Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday (September 02) and vowed that Israel would not withdraw its forces despite renewed efforts by mediators to push forward a US-backed ceasefire plan.&nbsp;Netanyahu made the remarks near the so-called Yellow Line, which separates areas controlled by Hamas from those under Israeli military control.&nbsp;"We control the area. We are not retreating. We are staying on this line," Netanyahu said near the so-called Yellow Line, which demarcates the areas under Hamas and Israeli military control.&nbsp;"We control 60 per cent of the Strip, and we are not stopping, because we are eliminating the terrorists who threaten us, day in and day out," he added.<h3>Netanyahu rejects Gaza troop withdrawal</h3>Israel has continued military operations in Gaza despite the ceasefire that came into effect in October 2025. Israeli forces have also expanded their presence in parts of the territory, with the government maintaining that it must remove threats posed by Hamas.&nbsp;Hamas carried out the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, which triggered the war in Gaza.&nbsp;International calls for the next stages of the US-led peace plan have so far failed to stop Israeli operations against Palestinians whom Israel identifies as militants.&nbsp;Netanyahu rejected a proposal last month to move ahead with the next stage of the plan after Hamas said it had agreed to hand over its weapons.&nbsp;The visit marked Netanyahu's first trip to the war-torn Gaza Strip since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began in October 2025.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/defence-pulse/japan-rearms-drone-40-offers-a-glimpse-into-tokyo-s-new-military-1788360137143">Japan rearms: 'Drone 40' offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s new military</a><h3>Israel considers removing Palestinians from Gaza</h3>Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that Israel had plans to remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip but was waiting for the United States to determine where they could be taken.&nbsp;"There is no real solution for Gaza in the end without this migration," Katz told a conference hosted by Israeli news site Ynet and newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth.&nbsp;The Israeli government "is organised and prepared to get them out--by sea, by air, by every way possible", he said.&nbsp;Earlier suggestions that Palestinians could be displaced from Gaza have faced international outrage and condemnation from Palestinians.&nbsp;When US President Donald Trump announced the Gaza ceasefire in October, his 20-point plan for the territory included a provision against forced displacement.&nbsp;Israeli military operations in Gaza have killed at least 1,334 people since the ceasefire began, according to the Palestinian territory's health ministry. The ministry operates under Hamas authority, but the United Nations considers its casualty figures reliable.&nbsp;The Israeli army has reported five deaths among its forces during the same period. It has also reported the death of one civilian contractor.

Netanyahu vowed during his Gaza visit that Israel would not withdraw its troops, citing the continuing threat from Hamas, while Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel was prepared to remove Palestinians from the territory but needs US approval.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday (September 02) and vowed that Israel would not withdraw its forces despite renewed efforts by mediators to push forward a US-backed ceasefire plan. Netanyahu made the remarks near the so-called Yellow Line, which separates areas controlled by Hamas from those under Israeli military control. "We control the area. We are not retreating. We are staying on this line," Netanyahu said near the so-called Yellow Line, which demarcates the areas under Hamas and Israeli military control. "We control 60 per cent of the Strip, and we are not stopping, because we are eliminating the terrorists who threaten us, day in and day out," he added. Netanyahu rejects Gaza troop withdrawal Israel has continued military operations in Gaza despite the ceasefire that came into effect in October 2025. Israeli forces have also expanded their presence in parts of the territory, with the government maintaining that it must remove threats posed by Hamas. Hamas carried out the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, which triggered the war in Gaza. International calls for the next stages of the US-led peace plan have so far failed to stop Israeli operations against Palestinians whom Israel identifies as militants. Netanyahu rejected a proposal last month to move ahead with the next stage of the plan after Hamas said it had agreed to hand over its weapons. The visit marked Netanyahu's first trip to the war-torn Gaza Strip since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began in October 2025. Also Read: Japan rearms: 'Drone 40' offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s new military Israel considers removing Palestinians from Gaza Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that Israel had plans to remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip but was waiting for the United States to determine where they could be taken. "There is no real solution for Gaza in the end without this migration," Katz told a conference hosted by Israeli news site Ynet and newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. The Israeli government "is organised and prepared to get them out--by sea, by air, by every way possible", he said. Earlier suggestions that Palestinians could be displaced from Gaza have faced international outrage and condemnation from Palestinians. When US President Donald Trump announced the Gaza ceasefire in October, his 20-point plan for the territory included a provision against forced displacement. Israeli military operations in Gaza have killed at least 1,334 people since the ceasefire began, according to the Palestinian territory's health ministry. The ministry operates under Hamas authority, but the United Nations considers its casualty figures reliable. The Israeli army has reported five deaths among its forces during the same period. It has also reported the death of one civilian contractor.

Netanyahu vowed during his Gaza visit that Israel would not withdraw its troops, citing the continuing threat from Hamas, while Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel was prepared to remove Palestinians from the territory but needs US approval.

'We are not retreating from Gaza': Netanyahu rules out troop pullback, cites terror threat

The Gaza ceasefire is facing renewed pressure after an Israeli air strike killed nine Palestinians and wounded 14 others at a police station in Gaza.

Israeli forces said the strike targeted Hamas militants operating from the civilian police station. In a separate strike in the Nuseirat refugee camp, another Palestinian was killed, taking the reported death toll from Wednesday’s strikes to at least 10.

The Israeli military said four senior commanders from Hamas’ military wing were killed and alleged that they were involved in planning and directing attacks against Israeli forces.

Hamas has accused Israel of undermining the ceasefire, warning mediators that continued targeted strikes could affect its position on the Gaza peace plan. Hamas is also demanding a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has acknowledged for the first time that its troops fired on the vehicle carrying five-year-old Hind Rajab and her family in Gaza in January 2024. Israel has ordered a criminal investigation into the incident.

Gaza War: Israeli Air Strikes Kill 10 As Hamas Accuses Israel Of Ceasefire Violations

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 6) said that it was ready to hand over its arms in the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority only if Israel’s army withdraws from the territory. It added that its weapons are linked with “existence of the occupation and the aggression” by Israel and would give them up if “occupation ends.” However, the group rejected the deployment of any international force in the Strip that would push for Hamas to disarm.&nbsp;“Our weapons are linked to the existence of the occupation and the aggression,” Hamas chief negotiator and its Gaza chief Khalil al-Hayya said in a statement. He added, “If the occupation ends, these weapons will be placed under the authority of the state.” Hayya’s bureau was referring to a sovereign and independent Palestinian state, AFP reported.&nbsp;“We accept the deployment of UN forces as a separation force, tasked with monitoring the borders and ensuring compliance with the ceasefire in Gaza,” Hayya added, suggesting the group rejects the deployment of an international force in Gaza that aims to disarm Hamas.&nbsp;Under the 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, Hamas is supposed to disarm, and members who decommission their weapons are allowed to leave Gaza. The Palestinian militant group has repeatedly rejected the proposition. The plan also mentions forming a transitional governing body, the Board of Peace, and deployment of an international stabilisation force in Gaza.&nbsp;<h2>Mediators push for next steps</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Qatar and Egypt called for the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of an international stabilisation force as necessary steps to fully implement the fragile ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;“Now we are at the critical moment... A ceasefire cannot be completed unless there is a full withdrawal of the Israeli forces (and) there is stability back in Gaza,” Qatari premier Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said at the Doha Forum, an annual diplomatic conference.&nbsp;Speaking of deploying the international force, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said, “We need to deploy this force as soon as possible on the ground because one party, which is Israel, is every day violating the ceasefire.”

The Palestinian militant group rejected the deployment of any international force in the Strip that would push for Hamas to disarm.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 6) said that it was ready to hand over its arms in the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority only if Israel’s army withdraws from the territory. It added that its weapons are linked with “existence of the occupation and the aggression” by Israel and would give them up if “occupation ends.” However, the group rejected the deployment of any international force in the Strip that would push for Hamas to disarm. “Our weapons are linked to the existence of the occupation and the aggression,” Hamas chief negotiator and its Gaza chief Khalil al-Hayya said in a statement. He added, “If the occupation ends, these weapons will be placed under the authority of the state.” Hayya’s bureau was referring to a sovereign and independent Palestinian state, AFP reported. “We accept the deployment of UN forces as a separation force, tasked with monitoring the borders and ensuring compliance with the ceasefire in Gaza,” Hayya added, suggesting the group rejects the deployment of an international force in Gaza that aims to disarm Hamas. Under the 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, Hamas is supposed to disarm, and members who decommission their weapons are allowed to leave Gaza. The Palestinian militant group has repeatedly rejected the proposition. The plan also mentions forming a transitional governing body, the Board of Peace, and deployment of an international stabilisation force in Gaza. Mediators push for next steps Meanwhile, Qatar and Egypt called for the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of an international stabilisation force as necessary steps to fully implement the fragile ceasefire agreement. “Now we are at the critical moment... A ceasefire cannot be completed unless there is a full withdrawal of the Israeli forces (and) there is stability back in Gaza,” Qatari premier Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said at the Doha Forum, an annual diplomatic conference. Speaking of deploying the international force, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said, “We need to deploy this force as soon as possible on the ground because one party, which is Israel, is every day violating the ceasefire.”

The Palestinian militant group rejected the deployment of any international force in the Strip that would push for Hamas to disarm.

Hamas ready to give up arms to Palestinian authority? Group puts THIS condition

The UN Security Council on Monday (Nov 18) pushed through a major US-drafted resolution, bolstering US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. Thirteen countries voted in favour of the plan, which Trump claims would lead to "further Peace all over the World". While Russia and China held back and abstained from voting, neither moved to veto the measure, clearing the way for its adoption.<h2>Trump lauds support for his Gaza peace plan</h2>Trump wasted no time praising the vote online. On Truth Social, he claimed that the resolution"acknowledging and endorsing the BOARD OF PEACE, which will be chaired by me...will go down as one of the biggest approvals in the History of the United Nations, (and) will lead to further Peace all over the World."After the vote, US ambassador Mike Waltz said the resolution marked a "significant step that will enable Gaza to prosper and an environment that will allow Israel to live in security."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-confirms-21st-strike-on-alleged-drug-boat-kills-three-in-international-waters-watch-video-1763346714245">Pentagon confirms 21st strike on alleged drug boat, kills three in international waters. Watch video</a>Meanwhile, the US Mission to the United Nations, in a statement, said that it welcomes the UNSC backing and “applauds key Council partners for coming together at a moment of consequence to chart a path forward toward lasting peace in Gaza and stability across the region”. It added that “Today’s action marks a meaningful step forward in advancing President Trump’s historic 20-Point Plan, which the Council fully endorsed in its entirety. This resolution establishes – for the first time – a real and viable pathway to peace and security in Gaza.”&nbsp;<h2>Hamas slams UN vote</h2>However, the reaction inside the region was far from unified. Hamas, which the text blocks from any role in governing Gaza, rejected the resolution and said it failed to address the "political and humanitarian demands and rights" of Palestinians.The resolution itself went through several rounds of negotiation as diplomats tried to get enough support. In its final form, it endorses the ceasefire that has held since October 10 and lays out a new structure for managing Gaza’s recovery after two years of heavy fighting. Much of the territory remains destroyed after Israel’s devastating campaign that followed the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-un-to-back-trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-warns-delay-will-gravely-hurt-palestinians-1763080241222">US pushes UN to back Trump’s Gaza peace plan, warns delay will 'gravely' hurt Palestinians</a>A central part of the plan is the creation of an International Stabilization Force. The ISF would work alongside Israel, Egypt, and newly trained Palestinian police units to secure border zones, demilitarise the strip, and protect civilians. It would also help ensure aid deliveries move without obstruction. The resolution also sketches out a path, however vague, toward a future Palestinian state. Once the Palestinian Authority carries out reforms and rebuilding gets underway, the text says "the conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood". Israel, however, has already dismissed that idea outright.

The UN Security Council approved a US-backed resolution supporting Trump’s Gaza peace plan, with 13 votes in favour and two abstentions. Trump celebrated the move, while Hamas rejected it.

The UN Security Council on Monday (Nov 18) pushed through a major US-drafted resolution, bolstering US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. Thirteen countries voted in favour of the plan, which Trump claims would lead to "further Peace all over the World". While Russia and China held back and abstained from voting, neither moved to veto the measure, clearing the way for its adoption. Trump lauds support for his Gaza peace plan Trump wasted no time praising the vote online. On Truth Social, he claimed that the resolution"acknowledging and endorsing the BOARD OF PEACE, which will be chaired by me...will go down as one of the biggest approvals in the History of the United Nations, (and) will lead to further Peace all over the World." After the vote, US ambassador Mike Waltz said the resolution marked a "significant step that will enable Gaza to prosper and an environment that will allow Israel to live in security." Also read | Pentagon confirms 21st strike on alleged drug boat, kills three in international waters. Watch video Meanwhile, the US Mission to the United Nations, in a statement, said that it welcomes the UNSC backing and “applauds key Council partners for coming together at a moment of consequence to chart a path forward toward lasting peace in Gaza and stability across the region”. It added that “Today’s action marks a meaningful step forward in advancing President Trump’s historic 20-Point Plan, which the Council fully endorsed in its entirety. This resolution establishes – for the first time – a real and viable pathway to peace and security in Gaza.” Hamas slams UN vote However, the reaction inside the region was far from unified. Hamas, which the text blocks from any role in governing Gaza, rejected the resolution and said it failed to address the "political and humanitarian demands and rights" of Palestinians. The resolution itself went through several rounds of negotiation as diplomats tried to get enough support. In its final form, it endorses the ceasefire that has held since October 10 and lays out a new structure for managing Gaza’s recovery after two years of heavy fighting. Much of the territory remains destroyed after Israel’s devastating campaign that followed the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. Also read | US pushes UN to back Trump’s Gaza peace plan, warns delay will 'gravely' hurt Palestinians A central part of the plan is the creation of an International Stabilization Force. The ISF would work alongside Israel, Egypt, and newly trained Palestinian police units to secure border zones, demilitarise the strip, and protect civilians. It would also help ensure aid deliveries move without obstruction. The resolution also sketches out a path, however vague, toward a future Palestinian state. Once the Palestinian Authority carries out reforms and rebuilding gets underway, the text says "the conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood". Israel, however, has already dismissed that idea outright.

The UN Security Council approved a US-backed resolution supporting Trump’s Gaza peace plan, with 13 votes in favour and two abstentions. Trump celebrated the move, while Hamas rejected it.

UN endorses Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan which Hamas says does not meet Palestinians' rights

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Oct 26) declared that his country would seek no approval to strike targets in Gaza or Lebanon, despite the ceasefire in effect. The statement comes after a visit by several top US officials, who are seeking to consolidate the ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu also said that Israel alone would decide which countries it would allow to join the international security force in Gaza.“Israel is an independent state. We will defend ourselves by our own means, and we will continue to determine our fate,” Netanyahu told a meeting of government ministers. “We do not seek anyone’s approval for this. We control our security,” he said.While Israel has withdrawn its forces to the so-called “Yellow Line”, it still remains in control of more than half the territory and approves every UN aid convoy going through its borders. Since the ceasefire, Israel has carried out at least two strikes in Gaza.Netanyahu highlighted that Israel had struck Gaza with 150 tonnes of bombs and missiles on October 19 after two of its soldiers were killed. He also noted that its forces conducted a strike on Saturday targeting an Islamic Jihad militant.&nbsp;Regarding the international security force in Gaza, Netanyahu said, “We made clear with respect to international forces that Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us.”Under the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Hamas, a coalition of mainly Arab and Muslim powers is expected to deploy troops in the war-torn territory. However, Netanyahu has opposed Turkey from having a role in the force.Meanwhile, Egyptian recovery crews arrived in the south of the Gaza Strip. The convoy included heavy machinery to help speed the search for the remains of deceased Israeli hostages lost in the rubble of the devastated territory. &nbsp;

Under the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Hamas, a coalition of mainly Arab and Muslim powers is expected to deploy troops in the war-torn territory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Oct 26) declared that his country would seek no approval to strike targets in Gaza or Lebanon, despite the ceasefire in effect. The statement comes after a visit by several top US officials, who are seeking to consolidate the ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu also said that Israel alone would decide which countries it would allow to join the international security force in Gaza. “Israel is an independent state. We will defend ourselves by our own means, and we will continue to determine our fate,” Netanyahu told a meeting of government ministers. “We do not seek anyone’s approval for this. We control our security,” he said. While Israel has withdrawn its forces to the so-called “Yellow Line”, it still remains in control of more than half the territory and approves every UN aid convoy going through its borders. Since the ceasefire, Israel has carried out at least two strikes in Gaza. Netanyahu highlighted that Israel had struck Gaza with 150 tonnes of bombs and missiles on October 19 after two of its soldiers were killed. He also noted that its forces conducted a strike on Saturday targeting an Islamic Jihad militant. Regarding the international security force in Gaza, Netanyahu said, “We made clear with respect to international forces that Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us.” Under the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Hamas, a coalition of mainly Arab and Muslim powers is expected to deploy troops in the war-torn territory. However, Netanyahu has opposed Turkey from having a role in the force. Meanwhile, Egyptian recovery crews arrived in the south of the Gaza Strip. The convoy included heavy machinery to help speed the search for the remains of deceased Israeli hostages lost in the rubble of the devastated territory.

Under the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Hamas, a coalition of mainly Arab and Muslim powers is expected to deploy troops in the war-torn territory.

‘We will determine our fate’: Netanyahu declares Israel needs no approval to strike its enemies

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Oct 19) ordered the country’s security forces to take “strong action” against militant targets in the Gaza Strip. He also accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, following which the Israeli military launched strikes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Meanwhile, the Palestinian militant group said in a statement that it was unaware of any clashes in Rafah and was adhering to the ceasefire, which was brokered by US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;“Following a ceasefire violation by Hamas, Prime Minister Netanyahu held consultations with the defence minister and senior security officials and instructed to take strong action against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement.&nbsp;Hamas’ armed wing responded to the Israeli accusations by saying, “We reaffirm our full commitment to implement everything that was agreed upon, foremost of which is a ceasefire across all areas of the Gaza Strip.”&nbsp;The statement released by the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades added that they had “no knowledge of any incidents or clashes taking place in the Rafah area, as these are red zones under the occupation's control, and contact with the remaining groups of ours there has been cut off since the war resumed in March of this year.”

Hamas’ armed wing denied the Israeli accusations by reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire agreement, adding that it was unaware of the recent clashes in Rafah.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Oct 19) ordered the country’s security forces to take “strong action” against militant targets in the Gaza Strip. He also accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, following which the Israeli military launched strikes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Meanwhile, the Palestinian militant group said in a statement that it was unaware of any clashes in Rafah and was adhering to the ceasefire, which was brokered by US President Donald Trump. “Following a ceasefire violation by Hamas, Prime Minister Netanyahu held consultations with the defence minister and senior security officials and instructed to take strong action against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. Hamas’ armed wing responded to the Israeli accusations by saying, “We reaffirm our full commitment to implement everything that was agreed upon, foremost of which is a ceasefire across all areas of the Gaza Strip.” The statement released by the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades added that they had “no knowledge of any incidents or clashes taking place in the Rafah area, as these are red zones under the occupation's control, and contact with the remaining groups of ours there has been cut off since the war resumed in March of this year.”

Hamas’ armed wing denied the Israeli accusations by reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire agreement, adding that it was unaware of the recent clashes in Rafah.

Netanyahu orders ‘strong action’ against militant targets in Gaza over ceasefire violation, Hamas denies accusations

Israeli forces on Sunday (Oct 19) carried out two air strikes on southern Gaza as the military accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire and attacking troops. Reportedly, Hamas carried out attacks against the Israeli forces beyond the Yellow Line, the boundary beyond which Israel holds positions. In a statement, the Israeli military confirmed the strikes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.&nbsp;“Earlier today, terrorists fired anti-tank missiles and opened fire on IDF forces operating to destroy terrorist infrastructure in the Rafah area in accordance with the terms of the agreement,” the military said in a statement.&nbsp;“The IDF responded with air strikes by fighter jets and artillery fire, targeting the Rafah area to neutralise the threat and destroying several operational tunnels and military structures where terrorist activity was detected,” the statement added.&nbsp;“The terror organisation Hamas carried out multiple attacks against Israeli forces beyond the Yellow Line,” an Israeli military official told AFP earlier. The news agency reported, citing witnesses and media reports, that Israeli aircraft launched two strikes in Gaza on Sunday. Two Palestinians said that fighting erupted in part of the southern city of Rafah, which is still under Israeli control, following the Israeli strikes.&nbsp;An Israeli official said that Hamas militants targeted Israeli forces with a sniper and a rocket-propelled grenade. “Both incidents happened in an Israeli-controlled area, east of the Yellow Line. This is a bold violation of the ceasefire,” he told AFP.&nbsp;<h2>Israel hands over bodies of 15 Palestinians</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel on Sunday returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza, bringing the total number to 150, Gaza’s health ministry said. Late Saturday, Hamas returned the bodies of two hostages, Ronen Engel, an Israeli national, and Thai farmworker Sonthaya Oakkharasri.

Meanwhile, Israel on Sunday returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza, bringing the total number to 150, Gaza’s health ministry said. 

Israeli forces on Sunday (Oct 19) carried out two air strikes on southern Gaza as the military accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire and attacking troops. Reportedly, Hamas carried out attacks against the Israeli forces beyond the Yellow Line, the boundary beyond which Israel holds positions. In a statement, the Israeli military confirmed the strikes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. “Earlier today, terrorists fired anti-tank missiles and opened fire on IDF forces operating to destroy terrorist infrastructure in the Rafah area in accordance with the terms of the agreement,” the military said in a statement. “The IDF responded with air strikes by fighter jets and artillery fire, targeting the Rafah area to neutralise the threat and destroying several operational tunnels and military structures where terrorist activity was detected,” the statement added. “The terror organisation Hamas carried out multiple attacks against Israeli forces beyond the Yellow Line,” an Israeli military official told AFP earlier. The news agency reported, citing witnesses and media reports, that Israeli aircraft launched two strikes in Gaza on Sunday. Two Palestinians said that fighting erupted in part of the southern city of Rafah, which is still under Israeli control, following the Israeli strikes. An Israeli official said that Hamas militants targeted Israeli forces with a sniper and a rocket-propelled grenade. “Both incidents happened in an Israeli-controlled area, east of the Yellow Line. This is a bold violation of the ceasefire,” he told AFP. Israel hands over bodies of 15 Palestinians Meanwhile, Israel on Sunday returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza, bringing the total number to 150, Gaza’s health ministry said. Late Saturday, Hamas returned the bodies of two hostages, Ronen Engel, an Israeli national, and Thai farmworker Sonthaya Oakkharasri.

Meanwhile, Israel on Sunday returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza, bringing the total number to 150, Gaza’s health ministry said.&nbsp;

‘Bold violation’: Israel launches strikes in Gaza as it accuses Hamas of breaching ceasefire

Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza on Saturday, raising the total number of mortal remains handed over to 135, said the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. As per the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump, Israel was stipulated to return bodies of 15 Palestinians in exchange for each deceased Israeli handed over to it by Hamas. Late on Friday night, Hamas handed over the body of another Israeli hostage, who Israel identified as Eliyahu Margalit. Hamas has handed over the bodies of nine Israelis and one Nepalese student since the ceasefire came into effect and claims the other bodies are not traceable.&nbsp;Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office said on Saturday that Margalit’s body was identified after testing by the National Center for Forensic Medicine, and his family has been notified. The 76-year-old was abducted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, from the horse stables where he worked in Kibbutz Nir Oz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-fire-breaks-out-at-dhaka-s-international-airport-all-flight-operations-suspended-1760789887198">Massive fire breaks out at Dhaka’s international airport; all flight operations suspended</a>&nbsp;President Trump had warned that he would give a go-ahead to Israel for resuming the war if Hamas doesn’t live up to its end of the deal and return the bodies of all 28 hostages.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Gaza health ministry claimed that some of the bodies returned on Saturday bore signs of “abuse, beatings, handcuffing and blindfolding”, but the Israeli military denied the charge and termed the claims as usual “false propaganda” of Hamas.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impressed-by-india-s-aadhaar-pm-keir-starmer-plans-brit-card-for-uk-citizens-1760794820972">‘Impressed’ by India’s Aadhaar, PM Keir Starmer plans Brit Card for UK citizens</a>&nbsp;Hamas says it is committed to the terms of the ceasefire deal, including the handover of bodies, but claims the retrieval of bodies is hampered by the scope of the devastation and the presence of dangerous, unexploded bombs.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ministry of health also said that more than 68,000 Palestinians have been killed in the two-year-long war. It claimed that the number of dead has risen since the ceasefire went into effect, as more dead bodies were found during recovery efforts under the rubble.Hamas is also accusing Israel of continuing its attacks and violating the ceasefire.

Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office said that Margalit’s body was identified after testing by the National Center for Forensic Medicine, and his family has been notified. The 76-year-old was abducted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, from Kibbutz Nir Oz.

Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza on Saturday, raising the total number of mortal remains handed over to 135, said the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. As per the ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump, Israel was stipulated to return bodies of 15 Palestinians in exchange for each deceased Israeli handed over to it by Hamas. Late on Friday night, Hamas handed over the body of another Israeli hostage, who Israel identified as Eliyahu Margalit. Hamas has handed over the bodies of nine Israelis and one Nepalese student since the ceasefire came into effect and claims the other bodies are not traceable. Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office said on Saturday that Margalit’s body was identified after testing by the National Center for Forensic Medicine, and his family has been notified. The 76-year-old was abducted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, from the horse stables where he worked in Kibbutz Nir Oz. Also Read: Massive fire breaks out at Dhaka’s international airport; all flight operations suspended President Trump had warned that he would give a go-ahead to Israel for resuming the war if Hamas doesn’t live up to its end of the deal and return the bodies of all 28 hostages. Meanwhile, the Gaza health ministry claimed that some of the bodies returned on Saturday bore signs of “abuse, beatings, handcuffing and blindfolding”, but the Israeli military denied the charge and termed the claims as usual “false propaganda” of Hamas. Also Read: ‘Impressed’ by India’s Aadhaar, PM Keir Starmer plans Brit Card for UK citizens Hamas says it is committed to the terms of the ceasefire deal, including the handover of bodies, but claims the retrieval of bodies is hampered by the scope of the devastation and the presence of dangerous, unexploded bombs. The ministry of health also said that more than 68,000 Palestinians have been killed in the two-year-long war. It claimed that the number of dead has risen since the ceasefire went into effect, as more dead bodies were found during recovery efforts under the rubble. Hamas is also accusing Israel of continuing its attacks and violating the ceasefire.

Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office said that Margalit’s body was identified after testing by the National Center for Forensic Medicine, and his family has been notified. The 76-year-old was abducted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, from Kibbutz Nir Oz.

Israel returns 15 Palestinian bodies, identifies remains of another hostage

Israel’s military has said that one of the bodies returned by Hamas does not match any of the Israeli hostages. This came after examinations were conducted at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine. Hamas had handed over four bodies on Tuesday (October 14), which were initially thought to belong to hostages, but Israel has now clarified that one of them does not match any missing Israeli citizens.&nbsp;Among the three bodies that were confirmed as hostages, the identities have been revealed:<ul><li>Uriel Baruch: A 35-year-old father of two, who was kidnapped during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023. His family was informed in March 2024 that he was dead, and his body had been taken to Gaza.</li><li>Tamir Nimrodi: A 20-year-old education officer, abducted at the Erez Crossing on the same day. His fate was uncertain until his remains were handed over. His family confirmed he was murdered while in Hamas custody.</li><li>Eitan Levi: A 53-year-old taxi driver from Bat Yam, killed by Hamas gunmen near Gaza’s border. His body was filmed being desecrated in Gaza before being handed back.</li></ul>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-our-tax-dollars-have-funded-a-genocide-zohran-mamdani-reacts-to-gaza-ceasefire-condemns-israel-and-us-admin-s-actions-1760512975423">'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire, condemns Israel and US admin's actions</a>&nbsp;Before the ceasefire took effect, 48 Israeli hostages were still held in Gaza, with 28 thought to be deceased. Of the four bodies handed over recently, three have now been identified as Baruch, Nimrodi, and Levi, but the fourth body remains unidentified. This leaves 21 deceased hostages still in Gaza.&nbsp;The return of the bodies follows a ceasefire deal aimed at securing the release of all hostages, both living and dead. While Israel had set a deadline for Hamas to return all remains by Monday, it appears that some delays have occurred, raising concerns that this could lead to tensions and potentially disrupt the fragile ceasefire.&nbsp;In Gaza, locals are anxious about a potential resumption of the conflict. Prices of essential goods like flour and oil have surged, as many residents fear that aid might be halted due to tensions between Hamas and Israel. Displaced families in Gaza, such as Neven Al-Mughrabi’s, express unease over the ongoing uncertainty and the possibility that the ceasefire could collapse at any moment. Negotiations in Egypt continue, as mediators try to keep the ceasefire on track and address the issues between Hamas and Israel.

'Does not match': Israel says one body returned by Hamas is NOT a hostage

Israel’s military has said that one of the bodies returned by Hamas does not match any of the Israeli hostages. This came after examinations were conducted at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine. Hamas had handed over four bodies on Tuesday (October 14), which were initially thought to belong to hostages, but Israel has now clarified that one of them does not match any missing Israeli citizens. Among the three bodies that were confirmed as hostages, the identities have been revealed: Uriel Baruch: A 35-year-old father of two, who was kidnapped during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023. His family was informed in March 2024 that he was dead, and his body had been taken to Gaza. Tamir Nimrodi: A 20-year-old education officer, abducted at the Erez Crossing on the same day. His fate was uncertain until his remains were handed over. His family confirmed he was murdered while in Hamas custody. Eitan Levi: A 53-year-old taxi driver from Bat Yam, killed by Hamas gunmen near Gaza’s border. His body was filmed being desecrated in Gaza before being handed back. Also Read: 'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire, condemns Israel and US admin's actions Before the ceasefire took effect, 48 Israeli hostages were still held in Gaza, with 28 thought to be deceased. Of the four bodies handed over recently, three have now been identified as Baruch, Nimrodi, and Levi, but the fourth body remains unidentified. This leaves 21 deceased hostages still in Gaza. The return of the bodies follows a ceasefire deal aimed at securing the release of all hostages, both living and dead. While Israel had set a deadline for Hamas to return all remains by Monday, it appears that some delays have occurred, raising concerns that this could lead to tensions and potentially disrupt the fragile ceasefire. In Gaza, locals are anxious about a potential resumption of the conflict. Prices of essential goods like flour and oil have surged, as many residents fear that aid might be halted due to tensions between Hamas and Israel. Displaced families in Gaza, such as Neven Al-Mughrabi’s, express unease over the ongoing uncertainty and the possibility that the ceasefire could collapse at any moment. Negotiations in Egypt continue, as mediators try to keep the ceasefire on track and address the issues between Hamas and Israel.

Israel has clarified that one body returned by Hamas isn’t of a hostage, while three other deceased hostages have been identified

The Israeli military announced on Tuesday (October 14) that it had identified the remains of two captives from Gaza whose bodies were returned to Israel. This came just after a wave of jubilant celebrations on Monday, following the release of the final 20 living hostages under a cease-fire agreement. The two identified victims were Guy Illouz and Bipin Joshi, part of the 28 hostages believed to have died during their captivity. According to the cease-fire terms, Hamas had committed to returning the bodies of the deceased captives by Monday.&nbsp;However, the agreement acknowledged the challenges in recovering the bodies due to the widespread destruction in Gaza. The region, once highly urbanised, has been left in ruins following years of intense Israeli airstrikes. In case Hamas couldn't fulfill the return of all remains, the deal outlined the formation of a joint task force, which would include the US and other mediators, to assist in locating the bodies and share intelligence. Some Israeli officials and families have voiced criticism over Hamas's failure to return more of the remains.&nbsp;Defense Minister Israel Katz blamed Hamas for failing to honour its obligations but refrained from suggesting immediate military action, indicating the cease-fire would still hold. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement on Tuesday confirming that forensic testing had identified the bodies of Illouz, Joshi, and two other hostages. Their families were subsequently notified that the remains had been brought back to Israel for burial.The IDF also shared intelligence indicating that Illouz was captured alive by Hamas forces after attempting to flee the attack on the Nova music festival near Reim on October 7, 2023. He had been heading toward the Tel Gama area at the time of his abduction.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Nasser Medical Centre in Gaza reported on Tuesday (October 14) that Israel handed over the bodies of 45 Palestinians that had been held in its custody. The transfer took place under a ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump, which stipulates that Israel will return 15 Palestinian bodies for each deceased Israeli repatriated. A day earlier, Hamas had handed over the remains of three Israelis and one Nepalese national as part of the exchange.

Israeli military identifies two deceased hostages among those returned from Gaza, returns 45 Palestinian bodies

The Israeli military announced on Tuesday (October 14) that it had identified the remains of two captives from Gaza whose bodies were returned to Israel. This came just after a wave of jubilant celebrations on Monday, following the release of the final 20 living hostages under a cease-fire agreement. The two identified victims were Guy Illouz and Bipin Joshi, part of the 28 hostages believed to have died during their captivity. According to the cease-fire terms, Hamas had committed to returning the bodies of the deceased captives by Monday. However, the agreement acknowledged the challenges in recovering the bodies due to the widespread destruction in Gaza. The region, once highly urbanised, has been left in ruins following years of intense Israeli airstrikes. In case Hamas couldn't fulfill the return of all remains, the deal outlined the formation of a joint task force, which would include the US and other mediators, to assist in locating the bodies and share intelligence. Some Israeli officials and families have voiced criticism over Hamas's failure to return more of the remains. Defense Minister Israel Katz blamed Hamas for failing to honour its obligations but refrained from suggesting immediate military action, indicating the cease-fire would still hold. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement on Tuesday confirming that forensic testing had identified the bodies of Illouz, Joshi, and two other hostages. Their families were subsequently notified that the remains had been brought back to Israel for burial. The IDF also shared intelligence indicating that Illouz was captured alive by Hamas forces after attempting to flee the attack on the Nova music festival near Reim on October 7, 2023. He had been heading toward the Tel Gama area at the time of his abduction. Meanwhile, the Nasser Medical Centre in Gaza reported on Tuesday (October 14) that Israel handed over the bodies of 45 Palestinians that had been held in its custody. The transfer took place under a ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump, which stipulates that Israel will return 15 Palestinian bodies for each deceased Israeli repatriated. A day earlier, Hamas had handed over the remains of three Israelis and one Nepalese national as part of the exchange.

The Israeli military has identified two bodies of hostages returned from Gaza as part of a cease-fire deal, while tensions remain over missing remains

Israeli military identifies two deceased hostages among those returned from Gaza; returns 45 Palestinian bodies

Thousands of Israelis gathered at the Hostage Square in Tel Aviv and the Reim military base near the border with Gaza in southern Israel to welcome the hostages following their release by Hamas.

Thousands of Israelis gathered at the Hostage Square in Tel Aviv and the Reim military base near the border with Gaza in southern Israel to welcome the hostages following their release by Hamas.

In Pics | Tears and joy erupt in Israel as all 20 surviving Gaza hostages return home

On Monday (Oct 13), Donald Trump arrived in Israel as the hostage exchange was on between Tel Aviv and Hamas. The US president addressed the Israeli Parliament and it is day of joy as “20 courageous hostages are returning to the glorious embrace of their family” and there 28 others, who will be returning to “rest on the sacred soil.” He mentioned how the guns are silent. In his address, Trump appreciated “the Arab and Muslim world who came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free.”&nbsp;“Now at last for Israelis, Palestinians and many others, the long painful nightmare is finally over. Many of Iran's top terrorists have been extinguished.”&nbsp;He added, “We just ordered 28 more new B2 bombers.”&nbsp;Talking about the return of the hostages, the 79-year-old said that he ended eight wars. He was delighted to say the hostages are back and that is what he called the end of the war as they a back home. “The hostages are back; it feels so good to say it,” he continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The long and painful nightmare is finally over for Israelis and Palestinians. As the dust settles, smoke fades, and the debris is removed, and the ashes are cleaned from the air… a beautiful and much brighter future appears suddenly within your reach,” the US president added.

In his address, Trump appreciated “the Arab and Muslim world who came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free.”

On Monday (Oct 13), Donald Trump arrived in Israel as the hostage exchange was on between Tel Aviv and Hamas. The US president addressed the Israeli Parliament and it is day of joy as “20 courageous hostages are returning to the glorious embrace of their family” and there 28 others, who will be returning to “rest on the sacred soil.” He mentioned how the guns are silent. In his address, Trump appreciated “the Arab and Muslim world who came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free.” “Now at last for Israelis, Palestinians and many others, the long painful nightmare is finally over. Many of Iran's top terrorists have been extinguished.” He added, “We just ordered 28 more new B2 bombers.” Talking about the return of the hostages, the 79-year-old said that he ended eight wars. He was delighted to say the hostages are back and that is what he called the end of the war as they a back home. “The hostages are back; it feels so good to say it,” he continued. “The long and painful nightmare is finally over for Israelis and Palestinians. As the dust settles, smoke fades, and the debris is removed, and the ashes are cleaned from the air… a beautiful and much brighter future appears suddenly within your reach,” the US president added.

In his address, Trump appreciated “the Arab and Muslim world who came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free.”

'Long and painful nightmare is finally over': Trump says in the Israeli Parliament on Gaza peace deal

After two years of relentless bloodshed, the war in Gaza has finally paused. Israeli hostages, held captive since Hamas's brutal October 2023 attack, have been released in a dramatic exchange brokered by US President Donald Trump. Families torn apart by violence have reunited amid tears and cheers. For Israelis who wore yellow ribbons and marched weekly demanding their loved ones' return, this moment represents a profound victory. Yet across the border, Palestinians await the release of hundreds of prisoners, including many held without charges. As the dust settles on this fragile ceasefire, a harder question emerges: can this pause in fighting become something more—or will it collapse into yet another cycle of violence?&nbsp;The scenes were undeniably moving. Twenty hostages freed in two groups, handed over to the Red Cross, then rushed to medical facilities for evaluation before reuniting with families. Tens of thousands of Israelis erupted in celebration as live broadcasts showed their compatriots finally coming home. The emotional weight of 730 days in captivity, the anguished counting of each passing day, the protests that swelled in Tel Aviv—all of it culminated in this singular moment of relief. For many Israelis, the war's primary purpose has been fulfilled. The urgency that drove the conflict has dissipated, at least for now.&nbsp;But relief is not resolution. While hostages returned home, over 67,000 Palestinians lie dead, according to Gaza's health officials. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to rubble. Before October 2023, nearly half of Gaza's population was unemployed and dependent on food aid due to a crippling blockade in place since 2007. Today, conditions are exponentially worse. Humanitarian aid is beginning to trickle in—cooking gas for the first time in months, medical supplies desperately needed—but the underlying structures of deprivation remain intact. If the land, sea, and air blockade persists, Gaza will simply slide back into the humanitarian catastrophe that existed before the war, only now amid ruins and trauma on an unimaginable scale.&nbsp;President Trump arrived in Tel Aviv to a hero's welcome, ready to receive Israel's highest civilian honour for his role in ending the war. His 20-point peace plan promises a "credible path to Palestinian self-rule and statehood," but history demands skepticism. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s made similar promises, only to crumble under the weight of settlement expansion, political extremism, and deep mistrust. Today's agreement, for all its fanfare, is a ceasefire—not a peace treaty, not an armistice. Fighting has stopped, but the fundamental disputes remain unresolved.&nbsp;Who will govern Gaza now? Hamas has lost its most powerful bargaining chip: the hostages. Without them, its leverage in future negotiations evaporates. Yet the peace plan's vision for Gaza's future remains vague. Will an internationally imposed "body of peace," led by figures like Tony Blair, take charge? Palestinian factions have already rejected foreign control, insisting that Gaza's future must be decided by Palestinians themselves. Any externally imposed government that ignores local voices risks repeating the failures of past interventions—legitimacy cannot be imported from abroad.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from Israel's right wing to resume military operations at the first sign of trouble. With hostages home, the domestic political calculus has shifted. The question for Israel's leadership is stark: will peace be treated as a strategic necessity for long-term security, or merely as a tactical pause before the next war? The answer will determine whether this ceasefire holds or shatters.&nbsp;For Palestinians, the challenges are equally daunting. Hamas may need to disarm and relinquish political control—something it has said it would only consider if an independent Palestinian state is officially recognized. This is where the peace plan's vagueness becomes dangerous. Promises of statehood have been made before, only to be blocked by settlement expansion, disputes over Jerusalem, and the US wielding its UN Security Council veto to prevent Palestinian recognition. Jerusalem remains the most sensitive issue: both Israelis and Palestinians claim it as their capital, and no peace plan can succeed without addressing this reality head-on.&nbsp;The 20-point plan cannot treat Gaza in isolation. The Gaza conflict is inseparable from the broader Palestinian-Israeli struggle. Ignoring the West Bank, pretending that Gaza's suffering can be resolved without addressing the occupation and the dream of Palestinian self-determination, would be a catastrophic mistake. Any lasting peace must acknowledge that Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank share a common cause, and that Israel's long-term security depends not on military dominance alone, but on a just political settlement.&nbsp;The numbers are staggering: nearly 70,000 dead, 11% of Gaza's population killed or wounded, 465 Israeli soldiers lost, and an entire generation scarred by war. Yet there is a sliver of hope. Aid is arriving. Hostages are home. Prisoners will be released. For the first time in two years, the guns are silent. This is not nothing. It is a chance—fragile and fleeting—to build something better.&nbsp;But peace talks demand more than ceasefires and prisoner exchanges. They require trust, which has been destroyed by decades of violence and betrayal. They require honesty about past failures and a commitment to do better. They require leaders willing to make painful compromises and populations willing to support them. Most of all, they require a recognition that the status quo—blockades, occupation, cycles of violence—is unsustainable for everyone.&nbsp;Trump declared, "The war is over," as he flew to Israel. Perhaps. But declaring victory is not the same as securing peace. The real test lies ahead, in the unglamorous work of negotiation, reconstruction, and reconciliation. Will Israel end the blockade and allow Gaza to rebuild with dignity? Will Hamas disarm? Will the US stop blocking Palestinian statehood at the UN? Will both sides resist the temptation to return to violence when the path forward becomes difficult?&nbsp;The hostages are free, and that is cause for celebration. But their freedom does not erase the 67,000 Palestinian lives lost, the shattered homes, the generational trauma. True peace will require more than exchanging prisoners—it will require exchanging fear for hope, occupation for sovereignty, and endless war for a shared future. The world is watching. So are the children of Gaza and Israel, who deserve better than the inheritance of pain their parents received. This ceasefire is a beginning, not an end. What comes next will determine whether it was a doorway to peace or just another tragic pause before the violence resumes. &nbsp;

As the dust settles on this fragile ceasefire, a harder question emerges: can this pause in fighting become something more—or will it collapse into yet another cycle of violence?

After two years of relentless bloodshed, the war in Gaza has finally paused. Israeli hostages, held captive since Hamas's brutal October 2023 attack, have been released in a dramatic exchange brokered by US President Donald Trump. Families torn apart by violence have reunited amid tears and cheers. For Israelis who wore yellow ribbons and marched weekly demanding their loved ones' return, this moment represents a profound victory. Yet across the border, Palestinians await the release of hundreds of prisoners, including many held without charges. As the dust settles on this fragile ceasefire, a harder question emerges: can this pause in fighting become something more—or will it collapse into yet another cycle of violence? The scenes were undeniably moving. Twenty hostages freed in two groups, handed over to the Red Cross, then rushed to medical facilities for evaluation before reuniting with families. Tens of thousands of Israelis erupted in celebration as live broadcasts showed their compatriots finally coming home. The emotional weight of 730 days in captivity, the anguished counting of each passing day, the protests that swelled in Tel Aviv—all of it culminated in this singular moment of relief. For many Israelis, the war's primary purpose has been fulfilled. The urgency that drove the conflict has dissipated, at least for now. But relief is not resolution. While hostages returned home, over 67,000 Palestinians lie dead, according to Gaza's health officials. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to rubble. Before October 2023, nearly half of Gaza's population was unemployed and dependent on food aid due to a crippling blockade in place since 2007. Today, conditions are exponentially worse. Humanitarian aid is beginning to trickle in—cooking gas for the first time in months, medical supplies desperately needed—but the underlying structures of deprivation remain intact. If the land, sea, and air blockade persists, Gaza will simply slide back into the humanitarian catastrophe that existed before the war, only now amid ruins and trauma on an unimaginable scale. President Trump arrived in Tel Aviv to a hero's welcome, ready to receive Israel's highest civilian honour for his role in ending the war. His 20-point peace plan promises a "credible path to Palestinian self-rule and statehood," but history demands skepticism. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s made similar promises, only to crumble under the weight of settlement expansion, political extremism, and deep mistrust. Today's agreement, for all its fanfare, is a ceasefire—not a peace treaty, not an armistice. Fighting has stopped, but the fundamental disputes remain unresolved. Who will govern Gaza now? Hamas has lost its most powerful bargaining chip: the hostages. Without them, its leverage in future negotiations evaporates. Yet the peace plan's vision for Gaza's future remains vague. Will an internationally imposed "body of peace," led by figures like Tony Blair, take charge? Palestinian factions have already rejected foreign control, insisting that Gaza's future must be decided by Palestinians themselves. Any externally imposed government that ignores local voices risks repeating the failures of past interventions—legitimacy cannot be imported from abroad. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from Israel's right wing to resume military operations at the first sign of trouble. With hostages home, the domestic political calculus has shifted. The question for Israel's leadership is stark: will peace be treated as a strategic necessity for long-term security, or merely as a tactical pause before the next war? The answer will determine whether this ceasefire holds or shatters. For Palestinians, the challenges are equally daunting. Hamas may need to disarm and relinquish political control—something it has said it would only consider if an independent Palestinian state is officially recognized. This is where the peace plan's vagueness becomes dangerous. Promises of statehood have been made before, only to be blocked by settlement expansion, disputes over Jerusalem, and the US wielding its UN Security Council veto to prevent Palestinian recognition. Jerusalem remains the most sensitive issue: both Israelis and Palestinians claim it as their capital, and no peace plan can succeed without addressing this reality head-on. The 20-point plan cannot treat Gaza in isolation. The Gaza conflict is inseparable from the broader Palestinian-Israeli struggle. Ignoring the West Bank, pretending that Gaza's suffering can be resolved without addressing the occupation and the dream of Palestinian self-determination, would be a catastrophic mistake. Any lasting peace must acknowledge that Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank share a common cause, and that Israel's long-term security depends not on military dominance alone, but on a just political settlement. The numbers are staggering: nearly 70,000 dead, 11% of Gaza's population killed or wounded, 465 Israeli soldiers lost, and an entire generation scarred by war. Yet there is a sliver of hope. Aid is arriving. Hostages are home. Prisoners will be released. For the first time in two years, the guns are silent. This is not nothing. It is a chance—fragile and fleeting—to build something better. But peace talks demand more than ceasefires and prisoner exchanges. They require trust, which has been destroyed by decades of violence and betrayal. They require honesty about past failures and a commitment to do better. They require leaders willing to make painful compromises and populations willing to support them. Most of all, they require a recognition that the status quo—blockades, occupation, cycles of violence—is unsustainable for everyone. Trump declared, "The war is over," as he flew to Israel. Perhaps. But declaring victory is not the same as securing peace. The real test lies ahead, in the unglamorous work of negotiation, reconstruction, and reconciliation. Will Israel end the blockade and allow Gaza to rebuild with dignity? Will Hamas disarm? Will the US stop blocking Palestinian statehood at the UN? Will both sides resist the temptation to return to violence when the path forward becomes difficult? The hostages are free, and that is cause for celebration. But their freedom does not erase the 67,000 Palestinian lives lost, the shattered homes, the generational trauma. True peace will require more than exchanging prisoners—it will require exchanging fear for hope, occupation for sovereignty, and endless war for a shared future. The world is watching. So are the children of Gaza and Israel, who deserve better than the inheritance of pain their parents received. This ceasefire is a beginning, not an end. What comes next will determine whether it was a doorway to peace or just another tragic pause before the violence resumes.

As the dust settles on this fragile ceasefire, a harder question emerges: can this pause in fighting become something more—or will it collapse into yet another cycle of violence?

Hostages are free—but can peace survive what comes next?

As the talks progress and the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza, Hamas said that it would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. The Palestinian militant group added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.&nbsp;“The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11).&nbsp;&nbsp;“We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Difficulties’ in Gaza peace talks?</h2>&nbsp;While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be complex and difficult.&nbsp;“The second phase of the Trump plan, as it is clear from the points themselves, contains many complexities and difficulties,” the political bureau member of Hamas said.&nbsp;He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.&nbsp;“Talk about expelling Palestinians, whether they’re Hamas members or not, from their land is absurd and nonsense,” he said of Trump’s peace plan that also proposes the disarmament of Hamas.&nbsp;<h2>Hamas says disarmament ‘out of the question’</h2>&nbsp;Hamas also said that disarmament as part of Trump’s Gaza plan was “out of the question” and “not negotiable”. A senior official told AFP, “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Israel to oversee the ceasefire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.

As the talks progress and the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza, Hamas said that it would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. The Palestinian militant group added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory. “The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11). “We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added. ‘Difficulties’ in Gaza peace talks? While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be complex and difficult. “The second phase of the Trump plan, as it is clear from the points themselves, contains many complexities and difficulties,” the political bureau member of Hamas said. He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends. “Talk about expelling Palestinians, whether they’re Hamas members or not, from their land is absurd and nonsense,” he said of Trump’s peace plan that also proposes the disarmament of Hamas. Hamas says disarmament ‘out of the question’ Hamas also said that disarmament as part of Trump’s Gaza plan was “out of the question” and “not negotiable”. A senior official told AFP, “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable.” Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Israel to oversee the ceasefire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.

‘Will not be involved’: Hamas to skip Gaza peace deal signing? Warns Israel against ‘aggression’

Hamas’s disarmament as part of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan is “out of the question” and “not negotiable,” a Hamas official said. The statement comes as the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group and Israel signed the first phase of Trump’s plan, which includes hostage and prisoner exchange and withdrawal of Israeli troops from the war-torn territory.&nbsp;“The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable,” the official told AFP.&nbsp;The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in an interview with AFP, Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran said that the Palestinian militant group would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. He added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks.&nbsp;“The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11).&nbsp;“We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added.&nbsp;While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be “complex and difficult.” He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.&nbsp;

The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.

Hamas’s disarmament as part of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan is “out of the question” and “not negotiable,” a Hamas official said. The statement comes as the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group and Israel signed the first phase of Trump’s plan, which includes hostage and prisoner exchange and withdrawal of Israeli troops from the war-torn territory. “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable,” the official told AFP. The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan. Meanwhile, in an interview with AFP, Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran said that the Palestinian militant group would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. He added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. “The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11). “We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added. While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be “complex and difficult.” He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.

The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.

‘Weapons handover out of question’: Hamas official says disarmament ‘not negotiable’ despite ceasefire in Gaza

A senior Hamas official said that a fresh round of Gaza ceasefire talks began on Tuesday in the Qatari capital Doha, with the Palestinian movement approaching the negotiations "positively and responsibly". Watch this report for more details!

Hamas official says Gaza ceasefire talks have begun in Doha

The US has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire. Watch this report for more details!

Israel warns Hamas: No hostage, no free meal

The Israeli military says forensic testing revealed the body of hostage Shiri Bibas was not returned from Gaza with those of her two young sons. Watch this report for more details!

IDF: One of four bodies returned by Hamas is not of Shiri Bibas

Hamas is set to release the bodies of Shiri Bibas, Ariel Bibas, and Kfir Bibas to Israel, along with Oded Lifshitz as the fourth hostage. This comes amid heightened tensions and reports of a Hezbollah operative being targeted by the IDF in Lebanon, marking the first death since Israeli troop withdrawal from the region.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to hand over bodies of Bibas family

Hamas plans to release six hostages on Saturday, while discussions continue on freeing all living Israeli hostages. The group also announced it will hand over the bodies of four other deceased captives on Thursday.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to free six living hostages and hand over 4 bodies

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Thursday (Jan 16) that the cabinet won't meet to approve the ceasefire deal till the time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-thanks-trump-for-crucial-role-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-8626330">Hamas</a> backs down on 'last minute concessions', as reported by Reuters.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Hamas refuted these claims and said that it is committed to the ceasefire agreement announced by mediators on Wednesday. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that it had not backtracked on the ceasefire agreement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-kyiv-as-british-pm-starmer-visits-ukraine-8627086">Explosions heard in Kyiv amid British PM Starmer's visit</a>
Earlier, Reuters quoted Netanyahu&rsquo;s office saying &ldquo;Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.&rdquo;
The meeting was scheduled for 11:00 am local time. As per another report by the Jerusalem Post, the cabinet delayed the meeting because &ldquo;the hostage deal delegation hasn&rsquo;t finished its work in Qatar and returned to Israel. When the delegation returns, the security cabinet will convene.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a>
As per Israel's local media reports, the Religious Zionism Party, a part of Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s coalition government, has said that it will only support his government if he agrees to &ldquo;Israel&rsquo;s return to the war to destroy Hamas&rdquo; after phase one of the ceasefire and hostage release deal.
<h2>Key mediators Qatar, US announce ceasefire deal</h2>
This statement from Netanyahu's office has created confusion among families of the hostages who are eagerly awaiting their return. Key mediator Qatar said on Wednesday that both Israel and Palestine have agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza. Phase one of the ceasefire will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19), Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said.
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Thirty-three Israeli hostages will be released in the first 42-day phase of the agreement.
United States President Joe Biden also lauded the deal, saying, &ldquo;Today, after many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal.&rdquo;
Biden said the first phase will last six weeks and includes a &ldquo;full and complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from all the populated areas of Gaza, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Israel delays vote on Gaza deal saying Hamas has reneged on parts of it. Several details and the timeline of the full deal remain unclear, but Hamas says it is 'committed' to the deal.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Thursday (Jan 16) that the cabinet won't meet to approve the ceasefire deal till the time Hamas backs down on 'last minute concessions', as reported by Reuters. Meanwhile, Hamas refuted these claims and said that it is committed to the ceasefire agreement announced by mediators on Wednesday. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that it had not backtracked on the ceasefire agreement. Also read: Explosions heard in Kyiv amid British PM Starmer's visit Earlier, Reuters quoted Netanyahu’s office saying “Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.” The meeting was scheduled for 11:00 am local time. As per another report by the Jerusalem Post, the cabinet delayed the meeting because “the hostage deal delegation hasn’t finished its work in Qatar and returned to Israel. When the delegation returns, the security cabinet will convene.” Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? As per Israel's local media reports, the Religious Zionism Party, a part of Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, has said that it will only support his government if he agrees to “Israel’s return to the war to destroy Hamas” after phase one of the ceasefire and hostage release deal. Key mediators Qatar, US announce ceasefire deal This statement from Netanyahu's office has created confusion among families of the hostages who are eagerly awaiting their return. Key mediator Qatar said on Wednesday that both Israel and Palestine have agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza. Phase one of the ceasefire will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19), Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said. Also read: Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know Thirty-three Israeli hostages will be released in the first 42-day phase of the agreement. United States President Joe Biden also lauded the deal, saying, “Today, after many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal.” Biden said the first phase will last six weeks and includes a “full and complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from all the populated areas of Gaza, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas.” (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking

Qatar&rsquo;s Prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani confirmed that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas has been reached on Wednesday (Jan 15).
"The two belligerents in the Gaza Strip have reached a deal on the prisoner and the hostage swap, and (the mediators) announce a ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two sides," Al-Thani told a press conference in Doha.
But at the time of writing this, confirmation is still awaited from Israel's end.
Earlier, office of Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-office-denies-reports-that-hamas-approved-gaza-peace-deal-report-8624567">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> told the Associated Press news agency that no deal has been finalised and the final details were still being sorted out.
<h2>Details of Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
As per the Qatari PM, the agreement will enter into effect on Sunday, January 19. In the first phase, 33 Israeli hostages will be released.&nbsp;
Phase one of the agreement, which will last for 42 days, will include a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces away from populated areas.
The details of phase two and three of the ceasefire deal will be finalised during the implementation of phase one, he said.
"A joint team from the three countries (United States, Qatar and Egypt) will monitor the implementation of the agreement, and everything is being agreed upon, and will be in place, hopefully, on the day of execution (of the ceasefire)," the Qatari PM told reporters.
<h2>Biden confirms Gaza ceasefire</h2>
Confirming the ceasefire, US President Joe Biden said: &ldquo;Today, after many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal.&rdquo;
Biden said the first phase will last six weeks and includes a &ldquo;full and complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from all the populated areas of Gaza, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas.&rdquo;
In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, he told reporters.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m proud to say Americans will be part of that hostage release on phase one,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;The road to this deal has not been easy. This is one of the toughest negotiations I&rsquo;ve ever experienced,&rdquo; Biden added.
<h2>Trump announces Gaza ceasefire</h2>
Before Biden made his remarks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-attorney-general-pick-pam-bondi-says-shell-end-weaponisation-of-us-justice-8625169">US President-elect Donald Trump</a> took to his social media platform <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flags-to-fly-full-staff-on-trump-inauguration-day-us-speaker-mike-johnson-announces-8624709">Truth Social</a>, saying the hostages will be released shortly.&nbsp;
"WE HAVE A DEAL FOR THE HOSTAGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST. THEY WILL BE RELEASED SHORTLY. THANK YOU!" the US president-elect posted in all-caps.&nbsp;
Trump, in a subsequent post, said the "EPIC" ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of his 2024 US Presidential election win.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mauritius-chagos-islands-deal-until-trump-administration-considers-future-of-diego-garcia-base-8625133">UK delays Chagos Islands deal until Trump administration 'considers' future of Diego Garcia base</a>
"This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signaled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies. I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones," Trump said in his post.&nbsp;
"We have achieved so much without even being in the White House. Just imagine all of the wonderful things that will happen when I return to the White House, and my Administration is fully confirmed, so they can secure more Victories for the United States!," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World, Middle East: Office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Associated Press that no deal has been finalised and the final details were still being sorted out.

Qatar’s Prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani confirmed that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas has been reached on Wednesday (Jan 15). "The two belligerents in the Gaza Strip have reached a deal on the prisoner and the hostage swap, and (the mediators) announce a ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two sides," Al-Thani told a press conference in Doha. But at the time of writing this, confirmation is still awaited from Israel's end. Earlier, office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Associated Press news agency that no deal has been finalised and the final details were still being sorted out. Details of Gaza ceasefire deal As per the Qatari PM, the agreement will enter into effect on Sunday, January 19. In the first phase, 33 Israeli hostages will be released. Phase one of the agreement, which will last for 42 days, will include a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces away from populated areas. The details of phase two and three of the ceasefire deal will be finalised during the implementation of phase one, he said. "A joint team from the three countries (United States, Qatar and Egypt) will monitor the implementation of the agreement, and everything is being agreed upon, and will be in place, hopefully, on the day of execution (of the ceasefire)," the Qatari PM told reporters. Biden confirms Gaza ceasefire Confirming the ceasefire, US President Joe Biden said: “Today, after many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal.” Biden said the first phase will last six weeks and includes a “full and complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from all the populated areas of Gaza, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas.” In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, he told reporters. “I’m proud to say Americans will be part of that hostage release on phase one,” he said. “The road to this deal has not been easy. This is one of the toughest negotiations I’ve ever experienced,” Biden added. Trump announces Gaza ceasefire Before Biden made his remarks, US President-elect Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social, saying the hostages will be released shortly. "WE HAVE A DEAL FOR THE HOSTAGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST. THEY WILL BE RELEASED SHORTLY. THANK YOU!" the US president-elect posted in all-caps. Trump, in a subsequent post, said the "EPIC" ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of his 2024 US Presidential election win. Also read: UK delays Chagos Islands deal until Trump administration 'considers' future of Diego Garcia base "This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signaled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies. I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones," Trump said in his post. "We have achieved so much without even being in the White House. Just imagine all of the wonderful things that will happen when I return to the White House, and my Administration is fully confirmed, so they can secure more Victories for the United States!," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one from Jan 19

In a big push towards the ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel, mediator Qatar has handed a &ldquo;final&rdquo; draft of the deal to both the parties, Reuters reported citing an official.
As per the report, following talks between Israel&rsquo;s negotiating team, US President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, and Qatar&rsquo;s prime minister, a breakthrough was finally reached in Doha after midnight.
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However, an Israeli official told Reuters that they haven't received a draft proposal of the deal to end the war in Gaza. But Israeli media reported that the draft was received and was broadly acceptable to Israel.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Hamas in a statement issued Monday said, &ldquo;We renew our pledge with our steadfast and patient people and with our heroic prisoners in the prisons, and we affirm that their freedom is near.&rdquo;
<h2>'Progress was made': Israeli Foreign Minister</h2>
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar said at a press conference in Jerusalem on Monday (January 13) that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas but did not disclose a timeline for the same.
&ldquo;Progress was made; we see some progress in the negotiations,&rdquo; Sa&rsquo;ar said.
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&ldquo;Israel wants a hostage deal. Israel is working with our American friends in order to achieve a hostage deal, and soon we will know whether the other side wants the same thing,&rdquo; he added.
Responding to a question about the timeline for a potential deal, Sa&rsquo;ar said, &ldquo;There is progress, I said it looks much better than previously&hellip; but I don&rsquo;t want to say more than that, because I realize there are families that are sensitive to every word and every sentence.&rdquo;
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Sa&rsquo;ar said that Israel is working with both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration and added that he hoped that "within a short time we will see things happening, but it is still to be proved.&rdquo;
This comes a day after outgoing US President Joe Biden spoke to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-reposts-video-israeli-pm-netanyahu-of-shaping-us-foreign-policy-8604931" rel="dofollow">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> about the ongoing talks for a ceasefire in Gaza.
During the call, Biden &ldquo;stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages with a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a stoppage in the fighting under the deal&rdquo;, the White House said.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

World, Middle East: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas.

In a big push towards the ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel, mediator Qatar has handed a “final” draft of the deal to both the parties, Reuters reported citing an official. As per the report, following talks between Israel’s negotiating team, US President-elect Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, and Qatar’s prime minister, a breakthrough was finally reached in Doha after midnight. Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs However, an Israeli official told Reuters that they haven't received a draft proposal of the deal to end the war in Gaza. But Israeli media reported that the draft was received and was broadly acceptable to Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas in a statement issued Monday said, “We renew our pledge with our steadfast and patient people and with our heroic prisoners in the prisons, and we affirm that their freedom is near.” 'Progress was made': Israeli Foreign Minister Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said at a press conference in Jerusalem on Monday (January 13) that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas but did not disclose a timeline for the same. “Progress was made; we see some progress in the negotiations,” Sa’ar said. Also read: India summons top Bangladeshi diplomat as border row escalates “Israel wants a hostage deal. Israel is working with our American friends in order to achieve a hostage deal, and soon we will know whether the other side wants the same thing,” he added. Responding to a question about the timeline for a potential deal, Sa’ar said, “There is progress, I said it looks much better than previously… but I don’t want to say more than that, because I realize there are families that are sensitive to every word and every sentence.” Also read: Hamas official threatens to take legal action against US diplomat Blinken for 'partnership' in Israeli crimes Sa’ar said that Israel is working with both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration and added that he hoped that "within a short time we will see things happening, but it is still to be proved.” This comes a day after outgoing US President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the ongoing talks for a ceasefire in Gaza. During the call, Biden “stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages with a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a stoppage in the fighting under the deal”, the White House said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has accused the Iran-backed group Hezbollah of failing to comply with the terms of a ceasefire. On Sunday (January 5), Katz warned that if the violations continue, Israel would "be forced to act."
&ldquo;Israel is interested in the implementation of the agreement in Lebanon and will continue to enforce it fully and without compromise to ensure the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes,&rdquo; Katz said while visiting an Israeli Defence Force (IDF) base in northern Israel.
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Katz added that the agreement's first requirement is the &ldquo;complete withdrawal of the Hezbollah terror organization beyond the Litani River, the dismantling of all weapons, and the [removal] of the terror infrastructure in the area by the Lebanese army, something that hasn&rsquo;t happened yet.&rdquo;&nbsp;
He added, &ldquo;This condition hasn&rsquo;t been met yet. If this condition is not met, there will be no agreement, and Israel will be forced to act independently to ensure the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes.&rdquo;
<h2>Mossad Chief David Barnea to travel to Qatar for talks: Reports</h2>
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-claiming-to-show-troops-inside-area-used-as-hideout-by-hamas-8591638">Mossad Chief David Barnea</a> is expected to travel to Qatar on Monday for discussions regarding hostages, Israeli news outlet Ynet reported. This comes after a Palestinian source told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that today is a &ldquo;decisive day&rdquo; for hostage negotiations in Doha. According to the source, parties are awaiting Israel&rsquo;s decision after Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-video-teen-israeli-hostage-held-in-gaza-urging-netanyahus-government-to-secure-release-8592575">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> meets with top ministers for a security consultation scheduled for 5 pm.
Netanyahu&rsquo;s office has not confirmed whether the hostage talks will be on the agenda for the meeting or whether reports of Barnea&rsquo;s visit are true.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-dead-in-gaza-as-israel-hits-100-terror-targets-in-2-days-8592998">Dozens dead in Gaza as Israel hits 100 terror targets in 2 days</a>
Israel confirmed on Saturday that negotiations had resumed in Qatar regarding a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages captured during the October 2023 attacks. According to officials, progress is being made in efforts to secure the release of the hostages.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news, Middle East: Meanwhile, Mossad Chief David Barnea is expected to travel to Qatar on Monday for discussions regarding hostages, Israeli news outlet Ynet reported. 

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has accused the Iran-backed group Hezbollah of failing to comply with the terms of a ceasefire. On Sunday (January 5), Katz warned that if the violations continue, Israel would "be forced to act." “Israel is interested in the implementation of the agreement in Lebanon and will continue to enforce it fully and without compromise to ensure the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes,” Katz said while visiting an Israeli Defence Force (IDF) base in northern Israel. Also read: Dozens dead in Gaza as Israel hits 100 terror targets in 2 days Katz added that the agreement's first requirement is the “complete withdrawal of the Hezbollah terror organization beyond the Litani River, the dismantling of all weapons, and the [removal] of the terror infrastructure in the area by the Lebanese army, something that hasn’t happened yet.” He added, “This condition hasn’t been met yet. If this condition is not met, there will be no agreement, and Israel will be forced to act independently to ensure the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes.” Mossad Chief David Barnea to travel to Qatar for talks: Reports Meanwhile, Mossad Chief David Barnea is expected to travel to Qatar on Monday for discussions regarding hostages, Israeli news outlet Ynet reported. This comes after a Palestinian source told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that today is a “decisive day” for hostage negotiations in Doha. According to the source, parties are awaiting Israel’s decision after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with top ministers for a security consultation scheduled for 5 pm. Netanyahu’s office has not confirmed whether the hostage talks will be on the agenda for the meeting or whether reports of Barnea’s visit are true. Also read: Dozens dead in Gaza as Israel hits 100 terror targets in 2 days Israel confirmed on Saturday that negotiations had resumed in Qatar regarding a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages captured during the October 2023 attacks. According to officials, progress is being made in efforts to secure the release of the hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel warns of action if Hezbollah breaks ceasefire; Mossad chief to visit Qatar for 'decisive' hostage talks

As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal.
The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities.
Moreover, five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday (Dec 26), medics with the Gaza health authorities reported.
They further warned that the death toll could rise as many people were stuck under the rubble.&nbsp;
<h2>Journalists killed</h2>
In a separate incident, five journalists were killed after their vehicle got struck in the vicinity of Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat in central Gaza, according to the health authorities.&nbsp;
Medics said the five were among at least 21 people who have been killed in Israeli air strikes.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impossible-to-reach-deal-without-it-hamas-still-hasnt-sent-list-of-living-dead-hostages-to-israel-report-786735">'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report</a>
The Palestinian Journalists Union said that one strike killed five journalists from the Al-Quds Today channel.&nbsp;
The union added that more than 190 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the war last year.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Israel has always denied targeting journalists, adding that they always stay cautious to avoid harming civilians.&nbsp;
Earlier on Wednesday, Hamas and Israel traded blame over their failure to reach a ceasefire agreement, despite both sides having reported progress in the past few days.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-one-child-killed-every-hour-says-unrwa-786720">Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA</a>
Hamas has been saying that Israel has laid down further conditions, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas group keeps on going back on the understanding that has already been reached.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

Five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday, medics with the Gaza health authorities reported.

As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal. The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities. Moreover, five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday (Dec 26), medics with the Gaza health authorities reported. They further warned that the death toll could rise as many people were stuck under the rubble. Journalists killed In a separate incident, five journalists were killed after their vehicle got struck in the vicinity of Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat in central Gaza, according to the health authorities. Medics said the five were among at least 21 people who have been killed in Israeli air strikes. Also read: 'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report The Palestinian Journalists Union said that one strike killed five journalists from the Al-Quds Today channel. The union added that more than 190 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the war last year. Meanwhile, Israel has always denied targeting journalists, adding that they always stay cautious to avoid harming civilians. Earlier on Wednesday, Hamas and Israel traded blame over their failure to reach a ceasefire agreement, despite both sides having reported progress in the past few days. Also read: Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA Hamas has been saying that Israel has laid down further conditions, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas group keeps on going back on the understanding that has already been reached. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay

As negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue to secure a hostage deal in Gaza, an Israeli official has told The Times of Israel that Hamas has offered “signs of life” for several of the hostages.

As negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue to secure a hostage deal in Gaza, an Israeli official has told The Times of Israel that Hamas has offered “signs of life” for several of the hostages. The official said that Israel is aware of the locations of most hostages but did not confirm whether Hamas had shared a list identifying those who are alive. The official further clarified that Israel is not considering ending the war as part of any agreement but is open to a “prolonged ceasefire” arrangement instead. In a separate development, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it conducted an overnight airstrike on Sunday (December 22), targeting a group of Hamas militants at a command centre located within a former school in Gaza City. The military said that Hamas was using the Musa Bin Nusair school as a base to plan and launch attacks on Israeli forces and territories. The building had also been serving as a shelter for displaced Gazans. Palestinian medical officials have reported that at least six people were killed in the strike. Also read: Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ claims, says Hezbollah, Hamas act independently Reports on a potential hostage exchange deal Meanwhile, an Egyptian news outlet has reported on ongoing negotiations for a possible hostage-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. According to unnamed sources cited in Al-Ghad's report, Hamas is demanding additional compensation to release 11 male hostages requested by Israel in the first phase of the deal. The proposed deal reportedly involves the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for children held captive in Gaza, five female soldiers, and elderly or ill captives. Israel is said to have requested the release of 34 hostages in total, including the 11 men considered by Hamas to be soldiers. The report suggests that Hamas has agreed to the inclusion of these 11 hostages in exchange for “special consideration." As per the report, other points under discussion reportedly include reopening the Rafah Border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Netzarim Corridor, and return of Gazan civilians to northern areas of the Strip. Also read: Israeli minister threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if ceasefire breaches Pope Francis criticises Israeli actions in Gaza Pope Francis has again criticised Israel for strikes on Gaza, calling them acts of "cruelty." Speaking after his weekly Angelus prayer, the pope said, “And with pain I think of Gaza, of so much cruelty, of the children being machine-gunned, of the bombings of schools and hospitals. What cruelty.” Israel’s Foreign Ministry has strongly rejected the pope’s comments, describing them as “disappointing” and accusing him of failing to acknowledge the context of Israel’s fight against what it describes as jihadist terrorism, which began after the October 7 attacks. In another development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding a meeting with his security cabinet in northern Israel, the Times of Israel reported. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report

Tel Aviv, Israel
<meta content="uuideUeZlDdSGjH0" name="uuid"/>
As negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue to secure a hostage deal in Gaza, an Israeli official has told The Times of Israel that Hamas has offered “signs of life” for several of the hostages.
The official said that Israel is aware of the locations of most hostages but did not confirm whether Hamas had shared a list identifying those who are alive.
The official further clarified that Israel is not considering ending the war as part of any agreement but is open to a “prolonged ceasefire” arrangement instead.
In a separate development, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it conducted an overnight airstrike on Sunday (December 22), targeting a group of Hamas militants at a command centre located within a former school in Gaza City.
The military said that Hamas was using the Musa Bin Nusair school as a base to plan and launch attacks on Israeli forces and territories. The building had also been serving as a shelter for displaced Gazans.
Palestinian medical officials have reported that at least six people were killed in the strike.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976" target="_blank">Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ claims, says Hezbollah, Hamas act independently</a>
<h2>Reports on a potential hostage exchange deal</h2>
Meanwhile, an Egyptian news outlet has reported on ongoing negotiations for a possible hostage-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. According to unnamed sources cited in Al-Ghad's report, Hamas is demanding additional compensation to release 11 male hostages requested by Israel in the first phase of the deal.
The proposed deal reportedly involves the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for children held captive in Gaza, five female soldiers, and elderly or ill captives. Israel is said to have requested the release of 34 hostages in total, including the 11 men considered by Hamas to be soldiers.
The report suggests that Hamas has agreed to the inclusion of these 11 hostages in exchange for “special consideration." As per the report, other points under discussion reportedly include reopening the Rafah Border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Netzarim Corridor, and return of Gazan civilians to northern areas of the Strip.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988" target="_blank">Israeli minister threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if ceasefire breaches</a>
<h2>Pope Francis criticises Israeli actions in Gaza</h2>
Pope Francis has again criticised Israel for strikes on Gaza, calling them acts of "cruelty." Speaking after his weekly Angelus prayer, the pope said, “And with pain I think of Gaza, of so much cruelty, of the children being machine-gunned, of the bombings of schools and hospitals. What cruelty.”
Israel’s Foreign Ministry has strongly rejected the pope’s comments, describing them as “disappointing” and accusing him of failing to acknowledge the context of Israel’s fight against what it describes as jihadist terrorism, which began after the October 7 attacks.
In another development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding a meeting with his security cabinet in northern Israel, the Times of Israel reported.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

IDF said that Hamas was using the Musa Bin Nusair school as a base to plan and launch attacks on Israeli forces and territories. The building had also been serving as a shelter for displaced Gazans.



Tel Aviv, Israel As negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue to secure a hostage deal in Gaza, an Israeli official has told The Times of Israel that Hamas has offered “signs of life” for several of the hostages. The official said that Israel is aware of the locations of most hostages but did not confirm whether Hamas had shared a list identifying those who are alive. The official further clarified that Israel is not considering ending the war as part of any agreement but is open to a “prolonged ceasefire” arrangement instead. In a separate development, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it conducted an overnight airstrike on Sunday (December 22), targeting a group of Hamas militants at a command centre located within a former school in Gaza City. The military said that Hamas was using the Musa Bin Nusair school as a base to plan and launch attacks on Israeli forces and territories. The building had also been serving as a shelter for displaced Gazans. Palestinian medical officials have reported that at least six people were killed in the strike. Also read: Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ claims, says Hezbollah, Hamas act independently Reports on a potential hostage exchange deal Meanwhile, an Egyptian news outlet has reported on ongoing negotiations for a possible hostage-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. According to unnamed sources cited in Al-Ghad's report, Hamas is demanding additional compensation to release 11 male hostages requested by Israel in the first phase of the deal. The proposed deal reportedly involves the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for children held captive in Gaza, five female soldiers, and elderly or ill captives. Israel is said to have requested the release of 34 hostages in total, including the 11 men considered by Hamas to be soldiers. The report suggests that Hamas has agreed to the inclusion of these 11 hostages in exchange for “special consideration." As per the report, other points under discussion reportedly include reopening the Rafah Border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Netzarim Corridor, and return of Gazan civilians to northern areas of the Strip. Also read: Israeli minister threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if ceasefire breaches Pope Francis criticises Israeli actions in Gaza Pope Francis has again criticised Israel for strikes on Gaza, calling them acts of "cruelty." Speaking after his weekly Angelus prayer, the pope said, “And with pain I think of Gaza, of so much cruelty, of the children being machine-gunned, of the bombings of schools and hospitals. What cruelty.” Israel’s Foreign Ministry has strongly rejected the pope’s comments, describing them as “disappointing” and accusing him of failing to acknowledge the context of Israel’s fight against what it describes as jihadist terrorism, which began after the October 7 attacks. In another development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding a meeting with his security cabinet in northern Israel, the Times of Israel reported. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war are almost complete, but some hurdles&nbsp;still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished.

However, a few issues remain unsolved, specifically Israel's military presence in the Philadelphi Corridor along the southern Gaza border with Egypt. One solution&nbsp;is the creation of a buffer zone that is several kilometers wide along Israel's border with Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-has-refused-to-provide-names-of-hostages-its-holding-bidens-advisor-783995">Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan</a>

<h2 dir="ltr">Three-stage ceasefire agreement</h2>

The three-stage ceasefire could be finalised within days since the core issue is highlighted, the official said. The deal will include:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
	Hostage and prisoner exchange: 20 Palestinian prisoners will&nbsp;be exchanged for every female Israeli soldier released in the first phase. The names of prisoners are being discussed, and will be chosen from a list of 400 Palestinians serving sentences of 25 years or more in the jails of Israel. However, the release is not expected to include senior Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, whose freedom Israel is likely to turn down.
	</li>
	<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
	Hostage release: The Israeli hostages held in Gaza will be set free in stages. Israel presumes that 62 of the 96 hostages who were held are still alive.
	</li>
	<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
	Return of civilians of Gaza: As per talks, a procedure is being discussed that would allow Gazan civilians to return to Northern Gaza under a monitoring system involving Egypt and Qatar. Further 500 trucks carrying aid per day would enter Gaza.
	</li>
</ul>

Final point: The final stage would involve Gaza being governed by a group of experts who are not civilians in politics. This group will further have support from all Palestinian groups. This will mark the end of the 14-month-long conflict. 
 
Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Hamas Chief to visit Egypt for ceasefire talks | 

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hamas-chief-to-visit-egypt-for-ceasefire-talks-wion-671616/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2 dir="ltr">Negotiation efforts increase; obstacles remain</h2>

Mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas have increased recently. However, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) have raised apprehension over Israel's additional conditions.

"Reaching a ceasefire agreement has become closer than ever before, provided Israel stops imposing new conditions," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.

The war continues. It was started&nbsp;after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which had killed 1,200 people and had seen 251 others abducted. Since then, over 100 hostages have been released, either through negotiations or Israeli military operations.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war are almost complete, but some hurdles still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations.

Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war are almost complete, but some hurdles still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished. However, a few issues remain unsolved, specifically Israel's military presence in the Philadelphi Corridor along the southern Gaza border with Egypt. One solution is the creation of a buffer zone that is several kilometers wide along Israel's border with Gaza. Also Read: Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan Three-stage ceasefire agreement The three-stage ceasefire could be finalised within days since the core issue is highlighted, the official said. The deal will include: Hostage and prisoner exchange: 20 Palestinian prisoners will be exchanged for every female Israeli soldier released in the first phase. The names of prisoners are being discussed, and will be chosen from a list of 400 Palestinians serving sentences of 25 years or more in the jails of Israel. However, the release is not expected to include senior Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, whose freedom Israel is likely to turn down. Hostage release: The Israeli hostages held in Gaza will be set free in stages. Israel presumes that 62 of the 96 hostages who were held are still alive. Return of civilians of Gaza: As per talks, a procedure is being discussed that would allow Gazan civilians to return to Northern Gaza under a monitoring system involving Egypt and Qatar. Further 500 trucks carrying aid per day would enter Gaza. Final point: The final stage would involve Gaza being governed by a group of experts who are not civilians in politics. This group will further have support from all Palestinian groups. This will mark the end of the 14-month-long conflict. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas Chief to visit Egypt for ceasefire talks | Negotiation efforts increase; obstacles remain Mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas have increased recently. However, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) have raised apprehension over Israel's additional conditions. "Reaching a ceasefire agreement has become closer than ever before, provided Israel stops imposing new conditions," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The war continues. It was started after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which had killed 1,200 people and had seen 251 others abducted. Since then, over 100 hostages have been released, either through negotiations or Israeli military operations. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas talks ceasefire talks 90 per cent complete but key issues unsolved: Reports

Tel Aviv, Israel 
Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war are almost complete, but some hurdles still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished.
However, a few issues remain unsolved, specifically Israel's military presence in the Philadelphi Corridor along the southern Gaza border with Egypt. One solution is the creation of a buffer zone that is several kilometers wide along Israel's border with Gaza.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-has-refused-to-provide-names-of-hostages-its-holding-bidens-advisor-783995">Also Read: Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Three-stage ceasefire agreement</h2>
The three-stage ceasefire could be finalised within days since the core issue is highlighted, the official said. The deal will include:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Hostage and prisoner exchange: 20 Palestinian prisoners will be exchanged for every female Israeli soldier released in the first phase. The names of prisoners are being discussed, and will be chosen from a list of 400 Palestinians serving sentences of 25 years or more in the jails of Israel. However, the release is not expected to include senior Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, whose freedom Israel is likely to turn down.
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Hostage release: The Israeli hostages held in Gaza will be set free in stages. Israel presumes that 62 of the 96 hostages who were held are still alive.
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Return of civilians of Gaza: As per talks, a procedure is being discussed that would allow Gazan civilians to return to Northern Gaza under a monitoring system involving Egypt and Qatar. Further 500 trucks carrying aid per day would enter Gaza.
</li>
</ul>
Final point: The final stage would involve Gaza being governed by a group of experts who are not civilians in politics. This group will further have support from all Palestinian groups. This will mark the end of the 14-month-long conflict.
Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas Chief to visit Egypt for ceasefire talks | 
<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/12/20/2012_WION_ISRAEL_11AM-1703056214-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2012_WION_ISRAEL_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=200&tags=israel,Hamas,Ceasefire" width="560"></iframe>
<h2 dir="ltr">Negotiation efforts increase; obstacles remain</h2>
Mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas have increased recently. However, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) have raised apprehension over Israel's additional conditions.
"Reaching a ceasefire agreement has become closer than ever before, provided Israel stops imposing new conditions," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.
The war continues. It was started after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which had killed 1,200 people and had seen 251 others abducted. Since then, over 100 hostages have been released, either through negotiations or Israeli military operations.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

As per talks, a procedure is being discussed that would allow Gazan civilians to return to Northern Gaza under a monitoring system involving Egypt and Qatar. 



Tel Aviv, Israel Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war are almost complete, but some hurdles still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished. However, a few issues remain unsolved, specifically Israel's military presence in the Philadelphi Corridor along the southern Gaza border with Egypt. One solution is the creation of a buffer zone that is several kilometers wide along Israel's border with Gaza. Also Read: Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan Three-stage ceasefire agreement The three-stage ceasefire could be finalised within days since the core issue is highlighted, the official said. The deal will include: Hostage and prisoner exchange: 20 Palestinian prisoners will be exchanged for every female Israeli soldier released in the first phase. The names of prisoners are being discussed, and will be chosen from a list of 400 Palestinians serving sentences of 25 years or more in the jails of Israel. However, the release is not expected to include senior Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, whose freedom Israel is likely to turn down. Hostage release: The Israeli hostages held in Gaza will be set free in stages. Israel presumes that 62 of the 96 hostages who were held are still alive. Return of civilians of Gaza: As per talks, a procedure is being discussed that would allow Gazan civilians to return to Northern Gaza under a monitoring system involving Egypt and Qatar. Further 500 trucks carrying aid per day would enter Gaza. Final point: The final stage would involve Gaza being governed by a group of experts who are not civilians in politics. This group will further have support from all Palestinian groups. This will mark the end of the 14-month-long conflict. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas Chief to visit Egypt for ceasefire talks | Negotiation efforts increase; obstacles remain Mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas have increased recently. However, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) have raised apprehension over Israel's additional conditions. "Reaching a ceasefire agreement has become closer than ever before, provided Israel stops imposing new conditions," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The war continues. It was started after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which had killed 1,200 people and had seen 251 others abducted. Since then, over 100 hostages have been released, either through negotiations or Israeli military operations. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt's president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on Sunday (October 27) announced a proposal for a two-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with the aim of securing the release of four hostages held in Gaza.

During a press conference in Cairo, alongside Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the Egyptian president shared his proposal amidst plans for discussions in Doha involving diplomats from Israel, the US, Egypt, and Qatar, intended to revive stalled truce negotiations.

Egypt, a significant mediator alongside Qatar and the United States, has now made this proposal publicly for the first time. So far, there has been no official response from Israel or Hamas regarding the suggestion.

President el-Sissi explained that the initiative aims to “move the situation forward”. He added that if the ceasefire holds for two days, further discussions would pursue an extended ceasefire.

Negotiations would aim for a temporary pause in hostilities and the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israel's release of Palestinian detainees, as per an Egyptian official.

The talks aim to reach a short-term ceasefire, expected to last under a month, in hope&nbsp;of establishing a more lasting peace agreement.

This proposal follows a brief ceasefire in November, during which fighting paused and hostages and prisoners were exchanged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israels-attack-on-iran-precise-and-powerful-khamenei-gives-retaliation-devoid-reaction-771121">Netanyahu says Israel’s attack on Iran ‘precise and powerful’, achieved goals</a>

Meanwhile, Israel’s Mossad chief was travelling to Doha on Sunday for meetings with Qatar’s prime minister and the CIA director.

The announcement coincided with reports from Palestinian officials of Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza on Sunday, which they say left at least 33 dead, primarily women and children. Israel stated the strikes were aimed at militant targets.

The United Nations described the humanitarian situation for civilians in northern Gaza as "unbearable", criticising the conduct of the conflict, which it says disregards international humanitarian law.

"The Secretary-General is shocked by the harrowing levels of death, injury and destruction in the north, with civilians trapped under rubble, the sick and wounded going without life-saving health care, and families lacking food and shelter, amid reports of families being separated and many people detained," said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

(With inputs from agencies)

Egypt's president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on Sunday (October 27) announced a proposal for a two-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with the aim of securing the release of four hostages held in Gaza.

Egypt's president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on Sunday (October 27) announced a proposal for a two-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with the aim of securing the release of four hostages held in Gaza. During a press conference in Cairo, alongside Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the Egyptian president shared his proposal amidst plans for discussions in Doha involving diplomats from Israel, the US, Egypt, and Qatar, intended to revive stalled truce negotiations. Egypt, a significant mediator alongside Qatar and the United States, has now made this proposal publicly for the first time. So far, there has been no official response from Israel or Hamas regarding the suggestion. President el-Sissi explained that the initiative aims to “move the situation forward”. He added that if the ceasefire holds for two days, further discussions would pursue an extended ceasefire. Negotiations would aim for a temporary pause in hostilities and the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israel's release of Palestinian detainees, as per an Egyptian official. The talks aim to reach a short-term ceasefire, expected to last under a month, in hope of establishing a more lasting peace agreement. This proposal follows a brief ceasefire in November, during which fighting paused and hostages and prisoners were exchanged. Also read: Netanyahu says Israel’s attack on Iran ‘precise and powerful’, achieved goals Meanwhile, Israel’s Mossad chief was travelling to Doha on Sunday for meetings with Qatar’s prime minister and the CIA director. The announcement coincided with reports from Palestinian officials of Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza on Sunday, which they say left at least 33 dead, primarily women and children. Israel stated the strikes were aimed at militant targets. The United Nations described the humanitarian situation for civilians in northern Gaza as "unbearable", criticising the conduct of the conflict, which it says disregards international humanitarian law. "The Secretary-General is shocked by the harrowing levels of death, injury and destruction in the north, with civilians trapped under rubble, the sick and wounded going without life-saving health care, and families lacking food and shelter, amid reports of families being separated and many people detained," said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt proposes 2-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to free hostages

An Israeli delegation arrived in Cairo Thursday (Aug 22) to participate in discussions about a potential ceasefire deal amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel's security cabinet is set to meet in Tel Aviv.

An Israeli delegation arrived in Cairo Thursday (Aug 22) to participate in discussions about a potential ceasefire deal amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel's security cabinet is set to meet in Tel Aviv. Why is the Philadelphi Corridor important? The delegation's visit to Cairo takes place as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly insists that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) retain control over the Philadelphi Corridor. Netanyahu has made it clear that he will not accept any hostage deal that requires Israel to withdraw from this area. A report by i24NEWS citing an Israeli political source said, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not changed his position on the need for Israeli control and presence in the Philadelphia Corridor.” The corridor is seen as a crucial buffer zone between Egypt and Gaza. Therefore, any plan for the Israeli forces to remain there would require Egypt’s approval. Key mediators in the negotiations Egypt and Qatar have been the main mediators, along with the United States, in efforts to secure the release of the remaining 109 hostages. Al-Thani, the ruling family of Qatar has played a critical role in these negotiations, including the recent discussions in Doha. Also Read: Russia accuses Ukraine of attempting to attack Kursk nuclear plant Late Wednesday, US President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu about the urgency of finalising a hostage and ceasefire agreement. The United States hopes that a Gaza ceasefire, combined with a hostage release, will prevent Iran and Tehran-backed Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah from launching retaliatory attacks on Israel, which could escalate into a broader regional conflict. US envoy to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield's message “A Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal now is in sight,” the US envoy to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the Security Council, urging members to press Hamas to accept a bridging proposal that Israel has already agreed to. She said, “Israel has accepted the bridging proposal. Now Hamas must do the same.” She added, “As members of this council, we must speak with one voice and use our leverage to press Hamas to accept the bridging proposal.” “It’s a decisive moment for ceasefire talks and for the region, and so every member of this council should continue to send strong messages to other actors in the region to avoid actions that would move us away from finalising this deal,” Thomas-Greenfield continued. (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 delegation heads to Cairo as hostage talks intensify; US pushes for Gaza ceasefire