Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce on Sunday (Sep 21) that Britain is formally recognising a Palestinian state, according to multiple UK media reports. The decision marks a historic policy shift that has already drawn fierce opposition from Israel. Britain has long been one of Israel's closest allies, but its position changed as Israel's war in Gaza escalates. The offensive, launched after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack, has left vast destruction, tens of thousands dead, and the United Nations warning of famine.<h2>Why now?</h2>According to reports, Starmer first signalled the change in July. Back then, he said that the UK would recognise Palestinian statehood if Israel failed to take "substantive steps" towards a ceasefire with Hamas before the UN General Assembly convened in September. He argued that recognition would make a "contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-us-media-calls-negative-coverage-illegal-after-jimmy-kimmel-show-suspension-stirs-free-speech-debate-1758343869435">Trump slams US media, calls negative coverage 'illegal' after Jimmy Kimmel show suspension stirs free speech debate</a>Now, Downing Street officials say the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with images of mass suffering and starvation, has made the case for recognition unavoidable. The announcement will be followed on Monday by a formal presentation to the United Nations by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy.Britain's move comes as around ten other countries, including France, prepare to recognise Palestine at the UN General Assembly.<h2>UK rewarding "monstrous terrorism"?</h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has meanwhile condemned the move, accusing Starmer of rewarding "monstrous terrorism" and appeasing "jihadist" ideology.Starmer has been firm in rejecting claims that recognition amounts to a concession to Hamas. "Hamas is a terrorist organisation who can have no part in the future governance of Palestine," he said this week. "What happened on 7 October was the worst attack since the Holocaust. We have extended family in Israel. I understand the psychological impact that had across Israel, so I know exactly where I stand in relation to Hamas.""Hamas of course don't want a two-state solution, they don't want peace, they don't want a ceasefire. I'm very clear where I stand on Hamas."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-afghanistan-rulers-taliban-hand-back-bagram-airbase-or-bad-things-are-going-to-happen-1758418119901">Trump warns Taliban: Hand back Bagram airbase or 'BAD THINGS ARE GOING TO HAPPEN'</a><h2>Did Starmer delay the announcement because of Trump's UK visit?</h2>Reports had suggested the government delayed the decision until after Donald Trump’s state visit, but Starmer denied any link, saying the timing was based only on the situation in Gaza."On the question of recognition, I made my position clear as to the timing, which has got nothing to do with this state visit, and I've discussed it with the president as you would expect with two leaders who respect each other and like each other," he said. &nbsp;

On Sunday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as per reports, will announce that Britain will formally recognise a Palestinian state. The decision, a historic shift in British foreign policy, comes amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce on Sunday (Sep 21) that Britain is formally recognising a Palestinian state, according to multiple UK media reports. The decision marks a historic policy shift that has already drawn fierce opposition from Israel. Britain has long been one of Israel's closest allies, but its position changed as Israel's war in Gaza escalates. The offensive, launched after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack, has left vast destruction, tens of thousands dead, and the United Nations warning of famine. Why now? According to reports, Starmer first signalled the change in July. Back then, he said that the UK would recognise Palestinian statehood if Israel failed to take "substantive steps" towards a ceasefire with Hamas before the UN General Assembly convened in September. He argued that recognition would make a "contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution." Also read | Trump slams US media, calls negative coverage 'illegal' after Jimmy Kimmel show suspension stirs free speech debate Now, Downing Street officials say the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with images of mass suffering and starvation, has made the case for recognition unavoidable. The announcement will be followed on Monday by a formal presentation to the United Nations by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy. Britain's move comes as around ten other countries, including France, prepare to recognise Palestine at the UN General Assembly. UK rewarding "monstrous terrorism"? Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has meanwhile condemned the move, accusing Starmer of rewarding "monstrous terrorism" and appeasing "jihadist" ideology. Starmer has been firm in rejecting claims that recognition amounts to a concession to Hamas. "Hamas is a terrorist organisation who can have no part in the future governance of Palestine," he said this week. "What happened on 7 October was the worst attack since the Holocaust. We have extended family in Israel. I understand the psychological impact that had across Israel, so I know exactly where I stand in relation to Hamas." "Hamas of course don't want a two-state solution, they don't want peace, they don't want a ceasefire. I'm very clear where I stand on Hamas." Also read | Trump warns Taliban: Hand back Bagram airbase or 'BAD THINGS ARE GOING TO HAPPEN' Did Starmer delay the announcement because of Trump's UK visit? Reports had suggested the government delayed the decision until after Donald Trump’s state visit, but Starmer denied any link, saying the timing was based only on the situation in Gaza. "On the question of recognition, I made my position clear as to the timing, which has got nothing to do with this state visit, and I've discussed it with the president as you would expect with two leaders who respect each other and like each other," he said.

On Sunday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as per reports, will announce that Britain will formally recognise a Palestinian state. The decision, a historic shift in British foreign policy, comes amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

UK to recognise Palestine today despite Israel slamming move as 'rewarding terrorism'. Was it delayed by Trump's visit?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing backlash from the Israel Business Forum (IBF), representing workers from 200 of Israel’s largest companies, for isolating the country from the rest of the world. On Monday, Netanyahu warned that amid criticism from the world for its actions in Gaza, it might have to be become a self-reliant economy with “autarkic characteristics” and a kind of “super-Sparta.” He was faced with an uphill task of defending his words and himself in front of the opposition and top business leaders of the country. The IBF hit back at Netanyahu's "super-Sparta" stance, and declared that “We are not Sparta”, Times of Israel reported. The leaders added that Netanyahu’s policies were pushing the country “towards a political, economic, and social abyss that will endanger our existence in Israel.” Notably, Netanyahu's Monday speech and the IDF’s Gaza City offensive led to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange seeing a massive dip.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-israel-is-committing-genocide-in-gaza-says-probe-launched-by-united-nations-rights-body-1758006485370">'Israel is committing genocide in Gaza', says probe launched by United Nations rights body</a>&nbsp;<h2>Netanyahu angers Israeli business community with “isolation” remarks</h2>The prime minister faced anger from the business community, who said they had had enough of the tensions and wanted peace. Arnon Bar-David, the head of the Histadrut trade union federation, said, "I don’t want to be Sparta… We deserve peace. Israeli society is exhausted, and our status in the world is very bad." Meanwhile, Netanyahu tried to appease the businessmen by stating that he had complete confidence in the Israeli economy. He added that the fall in the stock market was simply because of a “misunderstanding". Netanyahu said the dip "didn't shake us." Netanyahu also invited the ire of the opposition on his "isolation" comments. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid asked what he meant by saying that Israel was “becoming” isolated. "Did some higher power cause this?” Lapid asked in a speech at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism. "You caused this. You are the main cause of the diplomatic isolation," he said.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-continues-to-pound-gaza-strip-with-missiles-1758078334856/embed<h2>Israel might have to rely solely on its own weapons: Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>Netanyahu clarified that his Monday speech was mostly "political at its core" and not about the larger economy. He stated that the area where there could be restrictions, "not economic ones, but political at their core", was in the "defence industries." The prime minister said that the country is aiming to be self-reliant in defence, and should be ready to "defend itself with its own forces and with its own weapons," warning that there could be more "political restrictions during the war", as encountered before.&nbsp;He made many more claims to push forward his case that Israel was not witnessing any downfall. Netanyahu told the leaders that the shekel (Israeli currency) was stronger than it was before the war. He added that the stock market was performing at record levels, and unemployment was at a historic low, and the country had seen huge foreign investment recently. "My remarks were on the attempt to restrict the import of parts, components, weapons, or raw materials," he told the gathered business leaders.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has angered business leaders in the country after saying that the country is being isolated. The premier said Israel might need to become "super-Sparta", but the Israel Business Forum said the Israeli society is exhausted and wants peace.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing backlash from the Israel Business Forum (IBF), representing workers from 200 of Israel’s largest companies, for isolating the country from the rest of the world. On Monday, Netanyahu warned that amid criticism from the world for its actions in Gaza, it might have to be become a self-reliant economy with “autarkic characteristics” and a kind of “super-Sparta.” He was faced with an uphill task of defending his words and himself in front of the opposition and top business leaders of the country. The IBF hit back at Netanyahu's "super-Sparta" stance, and declared that “We are not Sparta”, Times of Israel reported. The leaders added that Netanyahu’s policies were pushing the country “towards a political, economic, and social abyss that will endanger our existence in Israel.” Notably, Netanyahu's Monday speech and the IDF’s Gaza City offensive led to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange seeing a massive dip. Also Read: 'Israel is committing genocide in Gaza', says probe launched by United Nations rights body Netanyahu angers Israeli business community with “isolation” remarks The prime minister faced anger from the business community, who said they had had enough of the tensions and wanted peace. Arnon Bar-David, the head of the Histadrut trade union federation, said, "I don’t want to be Sparta… We deserve peace. Israeli society is exhausted, and our status in the world is very bad." Meanwhile, Netanyahu tried to appease the businessmen by stating that he had complete confidence in the Israeli economy. He added that the fall in the stock market was simply because of a “misunderstanding". Netanyahu said the dip "didn't shake us." Netanyahu also invited the ire of the opposition on his "isolation" comments. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid asked what he meant by saying that Israel was “becoming” isolated. "Did some higher power cause this?” Lapid asked in a speech at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism. "You caused this. You are the main cause of the diplomatic isolation," he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-continues-to-pound-gaza-strip-with-missiles-1758078334856/embed Israel might have to rely solely on its own weapons: Netanyahu Netanyahu clarified that his Monday speech was mostly "political at its core" and not about the larger economy. He stated that the area where there could be restrictions, "not economic ones, but political at their core", was in the "defence industries." The prime minister said that the country is aiming to be self-reliant in defence, and should be ready to "defend itself with its own forces and with its own weapons," warning that there could be more "political restrictions during the war", as encountered before. He made many more claims to push forward his case that Israel was not witnessing any downfall. Netanyahu told the leaders that the shekel (Israeli currency) was stronger than it was before the war. He added that the stock market was performing at record levels, and unemployment was at a historic low, and the country had seen huge foreign investment recently. "My remarks were on the attempt to restrict the import of parts, components, weapons, or raw materials," he told the gathered business leaders.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has angered business leaders in the country after saying that the country is being isolated. The premier said Israel might need to become "super-Sparta", but the Israel Business Forum said the Israeli society is exhausted and wants peace.

'We don’t want to be Sparta' - Israeli business leaders slam Netanyahu for 'super-Sparta' remarks, say we want peace

Israel has started a ground operation in Gaza City, which was confirmed by two Israeli officials whil speaking to CNN early Tuesday (September 16) morning. The much-anticipated ground assault started at the edges of Gaza City, following a week of intensified Israeli air raids and the destruction of numerous high-rise buildings. One official described the operation as “phased and gradual” initially.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-better-future-cannot-begin-until-hamas-is-gaza-city-bombing-escalates-after-marco-rubio-s-visit-to-jerusalem-1757990519964">'Better future cannot begin until Hamas is...': Gaza City bombing escalates after Marco Rubio's visit to Jerusalem</a>&nbsp;“Gaza is engulfed in flames,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz, emphasising that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are targeting terrorist infrastructure to secure the hostages’ release and dismantle Hamas. Although the ground offensive was planned to begin only after the evacuation of the crowded city, only a small portion of residents have left to date.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#عاجل</a> ‼️ سكان غزة، بدأ جيش الدفاع تدمير بنى حماس التحتية في مدينة غزة. ⭕️تعتبر مدينة غزة منطقة قتال خطيرة فالبقاء في المنطقة يعرضكم للخطر. ⭕️انتقلوا في أسرع وقت ممكن عبر شارع الرشيد الى المناطق التي تم عرضها جنوب وادي غزة من خلال المركبات أو سيرًا على الأقدام ⭕️انضموا إلى أكثر… <a href="https://t.co/pqMJo5AC6x">pic.twitter.com/pqMJo5AC6x</a>&mdash; افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvichayAdraee/status/1967841266659385433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The United Nations had warned last month that the invasion could forcibly displace nearly a million Palestinians living in Gaza City. On Monday (September 15), Israeli military officials estimated that about 320,000 Palestinians have fled the area so far. The operation commenced alongside fresh waves of Israeli strikes, resulting in numerous casualties, including children, flooding already strained hospitals. Local authorities reported dozens of injured Palestinians arriving overnight at facilities such as Al-Shifa and Baptist Hospitals near Gaza City. In August, Israel approved a plan to take control of the heavily bombed city, which it describes as a key remaining stronghold of Hamas.&nbsp;Israel launched intense airstrikes on Gaza City on Tuesday (September 16), with residents reporting homes reduced to rubble and civilians trapped beneath the debris. The escalation followed a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Jerusalem, where he fully endorsed Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s renewed military push against Hamas. Local civil defense officials in Gaza reported that casualties continue to climb, with the southern city of Khan Yunis also hit by Israeli airstrikes, including an attack that killed 49 people the day before.

Israel launches ground incursion in Gaza City amid heavy airstrikes: Reports

Israel has started a ground operation in Gaza City, which was confirmed by two Israeli officials whil speaking to CNN early Tuesday (September 16) morning. The much-anticipated ground assault started at the edges of Gaza City, following a week of intensified Israeli air raids and the destruction of numerous high-rise buildings. One official described the operation as “phased and gradual” initially. Also Read: 'Better future cannot begin until Hamas is...': Gaza City bombing escalates after Marco Rubio's visit to Jerusalem “Gaza is engulfed in flames,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz, emphasising that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are targeting terrorist infrastructure to secure the hostages’ release and dismantle Hamas. Although the ground offensive was planned to begin only after the evacuation of the crowded city, only a small portion of residents have left to date.

Israel launches a phased ground invasion in Gaza City, escalating airstrikes and hospital casualties, as thousands of Palestinians flee

Israel says launched ground incursion in Gaza City amid heavy airstrikes

Israel launched intense airstrikes on Gaza City on Tuesday (September 16), with residents reporting homes reduced to rubble and civilians trapped beneath the debris. The escalation followed a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Jerusalem, where he fully endorsed Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s renewed military push against Hamas.&nbsp;Speaking alongside Netanyahu, Rubio assured Israel of America’s “unshakable support,” describing Hamas as “barbaric animals” and expressing skepticism toward Qatar’s ongoing efforts to mediate a ceasefire. The latest assault on Gaza City—the most densely populated area of the enclave—comes amid warnings from the United Nations that famine looms for over one million residents. Local civil defense officials in Gaza reported that casualties continue to climb, with the southern city of Khan Yunis also hit by Israeli airstrikes, including an attack that killed 49 people the day before.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-kremlin-laundromat-to-friend-trump-s-u-turn-brings-india-us-back-to-negotiating-table-trade-talks-in-delhi-today-1757990317044">From 'Kremlin laundromat' to 'friend': Trump's U-turn brings India, US back to negotiating table; trade talks in Delhi today</a>&nbsp;Due to restricted media access and dangerous conditions, independent verification of casualty figures remains challenging, although the UN continues to deem Gaza’s health ministry statistics as credible. As of now, over 64,900 Palestinians—mostly civilians—are reported to have been killed since the war began following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which left 1,219 people dead.&nbsp;Rubio’s Middle East tour is happening against the backdrop of increasing diplomatic friction. His show of support for Netanyahu contrasts with criticism from US President Donald Trump, who recently warned Israel not to strike targets in Qatar—home to a key US air base and a key broker in hostage talks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-move-to-fire-fed-governor-lisa-cook-fails-court-lets-her-stay-for-rate-decision-1757984861281">Trump move to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook fails — court lets her stay for rate decision</a>&nbsp;Despite this, Rubio dismissed statehood recognition as symbolic and warned against Qatar-led diplomacy. France, meanwhile, is preparing to host a UN summit in which several US allies are expected to push for formal recognition of a Palestinian state—moves staunchly opposed by the Israeli government.&nbsp;Some Israeli ministers have even floated the idea of annexing the occupied West Bank, prompting rare rebukes from the UAE, which normalised ties with Israel in 2020. While in Jerusalem, Rubio also toured sensitive sites, including a controversial underground tunnel beneath the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan, sparking criticism from local residents. Silwan community leader Fakhri Abu Diab accused the US of turning a blind eye to Palestinian suffering and backing Israel’s far-right agenda. Rubio also paid a visit to the Western Wall, echoing Trump-era declarations of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital—a stance Palestinians reject, citing international law and claims to East Jerusalem as their future capital.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio backs Israel's Gaza offensive, dismisses ceasefire talks and Palestinian statehood push, as airstrikes kill civilians and global pressure on Israel escalates

Israel launched intense airstrikes on Gaza City on Tuesday (September 16), with residents reporting homes reduced to rubble and civilians trapped beneath the debris. The escalation followed a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Jerusalem, where he fully endorsed Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s renewed military push against Hamas. Speaking alongside Netanyahu, Rubio assured Israel of America’s “unshakable support,” describing Hamas as “barbaric animals” and expressing skepticism toward Qatar’s ongoing efforts to mediate a ceasefire. The latest assault on Gaza City—the most densely populated area of the enclave—comes amid warnings from the United Nations that famine looms for over one million residents. Local civil defense officials in Gaza reported that casualties continue to climb, with the southern city of Khan Yunis also hit by Israeli airstrikes, including an attack that killed 49 people the day before. Also Read: From 'Kremlin laundromat' to 'friend': Trump's U-turn brings India, US back to negotiating table; trade talks in Delhi today Due to restricted media access and dangerous conditions, independent verification of casualty figures remains challenging, although the UN continues to deem Gaza’s health ministry statistics as credible. As of now, over 64,900 Palestinians—mostly civilians—are reported to have been killed since the war began following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which left 1,219 people dead. Rubio’s Middle East tour is happening against the backdrop of increasing diplomatic friction. His show of support for Netanyahu contrasts with criticism from US President Donald Trump, who recently warned Israel not to strike targets in Qatar—home to a key US air base and a key broker in hostage talks. Also Read: Trump move to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook fails — court lets her stay for rate decision Despite this, Rubio dismissed statehood recognition as symbolic and warned against Qatar-led diplomacy. France, meanwhile, is preparing to host a UN summit in which several US allies are expected to push for formal recognition of a Palestinian state—moves staunchly opposed by the Israeli government. Some Israeli ministers have even floated the idea of annexing the occupied West Bank, prompting rare rebukes from the UAE, which normalised ties with Israel in 2020. While in Jerusalem, Rubio also toured sensitive sites, including a controversial underground tunnel beneath the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan, sparking criticism from local residents. Silwan community leader Fakhri Abu Diab accused the US of turning a blind eye to Palestinian suffering and backing Israel’s far-right agenda. Rubio also paid a visit to the Western Wall, echoing Trump-era declarations of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital—a stance Palestinians reject, citing international law and claims to East Jerusalem as their future capital.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio backs Israel's Gaza offensive, dismisses ceasefire talks and Palestinian statehood push, as airstrikes kill civilians and global pressure on Israel escalates

'Better future cannot begin until Hamas is...': Gaza City bombing escalates after Marco Rubio's visit to Jerusalem

Israel on Tuesday (Sep 9) launched a targeted airstrike in Qatar's Doha, claiming that it was against "the top leadership of the Hamas terrorist organisation." The IDF stated that, together with Shin Bet and the Air Force, they had conducted a targeted strike against the top leadership of Hamas, who had been responsible for the October 7 massacre and were leading the conflict against Israel. As per Israeli media, Hamas' Gaza Chief, Khalil Al-Hayya was eliminated in the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the recent targeted strike against senior Hamas leaders was a fully independent Israeli operation. The statement was released on X, and it stated that the operation was carried out “solely by Israel”, without external coordination or foreign involvement. This strike, conducted by the IDF, Shin Bet, and Israeli Air Force, targeted top Hamas commanders allegedly responsible for orchestrating the October 7 attacks and leading ongoing military operations against Israel, the statement said. Israeli authorities highlighted the use of precision weaponry and intelligence to minimise civilian casualties during the mission. The move marks a significant development in Israel’s broader campaign to dismantle Hamas’s leadership infrastructure in Gaza.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250909/image-1757428773485.png"></figure>

Meanwhile, Qatar has strongly condemned the strike in Doha, saying that it targeted residential buildings housing Hamas political bureau members. Calling it a "cowardly attack," Qatar stated it violated international law and endangered civilians. Authorities are investigating and taking measures to ensure public safety. Iran also condemned the attack and called it a ‘gross violation’.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Advisor to the Prime Minister and official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: &quot;The State of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar</a> strongly condemns the cowardly Israeli attack that targeted residential buildings housing several members of the Political Bureau of Hamas in the Qatari capital, Doha.… <a href="https://t.co/6pYs8zyOHu">pic.twitter.com/6pYs8zyOHu</a>&mdash; Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/QNAEnglish/status/1965409903784206830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US State Department and US President Donald Trump are yet to react to the attack. However, the US Embassy in Qatar advised its citizens to take ‘shelter-in-place.’ “We have seen reports of missile strikes occurring in Doha. The U.S. Embassy has instituted a shelter-in-place order for their facilities. U.S. citizens are advised to shelter-in-place and monitor,” it said in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We have seen reports of missile strikes occurring in Doha. The U.S. Embassy has instituted a shelter-in-place order for their facilities. U.S. citizens are advised to shelter-in-place and monitor <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyDoha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USEmbassyDoha</a> social media for updates.&mdash; U.S. Embassy in Qatar (@USEmbassyDoha) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyDoha/status/1965410250707935632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel’s strike on top Hamas leaders in Doha and said that it was a fully independent operation, conducted by the IDF, Shin Bet, and Air Force

Israel on Tuesday (Sep 9) launched a targeted airstrike in Qatar's Doha, claiming that it was against "the top leadership of the Hamas terrorist organisation." The IDF stated that, together with Shin Bet and the Air Force, they had conducted a targeted strike against the top leadership of Hamas, who had been responsible for the October 7 massacre and were leading the conflict against Israel. As per Israeli media, Hamas' Gaza Chief, Khalil Al-Hayya was eliminated in the attack. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the recent targeted strike against senior Hamas leaders was a fully independent Israeli operation. The statement was released on X, and it stated that the operation was carried out “solely by Israel”, without external coordination or foreign involvement. This strike, conducted by the IDF, Shin Bet, and Israeli Air Force, targeted top Hamas commanders allegedly responsible for orchestrating the October 7 attacks and leading ongoing military operations against Israel, the statement said. Israeli authorities highlighted the use of precision weaponry and intelligence to minimise civilian casualties during the mission. The move marks a significant development in Israel’s broader campaign to dismantle Hamas’s leadership infrastructure in Gaza.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel’s strike on top Hamas leaders in Doha and said that it was a fully independent operation, conducted by the IDF, Shin Bet, and Air Force

US helped Israel in Doha attack? Netanyahu breaks silence, takes 'full responsibility' of attack on Hamas in Qatar

Israel has instructed the entire population of Gaza City — home to around one million people — to leave immediately as it prepares for a large-scale ground offensive aimed at seizing control of the territory’s biggest urban center. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued the order on Tuesday (September 9), warning residents that heavy military action would soon engulf the city. “From the Old City and Tuffah in the east to the shoreline in the west, the IDF will strike Hamas with overwhelming force in Gaza City,” said Avichay Adraee, the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson.&nbsp;&nbsp;He urged civilians to evacuate through the Rashid coastal road toward Al-Mawasi, which Israel has designated as a “humanitarian zone.” The directive was reinforced by air-dropped leaflets that included maps instructing people to move westward toward the sea before heading south. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had already cautioned Palestinians a day earlier, declaring, “This is only the beginning of the intensified ground maneuver in Gaza City.” Hours later, Israeli forces escalated aerial bombardments, hitting several high-rise residential towers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-protests-prime-minister-kp-sharma-oli-steps-down-as-fresh-wave-of-protests-erupt-1757407955361">Nepal protests: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli steps down as fresh wave of protests erupt</a>&nbsp;According to Israeli officials, the military already holds about 40% of Gaza City, but the campaign is being stepped up to secure full control, which Israel claims is essential to dismantle Hamas. Despite the evacuation orders, only about 70,000 residents—less than 10% of the city’s population—have fled so far. Humanitarian preparations remain far behind the pace of displacement. Israel says just 3,000 tents have entered Gaza to date, far short of its target of 100,000 within three weeks. “We want to flood Gaza with tents,” a senior Israeli official told reporters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/army-evacuates-ministers-from-bhaisepati-amid-escalating-nepal-protests-1757409661640">Army evacuates ministers from Bhaisepati amid escalating Nepal protests</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Washington and Tel Aviv plan to expand aid distribution centers managed by the contentious Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) from four to 16. But as of now, it is unclear whether the additional sites are operational.

'This is only the beginning': Netanyahu issues warning as Israel orders mass evacuation of Gaza city ahead of full military push

Israel has instructed the entire population of Gaza City — home to around one million people — to leave immediately as it prepares for a large-scale ground offensive aimed at seizing control of the territory’s biggest urban center. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued the order on Tuesday (September 9), warning residents that heavy military action would soon engulf the city. “From the Old City and Tuffah in the east to the shoreline in the west, the IDF will strike Hamas with overwhelming force in Gaza City,” said Avichay Adraee, the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson. He urged civilians to evacuate through the Rashid coastal road toward Al-Mawasi, which Israel has designated as a “humanitarian zone.” The directive was reinforced by air-dropped leaflets that included maps instructing people to move westward toward the sea before heading south. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had already cautioned Palestinians a day earlier, declaring, “This is only the beginning of the intensified ground maneuver in Gaza City.” Hours later, Israeli forces escalated aerial bombardments, hitting several high-rise residential towers. Also Read: Nepal protests: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli steps down as fresh wave of protests erupt According to Israeli officials, the military already holds about 40% of Gaza City, but the campaign is being stepped up to secure full control, which Israel claims is essential to dismantle Hamas. Despite the evacuation orders, only about 70,000 residents—less than 10% of the city’s population—have fled so far. Humanitarian preparations remain far behind the pace of displacement. Israel says just 3,000 tents have entered Gaza to date, far short of its target of 100,000 within three weeks. “We want to flood Gaza with tents,” a senior Israeli official told reporters. Also Read: Army evacuates ministers from Bhaisepati amid escalating Nepal protests Meanwhile, Washington and Tel Aviv plan to expand aid distribution centers managed by the contentious Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) from four to 16. But as of now, it is unclear whether the additional sites are operational.

Israel orders Gaza city’s million residents to evacuate as it intensifies strikes, vowing this is ‘only the beginning’ of its ground takeover campaign

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will “allow” Gazans to leave amid the ongoing Israel–Gaza war. The announcement comes as the conflict intensifies and global pressure mounts for civilian safety.


Israel-Gaza War: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Says He Will Allow Gazans to Leave | WION Pulse

Israel-Gaza War: Netanyahu Pushes For Palestinians' Departure As Egypt Seeks 60-day Truce | GRAVITAS

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence.
<h2 class="p1">Targeted Facility</h2>
The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-new-orleans-attack-updates-israeli-military-kills-hamas-police-chief-and-more-8586402">Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more</a>
The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gia617-1xqvibot-0hkyz8v7">
DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. <a href="https://t.co/s0bTDNwx77">pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1874849694012309593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="p1">Operational Details</h2>
Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes.
Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility&rsquo;s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
<h2 class="p1">Outcome</h2>
The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," a September 2024 mission where 120 commandos destroyed an underground missile facility in Syria

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence. Targeted Facility The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site. Also read: Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime. DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 2, 2025 Operational Details Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes. Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility’s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone Outcome The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely. (With inputs from agencies)

'Operation Many Ways': Israel declassifies details of strike on Iran-backed Syrian missile facility

The latest report by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) showed the massive impact on the demographics of both Israel and Gaza due to the ongoing war. The report said that in 2024, Gaza witnessed a population decline of 6 per cent, which is around 160,000 people.&nbsp;
The report published on Thursday (Jan 2) revealed that around 100,000 Palestinians were forced to evacuate the Gaza Strip after the October 7 attack. Furthermore, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza claimed that at least 45,552 fatalities occurred in the area due to Israeli military operations.&nbsp;
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The assessment has further highlighted that at least 60, 000 pregnant women in Gaza faced serious health risks due to insufficient medical care. Around 96 per cent of residents have faced food security issues.&nbsp;
The PCBS report claimed that Gaza's current population is 2.1 million. Children under 18 comprise 47 per cent of the total population.&nbsp;
The Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said that continued but slower population growth has been registered in the Jewish nation. On Tuesday (Dec 31), the census office said that Israel's population growth has decreased from 1.6 per cent in 2023 to 1.1 per cent in 2024. The report claimed the decline in population was due to increased emigration, as 82,700 Israeli residents left Israel in 2024. The number was 55,000 in 2023.&nbsp;
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By December 31, 2024, Israel's population was recorded at 10.027 million. This was the first time that Israel's population surpassed 10 million, though this number includes foreign nationals living in Israel as well.&nbsp;
Currently, Israel is facing multiple conflicts, such as clashes with Labanon's Hezbollah, Iran, Yemen's Houthis, and other groups that claim to support the Palestinians in Gaza, with its biggest target being Hamas.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Middle East: The report revealed that 100,000 Palestinians were forced to evacuate the Gaza Strip after Oct 7, while around 45,552 fatalities occurred in Israeli military operations. 

The latest report by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) showed the massive impact on the demographics of both Israel and Gaza due to the ongoing war. The report said that in 2024, Gaza witnessed a population decline of 6 per cent, which is around 160,000 people. The report published on Thursday (Jan 2) revealed that around 100,000 Palestinians were forced to evacuate the Gaza Strip after the October 7 attack. Furthermore, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza claimed that at least 45,552 fatalities occurred in the area due to Israeli military operations. Also read | Chinese HY-119 drone meant for 'underwater surveillance' recovered in Philippines waters The assessment has further highlighted that at least 60, 000 pregnant women in Gaza faced serious health risks due to insufficient medical care. Around 96 per cent of residents have faced food security issues. The PCBS report claimed that Gaza's current population is 2.1 million. Children under 18 comprise 47 per cent of the total population. The Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said that continued but slower population growth has been registered in the Jewish nation. On Tuesday (Dec 31), the census office said that Israel's population growth has decreased from 1.6 per cent in 2023 to 1.1 per cent in 2024. The report claimed the decline in population was due to increased emigration, as 82,700 Israeli residents left Israel in 2024. The number was 55,000 in 2023. Also read | Toco’s $14,000 collie costume sparks creation of Tocotoco zoo By December 31, 2024, Israel's population was recorded at 10.027 million. This was the first time that Israel's population surpassed 10 million, though this number includes foreign nationals living in Israel as well. Currently, Israel is facing multiple conflicts, such as clashes with Labanon's Hezbollah, Iran, Yemen's Houthis, and other groups that claim to support the Palestinians in Gaza, with its biggest target being Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza population declined by 6% in 2024, Israel faced slower population growth: Report

Conflict-ravaged Gaza appears to be facing the worst restrictions on aid since the Israel-Hams war there began over a year ago, the UN said on Tuesday, lamenting the devastating impact,&nbsp;especially, on children.

"Day after day, the situation for children becomes worse than the day before," said James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF.

Vast areas of Gaza have been devastated by Israel's retaliatory assault on the territory after the October 7 Hamas attack last year that sparked the war.

And Israel has been intensifying operations in the north of the besieged Palestinian territory, where the UN has warned hundreds of thousands of people are trapped.

Despite a desperate need to increase the amount of aid going in, Elder lamented that aid access was worsening.

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"August was the lowest amount of humanitarian aid that came into the Gaza Strip of any full month since the war broke out," he said, adding that there had been "several days in the last week (where) no commercial trucks whatsoever were allowed to come in".

"We see now what are probably the worst restrictions we've seen on humanitarian aid, ever."

Earlier in the year, amid warnings that the UN could declare a full-fledged famine in Gaza, Elder said there had been "a real push to have new routes and access point open".

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But now, "we have seen an absolute reversal of that", he warned, adding that since May, "we've seen consistent entry points blocked".

Northern Gaza, meanwhile, "hasn't had food, any food aid at all coming in all of October", he added.

The dire lack of aid, coupled with the relentless strikes and the fact that around 85 per cent of the Gaza Strip has been hit with some form of evacuation order, has made the territory "essentially unlivable", Elder said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Conflict-ravaged Gaza appears to be facing the worst restrictions on aid since the Israel-Hams war there began over a year ago, the UN said on Tuesday, lamenting the devastating impact, especially, on children.

Conflict-ravaged Gaza appears to be facing the worst restrictions on aid since the Israel-Hams war there began over a year ago, the UN said on Tuesday, lamenting the devastating impact, especially, on children. "Day after day, the situation for children becomes worse than the day before," said James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF. Vast areas of Gaza have been devastated by Israel's retaliatory assault on the territory after the October 7 Hamas attack last year that sparked the war. And Israel has been intensifying operations in the north of the besieged Palestinian territory, where the UN has warned hundreds of thousands of people are trapped. Despite a desperate need to increase the amount of aid going in, Elder lamented that aid access was worsening. Also Read | Canada looks to sanction India; experts say ‘sick man’ will shoot in the foot "August was the lowest amount of humanitarian aid that came into the Gaza Strip of any full month since the war broke out," he said, adding that there had been "several days in the last week (where) no commercial trucks whatsoever were allowed to come in". "We see now what are probably the worst restrictions we've seen on humanitarian aid, ever." Earlier in the year, amid warnings that the UN could declare a full-fledged famine in Gaza, Elder said there had been "a real push to have new routes and access point open". Also Read | Israel's air defence system facing shortage of munitions as war drags on But now, "we have seen an absolute reversal of that", he warned, adding that since May, "we've seen consistent entry points blocked". Northern Gaza, meanwhile, "hasn't had food, any food aid at all coming in all of October", he added. The dire lack of aid, coupled with the relentless strikes and the fact that around 85 per cent of the Gaza Strip has been hit with some form of evacuation order, has made the territory "essentially unlivable", Elder said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Worst restrictions’ on Gaza aid since Israel-Hamas war began: UN

Israeli military strikes killed at least 40‬ Palestinians across the Gaza Strip as Israeli forces tightened their squeeze around Jabalia in the north of the enclave on Tuesday, amid fierce battles with Hamas-led fighters.

Palestinian health officials said at least 11 people were killed by Israeli fire near Al-Falouja in Jabalia, the largest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, while 10 others were killed in Bani Suhaila in eastern Khan Younis in the south when an Israeli missile struck a house.

Earlier on Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike destroyed three houses in the Sabra suburb of Gaza City, and the local civil emergency service said they recovered two bodies from the site, while the search continued for 12 other people who were believed to have been in the houses at the time of the strike.

Five others were killed when a house was struck in the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza.

Jabalia has been the focus of an Israeli offensive for more than 10 days, with troops returning to areas of the north that came under heavy bombardment in the early months of the year-long war.

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The operation has raised concerns among Palestinians and UN&nbsp;agencies that Israel wants to clear residents from the north of the crowded enclave, a charge it has denied.

The United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday the Israeli military appeared to be "cutting off North Gaza completely from the rest of the Gaza Strip."

"Amid intense ongoing hostilities and evacuation orders in northern Gaza families are facing unimaginable fear, loss of loved ones, confusion, and exhaustion. People must be able to flee safely, without facing further danger," Adrian Zimmerman, ICRC Gaza head of sub-delegation, said in a statement.

"Many, including the sick and disabled, cannot leave, and they remain protected under international humanitarian law – all possible precautions must be taken to ensure they remain unharmed. Every person displaced has the right to return home in safety," he added.

The Israeli military has now encircled the Jabalia camp and sent tanks into nearby Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun towns, with the declared aim of stamping out Hamas fighters who are trying to regroup there.

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The Israeli military has told residents to leave their homes and head to safety in southern Gaza. Palestinian and UN&nbsp;officials say there was no place safe in Gaza.

Israeli officials said evacuation orders were aimed at separating Hamas fighters from civilians and denied that there was any systematic plan to clear civilians out of Jabalia or other northern areas.

Hamas' armed wing said fighters were engaged in fierce battles with Israeli forces in and around Jabalia.

Zimmerman also urged for health facilities in the north to be protected, saying hospitals there were struggling to provide medical services.

Gaza's health ministry said the army ordered the three hospitals operating there to evacuate but medical staffers said they were determined to continue their services even though they are overwhelmed by the growing number of casualties.

On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the level of civilian casualties in northern Gaza.

The northern part of Gaza is home to well over half the territory's 2.3 million people and hundreds of thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes amidst heavy bombing in the first phase of Israel's assault on the territory.

Around 400,000 people remained, according to United Nations estimates.

Israel launched the offensive against Hamas after the militant group's October&nbsp;7 attack on Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and around 250 taken hostage to Gaza, by Israeli tallies. More than 42,000 Palestinians have been killed in the offensive so far, according to Gaza's health authorities.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israeli military strikes killed at least 40‬ Palestinians across the Gaza Strip as Israeli forces tightened their squeeze around Jabalia in the north of the enclave on Tuesday, amid fierce battles with Hamas-led fighters.

Israeli military strikes killed at least 40‬ Palestinians across the Gaza Strip as Israeli forces tightened their squeeze around Jabalia in the north of the enclave on Tuesday, amid fierce battles with Hamas-led fighters. Palestinian health officials said at least 11 people were killed by Israeli fire near Al-Falouja in Jabalia, the largest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, while 10 others were killed in Bani Suhaila in eastern Khan Younis in the south when an Israeli missile struck a house. Earlier on Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike destroyed three houses in the Sabra suburb of Gaza City, and the local civil emergency service said they recovered two bodies from the site, while the search continued for 12 other people who were believed to have been in the houses at the time of the strike. Five others were killed when a house was struck in the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza. Jabalia has been the focus of an Israeli offensive for more than 10 days, with troops returning to areas of the north that came under heavy bombardment in the early months of the year-long war. Also Read | Poll body ECI announces dates for Maharashtra, Jharkhand Assembly elections The operation has raised concerns among Palestinians and UN agencies that Israel wants to clear residents from the north of the crowded enclave, a charge it has denied. The United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday the Israeli military appeared to be "cutting off North Gaza completely from the rest of the Gaza Strip." "Amid intense ongoing hostilities and evacuation orders in northern Gaza families are facing unimaginable fear, loss of loved ones, confusion, and exhaustion. People must be able to flee safely, without facing further danger," Adrian Zimmerman, ICRC Gaza head of sub-delegation, said in a statement. "Many, including the sick and disabled, cannot leave, and they remain protected under international humanitarian law – all possible precautions must be taken to ensure they remain unharmed. Every person displaced has the right to return home in safety," he added. The Israeli military has now encircled the Jabalia camp and sent tanks into nearby Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun towns, with the declared aim of stamping out Hamas fighters who are trying to regroup there. Also Read | West Asia crisis: 25% of Lebanon under Israeli evacuation orders, says UN agency The Israeli military has told residents to leave their homes and head to safety in southern Gaza. Palestinian and UN officials say there was no place safe in Gaza. Israeli officials said evacuation orders were aimed at separating Hamas fighters from civilians and denied that there was any systematic plan to clear civilians out of Jabalia or other northern areas. Hamas' armed wing said fighters were engaged in fierce battles with Israeli forces in and around Jabalia. Zimmerman also urged for health facilities in the north to be protected, saying hospitals there were struggling to provide medical services. Gaza's health ministry said the army ordered the three hospitals operating there to evacuate but medical staffers said they were determined to continue their services even though they are overwhelmed by the growing number of casualties. On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the level of civilian casualties in northern Gaza. The northern part of Gaza is home to well over half the territory's 2.3 million people and hundreds of thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes amidst heavy bombing in the first phase of Israel's assault on the territory. Around 400,000 people remained, according to United Nations estimates. Israel launched the offensive against Hamas after the militant group's October 7 attack on Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and around 250 taken hostage to Gaza, by Israeli tallies. More than 42,000 Palestinians have been killed in the offensive so far, according to Gaza's health authorities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hamas war: At least 40 killed in Gaza amid Israeli strikes as tanks deepen raid in north

Israel on Friday slammed a UN probe which concluded it was deliberately seeking to destroy healthcare in the Gaza Strip and abusing Palestinian detainees, branding the findings "outrageous".

The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry (CoI) said Israel had "perpetrated a concerted policy to destroy Gaza's healthcare system".

The country is "committing war crimes and the crime against humanity of extermination with relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities", it added, in a report released Thursday.

Israel said it firmly rejected the allegations, in a statement from its mission in Geneva.

"This latest report is another blatant attempt by the CoI to delegitimise the very existence of the State of Israel and obstruct its right to protect its population, while covering up the crimes of terrorist organisations.

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"This report shamelessly portrays Israel's operations in terror-infested health facilities in Gaza as a matter of policy against Gaza's health system, while entirely dismissing overwhelming evidence that medical facilities in Gaza have been systematically used by Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad for terrorist activities," it said.

Israel also rejected accusations of widespread and systematic abuse of Palestinian detainees, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity.

"Israel is fully committed to international legal standards regarding the treatment of detainees. This includes prohibition of excessive use of force and ill-treatment," the mission said.

It accused the commission of creating an "alternate reality", and thereby contributing to "the exacerbation of this conflict".

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"We call on states to speak out against this prejudiced approach, which only serves to further stain the credibility of the Human Rights Council and the United Nations at large."

The three-person commission, established by the UN Human Rights Council in May 2021 to investigate alleged international law violations in Israel and the Palestinian territories, was publishing its second report since Hamas's October 7 attack a year ago, which sparked the ongoing war.

Israel invaded the Gaza Strip after last year's October 7 attack by Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures, which include hostages killed in captivity.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed more than 42,000 people in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry that the UN has described as reliable.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel on Friday slammed a UN probe which concluded it was deliberately seeking to destroy healthcare in the Gaza Strip and abusing Palestinian detainees, branding the findings "outrageous".

Israel on Friday slammed a UN probe which concluded it was deliberately seeking to destroy healthcare in the Gaza Strip and abusing Palestinian detainees, branding the findings "outrageous". The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry (CoI) said Israel had "perpetrated a concerted policy to destroy Gaza's healthcare system". The country is "committing war crimes and the crime against humanity of extermination with relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities", it added, in a report released Thursday. Israel said it firmly rejected the allegations, in a statement from its mission in Geneva. "This latest report is another blatant attempt by the CoI to delegitimise the very existence of the State of Israel and obstruct its right to protect its population, while covering up the crimes of terrorist organisations. Also Read | India calls for investigation after deity's crown stolen from B'desh temple "This report shamelessly portrays Israel's operations in terror-infested health facilities in Gaza as a matter of policy against Gaza's health system, while entirely dismissing overwhelming evidence that medical facilities in Gaza have been systematically used by Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad for terrorist activities," it said. Israel also rejected accusations of widespread and systematic abuse of Palestinian detainees, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. "Israel is fully committed to international legal standards regarding the treatment of detainees. This includes prohibition of excessive use of force and ill-treatment," the mission said. It accused the commission of creating an "alternate reality", and thereby contributing to "the exacerbation of this conflict". Also Read | US wants solution in Lebanon, not broader conflict, says Blinken "We call on states to speak out against this prejudiced approach, which only serves to further stain the credibility of the Human Rights Council and the United Nations at large." The three-person commission, established by the UN Human Rights Council in May 2021 to investigate alleged international law violations in Israel and the Palestinian territories, was publishing its second report since Hamas's October 7 attack a year ago, which sparked the ongoing war. Israel invaded the Gaza Strip after last year's October 7 attack by Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures, which include hostages killed in captivity. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed more than 42,000 people in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry that the UN has described as reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Outrageous': Israel slams UN probe accusing it of destroying Gaza healthcare system

The Palestinian Red Crescent said an Israeli air strike on a Gaza school killed at least 28 people on Thursday, while the Israeli military reported that it struck a Hamas command centre.

"Palestine Red Crescent teams responded to 28 fatalities and 54 injuries following the Israeli occupation army's targeting of Rafida School," the organisation said, referring to a school in Deir el-Balah.

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry issued the same death toll in a statement.

The Israeli army said in a statement that the strike targeted Palestinian combatants operating from a command-and-control centre "embedded inside a compound that previously served as the (Rafida) School".

It did not give a toll but said the command-and-control centre was used "to plan and execute terrorist attacks against IDF (army) troops and the State of Israel".&nbsp;

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Thursday's attack was the latest in a series of Israeli strikes on school buildings housing displaced Palestinians in Gaza, where fighting has raged for more than a year.

On September 26, at least 15 people were killed in another school-turned-shelter strike in northern Gaza's Jabalia camp, according to Gaza civil defence agency.

The Israeli military is currently engaged in an intense operation in Jabaliya.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreans-deployed-alongside-russian-troops-to-fight-with-ukraine-kremlin-rejects-fake-claims-766328">North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight with Ukraine; Kremlin rejects 'fake' claims</a>

The Israeli military accuses Hamas of hiding in school buildings where thousands of Gazans have sought shelter -- a charge denied by the Palestinian militant group.

At least 42,065 Palestinians, a majority of them civilians, have been killed in Israel's military campaign in Gaza since the war began, according to data provided by the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

The United Nations has acknowledged the figures to be reliable.

The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people on the Israeli side, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures, which includes hostages killed in captivity.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said an Israeli air strike on a Gaza school killed at least 28 people on Thursday, while the Israeli military reported that it struck a Hamas command centre.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said an Israeli air strike on a Gaza school killed at least 28 people on Thursday, while the Israeli military reported that it struck a Hamas command centre. "Palestine Red Crescent teams responded to 28 fatalities and 54 injuries following the Israeli occupation army's targeting of Rafida School," the organisation said, referring to a school in Deir el-Balah. Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry issued the same death toll in a statement. The Israeli army said in a statement that the strike targeted Palestinian combatants operating from a command-and-control centre "embedded inside a compound that previously served as the (Rafida) School". It did not give a toll but said the command-and-control centre was used "to plan and execute terrorist attacks against IDF (army) troops and the State of Israel". Also Read | Saudi Arabia fails in bid to join UN human rights council Thursday's attack was the latest in a series of Israeli strikes on school buildings housing displaced Palestinians in Gaza, where fighting has raged for more than a year. On September 26, at least 15 people were killed in another school-turned-shelter strike in northern Gaza's Jabalia camp, according to Gaza civil defence agency. The Israeli military is currently engaged in an intense operation in Jabaliya. Also Read | North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight with Ukraine; Kremlin rejects 'fake' claims The Israeli military accuses Hamas of hiding in school buildings where thousands of Gazans have sought shelter -- a charge denied by the Palestinian militant group. At least 42,065 Palestinians, a majority of them civilians, have been killed in Israel's military campaign in Gaza since the war began, according to data provided by the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. The United Nations has acknowledged the figures to be reliable. The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people on the Israeli side, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures, which includes hostages killed in captivity. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Palestinian Red Crescent says 28 killed, 54 injured in Israeli strike on Gaza school

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that the country's military is approaching the end of the stage of eliminating Hamas' forces in Gaza.

“I returned yesterday from a visit to the Gaza Division and saw very significant achievements in the fighting being carried in Rafah. We are advancing towards the end stage of eliminating the Hamas terrorist army and will continue striking its remnants,” Netanyahu said.

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The Israeli prime minister spoke to a group of Israeli and international military officials studying at the National Security College.

He reiterated that Israel would achieve its goals in the war against Hamas, which include&nbsp;bringing hostages back from Gaza, dismantling Hamas' military and governing capabilities, ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel, and securely returning displaced Israeli residents to their homes in both the south and the north.

Notably, before launching a military operation in Rafah in May, Israeli leaders had maintained that the southern Gaza city was the last stronghold of Hamas.

<h2>'Intense phase of Gaza war about to end':&nbsp;Netanyahu</h2>

Netanyahu had mentioned last month that the intense phase of the war with Hamas is about to end and that the military’s focus could then shift to Israel’s northern border with Lebanon.

“The war is not going to end soon; instead the war in its current stage is going to end in Rafah. This is true. We will continue to cut down the grass later,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying by Channel 14 Television on June 23.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-targets-in-shejaiya-killing-at-least-40-militants-736515">IDF strikes Hamas targets in Shejaiya, killing at least 40 militants</a>

Notably, Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, in which at least 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were abducted.

Israeli attacks in Gaza have since killed at least 37,718 Palestinians and injured another 86,377 people, according to Gaza health officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that the country's military is approaching the end of the stage of eliminating Hamas' forces in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that the country's military is approaching the end of the stage of eliminating Hamas' forces in Gaza. “I returned yesterday from a visit to the Gaza Division and saw very significant achievements in the fighting being carried in Rafah. We are advancing towards the end stage of eliminating the Hamas terrorist army and will continue striking its remnants,” Netanyahu said. Also read: Israeli forces demolish kilometre-long tunnel in central Gaza The Israeli prime minister spoke to a group of Israeli and international military officials studying at the National Security College. He reiterated that Israel would achieve its goals in the war against Hamas, which include bringing hostages back from Gaza, dismantling Hamas' military and governing capabilities, ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel, and securely returning displaced Israeli residents to their homes in both the south and the north. Notably, before launching a military operation in Rafah in May, Israeli leaders had maintained that the southern Gaza city was the last stronghold of Hamas. 'Intense phase of Gaza war about to end': Netanyahu Netanyahu had mentioned last month that the intense phase of the war with Hamas is about to end and that the military’s focus could then shift to Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. “The war is not going to end soon; instead the war in its current stage is going to end in Rafah. This is true. We will continue to cut down the grass later,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying by Channel 14 Television on June 23. Also read: IDF strikes Hamas targets in Shejaiya, killing at least 40 militants Notably, Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, in which at least 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were abducted. Israeli attacks in Gaza have since killed at least 37,718 Palestinians and injured another 86,377 people, according to Gaza health officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel nearing to eliminate Hamas' army in Gaza, says Netanyahu

Huda Kattan, the founder of the popular makeup and beauty brand Huda Beauty, said she would risk her entire business over her standpoint on the dispute in Gaza. In a video uploaded on TikTok and Instagram on Sunday, the 40-year-old Iraqi-American beauty mogul said she received threats for her pro-Palestinian stance online.

Huda Kattan, the founder of the popular makeup and beauty brand Huda Beauty, said she would risk her entire business over her standpoint on the dispute in Gaza. In a video uploaded on TikTok and Instagram on Sunday, the 40-year-old Iraqi-American beauty mogul said she received threats for her pro-Palestinian stance online. "I have been experiencing so much intimidation from so many different ways, trying to get me to be silent. I had to ask myself, 'Why do they want me to be silent?' I'm talking about innocent people being hurt," she said in the video. Kattan, who was on Forbes's list of 100 most powerful businesswomen 2023, attacked the Israeli government in her video, saying, "I really feel the Israeli government is putting the Jewish people if they do care about them, they're putting the Jewish people in harm's way by mixing all the different things that they're mixing, and it's really sad." "I've always said that the Israeli government uses their religion and their people as human shields. I've always believed that they deflect and project everything that they do on the Palestinian people, and they're just caught up in a web of lies," she added. ALSO READ | Zelensky arrives in US for last-ditch effort for more aid Kattan's cosmetics business is worth $1.2 billion, Newsweek reported. According to Forbes, Huda Beauty brings about $200 million in annual sales. She also has 54 million followers on Instagram. However, Kattan is in no mood to hold herself back from expressing her opinion online. The Dubai-based businesswoman also criticised any notion that she was antisemitic. Kattan said in her video, "I'm willing to risk to my entire business, everything I have on that, in seek of truth and justice, and we have to be willing to do that." "We have to remember that we can't be afraid to lose anything. We have to trust the process, and we have to trust that if we lose something, something else will come to us the right way because we are doing good work. We have to believe that. I believe that wholeheartedly," she added. Huda Kattan has been vocal about her support for the Palestinian people for a long time. In 2021, she criticised Israel for the airstrikes on Gaza and the eviction of Palestinians from their homes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem. She has also spoken about the war many times in the last few months. In November 2023, Kattan pledged to donate $1 million to Human Appeal and Doctors Without Borders, two humanitarian organisations working in Gaza. She faced a boycott by some Israeli customers and supporters of Israel after she openly expressed her support for the Palestinian people. In an Instagram post on her 40th birthday, an Israeli user criticised her for supporting Gaza despite doing so much business in Israel. The comment said, "So remember this as soon as no Israeli buys from you again, anywhere in the world. And it's a shame because we buy a lot." Kattan replied to the remark, saying, "I don't want blood money." However, this led to a petition demanding beauty product retailer Sephora remove Huda Beauty from its stores in the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

'Don't want blood money': Makeup mogul Huda Kattan 'willing to risk entire business' over pro-Palestine stance

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former&nbsp;hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Two more hostages released</h2>

The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dials-american-hostages-released-by-hamas-649777">US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas</a>

Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts.&nbsp;

Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”.

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In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TelAviv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TelAviv</a> <a href="https://t.co/sP0SZQFUgs">pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs</a>
— E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) <a href="https://twitter.com/muhendisev/status/1716572047906668817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process."

<h2>Israel confirms release</h2>

The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.”

The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody&nbsp;and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families.&nbsp;

It also thanked&nbsp;Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and&nbsp;the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-two-american-hostages-from-gaza-649400">Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza</a>

A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza.

According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz.&nbsp;

<h2>Four hostages released from Gaza</h2>

Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages.&nbsp;

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday.

(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.

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The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip.

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement. Two more hostages released The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement. ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts. Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”. In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel #TelAviv pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs — E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) October 23, 2023 × In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process." Israel confirms release The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.” The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families. It also thanked Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas." ALSO READ | Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza. According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz. Four hostages released from Gaza Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages. Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday. (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 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: Hamas releases two more hostages from Gaza; Israel confirms their arrival

Several Palestinians, including children who were in the midst of fleeing to the southern Gaza Strip on an “evacuation route” that the Israeli army said would be safe, were killed in an air strike, claimed media reports citing witnesses and Hamas officials on Saturday (Oct 14).&nbsp;

This comes a day after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;dropped pamphlets across northern Gaza warning the densely populated region’s 1.1 million people to evacuate towards the south&nbsp;ahead of a possible Israeli ground assault targeting Hamas.

<h2>Israeli army’s orders</h2>

On Friday (Oct 13), the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesman Avichay Adraee had asked Gazans to head south of Wadi Gaza and said a safe “evacuation route” would not be targeted by Israeli forces before 8:00 pm (local time) on Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-heartwarming-video-shows-palestinian-journalist-playing-with-child-amid-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-646918">Heartwarming video shows Palestinian journalist playing with child amid Israeli airstrikes on Gaza</a>

Israeli military spokesperson Richard Hecht, on Saturday, said that there is a safe passage window between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time) on the roads, down the Gaza coast and through the centre of the narrow Palestinian territory, which is about 40 kilometres long.&nbsp;

However, Hecht did not comment on how many days the passage window would remain open and acknowledged that “this is going to take time but we recommend people not to delay.”&nbsp;

Similarly, Adraee had asked Gazans to head south “for their own safety” on specified streets of Gaza until 4:00 pm (local time).&nbsp;

<h2>Gazans on ‘evacuation routes’ attacked</h2>

A report by the news agency AFP citing Hamas officials claimed that several people were killed while heading south before the 8:00 pm deadline, on Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/true-humanitarian-crisis-gazans-walk-30-km-south-many-sheltering-at-al-shifa-hospital-reluctant-to-move-646463">Gaza student speaks to WION: People walking 30km to flee Israel stikes, many camping at hospital</a>

Additionally, a security source belonging to the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the news agency that “two cars were bombed next to the Kuwaiti Hospital south of Gaza City”.

A report by CNN citing videos it authenticated showed a scene of extensive destruction after a blast on Salah Al-Deen Street on Friday where a “number of bodies, including those of children, can be seen on a flat-bed trailer” which seemed like a vehicle being used to carry people away from Gaza City.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear what caused the widespread devastation, said the American media outlet.&nbsp;

AFP citing Hamas’s health ministry and government media office said dozens of civilians heading to safety were killed in at least three locations Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

According to reports, the&nbsp;bombing killed&nbsp;a reported 70 people, including children, which the Hamas has blamed on Israel.

A report by the Guardian cited&nbsp;an analysis done by the Forensic Architecture investigative unit at the Palestinian human rights organisation, al-Haq which used aerial photos and social media posts&nbsp;to geolocate the site of the strike.&nbsp;

The British media report citing the visuals from the aftermath of the attack said there were&nbsp;12 dead bodies, most of whom were women and children. It added, that the youngest child was around two-years-old.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gazans-must-not-delay-evacuation-before-expected-offensive-starts-israel-646851">Gazans must not delay evacuation before expected offensive starts: Israel</a>

Speaking about the six-hour window, an IDF spokesperson told CNN that people in Gaza City “now know exactly what’s happening,” adding that the civilians were notified in Arabic and multiple languages on “every available” platform both electronic and non-electronic.

“Everyone in Gaza City knows that they need to go past Wadi Gaza,” said Major Doron Spielman.&nbsp;

(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.

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Several Palestinians, including children who were in the midst of fleeing to the southern Gaza Strip on an “evacuation route” that the Israeli army said would be safe, were killed in an air strike, claimed media reports citing witnesses and Hamas officials on Saturday (Oct 14).

Several Palestinians, including children who were in the midst of fleeing to the southern Gaza Strip on an “evacuation route” that the Israeli army said would be safe, were killed in an air strike, claimed media reports citing witnesses and Hamas officials on Saturday (Oct 14). This comes a day after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) dropped pamphlets across northern Gaza warning the densely populated region’s 1.1 million people to evacuate towards the south ahead of a possible Israeli ground assault targeting Hamas. Israeli army’s orders On Friday (Oct 13), the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesman Avichay Adraee had asked Gazans to head south of Wadi Gaza and said a safe “evacuation route” would not be targeted by Israeli forces before 8:00 pm (local time) on Friday. ALSO WATCH | Heartwarming video shows Palestinian journalist playing with child amid Israeli airstrikes on Gaza Israeli military spokesperson Richard Hecht, on Saturday, said that there is a safe passage window between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time) on the roads, down the Gaza coast and through the centre of the narrow Palestinian territory, which is about 40 kilometres long. However, Hecht did not comment on how many days the passage window would remain open and acknowledged that “this is going to take time but we recommend people not to delay.” Similarly, Adraee had asked Gazans to head south “for their own safety” on specified streets of Gaza until 4:00 pm (local time). Gazans on ‘evacuation routes’ attacked A report by the news agency AFP citing Hamas officials claimed that several people were killed while heading south before the 8:00 pm deadline, on Friday. ALSO READ | Gaza student speaks to WION: People walking 30km to flee Israel stikes, many camping at hospital Additionally, a security source belonging to the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the news agency that “two cars were bombed next to the Kuwaiti Hospital south of Gaza City”. A report by CNN citing videos it authenticated showed a scene of extensive destruction after a blast on Salah Al-Deen Street on Friday where a “number of bodies, including those of children, can be seen on a flat-bed trailer” which seemed like a vehicle being used to carry people away from Gaza City. It was not immediately clear what caused the widespread devastation, said the American media outlet. AFP citing Hamas’s health ministry and government media office said dozens of civilians heading to safety were killed in at least three locations Friday afternoon. According to reports, the bombing killed a reported 70 people, including children, which the Hamas has blamed on Israel. A report by the Guardian cited an analysis done by the Forensic Architecture investigative unit at the Palestinian human rights organisation, al-Haq which used aerial photos and social media posts to geolocate the site of the strike. The British media report citing the visuals from the aftermath of the attack said there were 12 dead bodies, most of whom were women and children. It added, that the youngest child was around two-years-old. ALSO READ | Gazans must not delay evacuation before expected offensive starts: Israel Speaking about the six-hour window, an IDF spokesperson told CNN that people in Gaza City “now know exactly what’s happening,” adding that the civilians were notified in Arabic and multiple languages on “every available” platform both electronic and non-electronic. “Everyone in Gaza City knows that they need to go past Wadi Gaza,” said Major Doron Spielman. (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 You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli strikes 'kill' Gaza civilians, including children on ‘safe routes’: Reports

World Bank&nbsp;President&nbsp;Ajay Banga has expressed his concerns about the economic repercussions of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, referring to it as an "unnecessary global economic shock".&nbsp;

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Morocco, Banga stressed that the conflict has not only caused a humanitarian tragedy but also has economic implications that the world can ill afford.&nbsp;

"It's a humanitarian tragedy and it's an economic shock we don't need," Banga told Reuters, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of the conflict if it continues to escalate. He pointed out that the conflict threatens to hinder central banks' efforts to achieve soft landings in various economies if it spreads further.&nbsp;

Banga noted that central banks had been gaining confidence in the possibility of achieving a soft landing before the conflict erupted. However, he maintained that the ongoing situation makes it increasingly challenging for central banks to maintain stability in their economies. He emphasised that the conflict is an unwanted disruption that could have a lasting impact on the global economic landscape.&nbsp;

The World Bank President highlighted that, unlike the initial stages of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, the Israel-Gaza conflict does not have a direct impact on the exports of essential commodities such as oil, grains, and fertilisers.&nbsp;

However, Banga pointed out that the conflict's effects are transmitted through financial markets. The sudden rise of dollar assets in response to the conflict could disrupt economic stability. He noted that in recent months, there had been signs of improvement, with inflation decreasing and prices and wages stabilising. Markets had also adjusted to the idea of higher interest rates in the near future. However, another prolonged conflict could upset the dynamics of these positive developments.&nbsp;

While discussing the political aspects of the conflict, Banga mentioned that the European Union initially made a mistake by announcing a complete cut-off of aid to the Palestinian Territories in response to the Hamas attack on Israel. This decision was later reversed. Banga refrained from delving into the politics of the situation, focusing instead on the development aspect. He emphasised the importance of offering support to the affected areas once the conflict subsides.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

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World Bank President Ajay Banga has expressed his concerns about the economic repercussions of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, referring to it as an "unnecessary global economic shock".

World Bank President Ajay Banga has expressed his concerns about the economic repercussions of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, referring to it as an "unnecessary global economic shock". Speaking on the sidelines of the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Morocco, Banga stressed that the conflict has not only caused a humanitarian tragedy but also has economic implications that the world can ill afford. "It's a humanitarian tragedy and it's an economic shock we don't need," Banga told Reuters, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of the conflict if it continues to escalate. He pointed out that the conflict threatens to hinder central banks' efforts to achieve soft landings in various economies if it spreads further. Banga noted that central banks had been gaining confidence in the possibility of achieving a soft landing before the conflict erupted. However, he maintained that the ongoing situation makes it increasingly challenging for central banks to maintain stability in their economies. He emphasised that the conflict is an unwanted disruption that could have a lasting impact on the global economic landscape. The World Bank President highlighted that, unlike the initial stages of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, the Israel-Gaza conflict does not have a direct impact on the exports of essential commodities such as oil, grains, and fertilisers. However, Banga pointed out that the conflict's effects are transmitted through financial markets. The sudden rise of dollar assets in response to the conflict could disrupt economic stability. He noted that in recent months, there had been signs of improvement, with inflation decreasing and prices and wages stabilising. Markets had also adjusted to the idea of higher interest rates in the near future. However, another prolonged conflict could upset the dynamics of these positive developments. While discussing the political aspects of the conflict, Banga mentioned that the European Union initially made a mistake by announcing a complete cut-off of aid to the Palestinian Territories in response to the Hamas attack on Israel. This decision was later reversed. Banga refrained from delving into the politics of the situation, focusing instead on the development aspect. He emphasised the importance of offering support to the affected areas once the conflict subsides. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

World Bank president expresses concern over Israel-Gaza conflict's economic impact 

Palestinian armed groups fired salvoes of rockets from Gaza into southern Israel on Tuesday after an Islamic Jihad leader died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike, the first such death in more than three decades.

Khader Adnan, who was awaiting trial, was found unconscious in his cell and taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead after efforts to revive him, Israel's Prisons Service said.

Hundreds of people took to the streets in blockaded Gaza and the occupied West Bank to rally in support of Adnan and mourn his death, which Palestinian leaders described as an assassination. In Gaza, an umbrella group of armed Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, launched two separate rocket barrages towards Israel.

Watch |&nbsp;45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody

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The Israeli military said at least three rockets were fired from Gaza in the hours after Adnan's death and a further 26 were launched later in the afternoon. Two landed in the southern city of Sderot, wounding three people, including a 25-year-old foreign national who Israel's ambulance service said sustained serious shrapnel wounds.

An Israeli Defence Force official said Israel would respond at a time and a place of its choosing.

Prime Minister Bejnamin Netanyahu held a meeting with security officials to assess the situation and the military said it was investigating how two rockets had penetrated the Iron Dome air defence system.

Since 2011, Adnan had conducted at least three hunger strikes in protest at detentions without charges by Israel. The tactic has been used by other Palestinian prisoners, sometimes en masse, but none had died since 1992.

Adnan's lawyer Jamil Al-Khatib and a doctor with a human rights group who recently met him accused Israeli authorities of withholding medical care.

"We demanded he be moved into a civilian hospital where he could be properly monitored. Unfortunately, such a demand was met by intransigence and rejection," Al-Khatib told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tinder-swipes-left-on-russia-to-exit-the-warring-nation-by-june-30-588252">Tinder 'swipes left' on Russia, to 'dump' the warring nation by June 30</a>

Adnan, 45, was a baker and a father of nine from Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Islamic Jihad sources said he was one of its political leaders. The faction has a limited West Bank presence but is the second most powerful armed group in Hamas-ruled Gaza, where Israeli forces fought a brief war against it last August.

Lina Qasem-Hassan of Physicians for Human Rights in Israel said she saw Adnan on April 23, at which point he had lost 40 kg (88 pounds) and was having trouble breathing but was conscious.

"His death could have been avoided," Qasem Hassan told Reuters, saying several Israeli hospitals had refused to admit Adnan after he made brief visits to their emergency rooms.

The Prisons Service said hospitalisation had not been an option as Adnan had declined "even a preliminary inspection".

'Fight is continuing'

Physicians for Human Rights said Israeli authorities had denied requests by Adnan and his family to visit him in prison.

Speaking from the family's home in the northern West Bank town of Arraba near Jenin, Adnan's wife, Randa Musa, said: "Our message to all the resistance groups is, we do not want the weapons that were not used to free the sheikh (Adnan) to be used after his death. We do not want to see any bloodshed."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-100000-refugees-have-fled-into-neighbouring-countries-number-could-rise-to-800000-un-588196">Sudan: 100,000 refugees have fled into neighbouring countries, number could rise to 800,000 - UN</a>

Adnan's 9-year-old son Ali led a march through Arraba. Perched on a man's shoulders, he chanted, "Khader, you a hero, your name shook the prison!" as dozens followed.

Tuesday's rocket barrages came almost a month after the last cross-border exchanges of fire between Israel and Gaza, which followed an Israeli police raid in the al-Aqsa mosque complex during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

"Our fight is continuing and the enemy will realise once again that its crimes will not pass without a response," Islamic Jihad, which preaches Israel's destruction, said in a statement.

Israel said it was cancelling a military drill that had been planned for the areas surrounding Gaza "pursuant to a situational assessment", and was putting staff in security prisons on heightened alert.

According to the Palestinian Prisoners Association, Adnan had been arrested by Israel 12 times, spending around eight years in prison, mostly under so-called "administrative detention" - or detention without charges.

Israel says such detentions are required when evidence cannot be revealed in court due to the need to keep intelligence sources secret. Palestinians and rights groups say they deny due process of law.

This time, Adnan was arrested and indicted in an Israeli military court on charges that included links to an outlawed group and incitement to violence, the Prisons Service said.

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Palestinian armed groups fired salvoes of rockets from Gaza into southern Israel on Tuesday after an Islamic Jihad leader died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike, the first such death in more than three decades.

Palestinian armed groups fired salvoes of rockets from Gaza into southern Israel on Tuesday after an Islamic Jihad leader died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike, the first such death in more than three decades. Khader Adnan, who was awaiting trial, was found unconscious in his cell and taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead after efforts to revive him, Israel's Prisons Service said. Hundreds of people took to the streets in blockaded Gaza and the occupied West Bank to rally in support of Adnan and mourn his death, which Palestinian leaders described as an assassination. In Gaza, an umbrella group of armed Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, launched two separate rocket barrages towards Israel. Watch | 45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody The Israeli military said at least three rockets were fired from Gaza in the hours after Adnan's death and a further 26 were launched later in the afternoon. Two landed in the southern city of Sderot, wounding three people, including a 25-year-old foreign national who Israel's ambulance service said sustained serious shrapnel wounds. An Israeli Defence Force official said Israel would respond at a time and a place of its choosing. Prime Minister Bejnamin Netanyahu held a meeting with security officials to assess the situation and the military said it was investigating how two rockets had penetrated the Iron Dome air defence system. Since 2011, Adnan had conducted at least three hunger strikes in protest at detentions without charges by Israel. The tactic has been used by other Palestinian prisoners, sometimes en masse, but none had died since 1992. Adnan's lawyer Jamil Al-Khatib and a doctor with a human rights group who recently met him accused Israeli authorities of withholding medical care. "We demanded he be moved into a civilian hospital where he could be properly monitored. Unfortunately, such a demand was met by intransigence and rejection," Al-Khatib told Reuters. Also read | Tinder 'swipes left' on Russia, to 'dump' the warring nation by June 30 Adnan, 45, was a baker and a father of nine from Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Islamic Jihad sources said he was one of its political leaders. The faction has a limited West Bank presence but is the second most powerful armed group in Hamas-ruled Gaza, where Israeli forces fought a brief war against it last August. Lina Qasem-Hassan of Physicians for Human Rights in Israel said she saw Adnan on April 23, at which point he had lost 40 kg (88 pounds) and was having trouble breathing but was conscious. "His death could have been avoided," Qasem Hassan told Reuters, saying several Israeli hospitals had refused to admit Adnan after he made brief visits to their emergency rooms. The Prisons Service said hospitalisation had not been an option as Adnan had declined "even a preliminary inspection". 'Fight is continuing' Physicians for Human Rights said Israeli authorities had denied requests by Adnan and his family to visit him in prison. Speaking from the family's home in the northern West Bank town of Arraba near Jenin, Adnan's wife, Randa Musa, said: "Our message to all the resistance groups is, we do not want the weapons that were not used to free the sheikh (Adnan) to be used after his death. We do not want to see any bloodshed." Also read | Sudan: 100,000 refugees have fled into neighbouring countries, number could rise to 800,000 - UN Adnan's 9-year-old son Ali led a march through Arraba. Perched on a man's shoulders, he chanted, "Khader, you a hero, your name shook the prison!" as dozens followed. Tuesday's rocket barrages came almost a month after the last cross-border exchanges of fire between Israel and Gaza, which followed an Israeli police raid in the al-Aqsa mosque complex during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. "Our fight is continuing and the enemy will realise once again that its crimes will not pass without a response," Islamic Jihad, which preaches Israel's destruction, said in a statement. Israel said it was cancelling a military drill that had been planned for the areas surrounding Gaza "pursuant to a situational assessment", and was putting staff in security prisons on heightened alert. According to the Palestinian Prisoners Association, Adnan had been arrested by Israel 12 times, spending around eight years in prison, mostly under so-called "administrative detention" - or detention without charges. Israel says such detentions are required when evidence cannot be revealed in court due to the need to keep intelligence sources secret. Palestinians and rights groups say they deny due process of law. This time, Adnan was arrested and indicted in an Israeli military court on charges that included links to an outlawed group and incitement to violence, the Prisons Service said. 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.

Rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody

In response to Palestinian actions, Israeli jets launched airstrikes in Gaza overnight (from Thursday to Friday), the army said.

This was a retaliation for the actions of militants in the Palestinian territory.&nbsp;Reportedly, militants in the Palestinian territory set off arson balloons into southern Israel in the past few days, which angered the Israeli side.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explosions-light-up-night-sky-in-gaza-city-391847">Explosions light up night sky in Gaza city</a>

"Over the past day, arson balloons were launched from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory," Israel’s military said in a statement. "In response... fighter jets struck military compounds and a rocket launch site belonging to the Hamas terror organisation."

These balloons are not harmless and are used to set farmland and bush around Gaza on fire. Israel forces launched a small retaliatory strike in the early hours of Wednesday. The second wave of airstrikes were launched overnight Thursday to Friday as the balloons from the Palestinian side continued.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-gaza-first-time-under-the-new-government-and-after-the-ceasefire-391754">Israel strikes Gaza, first time under the new government and after the ceasefire</a>

After the strikes, the Israel army chief, Aviv Kohavi, has ordered the forces to "increase the IDF's (Israeli Defense Forces') readiness and preparedness for a variety of scenarios including a resumption of hostilities."

The strikes made this week were the first under the leadership of Israel’s new Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett.

In response to Palestinian actions, Israeli jets launched airstrikes in Gaza overnight (from Thursday to Friday), the army said. This was a retaliation for the actions of militants in the Palestinian territory.

In response to Palestinian actions, Israeli jets launched airstrikes in Gaza overnight (from Thursday to Friday), the army said. This was a retaliation for the actions of militants in the Palestinian territory. Reportedly, militants in the Palestinian territory set off arson balloons into southern Israel in the past few days, which angered the Israeli side. Have a look | Explosions light up night sky in Gaza city "Over the past day, arson balloons were launched from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory," Israel’s military said in a statement. "In response... fighter jets struck military compounds and a rocket launch site belonging to the Hamas terror organisation." These balloons are not harmless and are used to set farmland and bush around Gaza on fire. Israel forces launched a small retaliatory strike in the early hours of Wednesday. The second wave of airstrikes were launched overnight Thursday to Friday as the balloons from the Palestinian side continued. Also read | Israel strikes Gaza, first time under the new government and after the ceasefire After the strikes, the Israel army chief, Aviv Kohavi, has ordered the forces to "increase the IDF's (Israeli Defense Forces') readiness and preparedness for a variety of scenarios including a resumption of hostilities." The strikes made this week were the first under the leadership of Israel’s new Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett.

Israel carries out fresh airstrike in response to Palestinian arson balloons

The United Nations Security Council on Saturday urged both Israel and Hamas to stick to the ceasefire, in the council’s first&nbsp;statement on the violence that erupted on May 10. In its statement, the UNSC called for “full adherence to the ceasefire” while stressing on "the immediate need for humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian civilian population, particularly in Gaza”.

The United States delegation supported the statement this time after blocking previous drafts. A paragraph condemning the violence has been removed, for the question of blame could not be answered.

The earlier draft said the following - “Security Council members condemned all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror, as well as acts of provocation, incitement and destruction”.

On Saturday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry thanked the US for “continued support” for Israel’s “right to defend its citizens”. In addition, Israel placed “full blame” on Hamas for firing thousands of rockets at Israel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ceasefire-between-israel-and-gaza-holds-as-egyptian-mediators-eye-long-term-peace-386713" hreflang="en">Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace</a>

The US delegation has been a strong supporter of Israel at the United Nations. Earlier, it had rejected a French draft which demanded an end to violence while calling for distribution of humanitarian aid through Gaza.

In the final statement, which was proposed by China, Norway and Tunisia, the wording goes as follows - “[UN] mourned the loss of civilian lives resulting from the violence."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the global community to develop a "robust package of support for a swift, sustainable reconstruction and recovery." The Council added how a comprehensive peace must be reached in the region where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace.

The statement also recognised “the important role” played by Egypt and other regional countries in maintaining peace.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israel-hamas-conflict-now-the-narrative-war-begins-amid-ceasefire-386592" hreflang="en">Israel-Hamas conflict: Now, the narrative war begins amid ceasefire</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations Security Council on Saturday urged both Israel and Hamas to stick to the ceasefire, in the council’s first statement on the violence that erupted on May 10.

The United Nations Security Council on Saturday urged both Israel and Hamas to stick to the ceasefire, in the council’s first statement on the violence that erupted on May 10. In its statement, the UNSC called for “full adherence to the ceasefire” while stressing on "the immediate need for humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian civilian population, particularly in Gaza”. The United States delegation supported the statement this time after blocking previous drafts. A paragraph condemning the violence has been removed, for the question of blame could not be answered. The earlier draft said the following - “Security Council members condemned all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror, as well as acts of provocation, incitement and destruction”. On Saturday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry thanked the US for “continued support” for Israel’s “right to defend its citizens”. In addition, Israel placed “full blame” on Hamas for firing thousands of rockets at Israel. Also read: Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace The US delegation has been a strong supporter of Israel at the United Nations. Earlier, it had rejected a French draft which demanded an end to violence while calling for distribution of humanitarian aid through Gaza. In the final statement, which was proposed by China, Norway and Tunisia, the wording goes as follows - “[UN] mourned the loss of civilian lives resulting from the violence." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the global community to develop a "robust package of support for a swift, sustainable reconstruction and recovery." The Council added how a comprehensive peace must be reached in the region where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace. The statement also recognised “the important role” played by Egypt and other regional countries in maintaining peace. Also read: Israel-Hamas conflict: Now, the narrative war begins amid ceasefire (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC calls for 'full adherence' to Israel-Gaza ceasefire

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip held ground on Saturday. Officials said that Egyptian mediators are interacting with both the sides on establishing long-term peace.

The ceasefire came into force on Friday after 11 days of cross-border shelling which caused major destruction in Gaza and Israel. International players were worried that the fighting would escalate into a regional conflict.

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With US support, Egypt mediated the halt to the fighting. On Friday, Egypt sent a delegation to Israel to discuss ways of easing the ceasefire including aid for those affected in Gaza, Reuters cited Hamas officials as saying. The officials have been trying to facilitate talks between Israel and Gaza with the talks continuing on Saturday.

Even after the ceasefire, Israeli police and Palestinian protesters clashed in Jerusalem on Friday.&nbsp;But no rockets were launched from Gaza or Israel on Saturday morning.

On Thursday, US President Joe Biden said that Washington would work with the United Nations to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza.&nbsp;The agency also has safeguards against the money being used to arm Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israel-hamas-conflict-now-the-narrative-war-begins-amid-ceasefire-386592" hreflang="en">Israel-Hamas conflict: Now, the narrative war begins amid ceasefire</a>

The Palestinian death toll has been put at 248, including 66 children according to medical officers in Gaza.

According to Israel, over 200 Hamas fighters and members of the allied faction Islamic Jihad were killed by its strikes.&nbsp;

In addition, it claimed that 17 civilian fatalities in Gaza were a result of militants’ rockets malfunctioning.&nbsp; In Israel, attacks from Palestine have killed 13 people including two children, three foreign workers and a soldier.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip held ground on Saturday. Officials said that Egyptian mediators are interacting with both the sides on establishing long-term peace.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip held ground on Saturday. Officials said that Egyptian mediators are interacting with both the sides on establishing long-term peace. The ceasefire came into force on Friday after 11 days of cross-border shelling which caused major destruction in Gaza and Israel. International players were worried that the fighting would escalate into a regional conflict. With US support, Egypt mediated the halt to the fighting. On Friday, Egypt sent a delegation to Israel to discuss ways of easing the ceasefire including aid for those affected in Gaza, Reuters cited Hamas officials as saying. The officials have been trying to facilitate talks between Israel and Gaza with the talks continuing on Saturday. Even after the ceasefire, Israeli police and Palestinian protesters clashed in Jerusalem on Friday. But no rockets were launched from Gaza or Israel on Saturday morning. On Thursday, US President Joe Biden said that Washington would work with the United Nations to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza. The agency also has safeguards against the money being used to arm Hamas. Also read: Israel-Hamas conflict: Now, the narrative war begins amid ceasefire The Palestinian death toll has been put at 248, including 66 children according to medical officers in Gaza. According to Israel, over 200 Hamas fighters and members of the allied faction Islamic Jihad were killed by its strikes. In addition, it claimed that 17 civilian fatalities in Gaza were a result of militants’ rockets malfunctioning. In Israel, attacks from Palestine have killed 13 people including two children, three foreign workers and a soldier.

Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace

The owner of a building in Gaza which was destroyed in Israeli airstrike is raising a complaint&nbsp;with the International Criminal Court. The building in question is called Jala Tower, which was destroyed on May 15. The building housed the offices of Associated Press and Al Jazeera.

According to the owner Jawad Mehdi, the flattening of the building counts as a “war crime”. "The owner of this building, who is a Palestinian, has mandated his lawyers to file a war crime complaint with the International Criminal Court,"&nbsp; the man’s lawyer Gilles Devers said in a statement.

In addition, Devers told AFP that Israel could show “no military objective” for the attack. "We hear a lot that this tower could have been destroyed because there was equipment or an armed resistance team. This is something that we totally deny after studying the case," Devers added.

The lawyer added how international law states that civilian property may be harmed only if it is used for military purposes, which was “not the case”. The complaint would be forwarded formally to the court by email on Friday.

After the attack, Israel claimed that Hamas military intelligence units were operating from the building. At the time, an Israeli intelligence officer told Mehdi that he had an hour to evacuate the building, before a missile struck it.

Once complaints to ICC are submitted, it is not under any obligation to take all into account and can independently decide which cases to forward to court judges.

The owner of a building in Gaza which was destroyed in Israeli airstrike is raising a complaint with the International Criminal Court. The building in question is called Jala Tower, which was destroyed on May 15.

The owner of a building in Gaza which was destroyed in Israeli airstrike is raising a complaint with the International Criminal Court. The building in question is called Jala Tower, which was destroyed on May 15. The building housed the offices of Associated Press and Al Jazeera. According to the owner Jawad Mehdi, the flattening of the building counts as a “war crime”. "The owner of this building, who is a Palestinian, has mandated his lawyers to file a war crime complaint with the International Criminal Court," the man’s lawyer Gilles Devers said in a statement. In addition, Devers told AFP that Israel could show “no military objective” for the attack. "We hear a lot that this tower could have been destroyed because there was equipment or an armed resistance team. This is something that we totally deny after studying the case," Devers added. The lawyer added how international law states that civilian property may be harmed only if it is used for military purposes, which was “not the case”. The complaint would be forwarded formally to the court by email on Friday. After the attack, Israel claimed that Hamas military intelligence units were operating from the building. At the time, an Israeli intelligence officer told Mehdi that he had an hour to evacuate the building, before a missile struck it. Once complaints to ICC are submitted, it is not under any obligation to take all into account and can independently decide which cases to forward to court judges.

Owner of destroyed Gaza building which housed media offices files ICC complaint

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