Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to intensify the ground offensive against Hamas, with his next target being Rafah. In an interview with ABC News, Netanyahu confirmed that his troops would target Gaza's&nbsp;southernmost town of Rafah to weed out the terror outfit.&nbsp;

Over a million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter in Rafah, situated on the border with Egypt. However, after ceasefire talks yielded no results, Netanyahu said Israeli forces would fight on until "total victory."

“We’re going to do it. We’re going to get the remaining Hamas terrorist battalions in Rafah, which is the last bastion, but we’re going to do it.&nbsp;We’re going to do it while providing safe passage for the civilian population so they can leave,” said Netanyahu

“Those who say that under no circumstances should we enter Rafah, are basically saying ‘lose the war, keep Hamas there’,” he added.&nbsp;

When quizzed about where the people, pressed up in large numbers inside makeshift tent camps in Rafah would go, Netanyahu said "Israel was working out a detailed plan".&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown

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<h2>International concerns regarding the offensive</h2>

Rafah is the last major population centre in Gaza that Israeli troops are yet to enter. Netanyahu's announcement has sparked international concern regarding the safety of the civilians.&nbsp;

“An offensive by the Israeli army on Rafah would be a human catastrophe. The people in Gaza cannot disappear into thin air," posted German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock on X (formerly known as Twitter).&nbsp;

UK foreign secretary, David Cameron said he was deeply concerned about the potential ground offensive.&nbsp;

“The priority must be an immediate pause in the fighting to get aid in and hostages out," Cameron added.&nbsp;

<h2>Hamas responds</h2>

Meanwhile, Hamas responded saying any Israeli ground offensive in Rafah will "blow up" the hostage exchange negotiations.&nbsp;

"What Netanyahu and the Israeli army failed to do in four months, he won't be able to achieve it even if the war drags on,"&nbsp;Hamas-run Aqsa Television channel quoted a senior Hamas leader as saying.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-offensive-in-rafah-will-blow-up-hostage-exchange-negotiations-says-hamas-689194">Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli offensive in Rafah will blow up hostage exchange negotiations, says Hamas</a>

Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations.

Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 28,000&nbsp;people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to intensify the ground offensive against Hamas, with his next target being Rafah. In an interview with ABC News, Netanyahu confirmed that his troops would target Gaza's southernmost town of Rafah to weed out the terror outfit.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to intensify the ground offensive against Hamas, with his next target being Rafah. In an interview with ABC News, Netanyahu confirmed that his troops would target Gaza's southernmost town of Rafah to weed out the terror outfit. Over a million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter in Rafah, situated on the border with Egypt. However, after ceasefire talks yielded no results, Netanyahu said Israeli forces would fight on until "total victory." “We’re going to do it. We’re going to get the remaining Hamas terrorist battalions in Rafah, which is the last bastion, but we’re going to do it. We’re going to do it while providing safe passage for the civilian population so they can leave,” said Netanyahu “Those who say that under no circumstances should we enter Rafah, are basically saying ‘lose the war, keep Hamas there’,” he added. When quizzed about where the people, pressed up in large numbers inside makeshift tent camps in Rafah would go, Netanyahu said "Israel was working out a detailed plan". ALSO WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown International concerns regarding the offensive Rafah is the last major population centre in Gaza that Israeli troops are yet to enter. Netanyahu's announcement has sparked international concern regarding the safety of the civilians. “An offensive by the Israeli army on Rafah would be a human catastrophe. The people in Gaza cannot disappear into thin air," posted German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock on X (formerly known as Twitter). UK foreign secretary, David Cameron said he was deeply concerned about the potential ground offensive. “The priority must be an immediate pause in the fighting to get aid in and hostages out," Cameron added. Hamas responds Meanwhile, Hamas responded saying any Israeli ground offensive in Rafah will "blow up" the hostage exchange negotiations. "What Netanyahu and the Israeli army failed to do in four months, he won't be able to achieve it even if the war drags on," Hamas-run Aqsa Television channel quoted a senior Hamas leader as saying. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli offensive in Rafah will blow up hostage exchange negotiations, says Hamas Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations. Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 28,000 people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'We’re going to do it': Netanyahu confirms Israeli troops will launch ground offensive in Rafah

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory.&nbsp;

Australia is one of several countries to have halted funding of UNRWA, a critical source of support for millions in Gaza.

"Well, we're examining it, along with other like-minded countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. And we want that to be resolved," said Albanese.&nbsp;

"The issue here is one that’s of deep concern, that this occurred, that there were some involvement. And those allegations need to be fully examined to ensure that every single dollar of aid is going to just that," he added.&nbsp;

The Australian PM added that he did not want people "literally dying" in Gaza but his government needed to make sure the money was being spent for the purpose it was sent.

"Well, what we're doing is going through those processes, along with our like-minded allies. But all of us want to see the support for kids in Gaza can't be in a situation where people are literally starving and the only organisation that can provide that support there is UNRWA,"&nbsp;said Albanese.&nbsp;

Speaking further he said, "It has been funded by Australia for a long period of time and funded by our like-minded allies as well. But we want to make sure that the organisation has every single dollar going to the purpose for which it is given."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-crisis-unrwa-staff-involved-in-oct-7th-hamas-attack-un-agency-probes-staff-involvement-684618">Watch |&nbsp;Gaza crisis: UNRWA staff involved in Oct 7th Hamas attack? | UN agency probes staff involvement</a>

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<h2>UNRWA in soup&nbsp;</h2>

Over a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia have paused funding to the aid agency after allegations surfaced that several of its employees had ties with Hamas.&nbsp;

The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-back-300000-funding-to-un-agency-amid-allegations-of-ties-with-hamas-685310">Also read | US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas</a>

The European Union,&nbsp;one of UNRWA's top donors, last month demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians.&nbsp;

A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said&nbsp;no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February".

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday (Feb 4) said his government was probing the claims that staff of the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) was involved in the October 7 terror attacks carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory. Australia is one of several countries to have halted funding of UNRWA, a critical source of support for millions in Gaza. "Well, we're examining it, along with other like-minded countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. And we want that to be resolved," said Albanese. "The issue here is one that’s of deep concern, that this occurred, that there were some involvement. And those allegations need to be fully examined to ensure that every single dollar of aid is going to just that," he added. The Australian PM added that he did not want people "literally dying" in Gaza but his government needed to make sure the money was being spent for the purpose it was sent. "Well, what we're doing is going through those processes, along with our like-minded allies. But all of us want to see the support for kids in Gaza can't be in a situation where people are literally starving and the only organisation that can provide that support there is UNRWA," said Albanese. Speaking further he said, "It has been funded by Australia for a long period of time and funded by our like-minded allies as well. But we want to make sure that the organisation has every single dollar going to the purpose for which it is given." Watch | Gaza crisis: UNRWA staff involved in Oct 7th Hamas attack? | UN agency probes staff involvement o Embed Code: × UNRWA in soup Over a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia have paused funding to the aid agency after allegations surfaced that several of its employees had ties with Hamas. The allegations led to the UNRWA terminating several employees based on the information provided by Israeli authorities. However, many countries are now hesitant to continue the UN agency funding and calling for a thorough investigation. Also read | US holds back $300,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas The European Union, one of UNRWA's top donors, last month demanded an "urgent" audit of the UN agency for Palestinians. A commission statement said the EU executive "will determine upcoming funding decisions...in light of the very serious allegations made on 24 January relating to the involvement of UNRWA staff in the heinous 7 October attacks". It also said no additional funding to UNRWA "is foreseen until the end of February". (With inputs from agencies)

Australia PM Albanese says government probing claims UN agency aided Hamas

An assailant took multiple hostages at a Procter &amp; Gamble plant near Istanbul in protest of the Gaza war on Thursday (Feb 1), as reported by a police spokesman. The incident raised concerns in Turkey's largest city, and details about the number of hostages were initially unclear.

The perpetrator targeted a plant owned by US cosmetics giant Procter &amp; Gamble, situated on the eastern outskirts of Istanbul. While specific hostage numbers were initially unclear, a union representing plant workers told AFP&nbsp;that seven individuals were being held captive, with the remaining workforce released.

A widely circulated photo, published by the private DHA news agency, depicted the alleged assailant armed with a gun and appearing to wear a suicide vest. The backdrop featured a drawing of the Palestinian flag and the words "for Gaza" in red, underlining the protest's connection to the ongoing conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-chief-apologizes-for-concealing-hospitalization-686070">Also read |&nbsp;US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin apologises for concealing hospitalisation</a>

<h2>Police response and security measures</h2>

Law enforcement swiftly responded, establishing a perimetre&nbsp;around the cosmetics plant. Special operation forces and medical personnel were dispatched to the scene to manage the unfolding situation, emphasising the gravity of the incident.

The health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, reported a grim toll of 27,019 fatalities and 66,139 injuries in the four-month-long war between Palestinian militants and Israel. The conflict began with an unprecedented attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7.

Also watch |&nbsp;US destroys 10 Houthi attack drones, control station in Yemen

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a vocal critic of Israel, has condemned the Israeli offensive, branding the country a "terrorist state" and drawing parallels between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Adolf Hitler.

Erdogan's strong stance has positioned him as one of the Muslim world's harshest critics of Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

An assailant took multiple hostages at a Procter & Gamble plant near Istanbul in protest of the Gaza war on Thursday (Feb 1), as reported by a police spokesman. The incident raised concerns in Turkey's largest city, and details about the number of hostages were initially unclear.

An assailant took multiple hostages at a Procter & Gamble plant near Istanbul in protest of the Gaza war on Thursday (Feb 1), as reported by a police spokesman. The incident raised concerns in Turkey's largest city, and details about the number of hostages were initially unclear. The perpetrator targeted a plant owned by US cosmetics giant Procter & Gamble, situated on the eastern outskirts of Istanbul. While specific hostage numbers were initially unclear, a union representing plant workers told AFP that seven individuals were being held captive, with the remaining workforce released. A widely circulated photo, published by the private DHA news agency, depicted the alleged assailant armed with a gun and appearing to wear a suicide vest. The backdrop featured a drawing of the Palestinian flag and the words "for Gaza" in red, underlining the protest's connection to the ongoing conflict. Also read | US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin apologises for concealing hospitalisation Police response and security measures Law enforcement swiftly responded, establishing a perimetre around the cosmetics plant. Special operation forces and medical personnel were dispatched to the scene to manage the unfolding situation, emphasising the gravity of the incident. The health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, reported a grim toll of 27,019 fatalities and 66,139 injuries in the four-month-long war between Palestinian militants and Israel. The conflict began with an unprecedented attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7. Also watch | US destroys 10 Houthi attack drones, control station in Yemen Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a vocal critic of Israel, has condemned the Israeli offensive, branding the country a "terrorist state" and drawing parallels between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Adolf Hitler. Erdogan's strong stance has positioned him as one of the Muslim world's harshest critics of Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war protest turns hostile: Man takes hostages at Procter & Gamble plant near Istanbul

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi has come under controversy after she was caught on camera asking pro-Palestinian protesters, gathered outside her home to "Go back to China".&nbsp;

The protesters were reportedly batting for a ceasefire in the ongoing Hamas conflict but Pelosi asserted that they move to China where their 'headquarters' was located.&nbsp;

Pelosi's controversial statement comes a day after she appeared on&nbsp;CNN’s State of the Union and called on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate&nbsp;protesters involved in the progressive movement pressuring the Biden administration to support a ceasefire in Gaza.

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Yesterday Nancy Pelosi said we were paid Russian agents for supporting Palestine and now we are apparently headquartered in China. Her cognitive decline did not need to happen in public but she chose to stay in office with a fake title. <a href="https://t.co/fn6Lioc6xr">pic.twitter.com/fn6Lioc6xr</a>
— 🅹🅾️🅴🆈աrecκ ☭ (@joeywreck) <a href="https://twitter.com/joeywreck/status/1752036075877364190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“For [the pro-Palestinian protesters] to call for a cease-fire is Mr Putin’s message. Make no mistake, this is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine. It’s about Putin’s message,” Pelosi said.

“I think some of these protesters are spontaneous and organic and sincere. Some, I think, are connected to Russia. And I say that having looked at this for a long time now, as you know,” she added.

When pressed to elaborate on her statement, Pelosi said she believed the activists were "Russian plants".&nbsp;

“Seeds or plants. I think some financing should be investigated. And I want to ask the FBI to investigate that.”

The interview instantly sparked backlash with supporters of the ceasefire condemning Pelosi's views as "downright authoritarian".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-un-agency-probes-staff-involvement-684589">Watch | Israel-Hamas war | UN agency probes staff involvement</a>

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<h2>USA's anti-ceasefire stance</h2>

Ever since the war broke out after the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, US President Joe Biden has faced criticism for his policy in Gaza. Biden has batted for Israel to defend and answer Hamas while remaining steadfastly against ceasefire requests.

Washington believes that a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas and allow it to drag the conflict. During a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) emergency meeting last month, the USA voted against a resolution for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

"This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7,"&nbsp;US deputy UN representative Robert Wood justified the decision at the time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-un-security-council-resolution-demanding-immediate-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-667777">Also read |&nbsp;US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas</a>

Although Washington has been working on a third truce deal with other stakeholders, its stark refusal for a ceasefire has not gone down well with certain sections of Democrat voters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi has come under controversy after she was caught on camera asking pro-Palestinian protesters, gathered outside her home to "Go back to China".

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi has come under controversy after she was caught on camera asking pro-Palestinian protesters, gathered outside her home to "Go back to China". The protesters were reportedly batting for a ceasefire in the ongoing Hamas conflict but Pelosi asserted that they move to China where their 'headquarters' was located. Pelosi's controversial statement comes a day after she appeared on CNN’s State of the Union and called on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate protesters involved in the progressive movement pressuring the Biden administration to support a ceasefire in Gaza. Yesterday Nancy Pelosi said we were paid Russian agents for supporting Palestine and now we are apparently headquartered in China. Her cognitive decline did not need to happen in public but she chose to stay in office with a fake title. pic.twitter.com/fn6Lioc6xr — 🅹🅾️🅴🆈աrecκ ☭ (@joeywreck) January 29, 2024 × “For [the pro-Palestinian protesters] to call for a cease-fire is Mr Putin’s message. Make no mistake, this is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine. It’s about Putin’s message,” Pelosi said. “I think some of these protesters are spontaneous and organic and sincere. Some, I think, are connected to Russia. And I say that having looked at this for a long time now, as you know,” she added. When pressed to elaborate on her statement, Pelosi said she believed the activists were "Russian plants". “Seeds or plants. I think some financing should be investigated. And I want to ask the FBI to investigate that.” The interview instantly sparked backlash with supporters of the ceasefire condemning Pelosi's views as "downright authoritarian". Watch | Israel-Hamas war | UN agency probes staff involvement × USA's anti-ceasefire stance Ever since the war broke out after the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, US President Joe Biden has faced criticism for his policy in Gaza. Biden has batted for Israel to defend and answer Hamas while remaining steadfastly against ceasefire requests. Washington believes that a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas and allow it to drag the conflict. During a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) emergency meeting last month, the USA voted against a resolution for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. "This resolution still contains a call for an unconditional ceasefire... it would leave Hamas in place able to repeat what it did on October 7," US deputy UN representative Robert Wood justified the decision at the time. Also read | US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas Although Washington has been working on a third truce deal with other stakeholders, its stark refusal for a ceasefire has not gone down well with certain sections of Democrat voters. (With inputs from agencies)

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi tells pro-Palestinian activists to 'go back to China' | Watch

Israeli hostages currently in the captivity of Hamas inside the Gaza Strip who have gotten pregnant after being raped by the terrorists will have to decide whether to keep their baby or not upon their release, according to a report in NY Post.

Israeli hostages currently in the captivity of Hamas inside the Gaza Strip who have gotten pregnant after being raped by the terrorists will have to decide whether to keep their baby or not upon their release, according to a report in NY Post. Officials at Israel's Ministries of Welfare and Health are busy chalking up plans to deal with the possibility of unwanted pregnancies. The sexually abused hostages will receive medical and psychological help through a carefully curated programme being jointly developed with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Usually, a pregnancy termination committee determines whether to grant an abortion request or not in Israel. However, the officials are hoping to bypass the step to reduce the red tape in cases of pregnant captives. Currently, more than 130 Israeli civilians are under Hamas captivity and according to Chen Almog-Goldstein, 49, who was released after 50 days by the terror outfit, several young female hostages have stopped menstruating. “There are girls who have not gotten their period in a long time. Perhaps we all have to pray that their bodies protect them and they won’t get pregnant from rape,” Chen told the Israeli parliament, the Knesset on Tuesday (Jan 23). The primary concern for Israeli authorities remains that if the women are not released in time, it would be too late for them to terminate the pregnancy. In the absence of another truce deal, it looks highly unlikely that there will be a prisoner swap anytime soon. ALSO WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown SOP in place Despite the uncertainty, the Wolfson Hospital in the city of Holon has already developed the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the freed female captives. After being admitted, which is the first stage, the medical team will examine them for injuries and if found pregnant the fetus's development will be assessed. Also read | 'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo In the next stage, they will be provided emotional and psychological guidance to deal with the trauma. Afterwards, they will have to decide whether to terminate the pregnancy if it is safe, or bring the infant to life. The females who decide to have the baby will be given financial, legal and mental health support from the government. (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.

Israeli hostages impregnated by Hamas terrorists to receive financial, psychological help: Report

Iran backed Houthi rebels continue assault on commercial vessels. Rise in commercial vessels at Sri Lanka port amid Red Sea tensions. Colombo Port provides convenient access between Africa, West Asia. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Rise in commercial vessels at Sri Lanka port amid Red Sea tensions

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days.

Guterres stressed on&nbsp;the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery, release hostages, and prevent further escalation.

"We need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. To ensure sufficient aid gets to where it is needed. To facilitate the release of the hostages. To tamp down the flames of wider war because the longer the conflict in Gaza continues, the greater the risk of escalation and miscalculation," Guterres said at a press briefing in New York.

The war, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel, has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affecting 2.4 million people and leaving much of the territory in ruins.

<h2>Humanitarian catastrophe and displacement</h2>

The conflict, which began with Hamas'&nbsp;October 7 attack, resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mainly civilians, and the seizure of around 250 hostages by militants. Israel responded with a relentless military campaign, causing the death of at least 24,100 people in Gaza. Over three months of fighting have displaced roughly 85 per cent of Gaza's population, with people seeking refuge in shelters and struggling to access essential resources such as food, water, fuel, and medical care.

Guterres condemned the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as "beyond words." He highlighted the significant displacement of UN Palestinian staff, with the majority fleeing their homes, and the loss of 152 staff members since October 7—the largest single loss of life in the UN's history. Aid deliveries face challenges reaching the traumatised population, leading to the looming threat of starvation in Gaza.

Also watch |&nbsp;One killed, 17 injured in twin attacks in Israeli city of Ra'anana

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Guterres unequivocally stated that nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. He expressed concern about the escalating spillover of the conflict, particularly across the Lebanon-Israeli border, emphasising the potential for broader escalation and its profound impact on regional stability.

 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days. Guterres stressed on the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery, release hostages, and prevent further escalation. "We need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. To ensure sufficient aid gets to where it is needed. To facilitate the release of the hostages. To tamp down the flames of wider war because the longer the conflict in Gaza continues, the greater the risk of escalation and miscalculation," Guterres said at a press briefing in New York. The war, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel, has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affecting 2.4 million people and leaving much of the territory in ruins. Humanitarian catastrophe and displacement The conflict, which began with Hamas' October 7 attack, resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mainly civilians, and the seizure of around 250 hostages by militants. Israel responded with a relentless military campaign, causing the death of at least 24,100 people in Gaza. Over three months of fighting have displaced roughly 85 per cent of Gaza's population, with people seeking refuge in shelters and struggling to access essential resources such as food, water, fuel, and medical care. Guterres condemned the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as "beyond words." He highlighted the significant displacement of UN Palestinian staff, with the majority fleeing their homes, and the loss of 152 staff members since October 7—the largest single loss of life in the UN's history. Aid deliveries face challenges reaching the traumatised population, leading to the looming threat of starvation in Gaza. Also watch | One killed, 17 injured in twin attacks in Israeli city of Ra'anana Guterres unequivocally stated that nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. He expressed concern about the escalating spillover of the conflict, particularly across the Lebanon-Israeli border, emphasising the potential for broader escalation and its profound impact on regional stability. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UN chief calls for ‘immediate’ ceasefire in Gaza

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by&nbsp;Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The&nbsp;Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages&nbsp;had been killed in the Israeli military strikes.&nbsp;

In the purported video, 26-year-old Noa&nbsp;Argamani can be seen reading a script in front of a wall, saying her fellow hostages Itai Svirsky and Yossi Sharabi had been killed. The footage ends with pictures of the dead bodies of both men.&nbsp;

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the claim&nbsp;made by Hamas that the military targeted the building where hostages were being held, was a lie. He, however, indicated that it was possible that the hostages were located close to a building that the IDF targeted.&nbsp;

“Itai&nbsp;was not killed by our forces. This is a Hamas lie. The building where they were held was not a target and was not attacked by our forces,"&nbsp;Hagari said.&nbsp;

“We did not know their exact location in real-time. We do not strike where we know there are hostages. In retrospect, we know that we attacked targets close to the location where they were held,” he added.&nbsp;

Hagari said the military was examining the photos Hamas posted along with the other information it had.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown

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<h2>Who are the three hostages?</h2>

Notably,&nbsp;Argamani became one of the prominent faces of Hamas' brutality as she was filmed by her captors being taken into Gaza forcefully on the back of a motorcycle.&nbsp;

Sharabi, 53, was kidnapped from&nbsp;Kibbutz Beeri, alongside his brother.&nbsp;Svirsky, 35, was also picked from the same region after being shot and wounded. Notably,&nbsp;Kibbutz Beeri&nbsp;was one of the hardest-hit communities in the Hamas assault of October 7 last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-dance-again-freed-hamas-hostage-mia-schem-strikes-defiance-with-new-tattoo-668602">Also read |&nbsp;'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo</a>

Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations.

Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 24,000&nbsp;people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages had been killed in the Israeli military strikes.

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages had been killed in the Israeli military strikes. In the purported video, 26-year-old Noa Argamani can be seen reading a script in front of a wall, saying her fellow hostages Itai Svirsky and Yossi Sharabi had been killed. The footage ends with pictures of the dead bodies of both men. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the claim made by Hamas that the military targeted the building where hostages were being held, was a lie. He, however, indicated that it was possible that the hostages were located close to a building that the IDF targeted. “Itai was not killed by our forces. This is a Hamas lie. The building where they were held was not a target and was not attacked by our forces," Hagari said. “We did not know their exact location in real-time. We do not strike where we know there are hostages. In retrospect, we know that we attacked targets close to the location where they were held,” he added. Hagari said the military was examining the photos Hamas posted along with the other information it had. ALSO WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown Who are the three hostages? Notably, Argamani became one of the prominent faces of Hamas' brutality as she was filmed by her captors being taken into Gaza forcefully on the back of a motorcycle. Sharabi, 53, was kidnapped from Kibbutz Beeri, alongside his brother. Svirsky, 35, was also picked from the same region after being shot and wounded. Notably, Kibbutz Beeri was one of the hardest-hit communities in the Hamas assault of October 7 last year. Also read | 'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations. Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 24,000 people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel probes video showing bodies of hostages who Hamas says were killed by Israeli attacks

The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday.&nbsp;

During her trip to Israel and the West Bank, Pramila Patten, the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict, will "gather information on sexual violence reportedly committed in the context of the attacks of October 7 and its aftermath," the UN secretary-general's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.&nbsp;

"She is expected to meet with survivors, witnesses and others affected by sexual violence to identify avenues of support," Dujarric said, adding that Patten also plans to meet with "recently released hostages and detainees."

Patten will "be accompanied by experts in safe and ethical interviewing, forensic evidence, digital analysis and accountability," he said, with the trip part of "the exercise of her mandate in accordance with a standard UN methodology."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-its-troops-unintentionally-ran-over-a-palestinian-terrorists-body-using-jeep-678852">Also read |&nbsp;Israel says troops 'unintentionally' ran over Palestinian's body using jeep after videos go viral</a>

The UN has faced criticism for not responding quickly enough to victims' accounts of rape and sexual assault allegedly committed during Hamas's incursion into Israel.&nbsp;

The attack resulted in about 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-what-will-post-war-gaza-look-like-arab-neighbours-warn-israel-over-war-wion-678825">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: What will post-war Gaza look like? Arab neighbours warn Israel over war</a>

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Militants also took around 250 hostages, of whom Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, including at least 25 believed to have been killed after about 100 were released in a prisoner swap in November.&nbsp;

Israel has responded with a relentless military campaign that has killed at least 23,357 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.

The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday.

The United Nations will launch an information-gathering mission at the end of the month over accusations of sexual assault by Hamas during the October attack in Israel, a spokesman said Wednesday. During her trip to Israel and the West Bank, Pramila Patten, the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict, will "gather information on sexual violence reportedly committed in the context of the attacks of October 7 and its aftermath," the UN secretary-general's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. "She is expected to meet with survivors, witnesses and others affected by sexual violence to identify avenues of support," Dujarric said, adding that Patten also plans to meet with "recently released hostages and detainees." Patten will "be accompanied by experts in safe and ethical interviewing, forensic evidence, digital analysis and accountability," he said, with the trip part of "the exercise of her mandate in accordance with a standard UN methodology." Also read | Israel says troops 'unintentionally' ran over Palestinian's body using jeep after videos go viral The UN has faced criticism for not responding quickly enough to victims' accounts of rape and sexual assault allegedly committed during Hamas's incursion into Israel. The attack resulted in about 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: What will post-war Gaza look like? Arab neighbours warn Israel over war Militants also took around 250 hostages, of whom Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, including at least 25 believed to have been killed after about 100 were released in a prisoner swap in November. Israel has responded with a relentless military campaign that has killed at least 23,357 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.

UN launches info-gathering mission on Hamas' alleged sexual violence in Israel

The Israeli Army on Wednesday (Jan 10) said one of its vehicles "unintentionally" ran over the body of a Palestinian "terrorist" during a counter-terrorism operation in the occupied West Bank after footage of the incident went viral.&nbsp;

The incident was caught on security camera and shared widely on social media platforms, showcasing the brutality of the Israeli Army.&nbsp;The video showed the&nbsp;armoured vehicle slowly driving over what seemed to be a lifeless body which had been shot down moments earlier.&nbsp;The vehicle then stops, restarts and drives off, crushing the body again with its back wheels.

"The operational vehicle that is seen in the video was dispatched in order to extricate the force that was caught under heavy fire, and unintentionally ran over the terrorist's body," the Israeli military was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the "culture of hatred and extremism" spread by the Israeli Army.&nbsp;

The incident reportedly took place in the&nbsp;Tulkarm area, one of the main crossing points between the West Bank and Israel. The region has witnessed repeated raids by the Israeli Army since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas.&nbsp;

The Tulkarm Brigades, an armed terror group linked to Fatah, claimed that one of its Palestinian members was killed in the attack.&nbsp; 
 
(Trigger warning: The below media content may be triggering for some. Please proceed at your own caution)

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The Israeli army did not just kill them! Rather, he ran over the young man's body in the military jeep in Tulkarm. <a href="https://t.co/3UTVai77ER">https://t.co/3UTVai77ER</a>
— FB 💯محمد LeBlanc (@LeBlanc1919) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeBlanc1919/status/1744476367868080248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Another shocking video going viral on social media showed&nbsp;a young man standing in the central square of a West Bank village when he was suddenly shot by the Israeli troops. Two others who rush to the spot to rescue the man are also hit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 17-year-old died&nbsp;moments before Israeli military jeeps rolled in.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hamas-war-strike-on-lebanon-kills-senior-commander-in-elite-hezbollah-unit-677882">Israeli-Hamas war: Strike on Lebanon kills senior commander in elite Hezbollah unit</a>

The Israeli military justified its action saying the troops had entered the Beit Rima area as part of a “counter-terrorism operation.” It said troops fired at suspects who threw explosives and firebombs at them.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli Army on Wednesday (Jan 10) said one of its vehicles "unintentionally" ran over the body of a Palestinian "terrorist" during a counter-terrorism operation in the occupied West Bank after footage of the incident went viral.

The Israeli Army on Wednesday (Jan 10) said one of its vehicles "unintentionally" ran over the body of a Palestinian "terrorist" during a counter-terrorism operation in the occupied West Bank after footage of the incident went viral. The incident was caught on security camera and shared widely on social media platforms, showcasing the brutality of the Israeli Army. The video showed the armoured vehicle slowly driving over what seemed to be a lifeless body which had been shot down moments earlier. The vehicle then stops, restarts and drives off, crushing the body again with its back wheels. "The operational vehicle that is seen in the video was dispatched in order to extricate the force that was caught under heavy fire, and unintentionally ran over the terrorist's body," the Israeli military was quoted as saying by AFP news agency. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the "culture of hatred and extremism" spread by the Israeli Army. The incident reportedly took place in the Tulkarm area, one of the main crossing points between the West Bank and Israel. The region has witnessed repeated raids by the Israeli Army since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. The Tulkarm Brigades, an armed terror group linked to Fatah, claimed that one of its Palestinian members was killed in the attack. (Trigger warning: The below media content may be triggering for some. Please proceed at your own caution) #Hezbollah #SouthLebanon #Lebanon #Palestine #AlAqsaFlood #Palestina #PalestinaLibre #IsrealPalestineconflict #Gaza #Gaza_Genocide #Gazabombing The Israeli army did not just kill them! Rather, he ran over the young man's body in the military jeep in Tulkarm. https://t.co/3UTVai77ER — FB 💯محمد LeBlanc (@LeBlanc1919) January 8, 2024 × Watch | Israel-Hamas war: What will post-war Gaza look like? Arab neighbours warn Israel over war × Another shocking video going viral on social media showed a young man standing in the central square of a West Bank village when he was suddenly shot by the Israeli troops. Two others who rush to the spot to rescue the man are also hit. A 17-year-old died moments before Israeli military jeeps rolled in. Also read: Israeli-Hamas war: Strike on Lebanon kills senior commander in elite Hezbollah unit The Israeli military justified its action saying the troops had entered the Beit Rima area as part of a “counter-terrorism operation.” It said troops fired at suspects who threw explosives and firebombs at them. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says troops 'unintentionally' ran over Palestinian's body using jeep after videos go viral

A senior commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan force was killed allegedly in an Israeli strike on south Lebanon on Monday (Jan 8), three security sources told the news agency Reuters.

A senior commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan force was killed allegedly in an Israeli strike on south Lebanon on Monday (Jan 8), three security sources told the news agency Reuters. As per the report, the security sources have identified him as Wissam al-Tawil, the deputy head of a unit within the Radwan force. They said he and another Hezbollah fighter were killed when their car was hit in a strike on the Lebanese village of Majdal Selm. As quoted by the news agency, one of the security sources said: "This is a very painful strike." Another source said that "things will flare up now". Also read: Strong wave of Russian strikes hits areas across Ukraine; 3 killed and dozens injured Ever since the cross-border shelling began in the aftermath of Hamas's attack on Israeli territory on October 7, Israeli bombardment has killed more than 130 Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon. Another 19 have been killed in Syria. Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who is Hezbollah's secretary-general, warned Israel in two televised addresses last week not to launch a full-scale war on Lebanon. "Whoever thinks of war with us - in one word, he will regret it," Nasrallah said. Also read: Exclusive: Ex-defence minister Mariya Didi speaks about Indian troops in Maldives, current situation Watch: Israeli strike kills two Palestinian journalists in Gaza × Israeli strike in Gaza's Rafah The news agency Reuters reported citing witnesses that three people were killed and over a dozen were injured after a strike in Gaza's Rafah that damaged a car carrying supplies. The report added that those who were injured were transported to the Kuwaiti Hospital in Gaza for urgent medical attention. Some tried to save what was left of the food supplies including bags of flour, tomatoes and meat. Meanwhile, the United Nations voiced alarm Monday at the many journalists killed in the war raging in Gaza, a day after two Al Jazeera reporters were killed in an alleged Israeli strike on their car. "Very concerned by high death toll of media workers in Gaza," the UN rights office said on X, formerly Twitter, demanding that all such cases be "thoroughly, independently investigated to ensure strict compliance with international law, and violations prosecuted". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli-Hamas war: Strike on Lebanon kills senior commander in elite Hezbollah unit

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him.

The survey was conducted by the Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research at the Israel Democracy Institute and included&nbsp;605 Jewish Israelis and 151 Arab Israelis as representative sample.&nbsp;

The leader of the National Unity party, Benny Gantz, was named as the preferred prime minister after the war by almost a quarter (23 per cent) of the respondents.&nbsp;

Despite the low share of the respondents who wish to see Netanyahu as prime minister when the war is over, there is no alternative on the Right whose support even comes close, the survey showed.

Minister of Internal Security Ben-Gvir is preferred by only 1.5 per cent, ex-Mossad chief Yossi Cohen by 1 per cent and&nbsp;Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant by just 0.5 per cent&nbsp;of respondents.

This is not the first instance when Netanyahu's popularity has taken a dip. Last week, another poll was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas.

Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea?</a>

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<h2>Netanyahu rules out peace with Hamas</h2>

Netanyahu has ruled out stopping the war in Gaza until Hamas is eliminated from the region.

"We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement.

"Anyone who thinks we’ll stop is unmoored from reality.&nbsp;We’re raining fire on Hamas, hell fire. All Hamas terrorists, from first to last face death. They have two options only: surrender or die," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-pm-netanyahus-popularity-plummets-further-says-new-polls-674365">Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu’s popularity plummets further, say new polls</a>

While Netanyahu claims Israel will not stop the war, Russia and the Arab League have increased the diplomatic pressure on Israel to give up its tough act.

In the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed over 22,000 people, mostly women and children.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him.

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him. The survey was conducted by the Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research at the Israel Democracy Institute and included 605 Jewish Israelis and 151 Arab Israelis as representative sample. The leader of the National Unity party, Benny Gantz, was named as the preferred prime minister after the war by almost a quarter (23 per cent) of the respondents. Despite the low share of the respondents who wish to see Netanyahu as prime minister when the war is over, there is no alternative on the Right whose support even comes close, the survey showed. Minister of Internal Security Ben-Gvir is preferred by only 1.5 per cent, ex-Mossad chief Yossi Cohen by 1 per cent and Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant by just 0.5 per cent of respondents. This is not the first instance when Netanyahu's popularity has taken a dip. Last week, another poll was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas. Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea? Netanyahu rules out peace with Hamas Netanyahu has ruled out stopping the war in Gaza until Hamas is eliminated from the region. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement. "Anyone who thinks we’ll stop is unmoored from reality. We’re raining fire on Hamas, hell fire. All Hamas terrorists, from first to last face death. They have two options only: surrender or die," he added. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu’s popularity plummets further, say new polls While Netanyahu claims Israel will not stop the war, Russia and the Arab League have increased the diplomatic pressure on Israel to give up its tough act. In the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed over 22,000 people, mostly women and children. (With inputs from agencies)

Benny Gantz preferred over Benjamin Netanyahu after Gaza war ends, poll finds

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday.

Last month, Turkish officials warned Israel of "serious consequences" if it tried to hunt down members of the militant group Hamas living outside Palestinian territories, including in Turkey. President Tayyip Erdogan warned that would be a mistake.

Turkey, unlike most of its Western allies and some Arab nations, does not classify Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

Police raided 57 locations in eight provinces as part of an investigation - dubbed "Operation Mole" - launched by the Istanbul prosecutor's counter-terrorism bureau and the MIT intelligence agency, Yerlikaya said.

He said on social media platform X that the suspects were believed to be aiming to identify, monitor, assault and kidnap foreign nationals living in Turkey. The state-run Anadolu news agency said authorities were seeking 13 others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-killed-groups-deputy-head-in-beirut-675960">Also read |&nbsp;War in Gaza: Hamas claims deputy head killed in 'treacherous Zionist strike'</a>

Asked about the arrests, Israeli Prime Minister's Office and the Foreign Ministry did not immediately comment.

Turkey has harshly criticised Israel for its bombardment of Gaza in its war with Hamas, with Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly&nbsp;exchanging barbs&nbsp;last week.

Yerlikaya said authorities had found large amounts of foreign currency, including around 150,000 euros ($165,105), an unregistered firearm, and digital materials during the raids.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli bid to clear out Gaza population?

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He shared footage of the operations showing police raiding homes, handcuffing suspects, and putting them in police vehicles. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday.

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday. Last month, Turkish officials warned Israel of "serious consequences" if it tried to hunt down members of the militant group Hamas living outside Palestinian territories, including in Turkey. President Tayyip Erdogan warned that would be a mistake. Turkey, unlike most of its Western allies and some Arab nations, does not classify Hamas as a terrorist organisation. Police raided 57 locations in eight provinces as part of an investigation - dubbed "Operation Mole" - launched by the Istanbul prosecutor's counter-terrorism bureau and the MIT intelligence agency, Yerlikaya said. He said on social media platform X that the suspects were believed to be aiming to identify, monitor, assault and kidnap foreign nationals living in Turkey. The state-run Anadolu news agency said authorities were seeking 13 others. Also read | War in Gaza: Hamas claims deputy head killed in 'treacherous Zionist strike' Asked about the arrests, Israeli Prime Minister's Office and the Foreign Ministry did not immediately comment. Turkey has harshly criticised Israel for its bombardment of Gaza in its war with Hamas, with Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly exchanging barbs last week. Yerlikaya said authorities had found large amounts of foreign currency, including around 150,000 euros ($165,105), an unregistered firearm, and digital materials during the raids. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli bid to clear out Gaza population? He shared footage of the operations showing police raiding homes, handcuffing suspects, and putting them in police vehicles. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey claims to have rounded up 33 suspected spies for Israel’s Mossad

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework&nbsp;displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.&nbsp;

The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere&nbsp;expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip".&nbsp;

Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve&nbsp;celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays

Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved.

Last month,&nbsp;Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea?</a>

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<h2>UAE calls for ceasefire</h2>

The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces.&nbsp;

UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year.

"As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-informs-arab-states-it-wants-a-buffer-zone-in-gaza-post-war-report-665400">Also read |&nbsp;Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report</a>

Despite the insistence by the Gulf&nbsp;regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas.&nbsp;

"We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it&nbsp;wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends.

(With inputs from agencies)

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations. The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip". Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved. Last month, Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea? UAE calls for ceasefire The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords. As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces. UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year. "As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also read | Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report Despite the insistence by the Gulf regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month. Notably, Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends. (With inputs from agencies)

Sharjah in UAE bans New Year’s Eve celebrations in solidarity with Gaza

During the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Houthi rebels in Yemen have intensified their attacks on ships traversing the Red Sea, causing worry about the effects on the flow of consumer goods, grain, and oil through a vital global trade route.

Houthi Threat in Red Sea: Vessels take new route

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