A member of Israel's War Cabinet has cast doubt on the country's strategy for releasing captives held in besieged Gaza, saying only a ceasefire can free them, as the prime minister rejected calls to scale back its brutal war on the blockaded enclave.

Disunity surfaces in Israeli war cabinet

Israel-Hamas War: Rift among Israeli officials over Gaza war & hostage release plan

A top Hamas official announced new conditions Wednesday for delivering medicines to hostages held by the group in Gaza, insisting trucks carrying the drugs must not be inspected by Israel.

Hamas sets new conditions in hostage medicines deal

The International Criminal Court (ICC) confirmed Tuesday that it is investigating potential crimes against journalists since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza, where dozens of reporters have been killed.

Israel-Gaza War: International Criminal Court to conduct probe on journalists' death

<p>A news anchor in Israel has taken the internet by storm by proudly flashing a gun tucked in her waistband while reporting live sitting at her&nbsp;desk. The anchor, Lital Shemesh, works with Israeli news broadcaster Channel 14 and also serves as a reservist for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">News reporters in Israel don’t mess around. <a href="https://t.co/gGKxtArfvL">pic.twitter.com/gGKxtArfvL</a></p>
— Marina Medvin 🇺🇸 (@MarinaMedvin) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarinaMedvin/status/1742578462978642042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Amidst increased security threats in the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, thousands of people across the Jewish nation are resorting to arming themselves up.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is&nbsp;Lital Shemesh</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, Lital Shemesh made headlines by posting pictures on social media showing herself practising shooting skills at a gun range, where she called for people to "go arm yourself." Her timeline also features photos of her reporting from the frontlines wearing her&nbsp;soldier&nbsp;uniform.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">לכו תתחמשו. <a href="https://t.co/xWRTDho425">pic.twitter.com/xWRTDho425</a></p>
— ליטל שמש - Lital Shemesh (@Litalsun) <a href="https://twitter.com/Litalsun/status/1740332926548517277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>From 2002 to 2005, she served as a full combat soldier in the IDF Border Police division during the second intifada. In a unit of around 100 men, she was one among the only five women, initially assigned to Intelligence but opting for a combat role at checkpoints across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her public and military roles mirror a strong stance on Israel's security, emphasising the need to confront Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US education official resigns over Biden's Israel-Gaza war response</strong></p>

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<p>In an October Fox News interview, she equated the Oct 7 surprise terror attack to a "second holocaust" for Israel. She said, “The entire country is being recruited to fight this war against terrorism, to fight this war against Hamas. We haven't seen a slaughter like this in Israel in the 75 years of Israel's existence. This is a second holocaust for us."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israelis resorting to lifting guns</strong></h2>

<p>She advocates for Israelis to arm themselves, a perspective that gained traction after the October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in 1,139 deaths, 240 hostages, and widespread incidents of sexual violence.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-focus-on-ending-israeli-aggression-hamas-chief-tells-antony-blinken-677218"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Focus on ending Israeli aggression, Hamas chief tells Antony Blinken</strong></a></p>

<p>In November, reports emerged that a rising number of women in Israel were arming themselves with guns and learning martial arts in the wake of the deadly Hamas attack. In addition to seeking guns and training, a rising number of Israelis are also attending krav maga self-defense classes to learn martial arts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A news anchor in Israel has taken the internet by storm by proudly flashing a gun tucked in her waistband while reporting live sitting at her desk. The anchor, Lital Shemesh, works with Israeli news broadcaster Channel 14 and also serves as a reservist for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

A news anchor in Israel has taken the internet by storm by proudly flashing a gun tucked in her waistband while reporting live sitting at her desk. The anchor, Lital Shemesh, works with Israeli news broadcaster Channel 14 and also serves as a reservist for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). News reporters in Israel don’t mess around. pic.twitter.com/gGKxtArfvL — Marina Medvin 🇺🇸 (@MarinaMedvin) January 3, 2024 × Amidst increased security threats in the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, thousands of people across the Jewish nation are resorting to arming themselves up. Who is Lital Shemesh Previously, Lital Shemesh made headlines by posting pictures on social media showing herself practising shooting skills at a gun range, where she called for people to "go arm yourself." Her timeline also features photos of her reporting from the frontlines wearing her soldier uniform. לכו תתחמשו. pic.twitter.com/xWRTDho425 — ליטל שמש - Lital Shemesh (@Litalsun) December 28, 2023 × From 2002 to 2005, she served as a full combat soldier in the IDF Border Police division during the second intifada. In a unit of around 100 men, she was one among the only five women, initially assigned to Intelligence but opting for a combat role at checkpoints across the country. Her public and military roles mirror a strong stance on Israel's security, emphasising the need to confront Hamas. Watch: US education official resigns over Biden's Israel-Gaza war response × In an October Fox News interview, she equated the Oct 7 surprise terror attack to a "second holocaust" for Israel. She said, “The entire country is being recruited to fight this war against terrorism, to fight this war against Hamas. We haven't seen a slaughter like this in Israel in the 75 years of Israel's existence. This is a second holocaust for us." Israelis resorting to lifting guns She advocates for Israelis to arm themselves, a perspective that gained traction after the October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in 1,139 deaths, 240 hostages, and widespread incidents of sexual violence. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Focus on ending Israeli aggression, Hamas chief tells Antony Blinken In November, reports emerged that a rising number of women in Israel were arming themselves with guns and learning martial arts in the wake of the deadly Hamas attack. In addition to seeking guns and training, a rising number of Israelis are also attending krav maga self-defense classes to learn martial arts. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: News anchor shocks internet by carrying gun on live broadcast

The French and Jordanian air forces have dropped seven tonnes of urgent humanitarian and medical aid for a field hospital set up in Gaza’s second city. Watch the video to know more!

Israel-Gaza War: French-Jordanian aid air-dropped into Gaza by military cargo plane

Protests erupted in the occupied West Bank after top Hamas official Saleh Al-Arouri and six other members of the militant group were killed by a drone strike in Beirut.

Israel-Gaza War: Protests in West Bank over the killing of Hamas leader Saleh Al-Arouri

Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah has issued a fresh warning of retaliation against Israel after the killing Hamas Deputy Chief Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut. The chief says Lebanon would be exposed to more Israeli operations if his militant group does not respond.

Israel-Gaza War: Hezbollah chief warns Israel amid retaliation fears

The US State Department is offering up to $10 million for information on five Hamas financiers or anything leading to the disruption of the Palestinian militant group's financial mechanisms.

Israel-Gaza War: US offers $10 mn for financial information on Hamas backers

Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah chief says Lebanon could be 'exposed' to more Israeli attacks

Here we bring you the latest updates from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas: - Israel wants war to continue - IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network - Hamas releases footage of fighting against Israeli military around Gaza City

Israel at War: IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network

<p>Argentina on Friday (Dec 29) revealed that it was rejecting the invitation to join the BRICS bloc of developing nations, in a drastic foreign policy shift under the new administration.</p>

<p>Newly elected far-right President Javier Milei in a letter dated December 22 told his counterparts from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa that the timing was not opportune for Argentina to join the grouping.</p>

<p>Milei said in his letter that his approach to foreign affairs “differs in many aspects from that of the previous government. In this sense, some decisions made by the previous administration will be reviewed.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Campaign promise fulfilled</strong></h2>

<p>President Milei during his campaign had vowed to push for aligning his nation’s foreign policy with the West and ditching the previous administration’s efforts to seek closer ties with the developing economies.</p>

<p>Former centre-left President Alberto Fernandez wanted to join forces with the BRICS group, which accounts for 25 per cent of the global GDP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-argentina-eyes-indias-tejas-jets-amidst-uk-parts-hurdle-617160"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Exclusive | Argentina eyes India's Tejas jets amidst UK parts hurdle</strong></a></p>

<p>Milei not only pushed for pro-West policies during his campaign but also targeted nations “ruled by communism”, in a veiled dig at China and neighbouring Brazil.</p>

<p>However, the president in his letter clarified that Argentina will seek to “intensify” its economic ties with BRICS in order to avail better trading and investment opportunities.</p>

<h2><strong>Argentina undergoing drastic policy changes</strong></h2>

<p>After taking office in December, President Milei has undertaken drastic policy changes, while vowing to support US and Israel.</p>

<p>"Our geopolitical alignment is with the United States and Israel. We are not going to ally with communists," said Milei during his election campaign. However, after taking office, Milei's stance on China and Brazil has weakened as he has taken a more conciliatory tone.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Argentina confirms first human case of 'wee'</strong></p>

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<p>He has also undertaken bold economic reforms since taking office. Milei has already devalued the peso by a staggering 54 per cent, pushing the official exchange rate from 366.5 to 800 pesos per US dollar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts noted that Milei's administration was gearing up for a challenging period, with soaring inflation coming in at 160.9 per cent in November 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Argentina on Friday (Dec 29) revealed that it was rejecting the invitation to join the BRICS bloc of developing nations, in a drastic foreign policy shift under the new administration.

Argentina on Friday (Dec 29) revealed that it was rejecting the invitation to join the BRICS bloc of developing nations, in a drastic foreign policy shift under the new administration. Newly elected far-right President Javier Milei in a letter dated December 22 told his counterparts from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa that the timing was not opportune for Argentina to join the grouping. Milei said in his letter that his approach to foreign affairs “differs in many aspects from that of the previous government. In this sense, some decisions made by the previous administration will be reviewed.” Campaign promise fulfilled President Milei during his campaign had vowed to push for aligning his nation’s foreign policy with the West and ditching the previous administration’s efforts to seek closer ties with the developing economies. Former centre-left President Alberto Fernandez wanted to join forces with the BRICS group, which accounts for 25 per cent of the global GDP. Also read: Exclusive | Argentina eyes India's Tejas jets amidst UK parts hurdle Milei not only pushed for pro-West policies during his campaign but also targeted nations “ruled by communism”, in a veiled dig at China and neighbouring Brazil. However, the president in his letter clarified that Argentina will seek to “intensify” its economic ties with BRICS in order to avail better trading and investment opportunities. Argentina undergoing drastic policy changes After taking office in December, President Milei has undertaken drastic policy changes, while vowing to support US and Israel. "Our geopolitical alignment is with the United States and Israel. We are not going to ally with communists," said Milei during his election campaign. However, after taking office, Milei's stance on China and Brazil has weakened as he has taken a more conciliatory tone. Watch: Argentina confirms first human case of 'wee' × He has also undertaken bold economic reforms since taking office. Milei has already devalued the peso by a staggering 54 per cent, pushing the official exchange rate from 366.5 to 800 pesos per US dollar. Experts noted that Milei's administration was gearing up for a challenging period, with soaring inflation coming in at 160.9 per cent in November 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Argentina’s new far-right President Javier Milei ditches BRICS to ‘support US and Israel’

<p>Israel on Monday (Dec 25) found itself grappling with widespread power outages and internet blackouts after at least two production units of a major power company collapsed.</p>

<p>The blackout fueled speculations that it might have something to do with the ongoing war in Gaza and a potential cyberattack by Iran.</p>

<p>However, Meir Spiegler, the CEO of Israel Electric Corporation (IEC) rubbished these claims, without providing any cause for the collapse of the units.</p>

<p>Spiegler instead said the cause of the blackout is not known yet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Power outages in Israel.<br />
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Some are suggesting this maybe the result of an Iranian cyber attack in retaliation for killing a general. <a href="https://t.co/ArloGc0c5Z">pic.twitter.com/ArloGc0c5Z</a></p>
— Zagonel (@Zagonel85) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zagonel85/status/1739400744174756116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Israel’s Channel 11 reported that the initial outage hit 150,000 people throughout the country; however, most of them were reconnected with power grids within hours, with just 34,000 people remaining disconnected.</p>

<h2><strong>What caused the blackout?</strong></h2>

<p>According to local media reports, the IEC said that alternative units were put into operation as soon as the two units collapsed.</p>

<p>"This break caused loadshedding that caused power outages in a number of locations across the country. Alternative production units went into operation and electricity returned to most of the outages," the IEC stated.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-hacking-group-disrupts-70-of-irans-petrol-pumps-670865"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps</strong></a></p>

<p>"The faults reported by consumers across the country are not the result of a cyber attack , but a fault in a production unit that supplies 250 megawatts. The system carried out 'load shedding’ and now new production units are being brought into operation in order to overcome the fault. In some places the electricity has already," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Investigation launched</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli authorities are now on high alert, and an investigation has already been launched to detect the causes of the blackout.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel says five Gaza hostages found dead in tunnel</strong></p>

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<p>However, if a cyberattack link is confirmed by the authorities, it could mark a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict which has already involved Iran and its proxies.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous reports of cyberattack in Iran</strong></h2>

<p>The power outage in Israel comes a week&nbsp;after Iran experienced a nationwide shutdown of fuel distribution services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A hacking group that Iran accuses of having links to Israel claimed it carried out the attack which disrupted services at petrol stations across the country on Dec 18, Iranian state TV and Israeli local media reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel on Monday (Dec 25) found itself grappling with widespread power outages and internet blackouts after at least two production units of a major power company collapsed.

Israel on Monday (Dec 25) found itself grappling with widespread power outages and internet blackouts after at least two production units of a major power company collapsed. The blackout fueled speculations that it might have something to do with the ongoing war in Gaza and a potential cyberattack by Iran. However, Meir Spiegler, the CEO of Israel Electric Corporation (IEC) rubbished these claims, without providing any cause for the collapse of the units. Spiegler instead said the cause of the blackout is not known yet. Power outages in Israel. Some are suggesting this maybe the result of an Iranian cyber attack in retaliation for killing a general. pic.twitter.com/ArloGc0c5Z — Zagonel (@Zagonel85) December 25, 2023 × Israel’s Channel 11 reported that the initial outage hit 150,000 people throughout the country; however, most of them were reconnected with power grids within hours, with just 34,000 people remaining disconnected. What caused the blackout? According to local media reports, the IEC said that alternative units were put into operation as soon as the two units collapsed. "This break caused loadshedding that caused power outages in a number of locations across the country. Alternative production units went into operation and electricity returned to most of the outages," the IEC stated. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps "The faults reported by consumers across the country are not the result of a cyber attack , but a fault in a production unit that supplies 250 megawatts. The system carried out 'load shedding’ and now new production units are being brought into operation in order to overcome the fault. In some places the electricity has already," it added. Investigation launched Israeli authorities are now on high alert, and an investigation has already been launched to detect the causes of the blackout. Watch: Israel says five Gaza hostages found dead in tunnel × However, if a cyberattack link is confirmed by the authorities, it could mark a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict which has already involved Iran and its proxies. Previous reports of cyberattack in Iran The power outage in Israel comes a week after Iran experienced a nationwide shutdown of fuel distribution services. A hacking group that Iran accuses of having links to Israel claimed it carried out the attack which disrupted services at petrol stations across the country on Dec 18, Iranian state TV and Israeli local media reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli power firm denies cyberattack claims after reports of major blackout

<p>Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24).</p>

<p>M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity.</p>

<p>The vessel, which is managed by an Indian company, was now on its way back to India. Crew members on the ship, all Indians, are reportedly safe.</p>

<p>The attack comes a day after another oil tanker came under drone attack off the Indian coast. The US on Sunday said the attack was carried out by Iran.</p>

<p>In total, two ships were targeted by Iranian-backed militants in the recent incident.</p>

<p>One of them, a Norwegian-flagged and owned chemical tanker named M/V Blaamanen reported a near miss of a Houthi drone, the US military said.</p>

<p>The second one was M/V Saibaba, which was hit by the drone.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pentagon-accuses-iran-for-drone-attack-on-israel-affiliated-chemical-tanker-off-indian-coast-672986"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US Pentagon accuses Iran for drone attack on `Israel-affiliated` chemical tanker off Indian Coast</strong></a></p>

<p>"A second vessel, the M/V SAIBABA, a Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, reported that it was hit by a one-way attack drone with no injuries reported. The USS LABOON (DDG 58) responded to the distress calls from these attacks," the US military said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On December 23 two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi controlled areas of Yemen. No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles.<br />
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Between 3 and 8 p.m. (Sanaa time), the USS LABOON (DDG… <a href="https://t.co/jcBisbXBaS">pic.twitter.com/jcBisbXBaS</a></p>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1738719550122975698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Yemen-based militants also reportedly tried to attack a US warship operating in the Red Sea area.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Drone attack in Indian Ocean: Indian Coast Guard deploys ship for help</strong></p>

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<p>The US Central Command said a US Navy destroyer patrolling in the Red Sea knocked down four attack drones before they could strike the warship.</p>

<p>The USS Laboon "shot down four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that were inbound toward the American vessel," Centcom said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), adding there were "no injuries or damage".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24). M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24). M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity. The vessel, which is managed by an Indian company, was now on its way back to India. Crew members on the ship, all Indians, are reportedly safe. The attack comes a day after another oil tanker came under drone attack off the Indian coast. The US on Sunday said the attack was carried out by Iran. In total, two ships were targeted by Iranian-backed militants in the recent incident. One of them, a Norwegian-flagged and owned chemical tanker named M/V Blaamanen reported a near miss of a Houthi drone, the US military said. The second one was M/V Saibaba, which was hit by the drone. Also read: US Pentagon accuses Iran for drone attack on `Israel-affiliated` chemical tanker off Indian Coast "A second vessel, the M/V SAIBABA, a Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, reported that it was hit by a one-way attack drone with no injuries reported. The USS LABOON (DDG 58) responded to the distress calls from these attacks," the US military said. On December 23 two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi controlled areas of Yemen. No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles. Between 3 and 8 p.m. (Sanaa time), the USS LABOON (DDG… pic.twitter.com/jcBisbXBaS — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 24, 2023 × The Yemen-based militants also reportedly tried to attack a US warship operating in the Red Sea area. Watch: Drone attack in Indian Ocean: Indian Coast Guard deploys ship for help × The US Central Command said a US Navy destroyer patrolling in the Red Sea knocked down four attack drones before they could strike the warship. The USS Laboon "shot down four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that were inbound toward the American vessel," Centcom said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), adding there were "no injuries or damage". (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis strike Indian-flagged oil tanker with drone in Red Sea: US military

<p>Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm.</p>

<p>The PM added that the ships on their way to Israel will also be barred from loading cargo at the Malaysian ports.</p>

<p>The decision has further raised concerns regarding the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on global shipping amidst increasing attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthi group.</p>

<h2><strong>Anwar Ibrahim’s statement</strong></h2>

<p>The Malaysian PM said that the action was being taken in response to what he said “Israel’s actions that ignore basic humanitarian principles and violate international law through the ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians”.</p>

<p>Malaysia “also decided to no longer accept ships using the Israeli flag to dock in the country” and ban “any ship on its way to Israel from loading cargo in Malaysian ports”.</p>

<p>“Both of these restrictions are effective immediately,” the prime minister said.</p>

<h2><strong>Malaysia’s relations with Hamas and Israel</strong></h2>

<p>The Muslim-majority Southeast Asian nation doesn’t maintain a diplomatic relationship with Israel.</p>

<p>Malaysia has always advocated for the two-state solution and backed Hamas quite vocally.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: CIA director meets Mossad chief, Qatar PM</strong></p>

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<p>So far, Malaysia has donated millions of dollars in aid to Gaza and condemned the Israeli response in the aftermath of the Oct 7 attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Disruption to global shipping</strong></h2>

<p>The move comes even as major disruptions to global shipping routes are already taking place, especially in the Red Sea where the Iran-backed Houthi group has launched several attacks on ships en route to Israel.</p>

<p>The Red Sea, which is linked to the Mediterranean by the Suez Canal, is responsible for 12 per cent of the global shipping transit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-will-fight-until-complete-victory-says-netanyahu-670416"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza, claims Israel</strong></a></p>

<p>To evade the Houthi attackers, ships passing through the Red Sea often switch off tracking systems, while some are trying to reroute and adjust prices.</p>

<p>The US earlier this week announced the formation of a multinational coalition to counter the Houthi menace in the Red Sea.<br />
<br />
The coalition includes the United States, United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm.

Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm. The PM added that the ships on their way to Israel will also be barred from loading cargo at the Malaysian ports. The decision has further raised concerns regarding the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on global shipping amidst increasing attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthi group. Anwar Ibrahim’s statement The Malaysian PM said that the action was being taken in response to what he said “Israel’s actions that ignore basic humanitarian principles and violate international law through the ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians”. Malaysia “also decided to no longer accept ships using the Israeli flag to dock in the country” and ban “any ship on its way to Israel from loading cargo in Malaysian ports”. “Both of these restrictions are effective immediately,” the prime minister said. Malaysia’s relations with Hamas and Israel The Muslim-majority Southeast Asian nation doesn’t maintain a diplomatic relationship with Israel. Malaysia has always advocated for the two-state solution and backed Hamas quite vocally. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: CIA director meets Mossad chief, Qatar PM × So far, Malaysia has donated millions of dollars in aid to Gaza and condemned the Israeli response in the aftermath of the Oct 7 attack. Disruption to global shipping The move comes even as major disruptions to global shipping routes are already taking place, especially in the Red Sea where the Iran-backed Houthi group has launched several attacks on ships en route to Israel. The Red Sea, which is linked to the Mediterranean by the Suez Canal, is responsible for 12 per cent of the global shipping transit. Also read: Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza, claims Israel To evade the Houthi attackers, ships passing through the Red Sea often switch off tracking systems, while some are trying to reroute and adjust prices. The US earlier this week announced the formation of a multinational coalition to counter the Houthi menace in the Red Sea. The coalition includes the United States, United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Malaysia bans Israeli-flagged cargo ships from its ports 

In Pics | Emotional reunion in Israel, West Bank as more hostages, prisoners are released

In Pics | Relief in West Bank, Israel as Palestinian prisoners, hostages released on day one of truce

<p>Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources.</p>

<p>The deaths bring those killed in Lebanon since the beginning of hostilities along the border to more than 80 people, mostly fighters from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.</p>

<p>Violence along the border broke out after Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah - a Hamas ally - have exchanged rocket fire in fighting that has steadily escalated.</p>

<p>Lebanese broadcaster Al Mayadeen said an Israeli strike on Tuesday near the town of Tir Harfa, about a mile from the Israeli frontier, had killed two of its journalists and a third person at the site where they were filming.</p>

<p>Al Mayadeen accused Israel of deliberately targeting the TV crew because the channel was known to be pro-Palestinian and pro-Iran's regional military alliance.</p>

<p>Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said in a statement that the strike was an Israeli attempt to silence the media, adding there were "no limits to Israeli crimes".</p>

<p>Israel's military said it was "aware of a claim regarding journalists ... who were killed as a result of (Israeli army) fire."</p>

<p>"This is an area with active hostilities, where exchange of fire occur. Presence in the area is dangerous," it said.</p>

<p>The Israeli military has previously said it cannot guarantee journalists' safety in areas where it is fighting. Israeli authorities have sought to block Al Mayadeen's websites and seize equipment linked to the station.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Tentative details of truce deal on hostages</strong></p>

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<p>Hezbollah said it had retaliated over the killing of the journalists by firing at an Israeli base across the border.</p>

<p>Another Israeli strike on a car about seven miles (11 km) from the border and near the southern city of Tyre killed four people later in the day, Lebanon's state media reported.</p>

<p>Hamas identified one victim as one of its members, saying he was killed while "carrying out his duty" in southern Lebanon. Two Palestinian sources said he was a senior member of the armed wing of Hamas in Lebanon.</p>

<p>An elderly woman was also killed in an Israeli strike on Tuesday morning, according to Lebanon's state media.</p>

<p>Israel-Lebanon border violence has escalated in recent days, raising fears of a widening war in the Middle East that could draw in both the United States and Iran.</p>

<p>It is the worst violence at the border since Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006 and has so far killed more than 70 Hezbollah fighters, 13 Lebanese civilians, seven Israeli troops and three Israeli civilians.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-declares-x-will-donate-its-revenue-to-hospitals-in-israel-and-gaza-661397"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk says X will donate ad revenue linked to war to hospitals in Israel and Gaza</strong></a></p>

<p>Tuesday's deaths add to a toll of more than 50 journalists killed covering the war between Israel and Hamas and its spillover to other parts of the region since Oct. 7, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.</p>

<p>Reuters visual&nbsp;journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in southern Lebanon on Oct&nbsp;13.</p>

<p>Al Mayadeen named its killed journalists as correspondent Farah Omar and camera operator Rabie al-Memari. The third person killed was Hussein Aqil. Al Mayadeen told Reuters he was not working with the channel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources.

Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources. The deaths bring those killed in Lebanon since the beginning of hostilities along the border to more than 80 people, mostly fighters from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. Violence along the border broke out after Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah - a Hamas ally - have exchanged rocket fire in fighting that has steadily escalated. Lebanese broadcaster Al Mayadeen said an Israeli strike on Tuesday near the town of Tir Harfa, about a mile from the Israeli frontier, had killed two of its journalists and a third person at the site where they were filming. Al Mayadeen accused Israel of deliberately targeting the TV crew because the channel was known to be pro-Palestinian and pro-Iran's regional military alliance. Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said in a statement that the strike was an Israeli attempt to silence the media, adding there were "no limits to Israeli crimes". Israel's military said it was "aware of a claim regarding journalists ... who were killed as a result of (Israeli army) fire." "This is an area with active hostilities, where exchange of fire occur. Presence in the area is dangerous," it said. The Israeli military has previously said it cannot guarantee journalists' safety in areas where it is fighting. Israeli authorities have sought to block Al Mayadeen's websites and seize equipment linked to the station. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Tentative details of truce deal on hostages × Hezbollah said it had retaliated over the killing of the journalists by firing at an Israeli base across the border. Another Israeli strike on a car about seven miles (11 km) from the border and near the southern city of Tyre killed four people later in the day, Lebanon's state media reported. Hamas identified one victim as one of its members, saying he was killed while "carrying out his duty" in southern Lebanon. Two Palestinian sources said he was a senior member of the armed wing of Hamas in Lebanon. An elderly woman was also killed in an Israeli strike on Tuesday morning, according to Lebanon's state media. Israel-Lebanon border violence has escalated in recent days, raising fears of a widening war in the Middle East that could draw in both the United States and Iran. It is the worst violence at the border since Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006 and has so far killed more than 70 Hezbollah fighters, 13 Lebanese civilians, seven Israeli troops and three Israeli civilians. Also read: Elon Musk says X will donate ad revenue linked to war to hospitals in Israel and Gaza Tuesday's deaths add to a toll of more than 50 journalists killed covering the war between Israel and Hamas and its spillover to other parts of the region since Oct. 7, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Reuters visual journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in southern Lebanon on Oct 13. Al Mayadeen named its killed journalists as correspondent Farah Omar and camera operator Rabie al-Memari. The third person killed was Hussein Aqil. Al Mayadeen told Reuters he was not working with the channel. (With inputs from agencies)

2 journalists, Hamas terrorist killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon

<p>The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza.</p>

<p>The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield.</p>

<p>"The IDF is targeting all Hamas military activity throughout Gaza," the IDF statement said, adding that Hamas deliberately put military operations "in the vicinity of journalists and civilians".</p>

<p>"Under these circumstances, we cannot guarantee your employees' safety and strongly urge you to take all necessary measures for their safety," the IDF made clear.</p>

<h2><strong>Reuters and AFP concerned</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the IDF’s statement, Reuters said it would prevent the journalists on the ground from fulfilling their duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The situation on the ground is dire. The IDF’s unwillingness to give assurances about the safety of our staff threatens their ability to deliver the news about this conflict without fear of being injured or killed," a Reuters statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israeli military says Hamas hiding tunnels, operations centres in Gaza hospital</strong></p>

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<p>AFP Global News Director Phil Chetwynd said his news organisation had received the same letter.</p>

<p>"We are in an incredibly precarious position and it's important that the world understands that there is a large team of journalists working in extremely dangerous conditions," Chetwynd said.</p>

<h2><strong>Death of journalists</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 29 journalists have lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas conflict so far, mostly inside the Gazan territory.</p>

<p>CPJ reported that at least eight journalists were reported injured and nine missing or detained.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-poll-finds-49-support-for-holding-off-on-gaza-invasion-652201"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israeli poll finds 49% support for holding off on Gaza invasion</strong></a></p>

<p>“CPJ emphasizes that journalists are civilians doing important work during times of crisis and must not be targeted by warring parties,” said Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Journalists across the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heartbreaking conflict. Those in Gaza, in particular, have paid, and continue to pay, an unprecedented toll and face exponential threats. Many have lost colleagues, families, and media facilities, and have fled seeking safety when there is no safe haven or exit,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza. The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield.

The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza. The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield. "The IDF is targeting all Hamas military activity throughout Gaza," the IDF statement said, adding that Hamas deliberately put military operations "in the vicinity of journalists and civilians". "Under these circumstances, we cannot guarantee your employees' safety and strongly urge you to take all necessary measures for their safety," the IDF made clear. Reuters and AFP concerned Reacting to the IDF’s statement, Reuters said it would prevent the journalists on the ground from fulfilling their duties. “The situation on the ground is dire. The IDF’s unwillingness to give assurances about the safety of our staff threatens their ability to deliver the news about this conflict without fear of being injured or killed," a Reuters statement said. Watch: Israeli military says Hamas hiding tunnels, operations centres in Gaza hospital × AFP Global News Director Phil Chetwynd said his news organisation had received the same letter. "We are in an incredibly precarious position and it's important that the world understands that there is a large team of journalists working in extremely dangerous conditions," Chetwynd said. Death of journalists According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 29 journalists have lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas conflict so far, mostly inside the Gazan territory. CPJ reported that at least eight journalists were reported injured and nine missing or detained. Also read: Israeli poll finds 49% support for holding off on Gaza invasion “CPJ emphasizes that journalists are civilians doing important work during times of crisis and must not be targeted by warring parties,” said Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator. “Journalists across the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heartbreaking conflict. Those in Gaza, in particular, have paid, and continue to pay, an unprecedented toll and face exponential threats. Many have lost colleagues, families, and media facilities, and have fled seeking safety when there is no safe haven or exit,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

IDF says can’t guarantee safety as 29 journalists die in Israel-Hamas war

<p>As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation.</p>

<p>The basis of this collaboration of more than a decade was their shared hatred for the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its leader Mahmoud Abbas.</p>

<p>Let us break it down for you.</p>

<p>Netanyahu assumed the PM's office in 2009 and since then, he has tried to shore up Hamas in order to ostracise the PA.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu always opposed peace efforts between Hamas and the PA</strong></h2>

<p>He opposed reconciliation efforts between Hamas and Fatah, the political party backed by PA leader Mahmoud Abbas.</p>

<p>A glaring example came in late 2017. The peace efforts were going on, with support from the US and Egypt. One of the major hurdles in reaching the peace deal was Hamas’ assertion that it won’t be subordinate to the PA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it agreed to transfer all political powers to the PA in Gaza, while refusing to lay down its arms.</p>

<p>During that time, Netanyahu reportedly made all possible efforts to derail that deal, while &nbsp;claiming that “reconciliation between Hamas and the PLO makes achieving peace harder.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bibi believed that peace between Hamas and PA would pave the way for a united Palestine, essentially leading to a two-state solution, an idea Netanyahu vehemently opposes.</p>

<p>In May 2019, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak further confirmed this during an interview with Channel 13. “Netanyahu isn’t interested in a two-state solution. Rather, he wants to separate Gaza from the West Bank, as he told me at the end of 2010,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu’s pro-Hamas policies</strong></h2>

<p>Under his rule, Netanyahu ensured Hamas got unhindered access to funds flowing in from Qatar and Iran. He did almost nothing to install checks and balances even as he knew much of it might be directed towards funding terrorism and the flowering of militant ideology.</p>

<p>Without these funds, Hamas would never have developed such a strong military arm, eventually carrying out the dastardly terrorist attack of October 7.</p>

<p>In March 2019, Netanyahu himself admitted that he supported the policy of enriching Hamas to keep the PA at bay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Whoever opposes a Palestinian state must support delivery of funds to Gaza because maintaining separation between the PA in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza will prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state,” he said during a meeting with Likud MKs (Members of Knesset).</p>

<p>Netanyahu had this clear plan in mind: To hurt Abbas and prevent the division of the land of Israel into two states, Hamas must be shored up.</p>

<h2><strong>Operation Protective Edge</strong></h2>

<p>It is also a fact that under Netanyahu’s rule, Hamas never faced any major, existential military threat from the Israeli forces. In fact, according to claims by several Israeli officials and ministers, it is Netanyahu himself who once stymied the IDF’s plans to obliterate the Hamas once and for all.</p>

<p>In 2014, IDF launched Operation Protective Edge in Gaza which had the potential to wipe Hamas off Gaza’s map. Netanyahu reportedly did something to derail that plan and shield Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion'</strong></p>

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<p>He allegedly leaked to the media a presentation made by the Israeli military highlighting the potential repercussions and human cost of the operation.</p>

<p>The secret document was leaked to peddle this narrative that the operation against Hamas would lead to thousands of casualties for the IDF and it should not be initiated altogether.</p>

<p>Of course, the leak was never investigated. In closed-door meetings, Benny Gantz, IDF’s former chief of staff, is believed to have said, “Bibi leaked this.”</p>

<h2><strong>Top anti-Netanyahu voices</strong></h2>

<p>Many of Israel’s top military and political leaders have talked about this covert relationship between Hamas and Bibi.</p>

<p>In an interview published days before Hamas’ October 7 assault against Israel, Avigdor Lieberman, former finance minister, was quoted as saying by Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper that Bibi “continuously thwarted all the targeted assassinations” in Gaza.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-your-son-pm-israeli-reservists-ask-as-yair-netanyahu-stays-back-in-us-650631"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Where is your son PM?' Israeli reservists ask as Yair Netanyahu stays back in US</strong></a></p>

<p>In August 2019, former PM of Israel Ehud Barak said that Netanyahu’s strategy was to keep Hamas alive. “His strategy is to keep Hamas alive and kicking… even at the price of abandoning the citizens [of the south] … in order to weaken the PA in Ramallah,” he said.</p>

<p>Former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot in January 2022 claimed that Netanyahu always overruled what the National Security Council suggested—establish two states and engage with the PA. Israel did the exact opposite—it ostracised the PA and strengthened Hamas.</p>

<h2><strong>Pro-Netanyahu flank's argument</strong></h2>

<p>Pro-Netanyahu voices believe the biggest achievement of the prime minister is separating Gaza from the West Bank, thus virtually killing the idea of a two-state solution.</p>

<p>Netanyahu “basically smashed the vision of the Palestinian state in these two places,” said Jonatan Urich, one of Netanyahu’s media advisers and a Likud spokesman, in April 2019.</p>

<p>The very next month, another pro-Netanyahu voice, Gen (Res) Gershon Hacohen said, “When Netanyahu didn’t go to war in Gaza to defeat the Hamas regime, he basically prevented Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) from establishing a united Palestinian state.”</p>

<p>“We need to exploit the situation of separation created between Gaza and Ramallah. It’s an Israeli interest of the highest level, and you can’t understand the situation in Gaza without understanding this context,” he added, reinforcing Netanyahu’s divide-and-rule policy.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation.

As the war grinds on between Israel and Hamas, one should not forget the decades-old “alliance” between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gaza-based terrorist organisation. The basis of this collaboration of more than a decade was their shared hatred for the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its leader Mahmoud Abbas. Let us break it down for you. Netanyahu assumed the PM's office in 2009 and since then, he has tried to shore up Hamas in order to ostracise the PA. Netanyahu always opposed peace efforts between Hamas and the PA He opposed reconciliation efforts between Hamas and Fatah, the political party backed by PA leader Mahmoud Abbas. A glaring example came in late 2017. The peace efforts were going on, with support from the US and Egypt. One of the major hurdles in reaching the peace deal was Hamas’ assertion that it won’t be subordinate to the PA. However, it agreed to transfer all political powers to the PA in Gaza, while refusing to lay down its arms. During that time, Netanyahu reportedly made all possible efforts to derail that deal, while claiming that “reconciliation between Hamas and the PLO makes achieving peace harder.” Bibi believed that peace between Hamas and PA would pave the way for a united Palestine, essentially leading to a two-state solution, an idea Netanyahu vehemently opposes. In May 2019, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak further confirmed this during an interview with Channel 13. “Netanyahu isn’t interested in a two-state solution. Rather, he wants to separate Gaza from the West Bank, as he told me at the end of 2010,” he said. Netanyahu’s pro-Hamas policies Under his rule, Netanyahu ensured Hamas got unhindered access to funds flowing in from Qatar and Iran. He did almost nothing to install checks and balances even as he knew much of it might be directed towards funding terrorism and the flowering of militant ideology. Without these funds, Hamas would never have developed such a strong military arm, eventually carrying out the dastardly terrorist attack of October 7. In March 2019, Netanyahu himself admitted that he supported the policy of enriching Hamas to keep the PA at bay. “Whoever opposes a Palestinian state must support delivery of funds to Gaza because maintaining separation between the PA in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza will prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state,” he said during a meeting with Likud MKs (Members of Knesset). Netanyahu had this clear plan in mind: To hurt Abbas and prevent the division of the land of Israel into two states, Hamas must be shored up. Operation Protective Edge It is also a fact that under Netanyahu’s rule, Hamas never faced any major, existential military threat from the Israeli forces. In fact, according to claims by several Israeli officials and ministers, it is Netanyahu himself who once stymied the IDF’s plans to obliterate the Hamas once and for all. In 2014, IDF launched Operation Protective Edge in Gaza which had the potential to wipe Hamas off Gaza’s map. Netanyahu reportedly did something to derail that plan and shield Hamas. Watch: Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion' × He allegedly leaked to the media a presentation made by the Israeli military highlighting the potential repercussions and human cost of the operation. The secret document was leaked to peddle this narrative that the operation against Hamas would lead to thousands of casualties for the IDF and it should not be initiated altogether. Of course, the leak was never investigated. In closed-door meetings, Benny Gantz, IDF’s former chief of staff, is believed to have said, “Bibi leaked this.” Top anti-Netanyahu voices Many of Israel’s top military and political leaders have talked about this covert relationship between Hamas and Bibi. In an interview published days before Hamas’ October 7 assault against Israel, Avigdor Lieberman, former finance minister, was quoted as saying by Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper that Bibi “continuously thwarted all the targeted assassinations” in Gaza. Also read: 'Where is your son PM?' Israeli reservists ask as Yair Netanyahu stays back in US In August 2019, former PM of Israel Ehud Barak said that Netanyahu’s strategy was to keep Hamas alive. “His strategy is to keep Hamas alive and kicking… even at the price of abandoning the citizens [of the south] … in order to weaken the PA in Ramallah,” he said. Former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot in January 2022 claimed that Netanyahu always overruled what the National Security Council suggested—establish two states and engage with the PA. Israel did the exact opposite—it ostracised the PA and strengthened Hamas. Pro-Netanyahu flank's argument Pro-Netanyahu voices believe the biggest achievement of the prime minister is separating Gaza from the West Bank, thus virtually killing the idea of a two-state solution. Netanyahu “basically smashed the vision of the Palestinian state in these two places,” said Jonatan Urich, one of Netanyahu’s media advisers and a Likud spokesman, in April 2019. The very next month, another pro-Netanyahu voice, Gen (Res) Gershon Hacohen said, “When Netanyahu didn’t go to war in Gaza to defeat the Hamas regime, he basically prevented Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) from establishing a united Palestinian state.” “We need to exploit the situation of separation created between Gaza and Ramallah. It’s an Israeli interest of the highest level, and you can’t understand the situation in Gaza without understanding this context,” he added, reinforcing Netanyahu’s divide-and-rule policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster

<p>US President Joe Biden said that he is convinced that the intercontinental connectivity project, India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, announced in September during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, is one of the reasons why Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7 that left over 1,400 people dead.</p>

<p>The counteroffensive from Israel into Hamas-governed Gaza Strip has left over 7,000 Palestinians dead, a toll heavier<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-18-days-of-israel-hamas-war-sees-more-palestinian-deaths-than-15-years-of-conflict-combined-651279">&nbsp;than the15 years of conflict combined</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-joe-bidens-wartime-address-hails-india-middle-east-europe-corridor-649015">Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor</a></strong></p>

<p>The project aims to integrate the entire region with a network of railroad. The project to, from, and between India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe aims to provide a "reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network to supplement existing maritime and road transport routes", according to a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the G20 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delhi-g20-modi-biden-mbs-launch-inter-continent-economic-corridor-to-outfox-chinas-bri-634176">G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal'</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden told journalists while standing beside&nbsp;the visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that his analysis is based on his instinct and does not have any proof.</p>

<p>"I am convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can’t leave that work behind," Biden said.</p>

<p>This is the second time in less than a week that Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a potential reason for the terrorist attack by Hamas.</p>

<p>Earlier on October 20,&nbsp;Biden, in an address from the Oval Office after his wartime Israel visit,&nbsp;hailed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-to-change-the-face-of-the-middle-east-israel-pm-634703">India-Middle East-Europe economic&nbsp;corridor</a>&nbsp;as a project that is aimed at building a "better future for the Middle East", and the one that will make West Asia "more stable, better connected to its neighbours".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that with the "innovative projects such as India-Middle East-Europe economic&nbsp;corridor that we announced earlier this year in the summit of the world's biggest economies", the region will benefit with&nbsp;"predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances."</p>

<p>"It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us (the United States)."</p>

<p>The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.</p>

<p>The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war: What to make of Biden's comments on IMEC?</strong></h2>

<p>According to an MoU signed between the countries during the New Delhi G20 summit, the countries had agreed to "commit to an action plan with relevant timetables" within 60 days after September 9.</p>

<p>The attack by Hamas against Israel on October 7 falls right in the middle of this timeline.</p>

<p>An intercontinental connectivity project, added with potential rapprochement between Israel and Saudi Arabia after landmark restoration of ties between Israel, UAE and Bahrain, would have derailed Hamas's purported goals in relation to the Israel-Palestine issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that in the past few weeks, he has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure there's real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden said that he is convinced that the intercontinental connectivity project, India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, announced in September during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, is one of the reasons why Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7 that left over 1,400 people dead.

US President Joe Biden said that he is convinced that the intercontinental connectivity project, India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, announced in September during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, is one of the reasons why Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7 that left over 1,400 people dead. The counteroffensive from Israel into Hamas-governed Gaza Strip has left over 7,000 Palestinians dead, a toll heavier than the15 years of conflict combined. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor The project aims to integrate the entire region with a network of railroad. The project to, from, and between India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe aims to provide a "reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network to supplement existing maritime and road transport routes", according to a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the G20 summit. Also read | G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal' Biden told journalists while standing beside the visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that his analysis is based on his instinct and does not have any proof. "I am convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can’t leave that work behind," Biden said. This is the second time in less than a week that Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a potential reason for the terrorist attack by Hamas. Earlier on October 20, Biden, in an address from the Oval Office after his wartime Israel visit, hailed the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor as a project that is aimed at building a "better future for the Middle East", and the one that will make West Asia "more stable, better connected to its neighbours". Biden said that with the "innovative projects such as India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor that we announced earlier this year in the summit of the world's biggest economies", the region will benefit with "predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances." "It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us (the United States)." The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September. The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe. Israel-Hamas war: What to make of Biden's comments on IMEC? According to an MoU signed between the countries during the New Delhi G20 summit, the countries had agreed to "commit to an action plan with relevant timetables" within 60 days after September 9. The attack by Hamas against Israel on October 7 falls right in the middle of this timeline. An intercontinental connectivity project, added with potential rapprochement between Israel and Saudi Arabia after landmark restoration of ties between Israel, UAE and Bahrain, would have derailed Hamas's purported goals in relation to the Israel-Palestine issue. Biden said that in the past few weeks, he has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure there's real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Advancing India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor potential reason behind Hamas attack: Biden

<p>Early Wednesday (Oct 25), Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said the Israeli military was preparing for a ground operation in Gaza. Media reports also suggested that the Jewish nation has delayed its operation following the USA’s demand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US said it was rushing to reinforce Israel and its strategic sites across West Asia as it braces for a wider conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So, let’s understand how things could turn out once the Israeli forces get the green light.</p>

<h2><strong>Three-phase operation</strong></h2>

<p>The IDF is planning a three-phase operation in the Gaza Strip. In the first phase, which is already going on, intense air bombardment and aerial assault are being&nbsp;employed to destroy Hamas’ infrastructure and neutralise terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.<br />
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IDF tanks &amp; infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.<br />
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The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. <a href="https://t.co/oMdSDR84rU">pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1717401249199329634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the second phase, any remaining resistance within Gaza would be wiped off. And in the final phase, the IDF may look forward to creating a buffer zone around Gaza, leaving it totally dependent on the international community for essentials.</p>

<p>IDF is expected to pound Gaza with US-made GBU-28 “bunker-busting” bombs to hit the tunnel infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ground operation will surely result in the destruction of several Gazan districts and civilian casualties in thousands.</p>

<h2><strong>Will Israel occupy Gaza?</strong></h2>

<p>According to media reports, the political establishment in Israel is vehemently against the idea of occupying the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>“One thing that the Israeli political establishment seems to be firmly united against is the notion of occupying the Gaza Strip or reoccupying it,” said Samuel Ramani, associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, as cited by CNBC.</p>

<p>The other dilemma for the Israeli leadership would be: Who to replace Hamas with if it actually aims to wipe the militant organisation off Gaza’s map.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-50-palestinians-killed-in-one-hour-in-gaza-no-aid-entered-on-tuesday-says-un-650884"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war highlights: Guterres` clarification fails to pacify Israel envoy who again urges UN chief to resign</strong></a></p>

<p>“But the big question is when you remove the Hamas leadership, what exactly do you replace it with? Do you replace it with the Palestinian Authority, which has extremely low levels of popularity in the Gaza Strip,” Ramani asks.</p>

<p>The PA might not be willing to fill the void as it would make it look like it is collaborating with the Israeli leadership.</p>

<h2><strong>How will the conflict end?</strong></h2>

<p>The ground operation will surely lead to a sharp rise in civilian causalities but according to the Israeli military sources, only a full surrender by Hamas could bring an end to the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US, Russian bids on Israel-Hamas war fail at Security Council</strong></p>

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<p>“The aim here is to totally dismantle Hamas from its military capabilities. If that can be done from the air, and with standoff measures, with very limited exposure to our troops and less damage on the ground, that would be great,” IDF spokesperson Jonathan Conricus told ABC Radio Melbourne.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Early Wednesday (Oct 25), Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said the Israeli military was preparing for a ground operation in Gaza. Media reports also suggested that the Jewish nation has delayed its operation following the USA’s demand.

Early Wednesday (Oct 25), Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said the Israeli military was preparing for a ground operation in Gaza. Media reports also suggested that the Jewish nation has delayed its operation following the USA’s demand. The US said it was rushing to reinforce Israel and its strategic sites across West Asia as it braces for a wider conflict. So, let’s understand how things could turn out once the Israeli forces get the green light. Three-phase operation The IDF is planning a three-phase operation in the Gaza Strip. In the first phase, which is already going on, intense air bombardment and aerial assault are being employed to destroy Hamas’ infrastructure and neutralise terrorists. In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza. IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts. The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023 × In the second phase, any remaining resistance within Gaza would be wiped off. And in the final phase, the IDF may look forward to creating a buffer zone around Gaza, leaving it totally dependent on the international community for essentials. IDF is expected to pound Gaza with US-made GBU-28 “bunker-busting” bombs to hit the tunnel infrastructure. The ground operation will surely result in the destruction of several Gazan districts and civilian casualties in thousands. Will Israel occupy Gaza? According to media reports, the political establishment in Israel is vehemently against the idea of occupying the Gaza Strip. “One thing that the Israeli political establishment seems to be firmly united against is the notion of occupying the Gaza Strip or reoccupying it,” said Samuel Ramani, associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, as cited by CNBC. The other dilemma for the Israeli leadership would be: Who to replace Hamas with if it actually aims to wipe the militant organisation off Gaza’s map. Also read: Israel-Hamas war highlights: Guterres` clarification fails to pacify Israel envoy who again urges UN chief to resign “But the big question is when you remove the Hamas leadership, what exactly do you replace it with? Do you replace it with the Palestinian Authority, which has extremely low levels of popularity in the Gaza Strip,” Ramani asks. The PA might not be willing to fill the void as it would make it look like it is collaborating with the Israeli leadership. How will the conflict end? The ground operation will surely lead to a sharp rise in civilian causalities but according to the Israeli military sources, only a full surrender by Hamas could bring an end to the conflict. Watch: US, Russian bids on Israel-Hamas war fail at Security Council × “The aim here is to totally dismantle Hamas from its military capabilities. If that can be done from the air, and with standoff measures, with very limited exposure to our troops and less damage on the ground, that would be great,” IDF spokesperson Jonathan Conricus told ABC Radio Melbourne. (With inputs from agencies)

As IDF mulls ground operation in Gaza, here is what post-war scenario might look like

<p>While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections.</p>

<p>Many Arab and Muslim Americans are voicing anger against what they call Biden’s failure to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the Israeli retaliation, which has resulted in the death of more than 5,500 Palestinians so far, as per claims of Gaza officials.</p>

<p>In US, academics, community members, activists and even pro-Palestine administration officials are joining forces to send a loud and clear message to Joe Biden: Israeli actions against Gazans must stop.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts believe that Biden’s open support to Israeli actions could cost him Muslim votes in key states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on Biden’s re-election bid</strong></h2>

<p>Arab and Muslim voters wield great electoral influence in some key states. In Michigan, they account for 5 per cent of the votes. In other battleground states Pennsylvania and Ohio, they are between 1.7 per cent and 2 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that Biden won these states in 2020 with a very thin margin. In Michigan, Biden got 50.6 per cent of the votes ahead of Trump’s 47.8 per cent. In Pennsylvania, Biden got 50.01 per cent of the votes, with Trump just falling short of 81,000 votes.</p>

<p>While Muslims are unlikely to vote for Donald Trump, in the event of a possible re-match, they will not vote for Biden either, dimming Biden’s prospects of getting back to the White House.</p>

<h2><strong>Reactions from US Muslims</strong></h2>

<p>CAIR, the largest Muslim civil rights group in the US, alleged that their government was responsible for “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza.</p>

<p>Israel’s bombing of Gaza is "now in the realm of genocide targeting the entire Palestinian population," it said, adding, “Government officials will be complicit in the ethnic cleansing of Gaza" unless they intervene.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israel-shares-footage-of-oct-7-hamas-attack-to-counter-claims-of-atrocities-650582"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel shares unedited footage Oct 7 attack; Hamas militant boasts to parents `killed 10 Jews`</strong></a></p>

<p>Some also criticised Biden’s vow to give $14 billion in aid to Israel amidst the war.</p>

<p>"If you look at his rhetoric, it's unbelievable, and now they are trying to pump billions and billions of dollars militarily into Israel, with some $100 million in humanitarian aid for the Palestinians," said Sa'ed Atshan, a Quaker Palestinian American who teaches peace and conflict studies at Pennsylvania's Swarthmore College.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections.

While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections. Many Arab and Muslim Americans are voicing anger against what they call Biden’s failure to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the Israeli retaliation, which has resulted in the death of more than 5,500 Palestinians so far, as per claims of Gaza officials. In US, academics, community members, activists and even pro-Palestine administration officials are joining forces to send a loud and clear message to Joe Biden: Israeli actions against Gazans must stop. Experts believe that Biden’s open support to Israeli actions could cost him Muslim votes in key states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania. Impact on Biden’s re-election bid Arab and Muslim voters wield great electoral influence in some key states. In Michigan, they account for 5 per cent of the votes. In other battleground states Pennsylvania and Ohio, they are between 1.7 per cent and 2 per cent. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report × It must be noted that Biden won these states in 2020 with a very thin margin. In Michigan, Biden got 50.6 per cent of the votes ahead of Trump’s 47.8 per cent. In Pennsylvania, Biden got 50.01 per cent of the votes, with Trump just falling short of 81,000 votes. While Muslims are unlikely to vote for Donald Trump, in the event of a possible re-match, they will not vote for Biden either, dimming Biden’s prospects of getting back to the White House. Reactions from US Muslims CAIR, the largest Muslim civil rights group in the US, alleged that their government was responsible for “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza. Israel’s bombing of Gaza is "now in the realm of genocide targeting the entire Palestinian population," it said, adding, “Government officials will be complicit in the ethnic cleansing of Gaza" unless they intervene. Also read: Israel shares unedited footage Oct 7 attack; Hamas militant boasts to parents `killed 10 Jews` Some also criticised Biden’s vow to give $14 billion in aid to Israel amidst the war. "If you look at his rhetoric, it's unbelievable, and now they are trying to pump billions and billions of dollars militarily into Israel, with some $100 million in humanitarian aid for the Palestinians," said Sa'ed Atshan, a Quaker Palestinian American who teaches peace and conflict studies at Pennsylvania's Swarthmore College. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden’s 2024 campaign may take hit as Arab, Muslim Americans criticise US support to Israel

<p>Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported.</p>

<p>Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh wrote in his report that the Israeli leadership was even willing to sacrifice those who might currently be held hostages in these tunnels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Israel is now in the process of turning Gaza City into rubble, via constant bombing, and is also planning to begin a ground invasion in the near future," the journalist said citing a senior US official.</p>

<p>He also added that flooding the tunnels would mean that “Israel was prepared to write off the hostages still in jeopardy."</p>

<h2><strong>‘Israel to turn Gaza into Hiroshima’</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the journalist claimed that Israel was about to turn Gaza into Hiroshima, just without using a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown</strong></p>

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<p>He also claimed that Israel was fully backed by the US in its efforts to completely dismantle the underground tunnel infrastructure created by Hamas.</p>

<h2><strong>IDF not yet ready for ground offensive, says US</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, top US officials have said that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was not ready to initiate a ground invasion of Gaza as they lack achievable military goals.</p>

<p>It was anticipated shortly after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas that the IDF may launch a ground offensive. However, the campaign has been delayed, with some experts blaming USA’s pressure on the Jewish nation.</p>

<h2><strong>US dispatching its own army officials to advise the IDF</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the White House has said the US Army was willing to cooperate with the IDF in its war against Hamas. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that several senior US Army officers who have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting and may conduct in the future” have been dispatched to advise the IDF.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-amid-upsurge-in-violence-us-begins-preparing-for-mass-evacuation-if-war-escalates-650898"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates</strong></a></p>

<p>“We have asked several officials with relevant experience simply to help Israeli officials think through the difficult questions ahead and explore their options. The IDF will, as always, make its own decisions,” a Pentagon spokesperson added.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported.

Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh wrote in his report that the Israeli leadership was even willing to sacrifice those who might currently be held hostages in these tunnels. "Israel is now in the process of turning Gaza City into rubble, via constant bombing, and is also planning to begin a ground invasion in the near future," the journalist said citing a senior US official. He also added that flooding the tunnels would mean that “Israel was prepared to write off the hostages still in jeopardy." ‘Israel to turn Gaza into Hiroshima’ Earlier, the journalist claimed that Israel was about to turn Gaza into Hiroshima, just without using a nuclear bomb. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown × He also claimed that Israel was fully backed by the US in its efforts to completely dismantle the underground tunnel infrastructure created by Hamas. IDF not yet ready for ground offensive, says US Meanwhile, top US officials have said that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was not ready to initiate a ground invasion of Gaza as they lack achievable military goals. It was anticipated shortly after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas that the IDF may launch a ground offensive. However, the campaign has been delayed, with some experts blaming USA’s pressure on the Jewish nation. US dispatching its own army officials to advise the IDF Meanwhile, the White House has said the US Army was willing to cooperate with the IDF in its war against Hamas. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that several senior US Army officers who have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting and may conduct in the future” have been dispatched to advise the IDF. Also read: Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates “We have asked several officials with relevant experience simply to help Israeli officials think through the difficult questions ahead and explore their options. The IDF will, as always, make its own decisions,” a Pentagon spokesperson 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) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel considering flooding Hamas tunnels before ground invasion, claims famed scribe

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrtDCw9joBfPi" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Israel Defense Forces (IDF) International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Peter Lerner has emphasised that they are currently awaiting the "green light" from the government for a ground offensive in Gaza. Since the October 7th terror attack by Hamas, which claimed the lives of 1,400 Israelis and led to numerous hostages, Israel has remained on high alert.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Tel Aviv, Lt. Col. Peter Lerner explained, "If the ground offensive is instructed and approved by the government, we will be prepared to mobilize. The reservists are now being equipped, trained, and given specific tasks in anticipation of that ground offensive."</p>

<p>In response to the situation in the Gaza Strip resulting from what Israel says are actions to deal with Hamas hideouts, Lerner noted, "We've instructed much of the population in the northern Gaza Strip to evacuate and move towards the south. I'm happy to report that we have seen a massive number of people who have actually followed our instructions, despite Hamas'&nbsp;efforts to prevent them."</p>

<p>The continuous Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip have raised significant concerns about the humanitarian situation, with the United Nations and other world leaders expressing their worries. The IDF spokesperson also pointed out that Hamas is currently in a "state of disarray" adding, "They will definitely be in shock when we get to them."</p>

<p><strong>Here is the full interview:</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: We know there is a buildup at Gaza so can we expect a ground offensive very soon?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> The IDF is now on its 14th day of its offensive to destroy Hamas, to dismantle its capabilities to seek out pursue its leaders and terrorists. Indeed in the course of the last 14 days the IDF has recruited some 300,000 reservists. Their role if instructed to will be across the various services of the IDF and also including the ground offensive. If the ground offensive is instructed and approved by the government, we will be prepared to mobilize. The reservists are now being equipped and trained and given specific tasks in an anticipation for that ground offensive and that is what they are preparing for. Indeed, it does appear that that is the way forward. But we are as I said, waiting for the green light from the government in order to mobilize. Currently we are striking Hamas in its entirety, seeking out its leaders, destroying its operational capabilities, its command and control positions. And of course hunting down its leaders in the perpetrators of the atrocities of the seventh of October.</p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: Sir, it has been over a week since the terror attack happened. How much have you been able to neutralise Hamas in Gaza strip?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> We have struck and targeted hundreds of different targets, including leaders, including terrorists, including planners including operators including the cabinet of the Hamas's terrorist government. And indeed, we understand that they are in a state of disarray as an organization, as a governing body. But they are hiding they're hiding behind the people of Gaza. They are willing to sacrifice the people of Gaza because they have no regard for human life, Israeli or Palestinian. So our understanding is that they are in a state of disarray. They haven't got a clue what is going on above ground. They will definitely be in shock when we get to them. But we will, we are determined to defeat them. We did not open this war, but we will win it.</p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: Right now we Hamas the Southern Front is open but we see Activities on the Northern Front as well with Hezbollah planning some kind of offensive or attack. How do you plan to deal with Hezbollah if it plans to open Northern front as well?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: </strong>&nbsp;Absolutely, we've seen over the last 14 days, a constant increase in hostilities by Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations operating in Lebanon. We've seen anti tank guided missiles fired and as we've seen mortars, we've seen rockets, we've seen sniper fire and we've seen machine gun fire at our forces. We have taken the necessary precautions some of those reservists that have been called up have been sent to reinforce the northern border in order to be prepared for a potential flare up with Hezbollah as well. Their attacks still appear to be on the low scale, which indicates that they are trying to divert our attention from the South to the North. And we understand that Iran is actually behind this effort. We are a strong military. We have great capabilities. We have a professional military, and I would say we can fight on two fronts or multi fronts if required. We don't want to but we are prepared to if we if we are needed.</p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: Coming back to your previous reply, IDF has been targetting Hamas in gaza strip and you talked about the Palestinians as well. What would you say about humanitarian aspects given that there's is an increased pounding of Hamas hideouts by israeli side that can lead to collateral damage as well?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> &nbsp;So we operate basically, like the Indian military based on three core principles:<br />
1) the principle of distinction between civilians, non combatants and terrorists,<br />
2) the principle of military necessity what is the advantage of the specific strike? What abilities does it take from the enemy?<br />
3) And thirdly, proportionality<br />
And we're constantly balancing out those three components in order to be effective in our efforts in order to try and minimize and keep civilians out of harm's way. We've instructed much of the population in the northern Gaza Strip to evacuate and go towards the south. I'm happy to report that we have seen a huge massive amount of people that have actually listened to us. And that is despite Hamas'&nbsp;efforts to prevent them. Hamas put out public announcements telling people not to evacuate. When people went, when they saw that people weren't listening to them, they erected checkpoints, physical checkpoints with terrorists that are trying to prevent them. Even that wasn't successful. So I'm happy to say that people listen to us because they understand that what happened on the seventh of October is unacceptable on any decent human beings understanding. So the people, the decent people of Gaza, have listened to Israel and have head South. Indeed Hamas have no regard for human life, and they will jeopardize the civilian population of Gaza. And our job is to differentiate between those analysis, specifically what we're doing. We've designated a humanitarian zone in the southwest of the Gaza strip in Al-Mawasi area. And our operations, when we need to strike in the Gaza Strip are much more precision intelligence based against specific targets in order to eliminate specific threats. So I would say that when we look at the operation, and when we look at what we're doing, to defeat and destroy us, we are doing it in a way that sends a clear message to the people of Gaza. You are not our enemy. Hamas is our enemy. And that is what we're doing.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION</strong>: How much IDF casualities have&nbsp;been there since the attacks?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> So, we have, I think the last number is 304 in&nbsp;IDF fatalities in this attack. Of course, there are 203 hostages being held by Hamas. We still have over 100 people that are unaccounted for. So that number might go up and of course, Hamas butchered, murdered and massacred over 1400 people, Israelis, men, women, children, the elderly, they have no regard for anybody. And they just came on the mass mass mass murder of anybody that they found. In that time, they have also fired some 7000 rockets at Israel and jeopardised Israeli security, safety and the safety of the people from Haifa although in the north all the way down to the south. And they're continuing their attacks against us, and we are continuing our strikes against them. We have I can say that we are every time we meet a terrorist on the grounds, the terrorist is killed in the exchange. That is what we are doing. We are restoring safety and security. I can say even yesterday we still found a Palestinian terrorists in Israel's territory 13 days after the initial attack. So we are constantly securing the border, closing the breaches that they penetrated through, preventing terrorists from escaping back to the Gaza Strip, and preventing further infiltration from the Gaza strip into Israeli communities.</p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: One thing we have noticed that Hamas is attacking even though Iron Dome is working well. How come Hamas still has the capability to attack....</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> &nbsp;Well of course the Iron Dome isn't foolproof, but it is a very effective mechanism in order to safeguard and save civilians. Hamas has accumulated a huge amount of rockets, and they are continuing to....; and I think the basic working assumption is even when ground offensive takes place. They will continue to try and launch rockets. What we have seen as a decline in the amount of rockets that they're firing daily, which suggests that they are being pursued and have not got the comfort to launch them as freely as before. But yes, indeed they still have this arsenal. They will try and challenge us at each age period. This is the reason or one of the reasons or another part of the equation, why we need to change the paradigm so that this organization cannot fire rockets on us and not butcher our babies, can never adopt us again, and this is why we need to change the entire system.</p>

<p><strong>WION</strong>: &nbsp;When do you see hostages being released.....?</p>

<p><strong>Lt. Col. Peter Lerner:</strong> &nbsp;So unfortunately, I have nothing to report on this issue as I said the to the number of 203 is the number that could actually go up. The working assumption is that they're alive. And I would add that we expect Hamas to take care of their well being, they need to be released and be released now. Prime Minister Netanyahu has demanded that they have the International Committee of the Red Cross have access to the to the hostages. But I don't want to comment beyond that because I don't want to jeopardize them or the families of 203 people that are in despair and their life has been torn into pieces in the aftermath of this attack for the last 14 days. So I don't want to comment on that. And jeopardize anything we can actually bring them home.</p>

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Israel Defense Forces (IDF) International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Peter Lerner has emphasised that they are currently awaiting the "green light" from the government for a ground offensive in Gaza.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Peter Lerner has emphasised that they are currently awaiting the "green light" from the government for a ground offensive in Gaza. Since the October 7th terror attack by Hamas, which claimed the lives of 1,400 Israelis and led to numerous hostages, Israel has remained on high alert. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Tel Aviv, Lt. Col. Peter Lerner explained, "If the ground offensive is instructed and approved by the government, we will be prepared to mobilize. The reservists are now being equipped, trained, and given specific tasks in anticipation of that ground offensive." In response to the situation in the Gaza Strip resulting from what Israel says are actions to deal with Hamas hideouts, Lerner noted, "We've instructed much of the population in the northern Gaza Strip to evacuate and move towards the south. I'm happy to report that we have seen a massive number of people who have actually followed our instructions, despite Hamas' efforts to prevent them." The continuous Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip have raised significant concerns about the humanitarian situation, with the United Nations and other world leaders expressing their worries. The IDF spokesperson also pointed out that Hamas is currently in a "state of disarray" adding, "They will definitely be in shock when we get to them." Here is the full interview: WION: We know there is a buildup at Gaza so can we expect a ground offensive very soon? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: The IDF is now on its 14th day of its offensive to destroy Hamas, to dismantle its capabilities to seek out pursue its leaders and terrorists. Indeed in the course of the last 14 days the IDF has recruited some 300,000 reservists. Their role if instructed to will be across the various services of the IDF and also including the ground offensive. If the ground offensive is instructed and approved by the government, we will be prepared to mobilize. The reservists are now being equipped and trained and given specific tasks in an anticipation for that ground offensive and that is what they are preparing for. Indeed, it does appear that that is the way forward. But we are as I said, waiting for the green light from the government in order to mobilize. Currently we are striking Hamas in its entirety, seeking out its leaders, destroying its operational capabilities, its command and control positions. And of course hunting down its leaders in the perpetrators of the atrocities of the seventh of October. WION: Sir, it has been over a week since the terror attack happened. How much have you been able to neutralise Hamas in Gaza strip? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: We have struck and targeted hundreds of different targets, including leaders, including terrorists, including planners including operators including the cabinet of the Hamas's terrorist government. And indeed, we understand that they are in a state of disarray as an organization, as a governing body. But they are hiding they're hiding behind the people of Gaza. They are willing to sacrifice the people of Gaza because they have no regard for human life, Israeli or Palestinian. So our understanding is that they are in a state of disarray. They haven't got a clue what is going on above ground. They will definitely be in shock when we get to them. But we will, we are determined to defeat them. We did not open this war, but we will win it. WION: Right now we Hamas the Southern Front is open but we see Activities on the Northern Front as well with Hezbollah planning some kind of offensive or attack. How do you plan to deal with Hezbollah if it plans to open Northern front as well? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: Absolutely, we've seen over the last 14 days, a constant increase in hostilities by Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations operating in Lebanon. We've seen anti tank guided missiles fired and as we've seen mortars, we've seen rockets, we've seen sniper fire and we've seen machine gun fire at our forces. We have taken the necessary precautions some of those reservists that have been called up have been sent to reinforce the northern border in order to be prepared for a potential flare up with Hezbollah as well. Their attacks still appear to be on the low scale, which indicates that they are trying to divert our attention from the South to the North. And we understand that Iran is actually behind this effort. We are a strong military. We have great capabilities. We have a professional military, and I would say we can fight on two fronts or multi fronts if required. We don't want to but we are prepared to if we if we are needed. WION: Coming back to your previous reply, IDF has been targetting Hamas in gaza strip and you talked about the Palestinians as well. What would you say about humanitarian aspects given that there's is an increased pounding of Hamas hideouts by israeli side that can lead to collateral damage as well? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: So we operate basically, like the Indian military based on three core principles: 1) the principle of distinction between civilians, non combatants and terrorists, 2) the principle of military necessity what is the advantage of the specific strike? What abilities does it take from the enemy? 3) And thirdly, proportionality And we're constantly balancing out those three components in order to be effective in our efforts in order to try and minimize and keep civilians out of harm's way. We've instructed much of the population in the northern Gaza Strip to evacuate and go towards the south. I'm happy to report that we have seen a huge massive amount of people that have actually listened to us. And that is despite Hamas' efforts to prevent them. Hamas put out public announcements telling people not to evacuate. When people went, when they saw that people weren't listening to them, they erected checkpoints, physical checkpoints with terrorists that are trying to prevent them. Even that wasn't successful. So I'm happy to say that people listen to us because they understand that what happened on the seventh of October is unacceptable on any decent human beings understanding. So the people, the decent people of Gaza, have listened to Israel and have head South. Indeed Hamas have no regard for human life, and they will jeopardize the civilian population of Gaza. And our job is to differentiate between those analysis, specifically what we're doing. We've designated a humanitarian zone in the southwest of the Gaza strip in Al-Mawasi area. And our operations, when we need to strike in the Gaza Strip are much more precision intelligence based against specific targets in order to eliminate specific threats. So I would say that when we look at the operation, and when we look at what we're doing, to defeat and destroy us, we are doing it in a way that sends a clear message to the people of Gaza. You are not our enemy. Hamas is our enemy. And that is what we're doing. WION: How much IDF casualities have been there since the attacks? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: So, we have, I think the last number is 304 in IDF fatalities in this attack. Of course, there are 203 hostages being held by Hamas. We still have over 100 people that are unaccounted for. So that number might go up and of course, Hamas butchered, murdered and massacred over 1400 people, Israelis, men, women, children, the elderly, they have no regard for anybody. And they just came on the mass mass mass murder of anybody that they found. In that time, they have also fired some 7000 rockets at Israel and jeopardised Israeli security, safety and the safety of the people from Haifa although in the north all the way down to the south. And they're continuing their attacks against us, and we are continuing our strikes against them. We have I can say that we are every time we meet a terrorist on the grounds, the terrorist is killed in the exchange. That is what we are doing. We are restoring safety and security. I can say even yesterday we still found a Palestinian terrorists in Israel's territory 13 days after the initial attack. So we are constantly securing the border, closing the breaches that they penetrated through, preventing terrorists from escaping back to the Gaza Strip, and preventing further infiltration from the Gaza strip into Israeli communities. WION: One thing we have noticed that Hamas is attacking even though Iron Dome is working well. How come Hamas still has the capability to attack.... Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: Well of course the Iron Dome isn't foolproof, but it is a very effective mechanism in order to safeguard and save civilians. Hamas has accumulated a huge amount of rockets, and they are continuing to....; and I think the basic working assumption is even when ground offensive takes place. They will continue to try and launch rockets. What we have seen as a decline in the amount of rockets that they're firing daily, which suggests that they are being pursued and have not got the comfort to launch them as freely as before. But yes, indeed they still have this arsenal. They will try and challenge us at each age period. This is the reason or one of the reasons or another part of the equation, why we need to change the paradigm so that this organization cannot fire rockets on us and not butcher our babies, can never adopt us again, and this is why we need to change the entire system. WION: When do you see hostages being released.....? Lt. Col. Peter Lerner: So unfortunately, I have nothing to report on this issue as I said the to the number of 203 is the number that could actually go up. The working assumption is that they're alive. And I would add that we expect Hamas to take care of their well being, they need to be released and be released now. Prime Minister Netanyahu has demanded that they have the International Committee of the Red Cross have access to the to the hostages. But I don't want to comment beyond that because I don't want to jeopardize them or the families of 203 people that are in despair and their life has been torn into pieces in the aftermath of this attack for the last 14 days. So I don't want to comment on that. And jeopardize anything we can actually bring them home. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Exclusive | IDF awaits approval for ground offensive; 300,000 reservists recruited, says spox Peter Lerner

<p>Former US President Donald Trump said Thursday (Oct 19) that he ‘may’ visit Israel to show support amidst its ongoing war against Hamas in the Gaza strip.</p>

<p>His comments came hot on the heels of a trip by President Joe Biden to West Asia, during which the US leader showered unequivocal support for&nbsp;the Jewish nation.</p>

<p>"I may, I may go, I may go, my daughters did (visited). But I believe in letting them do what they have to do. They have to straighten it out. What's happening in Israel is all of those people dead would have never happened, ever, not even a chance. Even the Democrats admit that if I were president. Thank you very much," Trump said while responding to a reporter.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump’s unequivocal support to Israel</strong></h2>

<p>After Hamas’ initial assault on Israel on Oct 7, Trump openly announced he stood with Israel, on his platform ‘Truth Social.’</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump: This is a witch-hunt by a radical lunatic</strong></p>

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<p>In another post, he wrote, “There was no better friend or ally of Israel than President Donald J. Trump”. He also praised Israeli soldiers for fighting Hamas.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump’s criticism of Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>While Trump has strongly backed Israel against Hamas from day one, he has pulled no punches against PM Netanyahu for allegedly backtracking from assisting the US in killing Iran’s top security and intelligence commander, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani in 2020, who was eventually killed in a targeted assassination.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-let-us-down-donald-trump-blasts-israeli-pm-amidst-war-with-hamas-645712"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;‘Netanyahu let us down,’ Donald Trump blasts Israeli PM amid war with Hamas</strong></a></p>

<p>Trump claimed he received a call shortly beforehand to let him know that Israel would not take part in the drone strike but the US proceeded anyway. “But I’ll never forget,” Trump said, adding, “I’ll never forget that Bibi Netanyahu let us down. That was a very terrible thing.”</p>

<p>Donald Trump also pointed fingers at Israeli intelligence, criticising it for failing to stop Hamas from executing such a large-scale and devastating attack. “They’ve got to straighten it out,” Trump said.</p>

<h2><strong>World leaders rally behind Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has already seen high-profile visits by world leaders since Hamas imposed a war on the Jewish nation, including US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former US President Donald Trump said Thursday (Oct 19) that he ‘may’ visit Israel to show support amidst its ongoing war against Hamas in the Gaza strip. His comments came hot on the heels of a trip by President Joe Biden to West Asia, during which the US leader showered unequivocal support for the Jewish nation.

Former US President Donald Trump said Thursday (Oct 19) that he ‘may’ visit Israel to show support amidst its ongoing war against Hamas in the Gaza strip. His comments came hot on the heels of a trip by President Joe Biden to West Asia, during which the US leader showered unequivocal support for the Jewish nation. "I may, I may go, I may go, my daughters did (visited). But I believe in letting them do what they have to do. They have to straighten it out. What's happening in Israel is all of those people dead would have never happened, ever, not even a chance. Even the Democrats admit that if I were president. Thank you very much," Trump said while responding to a reporter. Trump’s unequivocal support to Israel After Hamas’ initial assault on Israel on Oct 7, Trump openly announced he stood with Israel, on his platform ‘Truth Social.’ Watch: Donald Trump: This is a witch-hunt by a radical lunatic × In another post, he wrote, “There was no better friend or ally of Israel than President Donald J. Trump”. He also praised Israeli soldiers for fighting Hamas. Trump’s criticism of Netanyahu While Trump has strongly backed Israel against Hamas from day one, he has pulled no punches against PM Netanyahu for allegedly backtracking from assisting the US in killing Iran’s top security and intelligence commander, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani in 2020, who was eventually killed in a targeted assassination. Also read: ‘Netanyahu let us down,’ Donald Trump blasts Israeli PM amid war with Hamas Trump claimed he received a call shortly beforehand to let him know that Israel would not take part in the drone strike but the US proceeded anyway. “But I’ll never forget,” Trump said, adding, “I’ll never forget that Bibi Netanyahu let us down. That was a very terrible thing.” Donald Trump also pointed fingers at Israeli intelligence, criticising it for failing to stop Hamas from executing such a large-scale and devastating attack. “They’ve got to straighten it out,” Trump said. World leaders rally behind Israel Israel has already seen high-profile visits by world leaders since Hamas imposed a war on the Jewish nation, including US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

I may go: Former US president Trump mulls visiting Israel amid war against Hamas

<p>Former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's administration and claimed that "a weak president in the White House" is costing peace in West Asia amid the ongoing state of war in Israel as well as Iran's&nbsp;belligerence against purported American interests in the region.</p>

<p>In an opinion article written for Newsweek, Trump claimed that the United States must confront&nbsp;what he believed was "the absolute failure of the Biden administration".</p>

<p>"The only thing Biden is good at is the weaponisation of the justice system against his political opponents," Trump wrote while referring to over a dozen cases against him being pursued in the courts across the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slapped-with-gag-order-in-2020-election-subversion-case-647735">Trump slapped with gag order in 2020 election subversion case</a></strong></p>

<p>"Every step of the way, Joe Biden has empowered and emboldened America's enemies the world over—and clearly none more so than the terrorist group Hamas, and their bloodthirsty sponsor, the villainous regime in Iran," Trump wrote further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump claimed that when he left the White House in 2020, Iran was "weak, broke and desperate to make a deal."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I hammered Iranian oil exports down to a record low," Trump wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran-flagged tanker seized over suspected crude oil transfer</strong></p>

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<p>"But then Biden came in, loosened my sanctions, and today Iran is producing more than three million barrels a day. Iran went from making little money under me to raking in at least $80 billion a year under Biden," he wrote further.</p>

<p>But Trump's claim of Iran making "at least $80 billion a year" from its oil trade appears imprecise.</p>

<p>Iranian oil exports have been summed at $41 billion if they are sold at Brent prices, wrote Jeffrey J. Schott, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and co-author of 'Economic Sanctions Reconsidered', in an article for Barrons publication.</p>

<p>Further, Trump recalled his decision to cut off hundreds of billions of dollars of American aid to the Palestinian Authority and went on to slam Biden for repealing his decision after he took office.</p>

<p>"When Biden took office, one of the first things he did was reverse this policy and ship $235 million American taxpayer dollars to the Palestinians—despite warnings from within his own government that this money would be used to fund Hamas'&nbsp;terror campaigns," he wrote.</p>

<p>Joe Biden's administration restored $235mn of aid to Palestinians in April 2021.</p>

<p>Two-thirds of this money went to the UN's agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, which had suffered a&nbsp;crisis since it lost $360mn of US funding in 2018 during Donald Trump's presidential tenure.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump accuses UNRWA of fueling Israel-Palestine conflict</strong></h2>

<p>Trump accused the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) of 'helping (to) fuel' the conflict between Israel and Palestine for decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will once again cut off money for UNRWA," he added.</p>

<p>"We will restore the Trump Travel Ban on entry by people from terror-plagued countries, territories, and places," he said while referring to a similar ban briefly imposed during his presidential tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We aren't bringing in anyone from Gaza or Syria or Somalia or Yemen, or Libya, or anywhere else that threatens our security," Trump wrote.</p>

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Former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's administration and claimed that "a weak president in the White House" is costing peace in West Asia amid the ongoing state of war in Israel as well as Iran's belligerence against purported American interests in the region.

Former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's administration and claimed that "a weak president in the White House" is costing peace in West Asia amid the ongoing state of war in Israel as well as Iran's belligerence against purported American interests in the region. In an opinion article written for Newsweek, Trump claimed that the United States must confront what he believed was "the absolute failure of the Biden administration". "The only thing Biden is good at is the weaponisation of the justice system against his political opponents," Trump wrote while referring to over a dozen cases against him being pursued in the courts across the United States. Also read | Trump slapped with gag order in 2020 election subversion case "Every step of the way, Joe Biden has empowered and emboldened America's enemies the world over—and clearly none more so than the terrorist group Hamas, and their bloodthirsty sponsor, the villainous regime in Iran," Trump wrote further. Trump claimed that when he left the White House in 2020, Iran was "weak, broke and desperate to make a deal." "I hammered Iranian oil exports down to a record low," Trump wrote. Also watch | Iran-flagged tanker seized over suspected crude oil transfer × "But then Biden came in, loosened my sanctions, and today Iran is producing more than three million barrels a day. Iran went from making little money under me to raking in at least $80 billion a year under Biden," he wrote further. But Trump's claim of Iran making "at least $80 billion a year" from its oil trade appears imprecise. Iranian oil exports have been summed at $41 billion if they are sold at Brent prices, wrote Jeffrey J. Schott, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and co-author of 'Economic Sanctions Reconsidered', in an article for Barrons publication. Further, Trump recalled his decision to cut off hundreds of billions of dollars of American aid to the Palestinian Authority and went on to slam Biden for repealing his decision after he took office. "When Biden took office, one of the first things he did was reverse this policy and ship $235 million American taxpayer dollars to the Palestinians—despite warnings from within his own government that this money would be used to fund Hamas' terror campaigns," he wrote. Joe Biden's administration restored $235mn of aid to Palestinians in April 2021. Two-thirds of this money went to the UN's agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, which had suffered a crisis since it lost $360mn of US funding in 2018 during Donald Trump's presidential tenure. Trump accuses UNRWA of fueling Israel-Palestine conflict Trump accused the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) of 'helping (to) fuel' the conflict between Israel and Palestine for decades. "We will once again cut off money for UNRWA," he added. "We will restore the Trump Travel Ban on entry by people from terror-plagued countries, territories, and places," he said while referring to a similar ban briefly imposed during his presidential tenure. "We aren't bringing in anyone from Gaza or Syria or Somalia or Yemen, or Libya, or anywhere else that threatens our security," Trump wrote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump accuses Biden administration of funding 'Hamas' terror campaign'

<p><em><strong>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.</strong></em></p>

<p>Hamas released a yet another chilling video of a hostage on their Telegram channel which appears to show a young woman purportedly receiving medical attention from Hamas.</p>

<p>In the video, the girl can be seen receiving medical treatment for what appears to be her broken arm.</p>

<p>“Hi, I'm Mia Shem, 21 years old from Shoham. Currently, I'm in Gaza. I returned early Saturday morning from Sderot; I was at a party. I was seriously injured in my hand. I underwent surgery on my hand at the hospital [in Gaza] for 3 hours. They are taking care of me, giving me medicine, everything is fine. I only ask that they bring me home as soon as possible to my parents, to my siblings. Get me out of here as soon as possible. Please.”</p>

<h2><strong>What Hamas said about the video?</strong></h2>

<p>On the Telegram channel of Hamas, the video comes with a caption, "Mujahideen from the Al-Qassam Brigades provide medical care to a female prisoner in Gaza, who was captured on the first day of the Al-Aqsa Flood battle."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hamas releases its first footage of a hostage. The group says it is providing medical treatment to her. Though I think this is a poor attempt to show they are treating the hostages well. The hostage appears to be Israeli. <a href="https://t.co/JDATGYenCr">pic.twitter.com/JDATGYenCr</a></p>
— Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeTruzman/status/1714000652807094422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"From the second the reports started I called her cell phone," Israel's Army Radio quoted Mia's mother, Keren Shem, as saying. "And the phone has been ringing for hours, but there's no answer. I demand to know, someone should tell me something. No one has looked for me; we posted on Facebook. I did everything I could to let everyone know that my daughter is missing but no one has contacted me."</p>

<p>Mia's aunt, Galit, was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post: "Today [the family] called me screaming and told me that they see Mia in a video on Telegram. I saw her, and I thought I was dreaming. I finally saw the girl after all this time. She looks hurt and scared but at least she's alive."</p>

<p>"This is a very significant step, and we want our girl at home. We demand that the countries of the free world make sure that she return to us. She was with a very good friend of hers Elya Toledano, and we heard nothing more about him. We want to know he's okay."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-stomach-ripped-open-with-baby-stabbed-israeli-collecting-corpses-recalls-horror-646382">TRIGGER WARNING: ‘Stomach ripped open, unborn baby stabbed’ - Israeli collecting corpses recalls horror</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces said that Mia's family had been notified about her abduction by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The IDF is operating with all intelligence and operational means for the return of the hostages," said the IDF.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: The Hostage Crisis | What is Israel's plan?</strong></p>

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<p>"In the video, Hamas tries to present itself as a humanitarian organisation while it is a murderous terrorist organisation, responsible for the murders and kidnappings of babies, women, children, and the elderly."</p>

<p>WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the video.</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>

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas released a yet another chilling video of a hostage on their Telegram channel which appears to show a young woman purportedly receiving medical attention from Hamas.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas released a yet another chilling video of a hostage on their Telegram channel which appears to show a young woman purportedly receiving medical attention from Hamas. In the video, the girl can be seen receiving medical treatment for what appears to be her broken arm. “Hi, I'm Mia Shem, 21 years old from Shoham. Currently, I'm in Gaza. I returned early Saturday morning from Sderot; I was at a party. I was seriously injured in my hand. I underwent surgery on my hand at the hospital [in Gaza] for 3 hours. They are taking care of me, giving me medicine, everything is fine. I only ask that they bring me home as soon as possible to my parents, to my siblings. Get me out of here as soon as possible. Please.” What Hamas said about the video? On the Telegram channel of Hamas, the video comes with a caption, "Mujahideen from the Al-Qassam Brigades provide medical care to a female prisoner in Gaza, who was captured on the first day of the Al-Aqsa Flood battle." Hamas releases its first footage of a hostage. The group says it is providing medical treatment to her. Though I think this is a poor attempt to show they are treating the hostages well. The hostage appears to be Israeli. pic.twitter.com/JDATGYenCr — Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) October 16, 2023 × "From the second the reports started I called her cell phone," Israel's Army Radio quoted Mia's mother, Keren Shem, as saying. "And the phone has been ringing for hours, but there's no answer. I demand to know, someone should tell me something. No one has looked for me; we posted on Facebook. I did everything I could to let everyone know that my daughter is missing but no one has contacted me." Mia's aunt, Galit, was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post: "Today [the family] called me screaming and told me that they see Mia in a video on Telegram. I saw her, and I thought I was dreaming. I finally saw the girl after all this time. She looks hurt and scared but at least she's alive." "This is a very significant step, and we want our girl at home. We demand that the countries of the free world make sure that she return to us. She was with a very good friend of hers Elya Toledano, and we heard nothing more about him. We want to know he's okay." Also read | TRIGGER WARNING: ‘Stomach ripped open, unborn baby stabbed’ - Israeli collecting corpses recalls horror Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces said that Mia's family had been notified about her abduction by Hamas. "The IDF is operating with all intelligence and operational means for the return of the hostages," said the IDF. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: The Hostage Crisis | What is Israel's plan? × "In the video, Hamas tries to present itself as a humanitarian organisation while it is a murderous terrorist organisation, responsible for the murders and kidnappings of babies, women, children, and the elderly." WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the video. (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video: Hamas releases chilling footage of 'hurt and scared' hostage

<p>A ‘top secret’ document allegedly prepared by the terrorist group Hamas has revealed that it had a detailed plan ready to target elementary schools and a youth centre in the Israeli kibbutz of Kfar Sa'ad, and the plan involved killing “as many people as possible.”</p>

<p>The document, widely circulating in international media, was recovered from some of the bodies of slain terrorists by Israeli troops and first responders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document, which appears to be an attack plan labelled ‘top secret’ in Arabic, directed two trained units to surround and target villages and other civilian sites.</p>

<h2><strong>Details inside two-page attack plan</strong></h2>

<p>One page labelled “Top Secret” outlines a plan of attack for Kfar Sa’ad, saying “Combat unit 1” is directed to “contain the new Da’at school,” while “Combat unit 2” is to “collect hostages,” “search the Bnei Akiva youth centre” and “search the old Da’at school.”</p>

<p>Another page labelled “Top Secret Maneuver” describes a plan for a Hamas unit to secure the east side of Kfar Sa’ad while a second unit controls the west. It says “kills as many as possible” and “capture hostages”. Other orders include surrounding a dining hall and holding hostages in it.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas</strong></p>

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<p>Several documents are currently being examined by Israeli officials. It must be noted that surveillance footage captured on October 7 reveals tactics employed by Hamas militants actually aligned with those described in the ‘top secret’ document.</p>

<h2><strong>Documents contradict Hamas’ recent claims</strong></h2>

<p>This coordinated attack plan contradicts recent claims made by Hamas, denying responsibility for the death of children. A video released by Hamas on Friday showed armed terrorists feeding Israeli children who were taken hostage, including infants.</p>

<p>The Hamas documents, along with footage of the aftermath of the massacre and accounts from witnesses and first responders, paint a grim picture. Kibbutz Kfar Aza suffered severely in the unprecedented terrorist attack on the morning of Saturday, October 7.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/willing-to-fight-for-isreal-expat-indian-tells-wion-recounts-alarm-after-suspected-aerial-assault-646028"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;`Willing to fight for Israel`, expat Indian tells WION, recounts alarm after suspected `aerial assault`</strong></a></p>

<p>In response to these events, Israel's military has issued a warning to the 1.1 million residents of northern Gaza, urging them to evacuate their homes. This comes as a clear indication that Israel is preparing to intensify its retaliatory actions against Hamas.</p>

<p>So far, 1,300 people have been killed on the Israeli side. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is also worsening, with dire warnings of a potential famine, and the Palestinian health ministry reporting a death toll of at least 1,900 people in Gaza.</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>

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A ‘top secret’ document allegedly prepared by the terrorist group Hamas has revealed that it had a detailed plan ready to target elementary schools and a youth centre in the Israeli kibbutz of Kfar Sa'ad, and the plan involved killing “as many people as possible.

A ‘top secret’ document allegedly prepared by the terrorist group Hamas has revealed that it had a detailed plan ready to target elementary schools and a youth centre in the Israeli kibbutz of Kfar Sa'ad, and the plan involved killing “as many people as possible.” The document, widely circulating in international media, was recovered from some of the bodies of slain terrorists by Israeli troops and first responders. The document, which appears to be an attack plan labelled ‘top secret’ in Arabic, directed two trained units to surround and target villages and other civilian sites. Details inside two-page attack plan One page labelled “Top Secret” outlines a plan of attack for Kfar Sa’ad, saying “Combat unit 1” is directed to “contain the new Da’at school,” while “Combat unit 2” is to “collect hostages,” “search the Bnei Akiva youth centre” and “search the old Da’at school.” Another page labelled “Top Secret Maneuver” describes a plan for a Hamas unit to secure the east side of Kfar Sa’ad while a second unit controls the west. It says “kills as many as possible” and “capture hostages”. Other orders include surrounding a dining hall and holding hostages in it. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas × Several documents are currently being examined by Israeli officials. It must be noted that surveillance footage captured on October 7 reveals tactics employed by Hamas militants actually aligned with those described in the ‘top secret’ document. Documents contradict Hamas’ recent claims This coordinated attack plan contradicts recent claims made by Hamas, denying responsibility for the death of children. A video released by Hamas on Friday showed armed terrorists feeding Israeli children who were taken hostage, including infants. The Hamas documents, along with footage of the aftermath of the massacre and accounts from witnesses and first responders, paint a grim picture. Kibbutz Kfar Aza suffered severely in the unprecedented terrorist attack on the morning of Saturday, October 7. Also read: `Willing to fight for Israel`, expat Indian tells WION, recounts alarm after suspected `aerial assault` In response to these events, Israel's military has issued a warning to the 1.1 million residents of northern Gaza, urging them to evacuate their homes. This comes as a clear indication that Israel is preparing to intensify its retaliatory actions against Hamas. So far, 1,300 people have been killed on the Israeli side. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is also worsening, with dire warnings of a potential famine, and the Palestinian health ministry reporting a death toll of at least 1,900 people in Gaza. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Top secret’ document reveals Hamas’ sinister plan to target schools and children

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<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday (Oct 13) that local authorities in Gaza informed it that evacuating vulnerable patients from the northern part of the region was impossible after the Israeli military called for civilians to relocate south within 24 hours. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said that there were severely ill people (in Gaza) whose injuries meant their only chances of survival were on life support, such as mechanical ventilators.</p>

<p>"So moving those people is a death sentence. Asking health workers to do so is beyond cruel," Jasarevic said. He pointed out that hospitals have only a few hours of electricity per day as they have been forced to ration depleting fuel reserves and rely on generators to sustain the most critical functions. "And even those functions will have to cease in a few days when fuel stocks run out," the WHO spokesperson added.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-closes-on-for-ground-assault-in-gaza-with-right-to-defend-stance-646094">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict</a></strong></p>

<p>He also said that time was running out to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe, if fuel, water, food and life-saving health and humanitarian supplies could not be urgently delivered to the Gaza Strip amidst the complete blockage.</p>

<h2><strong>Hospitals in Gaza at a breaking point: WHO</strong></h2>

<p>The WHO already warned that hospitals in the Gaza Strip were at a breaking point. Hospitals in the south of the Gaza Strip were overflowing, and two major hospitals in the north already exceeded their combined 760-bed capacity, the United Nations health agency said.</p>

<p>The Gaza Strip is also experiencing a shortage of hospital blood banks and medicine, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Eleven medical personnel killed in Gaza since start of latest conflict: WHO</strong></h2>

<p>As per the WHO, there have been 34 attacks on health facilities in Gaza since the beginning of last week's conflict, killing 11 medical personnel, injuring 16 others, and destroying 19 medical facilities and 20 ambulances.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hospitals in Gaza simply cannot handle such a huge number of patients. The hospitals are exhausting medical resources to treat the wounded of air strikes," Ashraf Al-Qudra, spokesman of the Palestinian Ministry of Health, said on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gaza's medical resources are almost exhausted. Muhammad Ghoneim, an emergency doctor at Al-Shifa Hospital, said that many hospitals are expected to stop using ventilators and various surgeries, which will deal a fatal blow to the injured in hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday (Oct 13) that local authorities in Gaza informed it that evacuating vulnerable patients from the northern part of the region was impossible after the Israeli military called for civilians to relocate south within 24 hours.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday (Oct 13) that local authorities in Gaza informed it that evacuating vulnerable patients from the northern part of the region was impossible after the Israeli military called for civilians to relocate south within 24 hours. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said that there were severely ill people (in Gaza) whose injuries meant their only chances of survival were on life support, such as mechanical ventilators. "So moving those people is a death sentence. Asking health workers to do so is beyond cruel," Jasarevic said. He pointed out that hospitals have only a few hours of electricity per day as they have been forced to ration depleting fuel reserves and rely on generators to sustain the most critical functions. "And even those functions will have to cease in a few days when fuel stocks run out," the WHO spokesperson added. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict He also said that time was running out to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe, if fuel, water, food and life-saving health and humanitarian supplies could not be urgently delivered to the Gaza Strip amidst the complete blockage. Hospitals in Gaza at a breaking point: WHO The WHO already warned that hospitals in the Gaza Strip were at a breaking point. Hospitals in the south of the Gaza Strip were overflowing, and two major hospitals in the north already exceeded their combined 760-bed capacity, the United Nations health agency said. The Gaza Strip is also experiencing a shortage of hospital blood banks and medicine, it added. Eleven medical personnel killed in Gaza since start of latest conflict: WHO As per the WHO, there have been 34 attacks on health facilities in Gaza since the beginning of last week's conflict, killing 11 medical personnel, injuring 16 others, and destroying 19 medical facilities and 20 ambulances. "Hospitals in Gaza simply cannot handle such a huge number of patients. The hospitals are exhausting medical resources to treat the wounded of air strikes," Ashraf Al-Qudra, spokesman of the Palestinian Ministry of Health, said on Friday. Gaza's medical resources are almost exhausted. Muhammad Ghoneim, an emergency doctor at Al-Shifa Hospital, said that many hospitals are expected to stop using ventilators and various surgeries, which will deal a fatal blow to the injured in hospital. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: WHO says moving severely ill people in Gaza is a death sentence

<p>Terrorist group Hamas claimed on Friday (Oct 13) that at least 13 hostages held in Gaza were killed in Israeli air strikes over the past 24 hours.</p>

<p>Hamas hinted that amongst the hostages killed were Israelis and foreigners.</p>

<p>According to Israeli authorities, Hamas has taken more than 150 people hostage, including both civilians and military personnel.</p>

<p>Hamas said six of the hostages were killed in strikes on two separate locations in the Northern district, while seven others died in strikes that hit three locations in the Gaza district, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: UN says Israel wants 1.1 million Gazans moved south</strong></p>

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<p>"Thirteen prisoners... including foreigners" were killed in five locations targeted by Israeli fighter jets, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a statement.</p>

<p>Since the Hamas’ Saturday assault on Israel, the Jewish country has retaliated aggressively, raining strikes on the blockaded strip and flattening buildings. More than 1,500 people have so far lost their lives in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Israel, at least 1,300 people have been killed by terrorist group Hamas.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel drops 6,000 bombs on Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli air force on Thursday (Oct 12) said that so far they have dropped 6,000 bombs over the Hamas targets and more than 3,600 targets have been hit in the airstrikes, The Washington Post reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-air-force-drops-staggering-6000-bombs-in-six-days-646143"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli air force drops staggering 6,000 bombs in six days</strong></a></p>

<p>As per some experts in warfare, the number of bombs dropped, which is 6,000 in the last six days, was a staggering number.</p>

<p>“Israel is dropping in less than a week what the U.S. was dropping in Afghanistan in a year, in a much smaller, much more densely populated area, where mistakes are going to be magnified,” stated Marc Garlasco, a former UN war crimes investigator in Libya and a military adviser at the Dutch organisation PAX for Peace, while speaking to The Washington Post. &nbsp;</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>

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Terrorist group Hamas claimed on Friday (Oct 13) that at least 13 hostages held in Gaza were killed in Israeli air strikes over the past 24 hours. Hamas hinted that amongst the hostages killed were Israelis and foreigners.

Terrorist group Hamas claimed on Friday (Oct 13) that at least 13 hostages held in Gaza were killed in Israeli air strikes over the past 24 hours. Hamas hinted that amongst the hostages killed were Israelis and foreigners. According to Israeli authorities, Hamas has taken more than 150 people hostage, including both civilians and military personnel. Hamas said six of the hostages were killed in strikes on two separate locations in the Northern district, while seven others died in strikes that hit three locations in the Gaza district, as reported by AFP. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: UN says Israel wants 1.1 million Gazans moved south × "Thirteen prisoners... including foreigners" were killed in five locations targeted by Israeli fighter jets, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said in a statement. Since the Hamas’ Saturday assault on Israel, the Jewish country has retaliated aggressively, raining strikes on the blockaded strip and flattening buildings. More than 1,500 people have so far lost their lives in the Gaza Strip. In Israel, at least 1,300 people have been killed by terrorist group Hamas. Israel drops 6,000 bombs on Gaza The Israeli air force on Thursday (Oct 12) said that so far they have dropped 6,000 bombs over the Hamas targets and more than 3,600 targets have been hit in the airstrikes, The Washington Post reported. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli air force drops staggering 6,000 bombs in six days As per some experts in warfare, the number of bombs dropped, which is 6,000 in the last six days, was a staggering number. “Israel is dropping in less than a week what the U.S. was dropping in Afghanistan in a year, in a much smaller, much more densely populated area, where mistakes are going to be magnified,” stated Marc Garlasco, a former UN war crimes investigator in Libya and a military adviser at the Dutch organisation PAX for Peace, while speaking to The Washington Post. 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) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israeli strikes killed 13 hostages, including foreigners, in Gaza, claims Hamas

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