitarian structures puts the lives of civilians and humanitarians at risk,” said the Red Cross.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also noted that this “grave security incident is one of several in recent days” as “stray bullets have reached ICRC structures” previously.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the health ministry say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Palestinian health ministry said that the Israeli forces shelled tent camps near Rafah and that the strike had “targeted the tents of the displaced in the Al-Mawasi area” which is around the ICRC base.</p>

<p>A report by the Associated Press citing a witness whose relatives died in one of the bombardments near a Red Cross field hospital north of Rafah said that the Israeli forces fired a second volley that killed people who came out of their tents.</p>

<p>Ahmed Radwan, a spokesperson for Civil Defense first responders in Rafah, citing witnesses, said that the shelling on Friday targeted two locations in a coastal area which has been filled with makeshift tents, reported the AP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrims-death-98-indians-die-amid-day-temperature-soaring-above-50-degrees-733871">Hajj pilgrims death: 98 Indians die amid day temperature soaring above 50 degrees</a></strong></p>

<p>The location mentioned by the emergency officials and that of the Red Cross hospital is said to be just outside an Israeli-designated safe zone on the Mediterranean coast, known as Muwasi, west of Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘No indication’</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesperson from the Israel Defence Force (IDF) said “there is no indication that a strike was carried out by the IDF” but that the incident was “under review”. However, it did not provide any other details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel, as per reports, has previously bombed locations in the vicinity of the “humanitarian zone” in Muwasi. The has also previously said that it is conducting “precise, intelligence-based” actions in the Rafah area.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that its offices in Gaza were damaged by the shelling which, according to the organisation, killed 22 people and wounded 45 others, on Friday (Jun 21) afternoon. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in the Palestinian enclave said at least 25 people were killed and 50 others were injured after Israeli forces shelled tent camps for displaced Palestinians outside Gaza’s southern city of Rafah on Friday. What we know about the shelling The ICRC said that the shelling took place near its Gaza office, which is surrounded by hundreds of displaced civilians living in tents, but did not say who fired it. “Heavy-calibre projectiles landed within metres” of the Red Cross offices and residences, said the humanitarian organisation, in a statement, adding that it also “damaged the structure” of the ICRC base. “Firing so dangerously close to humanitarian structures puts the lives of civilians and humanitarians at risk,” said the Red Cross. It also noted that this “grave security incident is one of several in recent days” as “stray bullets have reached ICRC structures” previously. What did the health ministry say? The Palestinian health ministry said that the Israeli forces shelled tent camps near Rafah and that the strike had “targeted the tents of the displaced in the Al-Mawasi area” which is around the ICRC base. A report by the Associated Press citing a witness whose relatives died in one of the bombardments near a Red Cross field hospital north of Rafah said that the Israeli forces fired a second volley that killed people who came out of their tents. Ahmed Radwan, a spokesperson for Civil Defense first responders in Rafah, citing witnesses, said that the shelling on Friday targeted two locations in a coastal area which has been filled with makeshift tents, reported the AP. Also Read | Hajj pilgrims death: 98 Indians die amid day temperature soaring above 50 degrees The location mentioned by the emergency officials and that of the Red Cross hospital is said to be just outside an Israeli-designated safe zone on the Mediterranean coast, known as Muwasi, west of Rafah. ‘No indication’ A spokesperson from the Israel Defence Force (IDF) said “there is no indication that a strike was carried out by the IDF” but that the incident was “under review”. However, it did not provide any other details. Israel, as per reports, has previously bombed locations in the vicinity of the “humanitarian zone” in Muwasi. The has also previously said that it is conducting “precise, intelligence-based” actions in the Rafah area. (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.

Red Cross says at least 22 killed after shelling near its Gaza office; IDF denies responsibility for attack

<p>A company drilling for oil off the Israeli coast stumbled upon a shipwreck which might change maritime history as we know it. The ship, which according to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) is 3,300 years old is also said to be the remains of the oldest shipwreck to be found in the deep sea.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the shipwreck discovered</strong></h2>

<p>The shipwreck and its artefacts were discovered around 1,800 metres deep at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea by Energean, an energy company. The cargo on the ship included hundreds of amphorae – a tall ancient Greek or Roman container likely used for carrying oil, wine or fruit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shipwreck was discovered last year after the Energean-operated underwater robot was scouring the seabed and stumbled upon the 12- to 14-metre-long ship buried in the muddy bottom of the sea among hundreds of jars.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/after-human-testicles-microplastics-discovered-in-human-penises-for-first-time-733810">After human testicles, microplastics discovered in human penises for first time</a></strong></p>

<p>The energy company’s environment lead Karnit Bahartan said that they had sent the images to the IAA; it turned out to be a “sensational discovery, far beyond what we could imagine”. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The ship is still sitting at the bottom of the ocean. However, Energean worked with the IAA and retrieved two of the jars to the surface for research.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Groundbreaking discovery’</strong></h2>

<p>The finding of the hundreds of intact ancient amphorae has been described as a “groundbreaking discovery” by the IAA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli authority also said that given the depth at which the shipwreck is, it has been undisturbed by waves, currents or fishermen for millennia. Therefore, the IAA believes that it offers a greater potential for research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Only two other shipwrecks with cargo are known from the Late Bronze Age in the Mediterranean Sea…both found off the Turkish coast. Yet both of those shipwrecks were found relatively close to shore,” Jacob Sharvit, head of the IAA marine unit noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shipwreck, Sharvit said, has “tremendous potential” for research and since it was “preserved at such a great depth time has frozen since the moment of disaster.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the IAA, the discovery suggests that the navigational skills of ancient sailors were more advanced than previously thought.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The discovery of this boat now changes our entire understanding of ancient mariner abilities. It is the very first to be found at such a great distance with no line of sight to any landmass,” said Sharvit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/does-space-travel-impact-eye-health-researchers-investigate-733576">Does space travel impact eye health? Researchers investigate</a></strong></p>

<p>He also noted that up until this discovery, researchers were under the impression that the trade during this period was conducted by boats sailing close to the shore and “safely flitting from port to port”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The discovery of this boat now changes our entire understanding of ancient mariner abilities. It is the very first to be found at such a great distance with no line of sight to any landmass,” said the official from the IAA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The finding, as per the Israeli official, also suggests that the sailors navigated using celestial bodies like the sun and star positions to find their way.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A company drilling for oil off the Israeli coast stumbled upon a shipwreck which might change maritime history as we know it. The ship, which according to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) is 3,300 years old is also said to be the remains of the oldest shipwreck to be found in the deep sea.

A company drilling for oil off the Israeli coast stumbled upon a shipwreck which might change maritime history as we know it. The ship, which according to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) is 3,300 years old is also said to be the remains of the oldest shipwreck to be found in the deep sea. About the shipwreck discovered The shipwreck and its artefacts were discovered around 1,800 metres deep at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea by Energean, an energy company. The cargo on the ship included hundreds of amphorae – a tall ancient Greek or Roman container likely used for carrying oil, wine or fruit. The shipwreck was discovered last year after the Energean-operated underwater robot was scouring the seabed and stumbled upon the 12- to 14-metre-long ship buried in the muddy bottom of the sea among hundreds of jars. Also Read | After human testicles, microplastics discovered in human penises for first time The energy company’s environment lead Karnit Bahartan said that they had sent the images to the IAA; it turned out to be a “sensational discovery, far beyond what we could imagine”. The ship is still sitting at the bottom of the ocean. However, Energean worked with the IAA and retrieved two of the jars to the surface for research. ‘Groundbreaking discovery’ The finding of the hundreds of intact ancient amphorae has been described as a “groundbreaking discovery” by the IAA. The Israeli authority also said that given the depth at which the shipwreck is, it has been undisturbed by waves, currents or fishermen for millennia. Therefore, the IAA believes that it offers a greater potential for research. “Only two other shipwrecks with cargo are known from the Late Bronze Age in the Mediterranean Sea…both found off the Turkish coast. Yet both of those shipwrecks were found relatively close to shore,” Jacob Sharvit, head of the IAA marine unit noted. The shipwreck, Sharvit said, has “tremendous potential” for research and since it was “preserved at such a great depth time has frozen since the moment of disaster.” According to the IAA, the discovery suggests that the navigational skills of ancient sailors were more advanced than previously thought. “The discovery of this boat now changes our entire understanding of ancient mariner abilities. It is the very first to be found at such a great distance with no line of sight to any landmass,” said Sharvit. Also Read | Does space travel impact eye health? Researchers investigate He also noted that up until this discovery, researchers were under the impression that the trade during this period was conducted by boats sailing close to the shore and “safely flitting from port to port”. “The discovery of this boat now changes our entire understanding of ancient mariner abilities. It is the very first to be found at such a great distance with no line of sight to any landmass,” said the official from the IAA. The finding, as per the Israeli official, also suggests that the sailors navigated using celestial bodies like the sun and star positions to find their way. (With inputs from agencies)

A 3,300-year-old shipwreck discovered off Israeli coast could rewrite history. Here's why

<p>The White House, on Thursday (Jun 20) expressed deep disappointment over criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the United States over&nbsp;weapons deliveries. This comes amid&nbsp;Israel fighting war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>White House calls criticism ‘vexing’</strong></h2>

<p>National Security Council spokesman John Kirby described Netanyahu’s allegations that the US is “withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel” from his country in recent months as “vexing” and “deeply disappointing.”</p>

<p>“Those comments were deeply disappointing and certainly vexing to us, given the amount of support that we have and will continue to provide,” Kirby told journalists.</p>

<p>He added, “No other country is doing more to help Israel defend itself against the threat by Hamas and, quite frankly, other threats that they’re facing in the region.”&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-cancels-high-level-israel-us-meeting-on-iran-733257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Earlier this week, the Israeli PM released a video saying that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had assured him that the Biden administration was working to lift restrictions on arms deliveries to Israel. However, Washington has not officially confirmed this exchange.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the conversation, which is typically kept confidential, the Israeli PM also told the US Secretary of State that it was “inconceivable” that Washington has been withholding weapons from Israel in the past few months.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden administration left fuming</strong></h2>

<p>A report by Axios citing two US officials said the White House cancelled a high-level US-Israel meeting on Iran that was scheduled for Thursday after the Israeli PM’s remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US President Joe Biden’s top advisers were reportedly enraged and baffled by the video – a message that was delivered to Netanyahu hours after the clip was published – and called off the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts,” the American official told Axios.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report citing an Israeli official said that the “Americans are fuming. Bibi’s video made a lot of damage.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, on Wednesday (Jun 19) said only one weapons shipment had been paused since the beginning of the war and that they have sent billions of dollars worth of weapons to Israel so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>“We genuinely do not know what he is talking about,” she said. Last month, Washington paused a shipment of 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs due to concern over the impact they could have in densely populated areas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel doubles down on criticism</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday, Netanyahu appeared to double down on his remarks and said that he is “prepared to suffer personal attacks provided that Israel receives the ammunition from the US that it needs in the war for its existence.”</p>

<p>However, this is not the first time that Biden and Netanyahu have gotten into a spat amid the ongoing war.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the US president said there is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-suggests-netanyahu-is-dragging-out-gaza-war-for-political-reasons-728818">“every reason”</a> for people to believe that Netanyahu is prolonging the Gaza war for his own political preservation.</p>

<p>The remarks came as Biden, ahead of the presidential election, is facing growing criticism for supporting Israel amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The White House, on Thursday (Jun 20) expressed deep disappointment over criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the United States over weapons deliveries.

The White House, on Thursday (Jun 20) expressed deep disappointment over criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the United States over weapons deliveries. This comes amid Israel fighting war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. White House calls criticism ‘vexing’ National Security Council spokesman John Kirby described Netanyahu’s allegations that the US is “withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel” from his country in recent months as “vexing” and “deeply disappointing.” “Those comments were deeply disappointing and certainly vexing to us, given the amount of support that we have and will continue to provide,” Kirby told journalists. He added, “No other country is doing more to help Israel defend itself against the threat by Hamas and, quite frankly, other threats that they’re facing in the region.” Earlier this week, the Israeli PM released a video saying that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had assured him that the Biden administration was working to lift restrictions on arms deliveries to Israel. However, Washington has not officially confirmed this exchange. During the conversation, which is typically kept confidential, the Israeli PM also told the US Secretary of State that it was “inconceivable” that Washington has been withholding weapons from Israel in the past few months. Biden administration left fuming A report by Axios citing two US officials said the White House cancelled a high-level US-Israel meeting on Iran that was scheduled for Thursday after the Israeli PM’s remarks. The US President Joe Biden’s top advisers were reportedly enraged and baffled by the video – a message that was delivered to Netanyahu hours after the clip was published – and called off the meeting. “This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts,” the American official told Axios. The report citing an Israeli official said that the “Americans are fuming. Bibi’s video made a lot of damage.” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, on Wednesday (Jun 19) said only one weapons shipment had been paused since the beginning of the war and that they have sent billions of dollars worth of weapons to Israel so far. Also Read | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report “We genuinely do not know what he is talking about,” she said. Last month, Washington paused a shipment of 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs due to concern over the impact they could have in densely populated areas in Gaza. Israel doubles down on criticism On Thursday, Netanyahu appeared to double down on his remarks and said that he is “prepared to suffer personal attacks provided that Israel receives the ammunition from the US that it needs in the war for its existence.” However, this is not the first time that Biden and Netanyahu have gotten into a spat amid the ongoing war. Earlier this month, the US president said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Netanyahu is prolonging the Gaza war for his own political preservation. The remarks came as Biden, ahead of the presidential election, is facing growing criticism for supporting Israel amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

White House fumes over Israeli PM’s criticism of US withholding weapons deliveries

<p>American forces on Wednesday (June 19) announced that they have destroyed two Houthi rebel sites in Yemen following a spate of ship attacks by the rebel group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"USCENTCOM forces successfully destroyed one ground control station and one command-and-control node," in a Houthi area of Yemen, the military command announced on X. CENTCOM also took out two Houthi "uncrewed surface vessels (USV) in the Red Sea" within the last 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, on Tuesday, CENTCOM reported destroying eight Houthi drones.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebels-believed-to-have-sunk-second-ship-in-red-sea-after-deadly-attack-733091">Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the MV Tutor, a merchant ship left abandoned after a Houthi attack last week, is believed to have sunk, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The ship, Liberia-flagged and owned by the Greeks, was hit by a sea drone and aerial projectile on June 12. A Filipino crew member&nbsp;believed to have been in the ship's engine room at the time of the attack was reportedly killed.</p>

<p>"Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor's) last reported location," said the UKMTO in a security update.&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-owned-coal-carrier-attacked-by-yemeni-houthi-militants-731997/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>It added, "The vessel is believed to have sunk."</p>

<p>Just a couple of months back, on March 2, a Houthi attack led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US and UK seek to weaken Houthis</strong></h2>

<p>The Houthis have been targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2023. These attacks, they claim, are in support of Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crew-abandons-cargo-ship-hit-in-missile-attack-by-houthi-rebels-us-military-732137">Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military</a></strong></p>

<p>In response to the attacks, the United States and the United Kingdom have launched strikes to weaken the Iran-backed rebels' attack capabilities. Additionally, as per AFP, an international effort has been trying to intercept drones and missiles fired at ships.</p>

<p>Since November, the Houthis, at war with a Saudi-led coalition after ousting the government from Sanaa in 2014, have launched numerous drone and missile attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. These attacks have driven up insurance costs for transiting vessels, causing many shipping firms to take the longer route around Africa's southern tip.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


American forces on Wednesday (June 19) announced that they have destroyed two Houthi rebel sites in Yemen following a spate of ship attacks by the rebel group. "USCENTCOM forces successfully destroyed one ground control station and one command-and-control node," in a Houthi area of Yemen, the military command announced on X.

American forces on Wednesday (June 19) announced that they have destroyed two Houthi rebel sites in Yemen following a spate of ship attacks by the rebel group. "USCENTCOM forces successfully destroyed one ground control station and one command-and-control node," in a Houthi area of Yemen, the military command announced on X. CENTCOM also took out two Houthi "uncrewed surface vessels (USV) in the Red Sea" within the last 24 hours. Previously, on Tuesday, CENTCOM reported destroying eight Houthi drones. Also read | Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack Meanwhile, the MV Tutor, a merchant ship left abandoned after a Houthi attack last week, is believed to have sunk, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The ship, Liberia-flagged and owned by the Greeks, was hit by a sea drone and aerial projectile on June 12. A Filipino crew member believed to have been in the ship's engine room at the time of the attack was reportedly killed. "Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor's) last reported location," said the UKMTO in a security update. It added, "The vessel is believed to have sunk." Just a couple of months back, on March 2, a Houthi attack led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. US and UK seek to weaken Houthis The Houthis have been targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2023. These attacks, they claim, are in support of Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war. Also read | Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military In response to the attacks, the United States and the United Kingdom have launched strikes to weaken the Iran-backed rebels' attack capabilities. Additionally, as per AFP, an international effort has been trying to intercept drones and missiles fired at ships. Since November, the Houthis, at war with a Saudi-led coalition after ousting the government from Sanaa in 2014, have launched numerous drone and missile attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. These attacks have driven up insurance costs for transiting vessels, causing many shipping firms to take the longer route around Africa's southern tip. (With inputs from agencies)

US forces destroy two Houthi targets in Yemen amid Red Sea ship attacks

<p>The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18). The international organisation also said that it faced a $40.8-billion funding shortfall across the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll in armed conflicts rises</strong></h2>

<p>The UN rights chief Volker Turk, on Tuesday, revealed the disturbing number of civilians being killed in armed conflicts across the world to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall, the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict soared by 72 per cent in 2023, said the UN rights chief citing the data gathered by his office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turk noted how killing and injuring of civilians as well as the destruction of vital infrastructure have become a “daily occurrence”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Children shot at. Hospitals bombed. Heavy artillery launched on entire communities. All along with hateful, divisive, and dehumanising rhetoric,” said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data, collected by the OHCHR, “horrifyingly” also indicates “that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior,” Turk said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Unconscionable death and suffering’</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem are suffering a drastically worsening human rights environment, alongside “unconscionable death and suffering” in Gaza, the UN rights chief said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turk also said he was “appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict” amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the UN data, over 120,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, have been killed or injured because of Israel’s military operation in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-at-least-17-palestinians-killed-in-israeli-strike-on-gaza-refugee-camp-732858">&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp</a></strong></p>

<p>The war in Gaza has also drawn focus away from the West Bank, where the Israeli army conducts nearly nightly, often deadly, raids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war in Gaza, in October through mid-June, 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, had been killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank, said Turk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, 23 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes with or attacks by Palestinians, said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turk went on to talk about the Ukraine war and ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Syria. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent wave of Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure has destroyed 68 per cent of the war-torn country’s electricity production capacity, “bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter,” said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of funds</strong></h2>

<p>According to Turk, as of the end of May this year the gap between the humanitarian funding requirements and available resources stood at $40.8 billion, which left appeals funded just 16.1 per cent on average.</p>

<p>On the other hand, the global military expenditure in 2023 was $2.5 trillion, which he said was “the steepest year-on-year increase since 2009”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In addition to inflicting unbearable human suffering, war comes with a hefty price tag,” the UN rights chief noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18).

The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18). The international organisation also said that it faced a $40.8-billion funding shortfall across the globe. Death toll in armed conflicts rises The UN rights chief Volker Turk, on Tuesday, revealed the disturbing number of civilians being killed in armed conflicts across the world to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Overall, the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict soared by 72 per cent in 2023, said the UN rights chief citing the data gathered by his office. Turk noted how killing and injuring of civilians as well as the destruction of vital infrastructure have become a “daily occurrence”. “Children shot at. Hospitals bombed. Heavy artillery launched on entire communities. All along with hateful, divisive, and dehumanising rhetoric,” said the UN rights chief. The data, collected by the OHCHR, “horrifyingly” also indicates “that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior,” Turk said. ‘Unconscionable death and suffering’ Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem are suffering a drastically worsening human rights environment, alongside “unconscionable death and suffering” in Gaza, the UN rights chief said. Turk also said he was “appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict” amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. According to the UN data, over 120,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, have been killed or injured because of Israel’s military operation in the Palestinian enclave. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp The war in Gaza has also drawn focus away from the West Bank, where the Israeli army conducts nearly nightly, often deadly, raids. Since the beginning of the war in Gaza, in October through mid-June, 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, had been killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank, said Turk. Meanwhile, 23 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes with or attacks by Palestinians, said the UN rights chief. Turk went on to talk about the Ukraine war and ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Syria. The recent wave of Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure has destroyed 68 per cent of the war-torn country’s electricity production capacity, “bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter,” said the UN rights chief. Lack of funds According to Turk, as of the end of May this year the gap between the humanitarian funding requirements and available resources stood at $40.8 billion, which left appeals funded just 16.1 per cent on average. On the other hand, the global military expenditure in 2023 was $2.5 trillion, which he said was “the steepest year-on-year increase since 2009”. “In addition to inflicting unbearable human suffering, war comes with a hefty price tag,” the UN rights chief noted. (With inputs from agencies)

Number of children killed due to armed conflicts tripled in one year: UN

<p>The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tutor&nbsp;'believed to have sunk'</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated, Tutor coal carrier was attacked and taking on water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor’s) last reported location,” said the UKMTO in a security update. It added, “The vessel is believed to have sunk.”</p>

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<p>The attack and sinking of the bulk carrier marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Houthis who have been targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor ever&nbsp;since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas began in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deadly attack by militant group</strong></h2>

<p>The Tutor came under attack on June 12. The vessel, as per reports, was struck by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the crew members, who is believed to have been in the ship’s engine room at the time of the attack, remains missing, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, on Monday (Jun 17) said that the attack killed “a crew member who hailed from the Philippines.” Manila has yet to confirm or acknowledge the reported death.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Houthis continue to attack in Red Sea</strong></h2>

<p>If confirmed,&nbsp;Tutor would be the second ship sunk by the Houthis,&nbsp;months&nbsp;after their attacks led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. The ship went down on March 2, about two weeks after being targeted by missiles.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crew-abandons-cargo-ship-hit-in-missile-attack-by-houthi-rebels-us-military-732137">Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military</a></strong></p>

<p>Last week, the crew on board M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged ship, was forced to abandon the vessel after they were unable to contain a fire sparked due to a missile attack by the Houthis in the Gulf of Aden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ship, which was reportedly loaded with wood construction material, had also sustained damage and is now drifting and vulnerable to sinking or further assaults.</p>

<p>Since the beginning of their campaign, which the Houthis claim is in support of the Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war, the militant group has seized vessels and killed three sailors in separate attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19).

The Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship in the Red Sea named the Tutor after allegedly killing one sailor on board, said media reports citing officials, on Wednesday (Jun 19). Tutor 'believed to have sunk' Last week, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated, Tutor coal carrier was attacked and taking on water. “Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor’s) last reported location,” said the UKMTO in a security update. It added, “The vessel is believed to have sunk.” The attack and sinking of the bulk carrier marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Houthis who have been targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor ever since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas began in Gaza. Deadly attack by militant group The Tutor came under attack on June 12. The vessel, as per reports, was struck by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat. One of the crew members, who is believed to have been in the ship’s engine room at the time of the attack, remains missing, reported Reuters. White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, on Monday (Jun 17) said that the attack killed “a crew member who hailed from the Philippines.” Manila has yet to confirm or acknowledge the reported death. Houthis continue to attack in Red Sea If confirmed, Tutor would be the second ship sunk by the Houthis, months after their attacks led to the sinking of the UK-owned Rubymar. The ship went down on March 2, about two weeks after being targeted by missiles. Also Read | Crew abandons cargo ship hit in missile attack by Houthi rebels: US military Last week, the crew on board M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged ship, was forced to abandon the vessel after they were unable to contain a fire sparked due to a missile attack by the Houthis in the Gulf of Aden. The ship, which was reportedly loaded with wood construction material, had also sustained damage and is now drifting and vulnerable to sinking or further assaults. Since the beginning of their campaign, which the Houthis claim is in support of the Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war, the militant group has seized vessels and killed three sailors in separate attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels believed to have sunk second ship in Red Sea after deadly attack

<p>A pro-Palestinian student group at Canada’s McGill University has sparked outrage after sharing an image of armed individuals and called for participation in a “revolutionary youth summer program”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the post</strong></h2>

<p>A student group at McGill called Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) and took to social media asking students to sign up for the “revolutionary” program to be held on the university campus in the Canadian city of Montreal this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We pledge to educate the youth of Montreal and redefine McGill’s ‘elite’ institutional legacy by transforming its space into one of revolutionary education,” the group said in a post on Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “The daily schedule will include physical activity, Arabic language instruction, cultural crafts, political discussions, historical and revolutionary lessons.”</p>

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<p>However, the image shared along with the post which featured masked, armed individuals reading communist literature drew criticism from the university, a Canadian Zionist organisation, and several social media users.</p>

<p>According to the Guardian, the photo of gunmen wearing keffiyeh scarves and reading Mao Zedong’s Little Red Book is an image of the Fatah faction of the Palestine Liberation Organisation taken in 1970. At the time, the Chinese Communist Party supported the Palestinian movement.</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, hundreds of universities across the world, including many in the United States and Canada, are witnessing months-long protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pro-Palestinian student protesters have even set up encampments on campuses and called on university officials to divest from Israel over its ongoing military operation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Extremely alarming’</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, on Friday (Jun 14) McGill president and vice-chancellor, Deep Saini called the use of the image “extremely alarming”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It should go without saying that imagery evoking violence is not a tool of peaceful expression or assembly,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saini also called the image a “worrying escalation” which goes well beyond what universities are equipped to manage and said that they have contacted Canadian authorities over the social media post and “other recent activities as matters of national security”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-israeli-group-for-blocking-gaza-aid-731894">US imposes sanctions on Israeli group for blocking Gaza aid</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the police in Montreal said that they have no plans to take action against the encampment at McGill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) released a statement calling on McGill to “dismantle the toxic encampment immediately, or the antisemitism, hate, intimidation &amp; harassment will continue to metastasize.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zeyad Abisaab, a student at Concordia University who volunteers at the McGill encampment said that the post is about the ongoing activities at the encampment including workshops and discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s a space for people to learn,” said Abisaab, as quoted by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). He also said that the image has been circulating in online pro-Palestinian spaces for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The post was also criticised by many on social media with several people calling it an “indoctrination” and “terrorist training” camp. On the other hand, some expressed support for the message and the program buy said that it was not the right image to use.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A pro-Palestinian student group at Canada’s McGill University has sparked outrage after sharing an image of armed individuals and called for participation in a “revolutionary youth summer program”.

A pro-Palestinian student group at Canada’s McGill University has sparked outrage after sharing an image of armed individuals and called for participation in a “revolutionary youth summer program”. About the post A student group at McGill called Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) and took to social media asking students to sign up for the “revolutionary” program to be held on the university campus in the Canadian city of Montreal this month. “We pledge to educate the youth of Montreal and redefine McGill’s ‘elite’ institutional legacy by transforming its space into one of revolutionary education,” the group said in a post on Instagram. It added, “The daily schedule will include physical activity, Arabic language instruction, cultural crafts, political discussions, historical and revolutionary lessons.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) McGill (@sphrmcgill) × However, the image shared along with the post which featured masked, armed individuals reading communist literature drew criticism from the university, a Canadian Zionist organisation, and several social media users. According to the Guardian, the photo of gunmen wearing keffiyeh scarves and reading Mao Zedong’s Little Red Book is an image of the Fatah faction of the Palestine Liberation Organisation taken in 1970. At the time, the Chinese Communist Party supported the Palestinian movement. Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, hundreds of universities across the world, including many in the United States and Canada, are witnessing months-long protests. Pro-Palestinian student protesters have even set up encampments on campuses and called on university officials to divest from Israel over its ongoing military operation in Gaza. ‘Extremely alarming’ In a statement, on Friday (Jun 14) McGill president and vice-chancellor, Deep Saini called the use of the image “extremely alarming”. “It should go without saying that imagery evoking violence is not a tool of peaceful expression or assembly,” he added. Saini also called the image a “worrying escalation” which goes well beyond what universities are equipped to manage and said that they have contacted Canadian authorities over the social media post and “other recent activities as matters of national security”. Also Read | US imposes sanctions on Israeli group for blocking Gaza aid However, the police in Montreal said that they have no plans to take action against the encampment at McGill. Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) released a statement calling on McGill to “dismantle the toxic encampment immediately, or the antisemitism, hate, intimidation & harassment will continue to metastasize.” Zeyad Abisaab, a student at Concordia University who volunteers at the McGill encampment said that the post is about the ongoing activities at the encampment including workshops and discussions. “It’s a space for people to learn,” said Abisaab, as quoted by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). He also said that the image has been circulating in online pro-Palestinian spaces for years. The post was also criticised by many on social media with several people calling it an “indoctrination” and “terrorist training” camp. On the other hand, some expressed support for the message and the program buy said that it was not the right image to use. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian university condemns ‘alarming’ image of armed fighters shared by pro-Palestinian student protesters

<p>Lebanon-backed militia group Hezbollah on Tuesday (June 11) announced that one of its commanders was killed in a strike carried out in southern Lebanon by the Israeli forces.&nbsp;After this, Hezbollah launched more than 100 rockets at northern Israel in retaliation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The killing of the Hezbollah commander has raised concerns regarding escalation in the conflict on another Israeli front.</p>

<p>Commander Taleb Abdallah, who was also known as Abu Taleb, is among the terror outfit's highest-ranking fighters in Lebanon who have been killed by Israel since the Hamas-led attack on October 7 led to the beginning of a war in the Gaza Strip. The situation also escalated tensions along the northern border of Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-evaluating-amendments-sought-by-hamas-in-gaza-ceasefire-proposal-730963">US 'evaluating' amendments sought by Hamas in Gaza ceasefire proposal</a></p>

<p>In Hezbollah, the role played by Abdallah was not immediately stated by the militants. Since January, a dead fighter has not been referred to as a &nbsp;“commander" by the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January, Hezbollah had said that Wissam Hassan al-Tawil - who was a commander in the group’s Radwan unit - died in a strike. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah on Tuesday (June 11) posted a photo of Abdallah, which indicated his seniority.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Hezbollah terror group announces the death of a senior commander in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon earlier tonight.<br />
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Hezbollah in a statement says Taleb Abdullah, from the south Lebanon town of Aadachit, was killed "on the road to Jerusalem," the terror group's term… <a href="https://t.co/FUQUrVhS2I">https://t.co/FUQUrVhS2I</a> <a href="https://t.co/QNR5dn7FW5">pic.twitter.com/QNR5dn7FW5</a></p>
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) <a href="https://twitter.com/manniefabian/status/1800649733360255089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a statement, the Iran-backed group said that Taleb Abdullah, who is from the south Lebanon town of Aadachit, died "on the road to Jerusalem".&nbsp; "On the road to Jerusalem" is the term used by the terror organisation for Israeli strikes.</p>

<h2><strong>Hezbollah launches 80 rockets at northern communities</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly 80 rockets were fired by Hezbollah at northern communities across the day amid escalating cross-border hostilities.</p>

<p>The Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Akhbar newspaper stated that at least four others were killed in the strike. Meanwhile, Lebanese security sources, while speaking to Reuters, said that three other Hezbollah operatives died in the strike.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: Hamas proposes new timeline for ceasefire, offers ammendments to US-backed proposals</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-hamas-proposes-new-timeline-for-ceasefire-offers-ammendments-to-us-backed-proposals-730946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The IDF stated that it struck a building used by Hezbollah, a rocket launching site and infrastructures in Aitaroun, southern Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military stated that a Hezbollah rocket-launching cell was also targeted in a drone strike in Deir Aames.</p>

<p>The IDF stated that after infiltration alerts in the north, a drone was successfully downed by the air defences after it crossed into Israel from Lebanon in the Upper Galilee region.</p>

<p>The IDF stated that airstrikes were launched on a site in the Baalbek region which belonged to Hezbollah’s Unit 4400, along with sites in southern Lebanon.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lebanon-backed militia group Hezbollah on Tuesday (June 11) announced that one of its commanders was killed in a strike carried out in southern Lebanon by the Israeli forces.

Lebanon-backed militia group Hezbollah on Tuesday (June 11) announced that one of its commanders was killed in a strike carried out in southern Lebanon by the Israeli forces. After this, Hezbollah launched more than 100 rockets at northern Israel in retaliation. The killing of the Hezbollah commander has raised concerns regarding escalation in the conflict on another Israeli front. Commander Taleb Abdallah, who was also known as Abu Taleb, is among the terror outfit's highest-ranking fighters in Lebanon who have been killed by Israel since the Hamas-led attack on October 7 led to the beginning of a war in the Gaza Strip. The situation also escalated tensions along the northern border of Israel. Also Read: US 'evaluating' amendments sought by Hamas in Gaza ceasefire proposal In Hezbollah, the role played by Abdallah was not immediately stated by the militants. Since January, a dead fighter has not been referred to as a “commander" by the group. In January, Hezbollah had said that Wissam Hassan al-Tawil - who was a commander in the group’s Radwan unit - died in a strike. Hezbollah on Tuesday (June 11) posted a photo of Abdallah, which indicated his seniority. The Hezbollah terror group announces the death of a senior commander in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon earlier tonight. Hezbollah in a statement says Taleb Abdullah, from the south Lebanon town of Aadachit, was killed "on the road to Jerusalem," the terror group's term… https://t.co/FUQUrVhS2I pic.twitter.com/QNR5dn7FW5 — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) June 11, 2024 × In a statement, the Iran-backed group said that Taleb Abdullah, who is from the south Lebanon town of Aadachit, died "on the road to Jerusalem". "On the road to Jerusalem" is the term used by the terror organisation for Israeli strikes. Hezbollah launches 80 rockets at northern communities Nearly 80 rockets were fired by Hezbollah at northern communities across the day amid escalating cross-border hostilities. The Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Akhbar newspaper stated that at least four others were killed in the strike. Meanwhile, Lebanese security sources, while speaking to Reuters, said that three other Hezbollah operatives died in the strike. Watch: Israel war: Hamas proposes new timeline for ceasefire, offers ammendments to US-backed proposals The IDF stated that it struck a building used by Hezbollah, a rocket launching site and infrastructures in Aitaroun, southern Lebanon. The military stated that a Hezbollah rocket-launching cell was also targeted in a drone strike in Deir Aames. The IDF stated that after infiltration alerts in the north, a drone was successfully downed by the air defences after it crossed into Israel from Lebanon in the Upper Galilee region. The IDF stated that airstrikes were launched on a site in the Baalbek region which belonged to Hezbollah’s Unit 4400, along with sites in southern Lebanon. 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)

More than 100 rockets fired towards Israel after the killing of Hezbollah commander

<p>Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military.</p>

<p>This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel's conscription plan</strong></h2>

<p>The conscription bill, which still requires further readings and committee hearings, proposes a gradual introduction of ultra-Orthodox Jews into military service. Historically, this group has resisted military service.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-we-voted-for-peace-un-security-council-overwhelmingly-backs-bidens-gaza-ceasefire-plan-730625">UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan</a></strong></p>

<p>The bill aims to increase ultra-Orthodox participation in the military, although their numbers would be limited and alternatives to military service would be allowed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men has been a divisive issue in Israel, where mandatory military service is seen as a cornerstone of national security. The debate has become particularly sensitive since the start of the Gaza war, which has resulted in over 600 Israeli soldiers&nbsp;losing their lives.</p>

<h2><strong>Gantz and the conscription bill</strong></h2>

<p>Although initially proposed by Gantz in 2022 under the previous government, he now opposes the bill, arguing it does not meet the new personnel needs of the military.</p>

<p>Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the last remaining general after the departures of Gantz and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, voted against the bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In contrast, religious parties within the coalition, who have traditionally opposed broad conscription expansions, supported the bill with the expectation of amending it during the review stage.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-unilateral-deal-with-hamas-for-release-of-american-captives-in-gaza-730591">US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a pro-settler party, emphasised the importance of integrating the ultra-Orthodox community without pushing them into a corner.</p>

<p>"We have a great opportunity that should not be missed. The ultra-Orthodox public must not be pushed into a corner," he said.</p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, Assaf Shapira, head of the political reform programme at the Israel Democracy Institute, commented, "There are those who supported it then and oppose it now because they see it as wrong for Israel now, and there are those who opposed it then and will support it now because they see an opportunity to change it."</p>

<h2><strong>Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli army, in an announcement, said that&nbsp;four Givati Brigade soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza's south. The soldiers have been identified as&nbsp;Tal Pshebilski Shaulov, 24-years-old from Gedera; Eitan Karlsbrun, 20-years-old from Modi'in; Almog Shalom, 19-years-old from Kibbutz Hamadia; and Yair Levin, 19-years old from Givat Harel.</p>

<p>The soldier's group, consisting of trainees, was struck by an explosion in a booby trapped building in Rafah's east Shabura neighbourhood.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military. This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war.

Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military. This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war. Israel's conscription plan The conscription bill, which still requires further readings and committee hearings, proposes a gradual introduction of ultra-Orthodox Jews into military service. Historically, this group has resisted military service. Also read | UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan The bill aims to increase ultra-Orthodox participation in the military, although their numbers would be limited and alternatives to military service would be allowed. Military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men has been a divisive issue in Israel, where mandatory military service is seen as a cornerstone of national security. The debate has become particularly sensitive since the start of the Gaza war, which has resulted in over 600 Israeli soldiers losing their lives. Gantz and the conscription bill Although initially proposed by Gantz in 2022 under the previous government, he now opposes the bill, arguing it does not meet the new personnel needs of the military. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the last remaining general after the departures of Gantz and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, voted against the bill. In contrast, religious parties within the coalition, who have traditionally opposed broad conscription expansions, supported the bill with the expectation of amending it during the review stage. Also read | US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a pro-settler party, emphasised the importance of integrating the ultra-Orthodox community without pushing them into a corner. "We have a great opportunity that should not be missed. The ultra-Orthodox public must not be pushed into a corner," he said. Speaking to Reuters, Assaf Shapira, head of the political reform programme at the Israel Democracy Institute, commented, "There are those who supported it then and oppose it now because they see it as wrong for Israel now, and there are those who opposed it then and will support it now because they see an opportunity to change it." Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza The Israeli army, in an announcement, said that four Givati Brigade soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza's south. The soldiers have been identified as Tal Pshebilski Shaulov, 24-years-old from Gedera; Eitan Karlsbrun, 20-years-old from Modi'in; Almog Shalom, 19-years-old from Kibbutz Hamadia; and Yair Levin, 19-years old from Givat Harel. The soldier's group, consisting of trainees, was struck by an explosion in a booby trapped building in Rafah's east Shabura neighbourhood. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel votes to revive controversial ultra-Orthodox conscription law following Gantz's resignation

<p>Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest.</p>

<p>The building in the northern suburbs of Australia's largest city was attacked and sprayed with paint by a person carrying a small sledgehammer at around 3 a.m. local time on Monday.</p>

<p>"I would just say that people should have respectful political debate and discourse," Albanese said in a televised media conference from Canberra when asked about the incident.</p>

<p>"Measures such as painting the U.S. Consulate do nothing to advance the cause of those who have committed what is of course a crime to damage property," he added.</p>

<p>Nine windows of the consulate were damaged and the building's door was graffitied, police said.</p>

<p>"CCTV has been sourced that shows a person wearing a dark coloured hoodie with their face obscured carrying what appears to be a small sledgehammer," a police spokesperson told Reuters by phone.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the U.S. consulate confirmed the building had been damaged but said staff and operations were unaffected.</p>

<p>"Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police are investigating the incident," the spokesperson said in a statement.</p>

<p>Photos of the consulate on the website of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper showed inverted red triangles sprayed on the building's front. The symbol is used by some pro-Palestinian activists, it reported.</p>

<p>The same building was sprayed with graffiti in April, while the U.S. consulate in Melbourne was graffitied by pro-Palestine activists in May, according to the newspaper.</p>

<p>Long a stalwart ally of Israel, Australia has become increasingly critical of its conduct in Gaza, where an Australian aid worker was killed in an Israeli attack earlier this year.</p>

<p>Last month, camps sprang up at universities in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities protesting Israel's war in Gaza and claiming the Australian government has not done enough to push for peace.</p>


Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest.

Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest. The building in the northern suburbs of Australia's largest city was attacked and sprayed with paint by a person carrying a small sledgehammer at around 3 a.m. local time on Monday. "I would just say that people should have respectful political debate and discourse," Albanese said in a televised media conference from Canberra when asked about the incident. "Measures such as painting the U.S. Consulate do nothing to advance the cause of those who have committed what is of course a crime to damage property," he added. Nine windows of the consulate were damaged and the building's door was graffitied, police said. "CCTV has been sourced that shows a person wearing a dark coloured hoodie with their face obscured carrying what appears to be a small sledgehammer," a police spokesperson told Reuters by phone. A spokesperson for the U.S. consulate confirmed the building had been damaged but said staff and operations were unaffected. "Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police are investigating the incident," the spokesperson said in a statement. Photos of the consulate on the website of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper showed inverted red triangles sprayed on the building's front. The symbol is used by some pro-Palestinian activists, it reported. The same building was sprayed with graffiti in April, while the U.S. consulate in Melbourne was graffitied by pro-Palestine activists in May, according to the newspaper. Long a stalwart ally of Israel, Australia has become increasingly critical of its conduct in Gaza, where an Australian aid worker was killed in an Israeli attack earlier this year. Last month, camps sprang up at universities in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities protesting Israel's war in Gaza and claiming the Australian government has not done enough to push for peace.

Australia PM condemns graffiti attack on US consulate in Sydney

<p>The&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces has accused a journalist, associated with Al Jazeera news organisation, of holding three of the four hostages who were freed in a raid on Saturday (June 8).</p>

<p>Al Jazeera's writer Abdallah Aljamal was killed by the IDF during its dramatic rescue mission in Nuseirat in the Gaza Strip. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdallah Aljamal, who was also a spokesman for the Hamas-run labour ministry, was killed by the special forces soldiers who entered his home in central Gaza to rescue hostages Almog Meir Jan, 21, Andri Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 41, said the Israeli military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to X, the IDF wrote, "'Journalist' Abdallah Aljamal was a Hamas terrorist holding Almog, Andrey and Shlomi hostage in his family’s home in Nuseirat.&nbsp;No press vest can make him innocent of the crimes he has committed. @AlJazeera what’s this terrorist doing on your website?"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-drops-dramatic-footage-of-rescue-of-four-hamas-hostages-in-complex-daytime-operation-730368">Israel drops dramatic footage showing rescue of 3 of four hostages in 'complex daytime operation'</a></p>

<p>The IDF further alleged on Sunday (June 9) that the hostages were held by Aljamal inside his family home.</p>

<p>“This is further proof that the Hamas terrorist organization uses the civilian population as a human shield,” said the IDF in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Aljamal's Al Jazeera connection</strong></h2>

<p>Aljamal has been listed by Al Jazeera as an author on its website, and he reportedly wrote at least one article for the media organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Jerusalem bureau chief of the now-closed Al Jazeera office Omar al-Walid said that Aljamal was not working for Al Jazeera, reported the Times of Israel.</p>

<p>"This man is not from Al Jazeera, and he did not work for Al Jazeera at all, and he is not listed as working for Al Jazeera neither now nor in the past," said al-Walid.</p>

<p>“We do not know him, and all the rumours that have been spread are empty of content and not true at all,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel: Benny Gantz quits war cabinet; accuses Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-benny-gantz-quits-war-cabinet-accuses-netanyahu-of-preventing-true-victory-730459/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Arabic-language news network further stated that they would sue those who are spreading false rumours regarding connections between al-Walid and Al-Jazeera, reported Times of Israel.</p>

<p>Imran Khan, who is a senior correspondent on&nbsp;Al Jazeera's English channel, stated on Instagram that Aljamal worked as a freelancer in the past.</p>

<p>"The individual in question who was killed in the raid along with his family was, at one point, a freelance journalist. He has never worked for&nbsp;Al Jazeera&nbsp;Arabic or English," Khan wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Israel Defense Forces has accused a journalist, associated with Al Jazeera news organisation, of holding three of the four hostages who were freed in a raid on Saturday (June 8).

The Israel Defense Forces has accused a journalist, associated with Al Jazeera news organisation, of holding three of the four hostages who were freed in a raid on Saturday (June 8). Al Jazeera's writer Abdallah Aljamal was killed by the IDF during its dramatic rescue mission in Nuseirat in the Gaza Strip. Abdallah Aljamal, who was also a spokesman for the Hamas-run labour ministry, was killed by the special forces soldiers who entered his home in central Gaza to rescue hostages Almog Meir Jan, 21, Andri Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 41, said the Israeli military. Taking to X, the IDF wrote, "'Journalist' Abdallah Aljamal was a Hamas terrorist holding Almog, Andrey and Shlomi hostage in his family’s home in Nuseirat. No press vest can make him innocent of the crimes he has committed. @AlJazeera what’s this terrorist doing on your website?" Also Read: Israel drops dramatic footage showing rescue of 3 of four hostages in 'complex daytime operation' The IDF further alleged on Sunday (June 9) that the hostages were held by Aljamal inside his family home. “This is further proof that the Hamas terrorist organization uses the civilian population as a human shield,” said the IDF in a statement. Aljamal's Al Jazeera connection Aljamal has been listed by Al Jazeera as an author on its website, and he reportedly wrote at least one article for the media organisation. However, Jerusalem bureau chief of the now-closed Al Jazeera office Omar al-Walid said that Aljamal was not working for Al Jazeera, reported the Times of Israel. "This man is not from Al Jazeera, and he did not work for Al Jazeera at all, and he is not listed as working for Al Jazeera neither now nor in the past," said al-Walid. “We do not know him, and all the rumours that have been spread are empty of content and not true at all,” he added. Watch: Israel: Benny Gantz quits war cabinet; accuses Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory' The Arabic-language news network further stated that they would sue those who are spreading false rumours regarding connections between al-Walid and Al-Jazeera, reported Times of Israel. Imran Khan, who is a senior correspondent on Al Jazeera's English channel, stated on Instagram that Aljamal worked as a freelancer in the past. "The individual in question who was killed in the raid along with his family was, at one point, a freelance journalist. He has never worked for Al Jazeera Arabic or English," Khan wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel alleges Al Jazeera journalist held three hostages, media group denies connection

<p>Lebanon-backed Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel that triggered forest fires across the region on Tuesday (June 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli authorities initiated rescue efforts to contain the spread of fire that engulfed residential areas in border towns and villages.</p>

<p>Israel Fire and Rescue Services released a statement saying that the fires began on Monday (June 3) and had already shrouded thousands of acres of land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of this time, there are three active sites" near the border with Lebanon, the Israel Fire and Rescue Service posted on X earlier Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blaze progressed towards Kiryat Shmona, a town where daily exchanges of fire between the army and Hezbollah since Hamas' Oct 7 assault against Israel prompted a mass evacuation.</p>

<p>On Sunday (Jun 2), a rocket fired from Lebanon hit the town of Katzrin causing a brush fire in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights that torched nearly 10 square kilometres of land.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-netanyahu-to-address-us-congress-over-jewish-holiday-728637">Israel denies Netanyahu to address US Congress over Jewish holiday</a></p>

<p>The blaze was reported in Alma al-Shaab and Dhayra villages, situated near the border with Israel, as per Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA).</p>

<p>It said the fires were caused by "Israeli phosphorus incendiary shells".</p>

<p>The Israeli military said that it had deployed reinforcements to back the firefighters who were swamped by the scale of the fires.</p>

<p>"Six... reservist soldiers were lightly injured as a result of smoke inhalation and transferred to a hospital to receive medical treatment," the army said.</p>

<p>"The forces gained control over the locations of fire, and at this stage, no human life is at risk," it added.</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that it was closely monitoring the situation.</p>

<p>Government spokesman David Mencer said that attacks launched by Hezbollah "have caused significant fires".</p>

<p>In some areas of northern Israel firefighters had been battling "fire for almost 24 hours in extreme weather conditions while striving to reach out and save lives, and prevent damage to property," Mencer said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lebanon-backed Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel that triggered forest fires across the region on Tuesday (June 4). The Israeli authorities initiated rescue efforts to contain the spread of fire that engulfed residential areas in border towns and villages.

Lebanon-backed Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel that triggered forest fires across the region on Tuesday (June 4). The Israeli authorities initiated rescue efforts to contain the spread of fire that engulfed residential areas in border towns and villages. Israel Fire and Rescue Services released a statement saying that the fires began on Monday (June 3) and had already shrouded thousands of acres of land. "As of this time, there are three active sites" near the border with Lebanon, the Israel Fire and Rescue Service posted on X earlier Tuesday. The blaze progressed towards Kiryat Shmona, a town where daily exchanges of fire between the army and Hezbollah since Hamas' Oct 7 assault against Israel prompted a mass evacuation. On Sunday (Jun 2), a rocket fired from Lebanon hit the town of Katzrin causing a brush fire in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights that torched nearly 10 square kilometres of land. Also read: Israel denies Netanyahu to address US Congress over Jewish holiday The blaze was reported in Alma al-Shaab and Dhayra villages, situated near the border with Israel, as per Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA). It said the fires were caused by "Israeli phosphorus incendiary shells". The Israeli military said that it had deployed reinforcements to back the firefighters who were swamped by the scale of the fires. "Six... reservist soldiers were lightly injured as a result of smoke inhalation and transferred to a hospital to receive medical treatment," the army said. "The forces gained control over the locations of fire, and at this stage, no human life is at risk," it added. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that it was closely monitoring the situation. Government spokesman David Mencer said that attacks launched by Hezbollah "have caused significant fires". In some areas of northern Israel firefighters had been battling "fire for almost 24 hours in extreme weather conditions while striving to reach out and save lives, and prevent damage to property," Mencer said. (With inputs from agencies)

Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation. The remark has since drawn criticism from the Israeli government which accused the US president of straying from diplomatic norms.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Every reason to believe’</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with Time magazine, published on Tuesday, when asked whether he thought Netanyahu was prolonging the war for political reasons, Biden said, “I’m not going to comment on that.” He added, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The Biden trap: Can Netanyahu get out of it?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-gaza-war-the-biden-trap-can-netanyahu-get-out-of-it-728428/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Notably, the Israeli PM’s popularity plummeted after Hamas launched its October 7 attack which took Israel by surprise and exposed serious flaws in the country’s security. However, a recent poll suggests otherwise and says Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president’s remarks were made during the interview on May 28 and came before he pitched a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-israels-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">three-phase ceasefire&nbsp;plan</a> to end the almost eight-month-long war in Gaza, on Friday (May 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also told the magazine that it is “uncertain” whether Israeli forces committed war crimes in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president said that he had previously warned Israel not to make the same mistake that Washington made after the 9/11 attacks which led to “endless wars",&nbsp;adding that “they’re making that mistake.”</p>

<p>Biden, last week, called on the Israeli leadership to accept the deal and resist pressure from those who are pushing for the war in Gaza to go on “indefinitely".</p>

<p>“They want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years and hostages are not a priority for them…I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli government criticises Biden</strong></h2>

<p>When asked about the interview, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said it was “outside the diplomatic norms of every right-thinking country” for Biden to make such comments about Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu’s popularity rises</strong></h2>

<p>Opinion polls since the October 7 attack indicate that while Israelis support the war in Gaza, they blame Netanyahu for the security failures, and would vote him out if there was an election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, political analysts have&nbsp;indicated that the Israeli PM would lose if elections were held now.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-deems-bidens-gaza-proposal-partial-but-says-plan-can-kick-off-without-full-agreement-728394">Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement</a></strong></p>

<p>However, a poll conducted by Israel’s Channel 12, on May 29, suggests that Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity after struggling politically for more than a year. He even outpolled his main rival Benny Gantz for the first time since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked who was better suited to serve as PM, 36 per cent of the 500 Israeli voters who participated in the survey chose Netanyahu and 30 per cent supported Gantz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incumbent Israeli PM was also ahead of opposition leader Yair Lapid.</p>

<p>However, the poll, with a 4.4 per cent margin of error, seems to contradict the discontent observed in Israel as the country has been witnessing months of, often violent, protests with people calling on Netanyahu to resign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation.

United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation. The remark has since drawn criticism from the Israeli government which accused the US president of straying from diplomatic norms. ‘Every reason to believe’ In an interview with Time magazine, published on Tuesday, when asked whether he thought Netanyahu was prolonging the war for political reasons, Biden said, “I’m not going to comment on that.” He added, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.” WATCH | The Biden trap: Can Netanyahu get out of it? Notably, the Israeli PM’s popularity plummeted after Hamas launched its October 7 attack which took Israel by surprise and exposed serious flaws in the country’s security. However, a recent poll suggests otherwise and says Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity. The US president’s remarks were made during the interview on May 28 and came before he pitched a three-phase ceasefire plan to end the almost eight-month-long war in Gaza, on Friday (May 31). Biden also told the magazine that it is “uncertain” whether Israeli forces committed war crimes in the Palestinian enclave. The US president said that he had previously warned Israel not to make the same mistake that Washington made after the 9/11 attacks which led to “endless wars", adding that “they’re making that mistake.” Biden, last week, called on the Israeli leadership to accept the deal and resist pressure from those who are pushing for the war in Gaza to go on “indefinitely". “They want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years and hostages are not a priority for them…I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes,” he added. Israeli government criticises Biden When asked about the interview, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said it was “outside the diplomatic norms of every right-thinking country” for Biden to make such comments about Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s popularity rises Opinion polls since the October 7 attack indicate that while Israelis support the war in Gaza, they blame Netanyahu for the security failures, and would vote him out if there was an election. Similarly, political analysts have indicated that the Israeli PM would lose if elections were held now. Also Read | Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement However, a poll conducted by Israel’s Channel 12, on May 29, suggests that Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity after struggling politically for more than a year. He even outpolled his main rival Benny Gantz for the first time since the beginning of the war. When asked who was better suited to serve as PM, 36 per cent of the 500 Israeli voters who participated in the survey chose Netanyahu and 30 per cent supported Gantz. The incumbent Israeli PM was also ahead of opposition leader Yair Lapid. However, the poll, with a 4.4 per cent margin of error, seems to contradict the discontent observed in Israel as the country has been witnessing months of, often violent, protests with people calling on Netanyahu to resign. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden suggests Netanyahu is dragging out Gaza war for political reasons

<p>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Jun 5) said that his country was all set for a "very strong action in the north" stating that his forces would restore security "one way or another" after the Iran-backed Hezbollah group launched missiles triggering forest fires across the region.</p>

<p>The exchanges have intensified between Israel and the Lebanon-backed militant group over the past week, with Israel launching strikes into Lebanese territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Whoever thinks that they can harm us and we will sit idly by is making a big mistake. We are prepared for a very strong action in the north," Netanyahu said during a tour of the area. "In one way or another, we will restore security to the north."</p>

<p>Hezbollah said that it hit several Israeli positions during the day, including a "guided missile" strike on an "Iron Dome platform in the Ramot Naftali barracks".</p>

<p>Netanyahu's coalition partners National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, in recent days, have called for immediate action to strengthen security across northern Israel.</p>

<p>"They burn us here, all Hezbollah strongholds should also burn and be destroyed. WAR!" Ben Gvir said on Tuesday in a Telegram post.</p>

<p>Smotrich on Monday said, "We must move the security strip from inside Israeli territory in the Galilee to southern Lebanon, including a ground invasion, occupation of the territory and distancing Hezbollah terrorists and hundreds of thousands of Lebanese among whom Hezbollah hides to the other side of the Litani river," nearly 30 kilometres (20 miles) north of the border.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-phasing-out-use-of-military-run-detention-camps-for-captured-palestinians-729045">Gaza war: Israel phasing out use of military-run detention camps</a></p>

<h2><strong>Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu's remarks come as Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel that triggered forest fires across the region on Tuesday (June 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli authorities said that they had initiated rescue efforts to contain the spread of fire that engulfed residential areas in border towns and villages.</p>

<p>Israel Fire and Rescue Services released a statement saying that the fires began on Monday (June 3) and had already shrouded thousands of acres of land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of this time, there are three active sites" near the border with Lebanon, the Israel Fire and Rescue Service posted on X earlier Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Jun 5) said that his country was all set for a "very strong action in the north" stating that his forces would restore security "one way or another" after the Iran-backed Hezbollah group launched missiles triggering forest fires across the region.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Jun 5) said that his country was all set for a "very strong action in the north" stating that his forces would restore security "one way or another" after the Iran-backed Hezbollah group launched missiles triggering forest fires across the region. The exchanges have intensified between Israel and the Lebanon-backed militant group over the past week, with Israel launching strikes into Lebanese territory. "Whoever thinks that they can harm us and we will sit idly by is making a big mistake. We are prepared for a very strong action in the north," Netanyahu said during a tour of the area. "In one way or another, we will restore security to the north." Hezbollah said that it hit several Israeli positions during the day, including a "guided missile" strike on an "Iron Dome platform in the Ramot Naftali barracks". Netanyahu's coalition partners National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, in recent days, have called for immediate action to strengthen security across northern Israel. "They burn us here, all Hezbollah strongholds should also burn and be destroyed. WAR!" Ben Gvir said on Tuesday in a Telegram post. Smotrich on Monday said, "We must move the security strip from inside Israeli territory in the Galilee to southern Lebanon, including a ground invasion, occupation of the territory and distancing Hezbollah terrorists and hundreds of thousands of Lebanese among whom Hezbollah hides to the other side of the Litani river," nearly 30 kilometres (20 miles) north of the border. Also read: Gaza war: Israel phasing out use of military-run detention camps Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel Netanyahu's remarks come as Hezbollah launched missiles targeting northern Israel that triggered forest fires across the region on Tuesday (June 4). The Israeli authorities said that they had initiated rescue efforts to contain the spread of fire that engulfed residential areas in border towns and villages. Israel Fire and Rescue Services released a statement saying that the fires began on Monday (June 3) and had already shrouded thousands of acres of land. "As of this time, there are three active sites" near the border with Lebanon, the Israel Fire and Rescue Service posted on X earlier Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu says country prepared for ‘very intense operation’ on Lebanon border

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu's office on Tuesday denied American media reports that he will address the US Congress on June 13, amid mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's office told Israeli media the date of his speech to Congress had "not been finalised", but it would not be on June 13 because it interferes with a Jewish holiday. The date had been reported by Punchbowl News and Politico.</p>

<p>Speculation about the visit comes with&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;facing intense criticism over the civilian death toll in the war in Gaza, which has ratcheted tension with President Joe Biden's administration.</p>

<p>Biden on Friday presented what he labelled an Israeli three-phase plan that would end the conflict, free all hostages and lead to the reconstruction of the devastated Palestinian territory without Hamas in power.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's office stressed that the war sparked by the October 7 attack would continue until all of Israel's "goals are achieved," including the destruction of Hamas's military and governing capabilities.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northern-israel-battles-fires-sparked-by-hezbollah-attacks-728508">Northern Israel battles fires sparked by Hezbollah attacks</a></p>

<p>The four party leaders in the House and Senate asked&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;last week to speak before a&nbsp;joint meeting of Congress in a letter voicing solidarity with Israel "in your struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive."</p>

<p>Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called in March for Israel to hold new elections in a rare example of strident criticism from a senior American official of the country's handling of the war in Gaza.</p>

<p>The rebuke from Schumer, the highest-ranking elected Jewish American in history, came amid expressions of dismay from the White House over the death toll in the conflict, sparked by the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants.</p>

<p>Progressives including Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who votes with the Democrats, have condemned&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;over his handling of the military response and vowed to snub any speech in the United States by the right-wing leader.</p>

<p>"It is a very sad day for our country that Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;has been invited - by leaders from both parties - to address a joint meeting of the United States Congress," Sanders said in a weekend statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: Hezbollah launched rockets on Israel from Lebanon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-hezbollah-launched-rockets-on-israel-from-lebanon-728567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Israel, of course, had the right to defend itself against the horrific Hamas terrorist attack of&nbsp;October 7, but it did not, and does not, have the right to go to war against the entire Palestinian people," he added, calling&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;a "war criminal".</p>

<p>The war broke out when Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in 1,194 deaths, mostly civilians, according to an AFP count based on official figures.</p>

<p>More than 36,470 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the war broke out, according to data provided by the&nbsp;health&nbsp;ministry of&nbsp;Hamas-run Gaza.</p>

<p>According to the Israeli military, 294 soldiers have been killed in the military campaign since the start of the ground offensive on October 27. House Speaker Mike Johnson's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Tuesday denied American media reports that he will address the US Congress on June 13, amid mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Tuesday denied American media reports that he will address the US Congress on June 13, amid mounting pressure to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas. Netanyahu's office told Israeli media the date of his speech to Congress had "not been finalised", but it would not be on June 13 because it interferes with a Jewish holiday. The date had been reported by Punchbowl News and Politico. Speculation about the visit comes with Netanyahu facing intense criticism over the civilian death toll in the war in Gaza, which has ratcheted tension with President Joe Biden's administration. Biden on Friday presented what he labelled an Israeli three-phase plan that would end the conflict, free all hostages and lead to the reconstruction of the devastated Palestinian territory without Hamas in power. Netanyahu's office stressed that the war sparked by the October 7 attack would continue until all of Israel's "goals are achieved," including the destruction of Hamas's military and governing capabilities. Also Read: Northern Israel battles fires sparked by Hezbollah attacks The four party leaders in the House and Senate asked Netanyahu last week to speak before a joint meeting of Congress in a letter voicing solidarity with Israel "in your struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive." Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called in March for Israel to hold new elections in a rare example of strident criticism from a senior American official of the country's handling of the war in Gaza. The rebuke from Schumer, the highest-ranking elected Jewish American in history, came amid expressions of dismay from the White House over the death toll in the conflict, sparked by the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants. Progressives including Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who votes with the Democrats, have condemned Netanyahu over his handling of the military response and vowed to snub any speech in the United States by the right-wing leader. "It is a very sad day for our country that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited - by leaders from both parties - to address a joint meeting of the United States Congress," Sanders said in a weekend statement. Watch: Israel war: Hezbollah launched rockets on Israel from Lebanon "Israel, of course, had the right to defend itself against the horrific Hamas terrorist attack of October 7, but it did not, and does not, have the right to go to war against the entire Palestinian people," he added, calling Netanyahu a "war criminal". The war broke out when Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in 1,194 deaths, mostly civilians, according to an AFP count based on official figures. More than 36,470 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the war broke out, according to data provided by the health ministry of Hamas-run Gaza. According to the Israeli military, 294 soldiers have been killed in the military campaign since the start of the ground offensive on October 27. House Speaker Mike Johnson's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Israel denies Netanyahu to address US Congress over Jewish holiday

<p>Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv</strong></h2>

<p>While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up &amp; publicly accept' truce deal</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-urges-netanyahu-to-stand-up-publicly-accept-truce-deal-families-demand-hostages-return-727931/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Police and protesters clash</strong></h2>

<p>Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Thank you, President Biden’</strong></h2>

<p>Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-by-israel-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">three-phase Israeli proposal</a> to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli ministers threaten to quit</strong></h2>

<p>Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.

Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack. At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack. Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections. WATCH | Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up & publicly accept' truce deal Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country. The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7. Police and protesters clash Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media. A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered. Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it. At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet. ‘Thank you, President Biden’ Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza. Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group. “A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.” Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”. Israeli ministers threaten to quit Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan. Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”. Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal. Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.” He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Biden save them from Netanyahu’: 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv against Israeli govt, demand hostage deal

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-lays-out-three-phases-of-israels-ceasefire-proposal-says-its-time-to-end-war-727553">unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal</a> to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the proposal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘It’s time for this war to end’</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about the plan, the US president said that Israel’s ceasefire proposal will have three phases which will begin with a six-week complete ceasefire, see the return of hostages in Gaza, the release of Palestinians from Israeli jails, and reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave which has been destroyed amid months of fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” said Biden in a televised speech from the White House. He added, “Israel has offered a comprehensive new proposal. It’s a roadmap to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden says time for Gaza war to end</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-us-president-joe-biden-says-time-for-gaza-war-to-end-727777/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This comes as the incumbent president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has faced pressure from people in his own party as well as Americans who have criticised the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-storm-brooklyn-museum-unfurl-banner-police-arrest-several-727612">Biden administration’s support for Israel</a> in the ongoing war amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel which sparked the war in Gaza, led to the deaths of at least 1,200 people and around 250 others were taken by the militant group to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to the Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has since launched a military operation into Gaza which has killed more than 36,000 people, mostly civilians, as claimed by the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the three-phase plan</strong></h2>

<p>The <strong>first phase</strong> will include a ceasefire, partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and release of some hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that the first phase of Israel’s offer would last six weeks and would also include a “full and complete” ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from “all populated areas” of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This phase would also see the release of a number of hostages including “women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners,” said the US president. It also includes talks between Israel and Hamas to get to the next phase of the proposal.</p>

<p>Additionally, Palestinian civilians will return to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza. This comes as the Israeli military’s evacuation orders have led to the displacing of 1.7 million people, more than 75 per cent of Gaza’s population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a part of the first phase, humanitarian assistance will increase to 600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza per day. “With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <strong>second phase</strong> will include a “permanent end to hostilities” after negotiations, said Biden and the release of all remaining hostages. However, he noted that this phase could take longer than six weeks due to the differences between the two sides; during this time, the ceasefire will continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel will want to make sure its interests are protected but the proposal says if the negotiations take longer than six weeks from phase one, the ceasefire will still continue for as long as negotiations continue,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US, Qatar and Egypt will ensure that talks continue until “all agreements are reached” during this period, said Biden. The second phase will also see the release of the rest of the hostages who are alive including male soldiers, while Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, a temporary ceasefire will become – in the words of the Israeli proposal – the cessation of hostilities permanently,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <strong>third and last phase</strong> would include a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza and any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even if the ongoing war in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebuilding-gaza-to-at-least-16-years-and-cost-around-30-to-40-billion-un-717472">report by the United Nations</a>, earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has “devastated Hamas forces over the past eight months,” said Biden, adding that at this point “Hamas no longer is capable of carrying out another Oct. 7.”</p>

<p>Arab nations and the international community will also help in Gaza rebuilding efforts, but in a “manner that does not allow Hamas to rearm,” the US president added. Washington will work with its partners to rebuild homes, schools and hospitals in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas reacts ‘positively’</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas, on Friday, said that it “considers positively” the Israeli plan towards a full ceasefire in Gaza. During his speech, the US president urged the militant group to accept the proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group, in a statement, said that it “considers positively” Biden’s speech about “a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reconstruction and the exchange of prisoners”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the war, there have been multiple rounds of talks between Israel and Hamas, but except for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-says-hostage-release-to-start-7am-friday-first-13-captives-to-be-out-at-4pm-662051">one week-long ceasefire in November</a> to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners from Israel, there has been no progress.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu says war will not end</strong></h2>

<p>Amid some hope after Biden’s speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to throw cold water on peace talks saying that the war will not end until the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-offering-gaza-peace-roadmap-netanyahu-says-war-will-not-end-until-elimination-of-hamas-727660">“elimination” of Hamas</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu’s office said that he “authorised the negotiating team to present an outline for achieving (the return of hostages), while insisting that the war will not end until all of its goals are achieved…”</p>

<p>The aims include “return of all our hostages and the elimination of Hamas's military and governmental capabilities,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, on Friday, accused Israel of “using negotiations as a cover to continue its aggression” and said that the Palestinian militant group “refuses to be a part of these manoeuvres”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Netanyahu’s government has been facing near-daily protests for multiple reasons including the war in Gaza. After Biden’s speech, families of Israeli hostages also called on all parties to immediately accept the recent proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We want to see people coming back from Gaza alive and soon,” Gili Roman, whose sister, Yarden Roman-Gat, was taken hostage and freed during the ceasefire in November, told the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Yarden’s sister-in-law, Carmel, is still being held in the Palestinian enclave. “This might be the last chance to save lives. Therefore, the current state must be changed and we expect all to adhere to Biden’s call for accepting the deal on the table, immediately,” Gili added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>Hundreds of thousands of Gazans are moving out of Rafah, where up to 1.4 million people displaced due to the war were sheltering after the Israeli military began striking the city which was once said to be a safe zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Friday that the humanitarian situation was “dire” despite Washington’s efforts to increase the amount of aid entering Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Food Programme (WFP) said daily life had become “apocalyptic” in southern Gaza after Israel began its assault on Rafah in early May.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war.

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the proposal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by Hamas. ‘It’s time for this war to end’ Speaking about the plan, the US president said that Israel’s ceasefire proposal will have three phases which will begin with a six-week complete ceasefire, see the return of hostages in Gaza, the release of Palestinians from Israeli jails, and reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave which has been destroyed amid months of fighting. “It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” said Biden in a televised speech from the White House. He added, “Israel has offered a comprehensive new proposal. It’s a roadmap to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.” WATCH | US President Joe Biden says time for Gaza war to end This comes as the incumbent president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has faced pressure from people in his own party as well as Americans who have criticised the Biden administration’s support for Israel in the ongoing war amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel which sparked the war in Gaza, led to the deaths of at least 1,200 people and around 250 others were taken by the militant group to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to the Israeli officials. Israel has since launched a military operation into Gaza which has killed more than 36,000 people, mostly civilians, as claimed by the Hamas-run health ministry. About the three-phase plan The first phase will include a ceasefire, partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and release of some hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Biden said that the first phase of Israel’s offer would last six weeks and would also include a “full and complete” ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from “all populated areas” of Gaza. This phase would also see the release of a number of hostages including “women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners,” said the US president. It also includes talks between Israel and Hamas to get to the next phase of the proposal. Additionally, Palestinian civilians will return to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza. This comes as the Israeli military’s evacuation orders have led to the displacing of 1.7 million people, more than 75 per cent of Gaza’s population. As a part of the first phase, humanitarian assistance will increase to 600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza per day. “With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it,” said Biden. The second phase will include a “permanent end to hostilities” after negotiations, said Biden and the release of all remaining hostages. However, he noted that this phase could take longer than six weeks due to the differences between the two sides; during this time, the ceasefire will continue. “Israel will want to make sure its interests are protected but the proposal says if the negotiations take longer than six weeks from phase one, the ceasefire will still continue for as long as negotiations continue,” said the US president. The US, Qatar and Egypt will ensure that talks continue until “all agreements are reached” during this period, said Biden. The second phase will also see the release of the rest of the hostages who are alive including male soldiers, while Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza. “And as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, a temporary ceasefire will become – in the words of the Israeli proposal – the cessation of hostilities permanently,” said the US president. The third and last phase would include a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza and any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families,” said Biden. Even if the ongoing war in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said a report by the United Nations, earlier this month. Israel has “devastated Hamas forces over the past eight months,” said Biden, adding that at this point “Hamas no longer is capable of carrying out another Oct. 7.” Arab nations and the international community will also help in Gaza rebuilding efforts, but in a “manner that does not allow Hamas to rearm,” the US president added. Washington will work with its partners to rebuild homes, schools and hospitals in the Palestinian enclave. Hamas reacts ‘positively’ Hamas, on Friday, said that it “considers positively” the Israeli plan towards a full ceasefire in Gaza. During his speech, the US president urged the militant group to accept the proposal. The Palestinian militant group, in a statement, said that it “considers positively” Biden’s speech about “a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reconstruction and the exchange of prisoners”. Amid the war, there have been multiple rounds of talks between Israel and Hamas, but except for a one week-long ceasefire in November to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners from Israel, there has been no progress. Netanyahu says war will not end Amid some hope after Biden’s speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to throw cold water on peace talks saying that the war will not end until the “elimination” of Hamas. Netanyahu’s office said that he “authorised the negotiating team to present an outline for achieving (the return of hostages), while insisting that the war will not end until all of its goals are achieved…” The aims include “return of all our hostages and the elimination of Hamas's military and governmental capabilities,” it added. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, on Friday, accused Israel of “using negotiations as a cover to continue its aggression” and said that the Palestinian militant group “refuses to be a part of these manoeuvres”. Notably, Netanyahu’s government has been facing near-daily protests for multiple reasons including the war in Gaza. After Biden’s speech, families of Israeli hostages also called on all parties to immediately accept the recent proposal. “We want to see people coming back from Gaza alive and soon,” Gili Roman, whose sister, Yarden Roman-Gat, was taken hostage and freed during the ceasefire in November, told the Associated Press. However, Yarden’s sister-in-law, Carmel, is still being held in the Palestinian enclave. “This might be the last chance to save lives. Therefore, the current state must be changed and we expect all to adhere to Biden’s call for accepting the deal on the table, immediately,” Gili added. Situation in Gaza Hundreds of thousands of Gazans are moving out of Rafah, where up to 1.4 million people displaced due to the war were sheltering after the Israeli military began striking the city which was once said to be a safe zone. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Friday that the humanitarian situation was “dire” despite Washington’s efforts to increase the amount of aid entering Gaza. The World Food Programme (WFP) said daily life had become “apocalyptic” in southern Gaza after Israel began its assault on Rafah in early May. (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.

Explained: Biden details Israel’s new three-phase ceasefire proposal amid Gaza war. What is it about?

<p>Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election.</p>

<p>"The head of the National Union Party, Pnina Tamano-Shata, has put forward a bill to dissolve the 25th Knesset. This follows the request of party leader Minister Benny Gantz to move forward in broad agreement to an election before October, a year since the massacre," said the political party, in a statement.</p>

<p>The submission of the bill is seen as an attempt to topple Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-uncovers-15-kilometre-long-terrorist-tunnel-route-in-eastern-rafah-727109">Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah</a></p>

<p>National Unity MK Pnina Tamano-Shata had submitted the proposal to dissolve Israel’s parliament, Israel Hayom reported.</p>

<p>Countering the bill, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party said that "the dissolution of the unity government is a reward for (Hamas Gaza leader Yahya) Sinwar, a capitulation to international pressure and a fatal blow to efforts to free our hostages".</p>

<p>In Israel, the election is not due before the final quarter of 2026 and earlier, the Likud party had warned that holding an early election would harm the fight against Hamas in Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>Gantz's deadline for Netanyahu to draw a plan of action&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This month, Gantz threatened to resign from the war cabinet if Netanyahu did not finalise a post-war plan for the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>He had earlier threatened to leave the coalition of Netanyahu if the president did not sketch a plan for the Gaza war.</p>

<p>“I look you in the eyes tonight and tell you: The choice is in your hands. After talking to you again and again, the moment of truth has come,” Gantz said.</p>

<p>He gave a deadline of June 8 to Netanyahu for finalising a plan of action and to finalise six key strategic goals of the war.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war may go on for next 7 months: Israel</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-may-go-on-for-next-7-months-israel-726898/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The strategic goals listed by Netanyahu are - bringing home the hostages; destroying Hamas, creating an “international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza” including Palestinians but not P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas or Hamas; advancing normalisation with Saudi Arabia and establishing a new framework for Israelis’ military service; demilitarizing the Gaza Strip and establishing Israeli security control there and returning the residents to the north and rehabilitating the western Negev.</p>

<p>Gantz in April had stated that Israel should go to the elections in September. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had also criticised Netanyahu for not being able to rule out an Israeli occupation of Gaza after the war.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election.

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's centrist party on Thursday (May 30) said that they had submitted a bill seeking to dissolve the parliament and have an early election. "The head of the National Union Party, Pnina Tamano-Shata, has put forward a bill to dissolve the 25th Knesset. This follows the request of party leader Minister Benny Gantz to move forward in broad agreement to an election before October, a year since the massacre," said the political party, in a statement. The submission of the bill is seen as an attempt to topple Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. Also Read: Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah National Unity MK Pnina Tamano-Shata had submitted the proposal to dissolve Israel’s parliament, Israel Hayom reported. Countering the bill, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party said that "the dissolution of the unity government is a reward for (Hamas Gaza leader Yahya) Sinwar, a capitulation to international pressure and a fatal blow to efforts to free our hostages". In Israel, the election is not due before the final quarter of 2026 and earlier, the Likud party had warned that holding an early election would harm the fight against Hamas in Gaza. Gantz's deadline for Netanyahu to draw a plan of action This month, Gantz threatened to resign from the war cabinet if Netanyahu did not finalise a post-war plan for the Gaza Strip. He had earlier threatened to leave the coalition of Netanyahu if the president did not sketch a plan for the Gaza war. “I look you in the eyes tonight and tell you: The choice is in your hands. After talking to you again and again, the moment of truth has come,” Gantz said. He gave a deadline of June 8 to Netanyahu for finalising a plan of action and to finalise six key strategic goals of the war. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war may go on for next 7 months: Israel The strategic goals listed by Netanyahu are - bringing home the hostages; destroying Hamas, creating an “international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza” including Palestinians but not P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas or Hamas; advancing normalisation with Saudi Arabia and establishing a new framework for Israelis’ military service; demilitarizing the Gaza Strip and establishing Israeli security control there and returning the residents to the north and rehabilitating the western Negev. Gantz in April had stated that Israel should go to the elections in September. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had also criticised Netanyahu for not being able to rule out an Israeli occupation of Gaza after the war. 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)

Netanyahu to lose power? Gantz's centrist party submits bill to dissolve Israeli parliament

<p>Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>145 countries now recognise a Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>The three European countries joined 142 others out of the 193 members of the United Nations which have recognised a Palestinian state.</p>

<p>The group of now 145 countries includes a number of nations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. However, the list does not include any major countries like the United States, Canada, most of western Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Spain, Norway &amp; Ireland formally recognise Palestinian state</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-norway-ireland-formally-recognise-palestinian-state-726387/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, Spain, Ireland and Norway are hoping to change that. The three countries believe that by acting together other European countries will follow suit for a diplomatic push to help secure a ceasefire in Gaza as well as bring back the hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel led to the killing of 1,200 people, and around 250 others were taken back to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>EU countries and Palestine</strong></h2>

<p>Before European Union countries, Ireland and Spain, joined the list only seven members of the 27-nation bloc had officially recognised a Palestinian state. Out of which, six had announced recognition back in 1988 prior to the creation of the bloc. In 2014, Sweden became the first EU nation to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also seems like the efforts by the three countries&nbsp;have worked as EU member Slovenia is set to recognise Palestinian statehood in June after Prime Minister Robert Golob said his government will forward its decision to parliament for final approval, on Thursday (May 30).&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, despite many European countries criticising Israel for its military operation in Gaza, the 27-nation bloc remains divided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some countries in the EU have sought to recognise a Palestinian state in hopes of eventually bringing peace in the Middle East, while other countries like Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands staunchly support <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-netanyahu-helped-grow-hamas-which-became-the-frankensteins-monster-for-him-651336">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>’s government.</p>

<p>Finnish President Alexander Stubb, according to the state media, has also said that they would also recognise Palestine “at some stage in the future”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France has previously indicated that it will not join other countries in recognising a Palestinian state, with Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne accusing fellow EU members of making the move as part of “political positioning,” instead of seeking a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.</p>

<h2><strong>Three countries&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez, on Tuesday (May 28) announcing the move said that “this is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace.”</p>

<p>He also said that the decision is not against Israel whom Sánchez called a “friendly people whom we respect, whom we appreciate and with whom we want to have the best possible relationship.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-norway-recognise-palestinian-statehood-ireland-to-follow-suit-726323">Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes</a></strong></p>

<p>Ireland and Norway soon joined Spain in formalising the decision which they had jointly announced a week prior and hoped their decision will accelerate efforts towards securing a ceasefire amid the way which is now in its eighth month.</p>

<p>The countries said that they recognised a Palestinian state based on borders established before the war in 1967, with Jerusalem as the capital of both Israel and Palestine.</p>

<p>However, they acknowledged that those borders might change if any eventual talks take place for a two-state solution to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-core-israel-palestine-issues-whats-the-future-of-peace-attempts-646716">Israeli-Palestinian conflict</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Palestinian flag was raised in Dublin outside Leinster House, the seat of Ireland’s parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I hope (this) sends the Palestinian people a message of hope that – in this their darkest hour – Ireland stands with them,” Irish PM Simon Harris told lawmakers after his cabinet approved the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Ireland has time and time again voiced its support for Palestinians and condemned Israel for its military operation in the blockaded enclave which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 36,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, in a statement, said Oslo has been one of the “strongest advocates for a Palestinian state” and called it a “milestone in the relationship between Norway and Palestine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ireland said it would appoint an ambassador and create a full embassy in the West Bank’s Ramallah. Meanwhile, Norway will upgrade its diplomatic office in the West Bank to an embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spain, for now, said it will maintain its consulate in Jerusalem. However, Israel said that the consulate won’t be allowed to attend to Palestinians.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has opposed “unilateral recognition” of a Palestinian state, saying that it “should be realised through direct negotiations between the parties.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel’s reaction</strong></h2>

<p>As expected, the decision taken by the three countries left Israel fuming. After the announcement by the Spanish PM, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz quickly lashed out at Madrid saying that Sánchez’s government was “being complicit in inciting genocide against Jews and war crimes.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-reward-for-terror-netanyahu-blasts-ireland-norway-spain-for-recognising-palestinian-state-724448">‘It’s reward for terror’: Netanyahu blasts Ireland, Norway, Spain for recognising Palestinian state</a></strong></p>

<p>Israeli officials also summoned the countries’ ambassadors in Tel Aviv to the foreign ministry where they were filmed while being shown videos of Hamas’ attacks and abductions on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Netanyahu called it a “reward for terror” saying that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a “terror state” that would “try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Will recognition make a difference?</strong></h2>

<p>While the decision by the three nations is mostly symbolic, since they aren’t recognising an existing state, just the possibility of one, it does help enhance the Palestinians’ international standing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Palestinians have long sought an independent state which would be made up of Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To make it happen, the idea of a land corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank through Israel was discussed in previous rounds of peace talks, but nothing came of them and negotiations have not been held in more than 15 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accused-of-failing-miserably-as-war-cabinet-members-press-for-israel-elections-726873">Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The recognition, particularly by Spain, Ireland and Norway, also makes Israel look more isolated on the international stage amid a wave of criticism against Israeli military operations in Gaza and Netanyahu and heaps more pressure on Israel to open negotiations on ending the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Countries that recognise Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>India was among the first countries to officially recognise an independent Palestinian state on November 15, 1988, during the first Palestinian intifada (uprising) when Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat unilaterally proclaimed an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.</p>

<p>Algeria became the first country to do so, and within a few weeks India, Turkey, most of Africa and several central and eastern European countries followed suit.</p>

<p>The next wave of recognition was in late 2010 and early 2011 with South American countries including Argentina, Brazil and Chile joining the list in response to Israel ending its temporary ban on Jewish settlement building in the occupied West Bank.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas. 145 countries now recognise a Palestinian state The three European countries joined 142 others out of the 193 members of the United Nations which have recognised a Palestinian state. The group of now 145 countries includes a number of nations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. However, the list does not include any major countries like the United States, Canada, most of western Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea. WATCH | Spain, Norway & Ireland formally recognise Palestinian state However, Spain, Ireland and Norway are hoping to change that. The three countries believe that by acting together other European countries will follow suit for a diplomatic push to help secure a ceasefire in Gaza as well as bring back the hostages. The Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel led to the killing of 1,200 people, and around 250 others were taken back to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to Israeli officials. EU countries and Palestine Before European Union countries, Ireland and Spain, joined the list only seven members of the 27-nation bloc had officially recognised a Palestinian state. Out of which, six had announced recognition back in 1988 prior to the creation of the bloc. In 2014, Sweden became the first EU nation to do so. It also seems like the efforts by the three countries have worked as EU member Slovenia is set to recognise Palestinian statehood in June after Prime Minister Robert Golob said his government will forward its decision to parliament for final approval, on Thursday (May 30). However, despite many European countries criticising Israel for its military operation in Gaza, the 27-nation bloc remains divided. Some countries in the EU have sought to recognise a Palestinian state in hopes of eventually bringing peace in the Middle East, while other countries like Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands staunchly support Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Finnish President Alexander Stubb, according to the state media, has also said that they would also recognise Palestine “at some stage in the future”. France has previously indicated that it will not join other countries in recognising a Palestinian state, with Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne accusing fellow EU members of making the move as part of “political positioning,” instead of seeking a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Three countries recognise Palestinian state Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez, on Tuesday (May 28) announcing the move said that “this is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace.” He also said that the decision is not against Israel whom Sánchez called a “friendly people whom we respect, whom we appreciate and with whom we want to have the best possible relationship.” Also Read | Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes Ireland and Norway soon joined Spain in formalising the decision which they had jointly announced a week prior and hoped their decision will accelerate efforts towards securing a ceasefire amid the way which is now in its eighth month. The countries said that they recognised a Palestinian state based on borders established before the war in 1967, with Jerusalem as the capital of both Israel and Palestine. However, they acknowledged that those borders might change if any eventual talks take place for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. On Tuesday, the Palestinian flag was raised in Dublin outside Leinster House, the seat of Ireland’s parliament. “I hope (this) sends the Palestinian people a message of hope that – in this their darkest hour – Ireland stands with them,” Irish PM Simon Harris told lawmakers after his cabinet approved the decision. Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Ireland has time and time again voiced its support for Palestinians and condemned Israel for its military operation in the blockaded enclave which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 36,000 people. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, in a statement, said Oslo has been one of the “strongest advocates for a Palestinian state” and called it a “milestone in the relationship between Norway and Palestine.” Ireland said it would appoint an ambassador and create a full embassy in the West Bank’s Ramallah. Meanwhile, Norway will upgrade its diplomatic office in the West Bank to an embassy. Spain, for now, said it will maintain its consulate in Jerusalem. However, Israel said that the consulate won’t be allowed to attend to Palestinians. US President Joe Biden has opposed “unilateral recognition” of a Palestinian state, saying that it “should be realised through direct negotiations between the parties.” Israel’s reaction As expected, the decision taken by the three countries left Israel fuming. After the announcement by the Spanish PM, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz quickly lashed out at Madrid saying that Sánchez’s government was “being complicit in inciting genocide against Jews and war crimes.” Also Watch | ‘It’s reward for terror’: Netanyahu blasts Ireland, Norway, Spain for recognising Palestinian state Israeli officials also summoned the countries’ ambassadors in Tel Aviv to the foreign ministry where they were filmed while being shown videos of Hamas’ attacks and abductions on October 7. Meanwhile, Netanyahu called it a “reward for terror” saying that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a “terror state” that would “try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th”. Will recognition make a difference? While the decision by the three nations is mostly symbolic, since they aren’t recognising an existing state, just the possibility of one, it does help enhance the Palestinians’ international standing. Palestinians have long sought an independent state which would be made up of Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war. To make it happen, the idea of a land corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank through Israel was discussed in previous rounds of peace talks, but nothing came of them and negotiations have not been held in more than 15 years. Also Read | Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections The recognition, particularly by Spain, Ireland and Norway, also makes Israel look more isolated on the international stage amid a wave of criticism against Israeli military operations in Gaza and Netanyahu and heaps more pressure on Israel to open negotiations on ending the war. Countries that recognise Palestinian state India was among the first countries to officially recognise an independent Palestinian state on November 15, 1988, during the first Palestinian intifada (uprising) when Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat unilaterally proclaimed an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Algeria became the first country to do so, and within a few weeks India, Turkey, most of Africa and several central and eastern European countries followed suit. The next wave of recognition was in late 2010 and early 2011 with South American countries including Argentina, Brazil and Chile joining the list in response to Israel ending its temporary ban on Jewish settlement building in the occupied West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognise Palestinian statehood. Here’s why it matters

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”. The strike on tent camps, according to the Gaza health ministry killed at least 45&nbsp;people and injured nearly 250 others.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Tragic accident’</strong></h2>

<p>“In Rafah, we evacuated a million uninvolved residents and, despite our best efforts, a tragic accident happened yesterday,” the Israeli PM told the parliament (Knesset), adding that they are investigating the case and will draw conclusions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after the deadly strike in Rafah, but Netanyahu struck a defiant tone during his address while being heckled by relatives of hostages held in Gaza and vowed to keep up the ongoing military operation in the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry</a></strong></p>

<p>“There is no substitute for absolute victory,” said Netanyahu. The Israeli PM also denounced the pressure which his government has been facing since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They pressured us then…Don’t enter Gaza. We entered! Do not enter Shifa! We entered! Do not enter Khan Yunis! We entered! Do not enter Rafah! We entered!” said the Israeli PM listing the military operations which Israel carried out in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I don’t give up and I won’t give up! I stand up to pressures from home and abroad.”</p>

<p>A survivor&nbsp;said families were preparing to sleep when the strike hit the Tel Al-Sultan neighbourhood where thousands were sheltering there after Israeli forces began a ground offensive in the east of Rafah over two weeks ago.</p>

<p>“We were praying...and we were getting our children’s beds ready to sleep. There was nothing unusual, then we heard a very loud noise, and fire erupted around us,” Umm Mohamed Al-Attar, a Palestinian mother, told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rafah strike sparks international criticism&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with SkyTG24 TV, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza were no longer justifiable in one of the strongest criticisms Rome has made so far against Israel amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is an increasingly difficult situation, in which the Palestinian people are being squeezed without regard for the rights of innocent men, women and children who have nothing to do with Hamas and this can no longer be justified,” said Crosetto, adding,&nbsp;“We are watching the situation with despair.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he was “horrified by news coming out of Rafah”. He added, “I condemn this in the strongest terms”. He also accused Netanyahu of using false claims of antisemitism against the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his own political ends.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptian-soldier-killed-after-exchange-of-fire-with-israeli-forces-near-rafah-crossing-reports-725985">Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the African Union accused Israel of violating international law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel “continues to violate international law with impunity and in contempt of an ICJ (International Court of Justice) ruling two days ago ordering an end to its military action in Rafah,” said AU Commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat on X.</p>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would do “everything possible” to hold “barbaric” Netanyahu accountable after the strikes in Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk &nbsp;said that the images from the camp which was struck by Israel “are horrific and point to no apparent change in the methods and means of warfare used by Israel that have already led to so many civilian deaths.”</p>

<p>The UN has also urged Israel to conduct a&nbsp;"thorough and transparent" investigation into a strike and "hold those responsible for any wrongdoing to account."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”. The strike on tent camps, according to the Gaza health ministry killed at least 45 people and injured nearly 250 others. ‘Tragic accident’ “In Rafah, we evacuated a million uninvolved residents and, despite our best efforts, a tragic accident happened yesterday,” the Israeli PM told the parliament (Knesset), adding that they are investigating the case and will draw conclusions. Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after the deadly strike in Rafah, but Netanyahu struck a defiant tone during his address while being heckled by relatives of hostages held in Gaza and vowed to keep up the ongoing military operation in the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas. Also Read | Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry “There is no substitute for absolute victory,” said Netanyahu. The Israeli PM also denounced the pressure which his government has been facing since the beginning of the war. “They pressured us then…Don’t enter Gaza. We entered! Do not enter Shifa! We entered! Do not enter Khan Yunis! We entered! Do not enter Rafah! We entered!” said the Israeli PM listing the military operations which Israel carried out in the Palestinian enclave. He added, “I don’t give up and I won’t give up! I stand up to pressures from home and abroad.” A survivor said families were preparing to sleep when the strike hit the Tel Al-Sultan neighbourhood where thousands were sheltering there after Israeli forces began a ground offensive in the east of Rafah over two weeks ago. “We were praying...and we were getting our children’s beds ready to sleep. There was nothing unusual, then we heard a very loud noise, and fire erupted around us,” Umm Mohamed Al-Attar, a Palestinian mother, told Reuters. Rafah strike sparks international criticism In an interview with SkyTG24 TV, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza were no longer justifiable in one of the strongest criticisms Rome has made so far against Israel amid the ongoing war. “There is an increasingly difficult situation, in which the Palestinian people are being squeezed without regard for the rights of innocent men, women and children who have nothing to do with Hamas and this can no longer be justified,” said Crosetto, adding, “We are watching the situation with despair.” European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he was “horrified by news coming out of Rafah”. He added, “I condemn this in the strongest terms”. He also accused Netanyahu of using false claims of antisemitism against the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his own political ends. Also Read | Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border Meanwhile, the African Union accused Israel of violating international law. Israel “continues to violate international law with impunity and in contempt of an ICJ (International Court of Justice) ruling two days ago ordering an end to its military action in Rafah,” said AU Commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat on X. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would do “everything possible” to hold “barbaric” Netanyahu accountable after the strikes in Rafah. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk said that the images from the camp which was struck by Israel “are horrific and point to no apparent change in the methods and means of warfare used by Israel that have already led to so many civilian deaths.” The UN has also urged Israel to conduct a "thorough and transparent" investigation into a strike and "hold those responsible for any wrongdoing to account." (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid international outcry

<p>Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about ‘shooting incident’</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the confirmation by Egypt, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said officials were in contact with Cairo following “a shooting incident” on the Gaza-Egypt border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to media reports, there were armed clashes between Israeli and Egyptian forces near the Rafah crossing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;45 killed in Israeli strikes on Rafah tent camp</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-45-killed-in-israeli-strikes-on-rafah-tent-camp-726025/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“A few hours ago there was a shooting incident on the Egyptian border, the (incident) is under investigation, dialogue is taking place with the Egyptian side,” said the IDF in a statement, as quoted by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Egyptian military took to X and said that one of its soldiers was killed and that it was investigating the “shooting incident.”</p>

<p>“The Egyptian Armed Forces are conducting an investigation through the competent authorities regarding a shooting incident in the border area in Rafah, which led to the martyrdom of one of the personnel,” said the Egyptian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the Israeli news site Ynet citing anonymous Israeli military sources said that Egypt was responsible for the deadly exchange of fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Israeli media report, Egyptian forces opened fire on Israeli troops at the Rafah crossing and Israel retaliated. The incident also reportedly left several Egyptian troops injured.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 45 killed after Israeli strike on Rafah&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after at least 45 Palestinians were killed following a strike on tent camps in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the Hamas-run health ministry at least 45 people, including 23 women, children and elderly were killed and 249 others were wounded after the Israeli strike. However, Israel has said that the attack was aimed at a Hamas compound and the army regretted any harm to non-combatants.</p>

<p>“We're looking into this,” said Israeli government spokesman Avi Hyman speaking about the strike in Rafah, adding that it was “definitely grave.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Any loss of life, civilian life, is grave and is awful. We seek to go after Hamas and limit civilian casualties...This is an unfolding story.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave.

Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave. What we know about ‘shooting incident’ Prior to the confirmation by Egypt, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said officials were in contact with Cairo following “a shooting incident” on the Gaza-Egypt border. According to media reports, there were armed clashes between Israeli and Egyptian forces near the Rafah crossing. WATCH | 45 killed in Israeli strikes on Rafah tent camp “A few hours ago there was a shooting incident on the Egyptian border, the (incident) is under investigation, dialogue is taking place with the Egyptian side,” said the IDF in a statement, as quoted by the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, the Egyptian military took to X and said that one of its soldiers was killed and that it was investigating the “shooting incident.” “The Egyptian Armed Forces are conducting an investigation through the competent authorities regarding a shooting incident in the border area in Rafah, which led to the martyrdom of one of the personnel,” said the Egyptian military. A report by the Israeli news site Ynet citing anonymous Israeli military sources said that Egypt was responsible for the deadly exchange of fire. According to the Israeli media report, Egyptian forces opened fire on Israeli troops at the Rafah crossing and Israel retaliated. The incident also reportedly left several Egyptian troops injured. At least 45 killed after Israeli strike on Rafah Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after at least 45 Palestinians were killed following a strike on tent camps in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah. Also Read | Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry According to the Hamas-run health ministry at least 45 people, including 23 women, children and elderly were killed and 249 others were wounded after the Israeli strike. However, Israel has said that the attack was aimed at a Hamas compound and the army regretted any harm to non-combatants. “We're looking into this,” said Israeli government spokesman Avi Hyman speaking about the strike in Rafah, adding that it was “definitely grave.” He added, “Any loss of life, civilian life, is grave and is awful. We seek to go after Hamas and limit civilian casualties...This is an unfolding story.” (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.

Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border

<p>Four US Army vessels which were supporting the temporary pier built by the United States to deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, have been swept away due to heavy seas, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), on Saturday (May 25).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to US Army vessels?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the CENTCOM said during the transportation of humanitarian aid, the floating deck disconnected from the small boat tugging it and that the vessels broke free from their moorings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The vessels broke free from their moorings and two vessels are now anchored on the beach near the pier. The third and fourth vessels are beached on the coast of Israel near Ashkelon,” said CENTCOM.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-truce-talks-likely-to-resume-next-week-as-pressure-piles-on-pm-netanyahu-725372">Israel-Hamas war: Truce talks likely to resume next week as pressure piles on PM Netanyahu&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>It added, “No US personnel will enter Gaza. No injuries have been reported and the pier remains fully functional.” The US forces also said that the Israeli navy is assisting with recovering the vessels.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Pentagon, according to Al Jazeera, stressed that the pier remained fully functional and also emphasised that throughout this operation of retrieving US Army vessels, American personnel would not enter Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In March, US President Joe Biden had said that the pier would be built to alleviate restrictions imposed by Israel on aid delivery by land to Palestinians in Gaza amid criticism that this is a costly alternative to asking Israel to open all land crossings to the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Millions of Gazans have been deprived of most clean water, food, medicines and fuel due to Israel’s ongoing siege on the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The construction of the $320 million pier which also involved 1,000 US service members was completed earlier this month to provide aid to the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Friday (May 24), the CENTCOM said 1,005 metric tons of aid had been delivered from the sea to the beach transfer point with 903 metric tons distributed from the transfer point to the United Nations warehouse.</p>

<p>The UN World Food Programme “took possession of 97 trucks since the floating dock came into operation” on May 17 Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, told reporters on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 10 killed in drone attack on Gaza school</strong></h2>

<p>On the other hand, at least 10 people, including children, have been killed after a drone strike hit the school they were sheltering in, reported CNN citing local health workers, on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pilot-killed-in-crash-of-wwii-era-spitfire-near-raf-coningsby-in-lincolnshire-725435">Pilot killed in crash of WWII-era Spitfire near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire</a></strong></p>

<p>People had reportedly been sheltering in Al-Nazla school in Saftawy, on the outskirts of northern Gaza’s Jabalia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An eyewitness told CNN that his son-in-law was being treated for injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that a man who was “making bread for his children, thinking this was a safe space” was killed along with his daughter and son.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Four US Army vessels which were supporting the temporary pier built by the United States to deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, have been swept away due to heavy seas, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), on Saturday (May 25).

Four US Army vessels which were supporting the temporary pier built by the United States to deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, have been swept away due to heavy seas, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM), on Saturday (May 25). What happened to US Army vessels? In a statement, the CENTCOM said during the transportation of humanitarian aid, the floating deck disconnected from the small boat tugging it and that the vessels broke free from their moorings. “The vessels broke free from their moorings and two vessels are now anchored on the beach near the pier. The third and fourth vessels are beached on the coast of Israel near Ashkelon,” said CENTCOM. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Truce talks likely to resume next week as pressure piles on PM Netanyahu It added, “No US personnel will enter Gaza. No injuries have been reported and the pier remains fully functional.” The US forces also said that the Israeli navy is assisting with recovering the vessels. Meanwhile, the Pentagon, according to Al Jazeera, stressed that the pier remained fully functional and also emphasised that throughout this operation of retrieving US Army vessels, American personnel would not enter Gaza. In March, US President Joe Biden had said that the pier would be built to alleviate restrictions imposed by Israel on aid delivery by land to Palestinians in Gaza amid criticism that this is a costly alternative to asking Israel to open all land crossings to the Palestinian enclave. Millions of Gazans have been deprived of most clean water, food, medicines and fuel due to Israel’s ongoing siege on the Palestinian enclave. The construction of the $320 million pier which also involved 1,000 US service members was completed earlier this month to provide aid to the Gaza Strip. As of Friday (May 24), the CENTCOM said 1,005 metric tons of aid had been delivered from the sea to the beach transfer point with 903 metric tons distributed from the transfer point to the United Nations warehouse. The UN World Food Programme “took possession of 97 trucks since the floating dock came into operation” on May 17 Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, told reporters on Friday. At least 10 killed in drone attack on Gaza school On the other hand, at least 10 people, including children, have been killed after a drone strike hit the school they were sheltering in, reported CNN citing local health workers, on Saturday. Also Read | Pilot killed in crash of WWII-era Spitfire near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire People had reportedly been sheltering in Al-Nazla school in Saftawy, on the outskirts of northern Gaza’s Jabalia. An eyewitness told CNN that his son-in-law was being treated for injuries. He also said that a man who was “making bread for his children, thinking this was a safe space” was killed along with his daughter and son. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

US Army vessels supporting Gaza aid pier washed away in heavy seas: CENTCOM

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidHupiwcy1tVm3" /></p>

<p>Israel War Cabinet's member Benny Gantz hinted that the military of the country is not likely to change its course in the Rafah invasion even after the top UN court on Friday (May 24 ) gave the order to halt the widening offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The International Court of Justice (ICJ)&nbsp;ordered Israel to immediately stop the ongoing military offensive in Rafah, which is located in southern Gaza. However, it did not order a complete ceasefire.</p>

<p>Even though Israel is not likely to comply with the court's order, it will increase the pressure on the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments were made by Gantz after the top UN court gave an order to halt the Rafah offensive as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remained silent over the entire issue.</p>

<p>Gantz said that Israel “set out on a just and necessary campaign following the brutal massacre of its citizens".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-court-orders-israel-to-immediately-halt-offensive-in-rafah-725010">World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah</a></p>

<p>“We will continue operating&nbsp;in accordance with&nbsp;international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has said that accusations made about Tel Aviv carrying out a genocide in Gaza are “false, outrageous and morally repugnant.”</p>

<p>“Israel has not and will not conduct military actions in the Rafah area which may inflict on the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part,” said Netanyahu’s government on Friday (May 24).</p>

<p>The ICJ does not have a police force which can help them in ensuring that their orders are enforced. Israel was also asked by the court to reopen the Rafah border crossing. However, it abstained from ordering a complete cease-fire across Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>US, Egypt agree to send aid through Kerem Shalom crossing in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden appreciated the commitment expressed by Egypt in permitting the flow of UN-provided humanitarian aid&nbsp;into Gaza&nbsp;through&nbsp;the Kerem Shalom crossing&nbsp;on a temporary basis, said the White House.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: ICJ orders Israel to halt military operation in Rafah</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-icj-orders-israel-to-halt-military-operation-in-rafah-725134/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"President Biden welcomed the commitment from President al-Sisi to permit the flow of UN-provided humanitarian assistance from Egypt through the Karem Shalom crossing on a provisional basis for onward distribution throughout Gaza. This will help save lives," it added.</p>

<p><em><strong>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;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel War Cabinet's member Benny Gantz hinted that the military of the country is not likely to change its course in the Rafah invasion even after the top UN court on Friday (May 24 ) gave the order to halt the widening offensive.

Israel War Cabinet's member Benny Gantz hinted that the military of the country is not likely to change its course in the Rafah invasion even after the top UN court on Friday (May 24 ) gave the order to halt the widening offensive. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to immediately stop the ongoing military offensive in Rafah, which is located in southern Gaza. However, it did not order a complete ceasefire. Even though Israel is not likely to comply with the court's order, it will increase the pressure on the country. The comments were made by Gantz after the top UN court gave an order to halt the Rafah offensive as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remained silent over the entire issue. Gantz said that Israel “set out on a just and necessary campaign following the brutal massacre of its citizens". Also Read: World court orders Israel to 'immediately halt' offensive in Rafah “We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for," he added. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has said that accusations made about Tel Aviv carrying out a genocide in Gaza are “false, outrageous and morally repugnant.” “Israel has not and will not conduct military actions in the Rafah area which may inflict on the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part,” said Netanyahu’s government on Friday (May 24). The ICJ does not have a police force which can help them in ensuring that their orders are enforced. Israel was also asked by the court to reopen the Rafah border crossing. However, it abstained from ordering a complete cease-fire across Gaza. US, Egypt agree to send aid through Kerem Shalom crossing in Gaza US President Joe Biden appreciated the commitment expressed by Egypt in permitting the flow of UN-provided humanitarian aid into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing on a temporary basis, said the White House. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: ICJ orders Israel to halt military operation in Rafah "President Biden welcomed the commitment from President al-Sisi to permit the flow of UN-provided humanitarian assistance from Egypt through the Karem Shalom crossing on a provisional basis for onward distribution throughout Gaza. This will help save lives," it added. 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)

Israel unlikely to halt Rafah invasion after ICJ ruling as Netanyahu opts to remain silent

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